Planting a ginkgo tree is a long-term commitment that rewards you with stunning fan-shaped leaves, brilliant fall color, and a living connection to the age of dinosaurs. Whether you’re adding one to your backyard or starting a small urban garden, understanding the right planting technique makes all the difference. Many gardeners struggle with soil preparation, watering schedules, and choosing the right location for these ancient trees. This guide brings together top resources and practical steps to help you succeed.
We’ve gathered 8 books that cover everything from ginkgo history to step-by-step planting instructions. These titles, reviewed by thousands of plant enthusiasts as of October 2026, range in price from $13.38 to $30.00 and include authors like Peter Crane, Tom Cox, Martin Crawford and more. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, these resources can help you avoid common pitfalls and nurture a thriving ginkgo. For more plant care essentials, check out our Plant category for related guides.
Pros
- Well-researched and authoritative, yet highly readable
- Covers everything from fossil record to modern cultivation
- Deeply passionate writing that inspires appreciation for ginkgos
- Includes fascinating cultural stories from Japan, China, and Europe
Cons
- Some readers may find the later philosophical sections lengthy
- Print edition is heavy (1.35 pounds) for a paperback
- Not a step-by-step gardening guide; it's a natural history
Ginkgo: The Tree That Time Forgot is a masterful blend of botany, history, and personal passion from Peter Crane, a leading plant scientist and former director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This is not just a book about a tree; it's a journey through deep time, exploring how the ginkgo survived ice ages, human cultivation, and even near extinction. Crane uses the ginkgo as a lens to discuss evolution, conservation, and our relationship with the natural world. Anyone fascinated by plants, ancient life, or the stories behind everyday species will find this book hard to put down.
The book's standout feature is its breadth. Crane covers the ginkgo's prehistoric dominance, its retreat to a single region in China, and its global revival as a beloved ornamental tree. He dives into the tree's unique biology: its fan-shaped leaves, its method of reproduction, and its incredible longevity with some individuals living over a thousand years. Readers praised the author's ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible, and reviews highlight how the book sparked a deeper appreciation for ginkgos. One reader noted that it helped them understand the crucial role of botanical gardens, and another called it a beautiful saga of a tree.
In terms of design, this is a substantial paperback, 408 pages with a sturdy binding and quality paper. The layout is clean, with helpful chapter breaks and an extensive index. The writing style is elegant but not overly technical; Crane's love for the subject shines through. Some readers mentioned the book is heavy for carrying around, but that's a trade-off for its depth. The only common criticism is that the final parts shift from natural history into more philosophical terrain about conservation, which a few felt dragged on. However, for most, this added meaningful context.
Overall, Ginkgo: The Tree That Time Forgot is a rewarding read for anyone who loves trees, natural history, or well-crafted science writing. It's both informative and inspiring, and it will likely change how you see that familiar tree on your street. Highly recommended for book clubs, students, and armchair naturalists.
Pros
- Authoritative and highly researched by two top conifer experts.
- Specifically tailored to the challenging Southeast climate (heat, humidity).
- Includes both conifers and ginkgo, offering diverse options for four-season landscapes.
- Practical advice on selection, care, and troubleshooting from real-world testing.
- Well-organized and easy to read, with helpful photos from the authors' collections.
Cons
- The ginkgo section is relatively short; enthusiasts may want more detail.
- Focuses exclusively on the Southeast, so less useful for gardeners in other regions.
- Physical book only; no digital version mentioned, which some may prefer.
Landscaping with Conifers and Ginkgo for the Southeast is the go-to resource for anyone looking to bring year-round structure and color to a southern garden. Written by Tom Cox and John Ruter, two of the most respected conifer researchers in the country, this 288-page book tackles the longstanding myth that conifers don't work in the hot, humid South. It's a practical, well-researched guide that works for both hobbyist gardeners and professional landscapers.
The standout feature is its regional focus. Instead of generic advice, Cox and Ruter draw on years of hands-on testing at the Cox Arboretum and the Coastal Plain Research Arboretum. They list specific species and cultivars that have proven adaptable from Virginia to Texas. You'll find detailed information on planting, pruning, disease prevention, and how to select specimens that will thrive. The book also covers the ginkgo biloba, a living fossil that adds unique texture and brilliant fall color. While the ginkgo section is smaller than some might hope, it still offers solid recommendations.
Readers consistently praise the book's conversational tone and the authors' credibility. Real-world performance is backed by the high 4.8 out of 5-star rating, with many reviewers calling it a 'must-have' for southern gardeners. The photos, though not all in color, are helpful and show mature specimens in actual southern landscapes.
On the downside, the book is laser-focused on the Southeast, so it's not for gardeners in other climates. Also, if you're particularly keen on ginkgo, you may want to supplement with a more specialized guide. But for its intended audience, this is the definitive reference. It's a worthy investment for anyone serious about creating a low-maintenance, year-round landscape with conifers and ginkgo.
Publisher: University Press of Florida
Publication Date: April 16, 2013
Language: English
Print Length: 288 pages
ISBN-10: 0813042488
ISBN-13: 978-0813042480
Item Weight: 1.35 pounds
Dimensions: 6 x 0.75 x 9 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #165,974 in Books; #28 in South Region Gardening; #44 in Tree Gardening; #134 in Landscape
Customer Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars (52 ratings)
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of many nut species, including rare and unusual varieties.
- Expert author with deep knowledge of forest gardening and perennial crops.
- Beautiful illustrations and photos that make identification and learning easier.
- Practical guidance for both small-scale home gardens and larger commercial plantings.
- Highly rated by readers for its thoroughness and actionable information.
Cons
- Focuses primarily on temperate climates, so not suitable for tropical or subtropical growers.
- Dense text may feel overwhelming for casual gardeners seeking simple instructions.
How to Grow Your Own Nuts is a comprehensive guide by Martin Crawford, a leading expert in forest gardening. This book is designed for anyone serious about growing nut trees, whether you have a small backyard or are planning a larger commercial nuttery. It goes beyond basic instructions to cover the full cycle from choosing species to harvesting and processing.
The standout feature is the extensive A-Z encyclopedia covering familiar nuts like hazelnuts and walnuts alongside lesser-known species such as hickories, butternuts, and chinkapin. Each entry includes detailed information on cultivation, pollination, preferred cultivars, and pest management. The book also explores multiple planting systems, including silvopasture, alley cropping, and intercropping with fruit bushes, making it versatile for different land uses.
Real-world performance is supported by glowing reader reviews, which praise the book's depth and clarity. The high rating (4.8 stars) reflects its value as a reference. The design is well-executed with plenty of color photos and line drawings that help identify trees and nuts. The physical book is sturdy with good paper quality, suitable for frequent use in the garden or field.
A minor drawback is that the content is heavily focused on temperate regions, so tropical growers may find limited relevance. Additionally, the sheer amount of detail might be overwhelming for those just looking for a quick introduction. However, for dedicated gardeners or small-scale farmers, this is exactly the depth needed.
Overall, How to Grow Your Own Nuts is an essential resource for anyone interested in perennial nut crops. It combines expert knowledge with practical guidance, making it a worthy addition to any gardener's library. Highly recommended for its thoroughness and usability.
Publisher: Green Books
Publication Date: December 1, 2021
Edition: First Edition
Language: English
Print Length: 320 pages
ISBN-10: 0857845527
ISBN-13: 978-0857845528
Item Weight: 2.31 pounds
Dimensions: 8.15 x 0.95 x 10.1 inches
Pros
- Comprehensive yet beginner-friendly with step-by-step instructions
- Focus on sustainable and organic methods reduces long-term effort
- Covers all key topics from layout to harvest in 157 pages
- Practical tips for small spaces and container gardening
- Affordable price for a detailed gardening guide
Cons
- Limited advanced techniques for experienced orchardists
- No digital companion or online resources mentioned
- Some sections could benefit from more detailed illustrations
Sophie McKay's 'Beginner's Guide to Growing Fruit Trees Fast and Easy' is a no-nonsense manual for anyone dreaming of a backyard orchard. It's written for gardeners who already grow vegetables but feel intimidated by fruit trees, as well as complete novices. The book promises sustainable techniques that save time and effort while delivering a bountiful harvest, and it largely delivers on that promise.
The standout feature is the holistic approach. McKay covers everything from designing an efficient garden layout to selecting healthy trees, pruning, grafting, and managing pests without chemicals. The permaculture-inspired sections are particularly valuable for those wanting to create a self-sustaining ecosystem. The advice on watering, mulching, and companion planting is practical and easy to follow.
The book is a compact paperback (6 x 9 inches, 157 pages) with a clear structure. The language is conversational and avoids unnecessary jargon. Each chapter builds on the previous one, so readers can progress logically. The focus on reducing effort through smart techniques like rainwater management and efficient irrigation is a refreshing change from more labor-intensive guides.
Potential drawbacks include a lack of in-depth content for experienced orchardists and the absence of a digital version or online extras. Some readers might wish for more photographs or diagrams, especially for pruning and grafting steps. However, the instructions are clear enough for most beginners to follow.
Overall, this is an excellent starting point for anyone serious about growing fruit trees sustainably. It's practical, affordable, and written with genuine enthusiasm. If you want to transform your garden into a fruitful haven without overwhelming yourself, this guide is a solid investment.
Pros
- Clear, actionable instructions prevent guesswork
- Addresses the most common Money Tree problems with simple fixes
- Portable and affordable guide for quick reference
- Practical advice that works in real home environments
Cons
- No reviews yet so real-world feedback is unavailable
- Assumes no prior plant knowledge, which may feel basic for experienced gardeners
- Focuses solely on Money Trees – not a general plant care manual
Money Tree Plant Care For Beginners is a dedicated guide for anyone looking to grow and maintain a healthy Pachira aquatica, commonly known as the Money Tree. This book, published by All Things Plants, is written for first-time plant owners, apartment dwellers, or busy individuals who want a low-stress indoor plant. With 121 pages of straightforward advice, it aims to eliminate the confusion often found in online forums or generic gardening manuals.
The standout feature of this guide is its structured approach. It starts with selecting a healthy plant from the store and then walks readers through ideal light conditions, proper watering techniques, soil and pot selection, fertilization, pruning, and even propagation. The chapters are organized so that each step builds on the previous one, making it easy to follow. The book emphasizes practical solutions for common problems like yellow leaves, root rot, and pests, which are the main reasons beginners give up on houseplants.
Design-wise, this is a simple paperback with a clean layout. The font size is comfortable, and the chapters are broken into manageable sections. There are no glossy photos or illustrations, which is a minor drawback for visual learners, but the text is descriptive enough to understand the concepts. At 6.9 ounces, it's lightweight and easy to bring along to a garden center or keep next to your plant.
One limitation is that the book has no customer reviews yet, so it's hard to gauge how well it resonates with its target audience. It also sticks strictly to Money Tree care, so if you're looking for a general houseplant guide, this isn't it. Additionally, experienced gardeners might find the explanations too basic.
Overall, Money Tree Plant Care For Beginners delivers exactly what it promises: a clear, step-by-step system for raising a thriving Money Tree. For new plant parents who want reliable advice without the fluff, this is a solid investment. Its affordable price and focused content make it a practical addition to your plant care library.
Publisher: Independently published
Publication Date: January 8, 2026
Language: English
Print Length: 121 pages
ISBN-13: 979-8243187046
Item Weight: 6.9 ounces
Dimensions: 5.25 x 0.28 x 8 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #309,820 in Books; #86 in Ornamental Plant Gardening (Books); #155 in House Plant Gardening
Pros
- Abundant, high-quality photography shows exactly what each tree looks like at different seasons.
- Easy-to-navigate format with consistent fact boxes makes quick comparisons a breeze.
- Excellent tree-selector tables help match specific garden conditions with the right choices.
- Balanced mix of common and uncommon trees keeps your landscape unique without sourcing headaches.
- Professional-grade information is explained clearly, so hobbyists and pros both benefit.
Cons
- Experienced gardeners already familiar with Dirr's encyclopedias may find little new information.
- Coverage is limited to 100 species, so gardeners seeking rare or ultra-specific varieties may need a broader reference.
- The book focuses on temperate climates and does not address tropical or desert regions.
Trees for the Small Garden is a focused, beautifully illustrated guide designed for anyone trying to make the most of a compact outdoor space. Author Simon Toomer, a respected horticulturist, handpicks 100 trees that thrive without overwhelming a small yard. Whether you are a homeowner looking to add a specimen tree or a landscape designer seeking reliable options for clients, this book provides a curated shortlist that takes the guesswork out of selection.
The standout feature is the photography. Nearly every tree gets a full-page color image of a mature specimen in a garden setting, plus smaller close-ups of foliage, flowers, bark, and sometimes fruit. These visuals are invaluable for visualizing how a tree will look after years of growth. Each entry also includes a compact fact box with height, spread, hardiness zone, soil requirements, and sun exposure. The accompanying text goes deeper into cultivars, potential pests, and ornamental qualities.
Real-world feedback from a landscape designer praises the book for presenting professional-caliber information without being overly technical. Another reviewer noted that the tree-selector charts at the back are perfect for narrowing down choices by attributes like fall color or winter interest. The author deliberately chose trees that are easy to buy at nurseries but not so common that your garden looks like every neighbor's.
The book itself is a sturdy hardcover with 176 glossy pages, measuring 8.78 by 11.28 inches. The layout is clean and consistent, making it pleasant to flip through or use as a reference. However, one critical review points out that if you already own comprehensive references like Michael Dirr's Manual of Woody Landscape Plants, you might not find much new here. That is a fair point: this book is more of a curated selection than a complete encyclopedia.
Overall, Trees for the Small Garden delivers exactly what it promises. It is not meant to replace exhaustive botanical references but rather to serve as a practical, photo-rich decision tool for small gardens. If you value curated advice and want to avoid information overload, this book is an excellent addition to your gardening library. The combination of clear photography, easy fact boxes, and thoughtful selections makes it a strong choice for its intended audience.
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of all major propagation techniques from a trusted horticultural source.
- Clear step-by-step visuals and explanatory artworks make learning accessible for all skill levels.
- Plant-by-plant instructions with difficulty ratings let you choose projects that match your experience.
- Great for cost-conscious gardeners who want to expand their collection without buying new plants.
- High-quality hardcover binding and premium paper ensure the book withstands frequent use.
Cons
- Kindle edition has blurry images and limited note-taking; the physical book is strongly recommended.
- Some readers wanted more coverage of advanced grafting techniques for rare or woody plants.
- May be too detailed for absolute beginners who prefer a simpler, more concise guide.
Propagating Plants: How to Create New Plants for Free is a comprehensive reference from horticulturist Alan Toogood that teaches you how to multiply your garden plants using seeds, cuttings, layering, and grafting. With over 1,800 illustrations and step-by-step photos, this book is designed for both beginners and experienced gardeners who want to save money and grow their plant collection without purchasing new specimens. The book covers more than 1,500 plant species, from common houseplants to exotic orchids, fruit trees, shrubs, and succulents.
The standout feature is the A-Z plant dictionaries that organize plants by genus and provide a difficulty rating for each propagation method. This makes it easy to find exactly what you need for your specific plant. Real-world performance is reflected in customer reviews: many users report that the book saved them money and frustration by showing them proper techniques they had been missing. The step-by-step visuals are praised as especially helpful for visual learners, and the clear instructions help avoid common mistakes like incorrect cutting angles or poor germination conditions.
Design and build quality are excellent for a reference book. The hardcover edition is sturdy with a practical size (7.94 x 1.06 x 10.31 inches) that fits on a shelf or open on a workbench. The paper is thick and glossy, making the hundreds of photos and diagrams crisp and easy to study. The layout is well-organized, with a general primer on techniques followed by the plant-specific sections, so you can quickly jump to the information you need.
One honest drawback is that the Kindle version suffers from blurry images and limited functionality, so it is best to invest in the physical copy if you want to fully appreciate the visuals. Also, while the book is thorough, some advanced propagators may find the grafting section a bit basic compared to dedicated textbooks. Absolute beginners might feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of detail, though the rating system helps prioritize easier projects.
Overall, Propagating Plants is an invaluable resource for anyone serious about growing their garden affordably. It combines expert knowledge with practical, visual instruction that has earned a stellar 4.7-star average. Whether you are a hobbyist looking to multiply your favorite perennials or a budget-minded gardener aiming to fill a new bed, this book delivers exactly what it promises: a way to create new plants for free.
Pros
- Science-based advice grounded in real plant care experience.
- Easy-to-follow for beginners and busy plant owners.
- Focuses on the most common Money Tree issues like root rot and yellow leaves.
- Compact and straightforward with 93 pages of actionable tips.
Cons
- Limited to one plant species, so not useful for other houseplants.
- No customer reviews yet, so hard to gauge real-world results.
- Print length is 93 pages, which may feel short for those wanting an in-depth botanical reference.
Caring for Your Money Tree is a focused guide from The Plant Scientist that strips away the confusion around one of the most popular houseplants. Written for beginners and busy owners, this book gets straight to the point: how to water correctly, what yellow leaves mean, and how to keep your Pachira aquatica thriving. It's grounded in plant science but avoids heavy jargon, making it an easy read for anyone who wants a healthy Money Tree without trial and error.
The standout strength here is clarity. Instead of generic rules, the book teaches you to read your plant's signals. You'll learn why leaves turn yellow or drop, how to choose the right soil and pot, and how to repot without shocking the roots. Common issues like root rot and soft stems get dedicated attention, so you can catch problems early. The advice is practical and directly applicable, whether your Money Tree sits in a bright office or a dim apartment corner.
In terms of format, this is a lightweight paperback (6 x 0.21 x 9 inches) with 93 pages. It's not a dense textbook, which is a plus for quick reference. The layout is simple, with clear sections you can flip to when your plant starts acting up. The size and weight make it easy to keep near your potting bench or tuck into a bag.
That said, the book is purposefully narrow. If you own multiple plant species, this guide won't cover them. And because it's a new release, there are no reader reviews to confirm how well the advice works in the real world. Some experienced plant owners might find the 93-page length too brief for deep botanical detail.
Overall, this is a solid investment for anyone who loves their Money Tree and wants to stop guessing. It delivers exactly what it promises: simple, science-backed care tips that help you avoid the most common mistakes. If you've struggled with yellow leaves or mushy stems, pick this up and follow along. Your plant will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planting a Ginkgo Tree
Here are answers to the most common questions gardeners have when learning how to plant a ginkgo tree. Use these tips alongside the recommended books for best results.
What kind of soil does a ginkgo tree need?
Ginkgo trees are remarkably adaptable, but they prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. Heavy clay can cause root rot, so amend with compost or sand if needed. For detailed soil preparation advice, many gardeners rely on books like Landscaping with Conifers and Ginkgo for the Southeast by Tom Cox (see product list). You can also explore our guide on best plant food for water propagation for related soil health tips.
Should I plant a ginkgo tree in full sun or partial shade?
Ginkgo trees thrive in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily). While they tolerate some shade, growth may slow, and fall color may be less vivid. Choose a spot with enough room for the tree to spread its branches. For small gardens, reference Trees for the Small Garden by Simon Toomer, which covers space considerations.
How often should I water a newly planted ginkgo tree?
During the first year, water deeply once a week to encourage deep root growth. Reduce watering after the tree is established. Overwatering is a common mistake — ginkgo roots are prone to rot in soggy conditions. For general watering tips, see our article on best plant food for mums, which includes moisture management advice.
Can I grow a ginkgo tree from seed or cuttings?
Yes, but it requires patience. Ginkgo seeds need cold stratification for 3-4 months before planting. Cuttings can be taken in early summer, though success rates vary. For step-by-step propagation methods, the book Propagating Plants: How to Create New Plants for Free by Alan Toogood is a trusted resource. For more ideas, browse our Seed category.
Are ginkgo trees messy or high-maintenance?
Ginkgo trees are generally low-maintenance once established. They are pest-resistant and tolerate pollution well. However, female trees produce messy, smelly fruit (ginkgo nuts). For a cleaner yard, choose a male cultivar. The book Ginkgo: The Tree That Time Forgot by Peter Crane explains these differences in detail. If you’re planning a container garden, our best choice products planter box guide may help with pot selection.
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