Let me tell you something I know deep in my roots: Gardening isn’t just about plants—it’s about people. It’s about healing, growing, and grounding yourself in something larger than the day-to-day. And I say this not just as a lifelong gardener, but as someone who’s been transformed—mentally, physically, and emotionally—by the quiet power of a tomato plant.

There’s real magic in getting your hands dirty. Not metaphorical magic—though there’s plenty of that, too—but real, documented magic that science is finally catching up to. Research published in journals like Preventive Medicine Reports and Environmental Science & Technology shows that gardening lowers cortisol levels (that’s your stress hormone), boosts serotonin and vitamin D levels (thank you, sunshine!), and even increases life satisfaction. In fact, some studies suggest gardening may improve mood more than walking, biking, or reading. (Yes, more than reading—don’t tell my book club.)

And there’s more. Gardeners tend to get more physical activity, which can improve mobility, heart health, and flexibility. But it’s not just the movement—it’s the meaning. Caring for a plant gives us purpose. Watching something grow because you helped it thrive? That’ll do wonders for your soul.

Personally, I have a deep and abiding relationship with my tomatoes. Not just because they taste like summer and sunshine, but because they’ve taught me about patience and joy. My basil gives back more than it takes—and it smells better than any therapy candle. But if I had to name one companion in my garden that really knows my heart, it’s my clematis. Every time she bursts into bloom, I feel like she’s encouraging me to do the same.

I’m not alone in this. I’ve gathered 25 incredible stories from fellow gardeners across the country, each one a celebration of the deep, emotional connections we develop with our plants. These are not just gardening tales—they’re love stories. Comedies. Memoirs. Tiny miracles told through lettuces, hedges, and cherry tomatoes.

The collection is called The Magic of Gardening: 25 Joyous Tales About People and Their Plants, and it’s a heartfelt tribute to the beauty of being in relationship with the natural world. These tales were handpicked from more than 2,000 in our GreenPrints archives, and every one has left a green fingerprint on my heart.

You’ll laugh at “Buried by Cucumbers,” marvel at “Zephy, Creeferter, and Me,” and tear up at “The Old Rose.”

You’ll cheer for “The Fall and Rise of Pink Patricia,” and nod with understanding at “To the Celery in My Life.”

And you might just see yourself in “Taking a Moment To Be Still” or “Life-Changing Magic.”

So I invite you to read these stories not just as a gardener, but as a human being seeking connection. Let the joy, humor, and wonder of each tale remind you that your garden isn’t just a plot of earth—it’s a path to healing.

Ready to let the garden work its magic on you?

Click here to explore the full table of contents of The Magic of Gardening and begin your journey through these 25 joyous tales.

May your mind be calm, your body energized, and your spirit lifted with every seed you sow.