Description
I wrote this beginner gardening book, Harvesting Joy, because I know how intimidating gardening can seem when you’re just starting out. This beginner gardening book was written to help you grow food with confidence, joy, and peace — especially in small spaces or cold climates. Written by lifestyle creator and garden enthusiast Andrea Harvey (WindyCityPeach), this guide brings a little bit of humor and practicality to help a beginner grow their first garden or improve their gardening skills. Whether you are setting up a large raised bed or using a smaller space off of your balcony, this guide breaks gardening down into simple digestible steps!
In this book you will learn how to:
- Set Your Foundation for Growth
- Nurture Your Garden (including watering 101)
- Grow Beginner Friendly Fruits and Vegetables
- Deal with Pests
- And so much more!
Harvesting Joy is more than just a beginner gardening book — it’s a soulful guide to growing with confidence, care, and joy.
Available for priority shipping.





windycitypeach –
Harvesting Joy is exactly what I needed as a beginner gardener. Andrea makes everything feel doable—even for someone with zero gardening experience. The tips are practical, the illustrations are beautiful (and melanated!), and I love that it’s not just a “how-to”—it’s a whole vibe. I’ve already started planning my garden, and for the first time, I feel confident!
Toni Preckwinkle –
Harvesting Joy is a beautifully written and thoughtful gardening book that I truly enjoyed. As someone who’s been gardening since childhood, I wasn’t sure if I’d learn anything new—but I was pleasantly surprised. The book is full of practical, easy-to-follow advice that’s perfect for beginners, but also a great refresher and inspiration for experienced gardeners. I especially appreciated the clarity, warmth, and personal touch in the writing—it feels like a conversation with someone who genuinely loves growing food and wants to share that joy. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this book reminds you why you fell in love with gardening in the first place.