Few people embody the joy of gardening like Costa Georgiadis, the energetic, bearded host of Gardening Australia and a beloved household name in Australian homes. In his book, Costa’s World: Gardening for the Soil, the Soul and the Suburbs, Costa invites readers into a lush and thoughtful space where gardening becomes more than just a hobby—it becomes a philosophy of life.
With his trademark warmth, passion, and practical wisdom, Costa’s book is a celebration of soil health, community spirit, and the therapeutic power of nature. It’s part gardening guide, part environmental manifesto, and part personal journal—all grounded in Costa’s mission to make gardening accessible, sustainable, and soulful.
In this review, we’ll explore the themes, takeaways, and why Costa’s World is a must-read for every gardener, from suburban balcony growers to backyard veggie champions.
A Personal Introduction to Gardening with Purpose
Costa opens his book not with a list of to-dos, but with a story. His story. He shares the journey of his Greek-Australian upbringing, his connection to food and land, and how early exposure to gardening shaped his values and way of life.
The tone is intimate and enthusiastic. You’re not just reading a book—you’re sitting in the garden with a friend who’s ready to show you the magic of soil under your fingernails.
Key takeaway:
Gardening isn’t just about plants. It’s about connection—to culture, to the earth, and to each other.
The Soil: Where All Good Gardening Begins
True to his reputation as a soil fanatic, Costa dedicates significant time to what many overlook: the foundation of every garden—the soil. He explains in simple, relatable language how understanding your soil’s structure, biology, and health is the key to sustainable gardening.
You’ll learn:
- How to build living, nutrient-rich soil
- Why compost is black gold
- The importance of fungi, microbes, and worms
- How to reduce dependence on chemicals by working with nature
Costa’s approach makes soil feel sacred. You’ll come away inspired to dig, observe, and nurture your garden from the ground up.
Gardening for the Soul: Nature as Therapy
One of the most profound aspects of Costa’s World is its recognition of gardening as a spiritual and emotional practice. In a fast-paced, tech-saturated world, Costa reminds us that the garden offers something precious: stillness, wonder, and healing.
Themes explored:
- Mindfulness through daily garden rituals
- The joy of planting and watching things grow
- Coping with grief and stress through nature
- The role of gardening in mental health and community care
Costa shares real-life stories from people who have found solace and strength in their gardens—whether it’s a war veteran reconnecting through soil, or a single mum creating a green sanctuary for her children.
Key message:
Even the smallest garden can be a refuge for the soul.
The Suburbs: Reclaiming Space and Community
Costa’s World doesn’t focus solely on rural farms or grand estate gardens. It’s a love letter to the suburban and urban gardeners—those turning balconies, verges, and backyard strips into vibrant green spaces.
Costa shows how suburban gardening can be transformative, not just personally, but socially:
- Planting edible verge gardens that feed neighbours
- Starting community composting hubs
- Replacing lawns with native pollinator gardens
- Encouraging seed swaps, tool libraries, and garden shares
With practical guides and case studies, Costa shows how gardens can breathe new life into streets, suburbs, and apartment blocks—even with minimal space or budget.
Practical Tips, Projects & Planting Advice
While deeply philosophical, Costa’s World is also a hands-on guide. The book is filled with practical ideas and step-by-step projects that anyone can try, including:
- How to make your own compost and worm farms
- Growing food in containers, raised beds, or repurposed items
- Creating habitats for bees, birds, and beneficial insects
- Mulching techniques for waterwise gardening
- Seasonal planting advice for Australian climates
There’s a whole chapter on kids in the garden, full of fun, educational activities that encourage the next generation of gardeners to get involved.
A Focus on Sustainability
Costa’s environmental ethos is present on every page. He gently urges readers to make choices that are good for the earth—whether it’s avoiding synthetic fertilisers, conserving water, or choosing local plants.
Throughout the book, he promotes:
- Organic methods
- Permaculture principles
- Waste reduction through composting and reuse
- Native and climate-adapted species
- Gardening as activism—small, everyday actions that add up
Reading this book, you’ll feel empowered to be not just a gardener, but a guardian of your local ecosystem.
Rich Visuals and Personal Touches
The book is full of vibrant photographs, many taken from Costa’s own garden and the gardens he’s visited across Australia. You’ll find lush vegetable patches, creative upcycling ideas, community gardens, and, of course, plenty of Costa’s iconic smiling face surrounded by green.
There are also quotes, reflections, and anecdotes that give the book a personal, journal-like feel. It’s not just about what to do, but why it matters.
Who Should Read Costa’s World?
- Beginner gardeners looking for inspiration and guidance
- Urban dwellers seeking ways to garden in small or shared spaces
- Families who want to involve kids in outdoor activities
- Eco-conscious individuals seeking sustainable practices
- Fans of Costa Georgiadis and Gardening Australia
- Anyone who believes in the power of plants to heal, connect, and transform
Final Thoughts: A Book That Grows With You
Costa’s World: Gardening for the Soil, the Soul and the Suburbs is more than a gardening book—it’s a manifesto for a greener, kinder world. With Costa’s wisdom and boundless enthusiasm leading the way, you’ll feel inspired not only to grow plants, but to grow community, purpose, and hope.
Whether you’re digging your first veggie patch or revitalizing a tired backyard, this book reminds you that every handful of soil holds the potential for something beautiful. It’s a must-have for every Australian gardener—and for anyone seeking deeper meaning in the garden.
Where to Buy
You can purchase Costa’s World: Gardening for the Soil, the Soul and the Suburbs at:
- Amazon Australia
- Booktopia
- Dymocks
- Local independent bookstores
- Gardening and lifestyle retailers
Alternatively, check out the book directly on Amazon to explore more reader reviews and delivery options. It also makes a thoughtful gift for the gardener—or aspiring gardener—in your life.
