Ex-HortWeek journalist Lia Leendertz's annual guide, from Octopus, has been around since 2017 and spawned a series of similar guides from other publishers.
The National Trust (Greg Loades), RHS and Gardeners' World all have almanacs, showing just how much publishers like to ape a successful concept.
The almanac is traditionally an annual calendar containing important dates and statistical information such as astronomical data and tide tables and have long been publishing staples.
Old Moore's Almanack is an astrological almanac which has been published in Britain since 1697. Wisden Cricketers' Almanack has been around since 1864. This makes you wonder why it took so long for gardening to get on board, particularly as the pastime's seasonal nature lends itself to this format.
The Octopus almanac takes a day-by-day form, January-December. For 2026, Leendertz's theme is trees. Next year is possibly a mast year. There's a theme of mysticism, with the moon, tides and folk tales prominent throughout.
An annual winner, the book is compact and easy to dip in and out of; the perfect Christmas gardening gift.
