We're all about adding splashes of greenery to small spaces around here, and whether you have a big back yard, a tiny porch, or just a windowsill to work with, container gardening can help you do just that.

The kind folks at Timber Press sent me a copy of Fern Richardson's new book, Small Space Container Gardens, and I have got to tell you, I am in love! The book is all about how to plan, plant, and maintain beautiful container gardens, and she does an great job of demystifying some of the trickier parts of gardening.

Richardson talks you through planning your garden from choosing the right plants for your climate to how to arrange them in their containers and deck out your container garden's space. What really struck me about the book is that so many of her tips are useful for even a back yard gardener. When I read the chapter on using plants to create privacy walls, I ran out back to my husband to show him Richardson's suggestions. Sure, potted bamboo is a great way to get privacy on your patio, but it also just might be the eco-friendly solution for covering up our ugly chain link without the disruption or footprint of putting in a wood privacy fence.

I loved the common sense ways that she talks about choosing your plants and the breathtaking photos of small space container gardens from all over the world. Her ideas are inspiring, and the photos make you want to run to the nearest garden center immediately.

She also includes crafty ways to create containers and accent pieces for your garden, often using reclaimed materials. Even the ones that don't specifically call for reclaimed materials are ripe for upcycling. She offers some ways to make cheap garden center pots super cute, but you could also use her stenciling and painting techniques on containers you find at the thrift store or even ones you already have in your stash.

Whether you're planning a small container garden or want to beautify your backyard, this book is full of helpful tips for beginning gardeners.