I have a PhD, along with several other degrees. I'm one class away from yet another, this one in agriculture. I own 150 houseplants, and I even have an entire room dedicated to them.

That room is currently full of dead plants.

A fungus spread. I ignored the signs. Now I have a plant graveyard where a jungle used to be.

I promise, it's not you.

If you've ever felt like a failure watching a $12 pothos die slowly in your windowsill, this pocket guide is for you. It's not written by someone who's never killed a plant; it's written by someone who's killed a lot of them, and learned exactly why every single time.

Inside, you'll find no-nonsense, beginner-friendly advice on:

• The basics of soil, water, and light

• Choosing plants that forgive mistakes while you learn

• Setting your starter plant up for success

Small enough to fit in your bag, honest enough to actually help. This is the guide I wish I'd had before I lost a whole room of plants to my own denial.

Perfect for new plant parents, gift-giving, or anyone who needs to hear that killing a plant doesn't mean you're bad at this.