A great book to read is "Modern Arboriculture" by Alex Shigo ... easy to read .. introduces some very complex ideas that apply to all of Botany ...

I would not shy away from a beginning formal Botany Textbook ...

It would be of great help to know what areas of botany you are most interested in ... I'm away from my library so can't list other titles let me know your interest and I will try to post a few more suggestions.

Shigo's book is a GREAT book .. not just a good book.

Good Day ...

Plant Propagation Principles and Practices by Hartman and Kester. Now in its 7th edition. Earlier editions available used for a lot less money. Al

I would suggest "Botany for Gardeners" by Brian Capone, available at Timberpress. (My copy was given to me by my friend who teaches botany at the local university and thinks it's a fabulous book). It is simply written, great photos and illustrations, and not expensive--about $18-20.

Tillable,

Don't you mean Brian Capon and not Brian Capone?

IronBelly

Tillable, That's a great book,"Botany for Gardeners". It was recommended when I was taking classes at Longwood Gardens and again during the master gardener training classes. Billie