Editorial Policy

The Garden Playbook exists to provide helpful, accurate, and accessible gardening information. This policy explains how we create, review, and update content.

1) What we publish

We publish:

  • plant care and identification guides
  • gardening tutorials and checklists
  • troubleshooting and prevention guides (pests, diseases, deficiencies)
  • tool and product guidance (when relevant)

We avoid:

  • sensational claims, miracle cures, or unsafe practices
  • advice that encourages misuse of chemicals or unsafe handling of plants
  • content written primarily to rank rather than help

2) How we create content

Each article is developed using a structured process:

  1. Topic selection based on reader needs and common questions
  2. Hands-on testing and/or observation where applicable (methods, timelines, outcomes, photos)
  3. Research and verification using reputable references (e.g., extension services, botanic gardens, peer-reviewed or professional horticulture sources)
  4. Drafting with clarity: step-by-step instructions, constraints, and common failure points
  5. Editorial review for accuracy, safety, and readability

3) Experience and evidence

Whenever possible, we include:

  • original photos, measurements, and real outcomes
  • growing conditions (light, temperature range, soil type, container size, timing)
  • what did not work and why
  • alternatives for different climates and skill levels

For higher-risk topics (toxicity, allergens, pesticides/herbicides, invasive species), we prioritise authoritative sources and add extra review before publishing.

4) Sources and citations

We aim to cite or reference credible organisations and publications, prioritising:

  • university extension services
  • recognised botanic gardens and horticultural institutions
  • government or public health guidance (for plant safety)
  • peer-reviewed or professional horticulture references

5) Updates

We review and update articles when:

  • new evidence or best practices emerge
  • products/tools change materially
  • readers report potential inaccuracies
  • a topic is seasonal or time-sensitive

6) Affiliate links, sponsorship, and independence

Some pages may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
We do not accept payments in exchange for positive coverage. If content is sponsored, it is clearly labelled.