Seedlings grown in our greenhouse: cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. These are BIG 6" plants grown from seed and planted in organic soil without the use of any chemicals.

I am trying a little experiment this spring. I've had many people reach out to me and ask questions about how this whole gardening business works. When do you plant peas? What is the best type of tomato to grow in Central Oregon? The innate teacher in me gets excited about this of course. People wanting to learn something and try something new... I've decided to share my gardening adventure this year with those who would like to join along.

Here I am in my garden last summer. I have a pretty wonderful set up that has taken years to establish. I have an insulated greenhouse, twelve raised beds plumbed for automatic watering, and a disturbingly large collection of seeds. I keep honey bees of course to help with the pollination. Getting my hands in the dirt and harvesting food we've grown here on our farm is my happy place. I keep our children actively involved in the process too.

A typical morning harvest from the garden. The colors and products change throughout the season.

Cabbage and broccoli harvest with the very same starts I hope to get in beginning gardener's hands.

Here's my idea in a nut shell: I will provide seedlings for those hoping to join the gardening bandwagon. I've already planted my "cold season" crops and they are thriving in my greenhouse. I planted extras in hopes that I could inspire and help others along the way. A cold season crop is one that tolerates cooler temperatures better than other plants. (Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, peas, onions, etc). I hope to do this same thing for "warm season" crops and pass along starts again to others. (Tomatoes, pumpkins, cucumbers, etc). My ideal situation is to save others from some of the tough life lessons I've learned over the years and to make novice gardeners feel successful. You CAN do it!

August tomatoes from the garden. A rainbow of color.

So, if you are interested in trying the whole gardening bit, let me know. I am promoting Mother's Day Farm Boxes this week that include the first phase of gardening for the season. You'll not only end up with healthy plant starts loved and cultivated right here on our farm, you'll also have a whole bounty to enjoy with them. Farm boxes include grass fed beef, handcrafted dishcloths, felted coin purses, a pair of gardening gloves, and a little raw honey sampler from our bee hives.

I promise that you won't be disappointed! You'll have yummy food in your tummy, pretty handmade gifts to enjoy, and a step in the right direction toward growing your own food. See our add on the Facebook page and/or the website.