This is our second year in the Build It Up program, and we’re still learning so much. Every season teaches us something new, and we’re so thankful for the continued support from the Appalachian RC&D Council.
One of the biggest things we’ve realized is that you don’t need a big backyard to grow a lot of food. Our yard is under 1/6 of an acre, but last year we managed to grow almost 200 pounds of food! With the help of the seeds, plants, tools, and workshops provided through the program, we’ve been able to get creative with our space and make every square foot count.
Some of our favorite things to grow are peppers, tomatoes, and herbs. Having fresh herbs around for most of the year has totally changed the way we cook. It’s such a simple joy to walk outside, snip a little basil or rosemary, and throw it straight into a dish.
This year, we’ve added a few new elements to the garden. We now have chickens, and they’re loving all the scraps we’re able to share from the garden. It’s been fun to watch them become part of the daily routine and help us reduce waste at the same time.
We’ve also planted a mix of wildflowers and native plants this year, hoping to attract more pollinators and create a more balanced little ecosystem right in our backyard.
In terms of setup, we’re using in-ground beds with trellises, a handful of planters, and even potato towers to make the most of our vertical space. On top of all that, we’re lucky to have a few perennials in the mix too, including an apple tree, elderberry, blackberry bush, and a grapevine.
It’s been a rewarding experience to grow food right outside our door, and we’re excited to keep learning as we go. Programs like Build It Up make it possible for people like us to get started and stay inspired—and for that, we’re really grateful.
~Sarah Mast Ragland
