This is my first garden ever and it has been so meaningful to me because I have just purchased my home last September. And given the current political climate it has been a place of respite and resistance for me. Knowing that I can grow and preserve food for me and my community, no matter what is happening outside this beautiful bubble we live in in NETN. It is important to me to know that I am eating fresh local veggies grown chemical free, and it is so fresh. I walk through my garden daily foraging and planning my next meal.
I have learned SO MUCH! I decided to grow everything and in a big way! I learned what my soil grows best and what I grow best. I saw insects that I never even knew existed! And that they are ruthless! Lastly, my work in local food systems has finally come full circle and I now can live and breathe the work I do daily and my passion shines through in my home, kitchen, and willingness to gift veggies to all my friends.
I grew some of the most beautiful tasty celery and I made a lot of celery salt. I loved dehydrating herbs for teas and tinctures. I also made my owns greens powder for smoothies and such. So many different tomatoes and so much tomato pie. I enjoyed making ratatouille too. I was pleasantly surprised at my purple potato harvest and onion harvest. I grew cabbages and cucumbers for pickling and fermenting. I love pickles so I made a lot of quick pickles. Just to name a few, I could go on.
I was surprised at how much I LOVED it. I knew it would be a hobby but I became obsessed with it and I cant wait to continue growing and learning.
The hardest part is staying on top of the weeds and pests. I left the country and came home to a garden that needed a lot of love but surprisingly maintained itself (survival of the fittest) and time. Carving out time to harvest and preserve everything on top of a full time job and other responsibilities. All in all my garden saved me and my friends’ sanity. When I would feel sad or overwhelmed I would go to my garden and then cook a meal filled with flavor and love. It has taught me to be patient and present. Thank you for this gift.
~Ashley Cavender
Leave a reply