Build It Up Blog
The Build It Up Blog includes entries from our gardners discussing their gardening journey and guides from our program staff regarding when to start your seeds, when to put transplants in the ground, when to fertilize, and more!
Gardener Story: Brandi Eveland Sayers
I am excited to be with the BIU Gardening Program again this year. It is such a wonderful program and I have learned a wealth of information. I look forward to celebrating the successes and failures of all of our efforts. I have learned that sometimes a plant just...
Garden Irrigation by Gardener Jacqueline
Drip Irrigation for the Home Gardener Drip Irrigation is not for everyone or for every situation, but this no-till gardener with a DIY drip system can no longer imagine growing small fruit and vegetables in East Tennessee without one. Drip systems have benefits and...
Gardener Story: Heather Buntich
As a second-year gardener I feel much more confident going into this growing season. And yet, I have already learned a few things to do differently next year. I have a feeling that it will always be like that. Each go-round bringing a new set of lessons learned. Last...
Gardener Story: Shauna Donovan
Spring is here and with it, another year of gardening! I have been itching to get out there and get some plants in the ground! With each new year, comes new techniques and changes to my garden. I always try to do something different each year so I can see what works...
Gardener Story: Kayla Sanchez
I’m beginning my second year of gardening and it is already VASTLY different than last year. I expanded my garden by taking over the other half of my front yard. I started by tilling and sowing buckwheat as most of my garden will be for summer planting. I put together...
Meet The New Build It Up Program Assistant
Hi Ya, Rachel Slaughter here - Build It Up's new Program Assistant. I thought I'd introduce myself since there is a good chance you may be getting an email from me before we get a chance to meet in person. One of my earliest memories is the year my brother planted...
Gardener Story: Laura Ciccone
This is our second year being a part of the ARCD Build It Up program. Last year we had a lot fun and learned so much! Last year we started an elderberry patch. When I went to prep them for this years addition I immediately could tell that we had been hit by...
Gardener Story: Norris Family
When I was young my grandfather farmed for a living and started the farmers' market in Boone, NC. While I was able to help my grandparents in the garden during the summer and sell produce on the weekends, I was not old enough to glean the knowledge and skills of...
Gardener Story: Cindy Armstrong
I come from a long line of brown thumbs, so when I heard about this program to help beginner gardeners, I was quite excited to apply for a chance to learn. I was chosen to be one of the few who would participate in the Build It Up program and I am grateful. My yard,...