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: 3 Forks Farm

Gardener Story: 3 Forks Farm

Mark and I met in church around 11 years ago. He could tell you exactly how long ago. I mention this as an introduction to the careful note taker, researcher and planner that Mark is. And to underline the contrast that I am. I am the willy-nilly part of this journey. ...

Gardener Story: Carolyn Andrews

Gardener Story: Carolyn Andrews

So far, so good in my second year of gardening with Build It Up. Participation in Build It Up the first year taught me the importance of a garden plan and crop rotation, and everything I have planted so far this year seems to be thriving in its location. The program...

Gardener Story: Rebecca Stephens

Gardener Story: Rebecca Stephens

One of the parts of this garden project I love the most is the sense of community that I receive when we pick up the plants or attend the workshops. Gardening, at its best, is a communal activity. In an idealized world, I would have learned the arts of companion...

Tomato Planting

Tomato Planting

With summer fast approaching and our summer plant distribution coming up later this week I thought a tomato planting primer was in order. In the years I've been growing food these are some of my favorite tips for getting good tomato plants in the ground.  ...

Gardener Story: Brandi Eveland Sayers

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

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

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

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...