Garden Journal
An open book of musings, inspiration, seasonal tasks, our recent projects and big ideas. Browse the latest articles below or search for a topic that interests you. Leave a comment and join the conversation.
Why the Cool 😎 Gardeners Plant Early
“I can’t grow cilantro.” “It’s too early to plant.” We hear it every spring in Middle Tennessee. But what if the problem isn’t your skill — it’s your timing? Cool season gardening has its own rhythm, and March is prime time for peas, greens, radishes, and even flowers. Yes, there’s a little risk. But planting slightly early and covering a frosty night beats waiting too long and watching everything bolt before you can harvest. Once you understand cool season growing, everything shifts. Spring isn’t something you wait for. It’s something you strut into — confident, curious, and ahead of the curve.
Q&A: Why don’t I have tons of tomatoes yet?
Still waiting on ripe tomatoes? You’re not alone. In this post, we explain why your plants might be slow to produce, when peak tomato season really hits in Middle Tennessee, and how factors like variety, weather, and planting dates affect your harvest. Plus, we make the case (again!) for keeping garden records — and share a few delicious ideas for using green tomatoes in the meantime.
Comparison: The Thief of Joy — or the Great Garden Motivator?
Scrolling through stunning gardens online can sometimes leave us feeling like we’re doing it all wrong. Why aren’t my tomatoes thriving like hers? But comparison doesn’t have to steal our joy—it can spark curiosity, creativity, and growth. In this blog, we unpack how to shift your mindset from self-doubt to learning, helping you figure out what’s actually within your control and how to ask the right questions. Plus, we encourage celebrating your own progress and finding real-life garden friends who share both their blooms and their bloopers.
Ready to grow with confidence? Let’s dig in. 🌱