As we’ve shared garden goals from Abi and Sarah, a bigger picture has started to emerge. Across our team and our clients, the themes feel both practical and deeply human: starting earlier, planting with more intention, growing vertically instead of fighting nature, and making room for more flowers—whether that’s better-labeled dahlias or blooms woven right into the veggie beds. We’re hearing a shared desire to use what we grow, to learn by doing, to gain confidence and independence, and to let the garden be a place of connection—with partners, kids, and the rhythms of the seasons. It’s a reminder that gardeners are never bored… there’s always something new to try, together.

Whereas some love to follow systems in the garden, I’ve never been a checklist girl. Why do I garden? For the gatherings, the neighbors, the gumbo parties, the BLTs, the pesto weekends when everyone ends up around the kitchen island. My garden isn’t a system to master, but a source of abundance and inspiration that makes it easy to connect over food.

What started as a simple, slightly obsessive goal—harvesting something from my garden every single week—ended up reshaping how I cook, plan, and show up in my garden. I didn’t hit 52 weeks… but I came close, with fresh harvests in 48 weeks of the year. From a single bunch of kale to an absurdly joyful pepper haul, this challenge changed my mindset from “what do I feel like eating?” to “what do I have, and how can I use it?” If you’re motivated by goals, routines, and small wins, this reflection might inspire your next growing season.

What a year! Reflections of growing business, building gardens, and connecting with our plant community in 2024.