Gardening isn’t just about producing food or creating something pretty. The process of gardening can really be a source of joy and a place to express your creativity. To me it's kind of like a playground.

As a kid I always liked creating science experiments. Then my experiments usually consisted of making slime and random concoctions of whatever I could find in my mom's kitchen. Today it looks more like a garden full of unexpected vegetable varieties, bird houses, and a plethora of flowers.

Don’t take gardening too seriously. If you have a love of plants, just get involved. Try that hack you saw to grow an avocado tree from a pit. Start a growing club. Grow a new variety you’ve never heard of. Experiment and have fun trying new things.

There is so much that can be done in a garden that doesn’t follow conventional traditions. My hope is that this blog is a place to inspire and teach you as you live your garden journey.

If you are wanting to mix things up this coming season try some interesting vegetable varieties. For a lot of people vegetable gardening means orange carrots, green peppers, and red tomatoes. There are so many more options! Try some of the following varieties for some great new flavors and interesting looks:

• Black Nebula Carrot
• Yellow Carrot
• Cheddar Hybrid Cauliflower
• Lemon Boy Hybrid Tomato
• Black Krim Tomato
• Hopi Blue Corn
• Purple Beauty Pepper

If you live in an area out of season, start planning out your garden. Consider what kind of wildlife you want to attract and include plants they will enjoy. Start creating non plant material that you can add in when you are ready. If you enjoy bird watching, make a birdhouse, feeder, etc. This can be done on any budget.

One of the best bird feeders I have ever made was simply a plastic soda pop bottle that I cut, painted, and hung in a tree. If you want to get a bit more intricate, make one out of wood. You can use carving, burning, and painting as a means of decorating the wood. When you are ready add some seeds for your flying friends. We recommend adding a mix of:

• Black Oil or Striped Sunflowers
• Safflower
• Nyjer

For more fun ideas and information keep an eye out for new posts.