How did you start gardening?

Growing up, my family has always had gardens and indoor houseplants, so it’s always been in my life. As I grew older, I gained a deeper fascination for nature and plants, and was even one of the counselors in charge of leading activities on the farm at my summer camp last summer. So, gardening has always been a part of my life, and as I’ve grown older, I’ve gained more appreciation for it and have become more involved in it. 

What is your favorite thing to grow?

I love growing tomatoes because there are so many tomatoes per plant, and they grow so fast. 

What is your favorite part about gardening?

One of my favorite parts about gardening is seeing nature’s beautiful diversity. Every plant is so unique and different, and I think it’s cool seeing so many biological processes happening to create such interesting things. 

What are your general tips for gardening for beginners?

For beginner gardeners, it is important to do your research so that you know what types of plants you’ll be growing, what they need, and how they’ll grow in your environment; but it’s also about just letting things grow and having nature take its course. 

What are some common mistakes people make when starting to garden?

Not having the right materials, planting the wrong plants for their environment and not knowing what the plants need. 

What should someone choose to plant?

Anything you want. Indoors, you can grow anything as long as you are committed enough to it. Outdoors, it depends on the resources you have and the environment you live in. 

Where should someone plant and what soil should they use?

Depends on what you want to grow. Having enough nutrients in the soil is important. Indiana has a lot of clay in the soil. As long as you research the environment and the plants, you would have more luck. 

What are some general tips for maintaining a garden?

Let things happen as they happen, but make sure to water and prune too. Nature will do its thing, but you should help keep the plants alive. 

What are the differences between gardening in the fall compared to other seasons?

Fall is more about harvesting and preparing for winter while spring is about plants and letting things grow. 

Any other advice?

Be confident in your gardening abilities. Have fun with it.