How it all began
starting a garden
I’ve dreamed of having a garden since I was a child, but for many years, life did not leave room for it. I worked many years as an RN prior to staying home to raise my children, care for an elderly parent and assist my husband in establishing a congregation/community of faith where I volunteered hours of admin, developing policies, coordinating teams, and teaching children and women.
After years of caring for family and other people. Life finally gave me margin to start gardening. I believe my history in caregiving and pioneering new projects has strengthened my ability to care for a garden and encourage other gardeners. My one regret is that I didn’t start gardening when my children were younger so they could learn along with me.
this is my story
About Michelle
I’m Michelle, a licensed RN, BSN and suburban gardener in Southwest Virginia. Since becoming a gardener I’ve been on a mission to help others discover the restorative power of gardening for the body, mind, and spirit.
As a nurse, I’ve seen firsthand how disconnection from nature affects our well-being. Through this website, YouTube channel, Instagram, I share the education, resources, encouragement and the inspiration you need to e grow food, flowers, herbs, and confidence in your own backyard that nutures your mind, body, and spirit while deepening your connection with. nature, community and for those who seek it, the Creator.
Learn more about my brand collaborations, podcast interviews, and news features on my Press & Publications page
The garden grows
Encouraging others
2021 I started Michelle’s Garden Grows on Instagram as a journal of my garden journey and started encouraging others with what I was learning.
In 2025 I increased my efforts by starting this blog. I wanted to create a dedicated space, a hub if you will where people could easily find and explore all the gardening tips and resources I’m learning and sharing.
Family
My husband and I live in SW Virginia. We have two children, a son and a daughter who are both in college and living away at their Universities. My husband Karl is my garden helper.
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MISSION
Our mission is to equip and encourage ordinary people with practical resources, knowledge and confidence to grow food, cultivate beauty, and steward their backyard spaces in ways that benefit both people and the natural world.
VISION
A world where every backyard grows something that nourishes people, supports wildlife, and strengthens the earth.
Gardening
Values
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frequently asked q’s
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must-read
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September Garden Book Club: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life by Barbara Kingsolver
Book Overview This September, our Garden Book Club explores Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. I’m thrilled to read this book with The Garden Book Club! Many of my garden…
