How did you get into your craft?

I grew up seeing people grow food and share their food. If your neighbor didn’t have enough, you grew enough for them; no one person grew food just for themselves. Seeing that process, I grew up loving the lifestyle. I never knew this would be my field of work.

Somewhere along my journey, starting in 2012 after my divorce, I embraced growing food as something I needed to keep me grounded and give me purpose because it took me from one place to another. Growing and gardening allowed me to move from a dark space to a more positive space. It helped me to heal. 

Growing food allows you to plan for the future. Every time I go to the garden, it’s therapy; what am I going to do today? What am I going to do tomorrow? What do I need to do to make these plants grow? So, it allowed me to think about the future instead of being stuck in the present. 

How does your work connect to the food as resistance movement?

Growing your own food is like printing your own money. When you do it yourself and practice saving seeds, you can save a lot of money and feel a sense of independence. As people, we know that we need to eat, sleep, and drink water, and everything else is arguably optional. The act of farming is liberating, allowing you to plan for your future without the need for a grocery store.

How can folks get started with seed saving?

Acquire open-pollinated or heirloom seeds. Understand the source of your seeds and ensure they are viable. If possible, avoid using seeds from the grocery store. That way, you can stay connected to their origins.

Learn to store the seeds properly. Look into how long your seeds should be stored to remain viable. Some seeds stay fresh for up to two years, while others last for a decade. Store the seeds in a cool, dark space to extend their lifespan. If possible, consider using a dedicated freezer for storage.

Prioritize the health of your soil. Healthy soil is necessary to start your seeds. Seed starters like coconut coir can improve your soil and fill the dirt with nutrients.  

Germinate the seeds. This process is tricky, so you have to be patient. Whether you are paying attention to how much water they need or checking the soil. It is a fine balancing act to get it right—practice, practice, practice. 

Care for the seedlings. Take care of them just like a newborn. Give them some nutrients—like organic or fish fertilizer—so they can grow and thrive.