Planting Seeds of Empowerment: My Mission with Gardening Under Influence LLC

Excerpt from interview with Demeter Earth

 1️⃣ Tell us about Plant and Heal: What inspired you to start your business?

Plant and Heal Co. was born out of my personal journey and a deep desire to reclaim my family's health and well-being. After my husband’s medical care in military hospitals fell short, I turned to growing our own food as a means of empowerment. I wanted to ensure that my family had access to fresh, chemical-free produce. This journey led me to create a space where others could also reconnect with the land, cultivate their own food, and find healing through gardening.

2️⃣ Your mission: What’s the heart of Plant and Heal’s mission or philosophy?

At the heart of Plant and Heal’s mission is the belief that everyone deserves access to good quality food and the knowledge to grow it themselves. Our philosophy is rooted in resilience, resourcefulness, and community empowerment. We aim to promote food sovereignty, support sustainable practices, and foster a sense of belonging through gardening. We want to inspire individuals to take control of their health and well-being by nurturing their own gardens.

3️⃣ Your products: What are some of your favorite or most popular products?

My absolute favorite products include our diverse selection of dwarf fruit trees, which are perfect for smaller spaces while still delivering rich flavors. I’m also a big fan of our berry plants, as they provide delicious, fresh fruit right from the backyard. Another standout for me is the parthenocarpic cucumbers. These cucumbers are fantastic because they can produce fruit without the need for pollination, making them incredibly easy to grow—even if you don’t have pollinators around or if you’re growing indoors.

Parthenocarpy is a fascinating process where fruits develop without fertilization, resulting in seedless or less-seeded fruit. This trait is particularly beneficial in cucurbits, as it allows gardeners to enjoy a bountiful harvest regardless of environmental conditions.

Right now, I’m especially excited about the multi-head cabbage cauliflower. Typically, cauliflower only produces a single head, but this variety offers multiple heads, which is such a game-changer! I’m also thrilled about the new season of soursop trees and seeds, along with our medicinal offerings like the turmeric kits in black, green, red, and orange, as well as our junior ginger collector kits. And let’s not forget the rare white watermelon—it's a unique addition that I can’t wait to share with our community!

4️⃣ Tips for gardeners: Any advice or tips for someone new to gardening?

For anyone new to gardening, my biggest tip is to start small and choose plants that are well-suited to your local environment. Research the specific needs of your plants, such as sunlight and water requirements, and don’t be afraid to experiment! Use what you have on hand—repurposed materials can be great for supporting your plants. Most importantly, enjoy the process and remember that gardening is a journey of growth, both for your plants and yourself.

5️⃣ Why local matters: Why do you think supporting local growers and artisans is important?

Supporting local growers and artisans is crucial for building resilient communities. When we buy local, we invest in our neighbors and contribute to the local economy. It fosters a sense of connection and trust, and it helps preserve our cultural heritage. Local growers often prioritize sustainable practices, which benefits our environment and ensures that we have access to fresh, seasonal produce. By supporting local, we create a network of support that uplifts everyone involved.

Feel free to share anything else you’d like people to know about you or your brand.

I want people to know that gardening is for everyone, regardless of their background or experience. At Plant and Heal Co., we’re committed to making gardening accessible and enjoyable. I invite everyone to join us on this journey of growth, healing, and empowerment. Together, we can cultivate a future that honors our heritage and nourishes our communities, one seed at a time.