Hello there! My name is Chyann, I work for Grower’s Secret and I have a backyard garden containing 3, 6x6 raised beds, a 12x4 tomato bed, bean trellis and much more.
I have grown and expanded this backyard garden for about three years now. But I may be getting ahead of myself, before I get into that let's talk about my background in agriculture first. I first realized my interest in plants when I was 15 or 16. I participated in a High School program called The Future Farmers of America. Here I learned a basic understanding of plants, soil, hydroponics, floral, animals, public speaking and so much more that would make this list way too long. Let's just say this program gave me a broad understanding of many aspects of agriculture. From there I expanded my knowledge in the classroom and out of it when I was accepted into California State University Fresno. I took many classes and gained a deeper understanding of plants specifically. I learned this is what I love. I love watching plants grow, understanding how they produce and feed people, how they take up nutrients, and probably just about any aspect of plants. In college, I worked in plant nurseries helping to educate people on different plants, and what goes best with what they want. I also have worked on a large pistachio ranch, where I fixed issues with their irrigation. I learned about water pumps, filters, and average pressure, I also got to watch pistachios age from flower to harvest.
Now I have a garden where I grow a lot of the plants that I use in my cooking. I have even grown certain veggies to try them. Veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach I didn't like before I grew them myself, but now I look forward to growing them each year. My garden checks off a lot of personal boxes for me, it is something that provides food, peace, a hobby, creativity, and knowledge. I use my garden to learn and experiment in a safe way. My garden can bring ease and relaxation, but also can bring excitement and new discovery. Gardening is a hobby where you can find something new every time you go outside and check on the garden. Growing a garden takes hours of work, dedication, and upkeep. But the journey is worth it.
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