Julie Thompson-Adolf, Master Gardener

A lifelong gardener, Julie began her career by planting pansies and petunias and raising maple trees from seeds. She soon began growing organic heirloom plants and teaching friends how to garden, which she then shared nationally through her website, speaking engagements, and articles. Empowering people to grow from seed to garden to table became her mission. 

Julie’s suburban “microfarm” is often a site for tours and teaching. She’s a Master Gardener, served on the National Garden Bureau’s Plant Nerds team, and joined television host P. Allen Smith for Garden2Blog.

A Word From Julie Thompson-Adolf

“Grow something. Maybe it’s just one tomato plant or a pot of basil, but I promise: gardening changes you. Start small, and grow something you love. Don’t get frustrated by beginning too ambitiously. Just a few radishes or a bit of arugula homegrown and harvested for dinner can give you a sense of accomplishment—and then you can add more crops next year. Grow flowers if you love pretty bouquets. Grow plants that attract butterflies and birds. Grow anything that gives you pleasure, because you’re more likely to take care of plants that you love. Nothing makes me happier than meeting new gardeners and helping them learn to grow, which is why I'm so excited to be working on The Spruce's Gardening and Plant Care Review Board.”