Kim Groce

One of the first things that I had to learn when it came to growing was to make sure you start with good soil.  Growing up my dad would just smell the wet soil and let it run through his fingers to tell if the soil had enough nutrients.  Well most of us don’t have that gift…I sure don’t.    How often have we as Michigander’s been in a rush to hurry spring along after a long winter and put seeds or transplants in the ground without first testing the soil?   This can be a costly mistake down the road as you watch your plants wilt, turn brown and fail to thrive. 

Soil testing is pretty easy and can purchase a soil kit at your favorite nursery or online.  Most folks know to test for pH but that’s just part of the story.  You should also test for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium or NPK and a good soil kit will have both.   Knowing your soils before you plant will ultimately save you both hard heartache and money.  If this sounds confusing just give us a call at K & D Edible Landscaping and  we will be glad to come and test your soil for you and give you recommendations on how to improve your soil if needed.

Johnny Jump Ups or Violas as they are called depending on where you are from are edible flowers that when added into your ice tray with water make beautiful dainty ice cubes for summer drinks.  I also enjoy them in summer salads and I have also added them into my Vietnamese summer rolls.  These tiny little purple and white flowers can also be used to decorate desserts as they have a slight lemon-lime taste. 

I am grandma of an adorable two-year-old granddaughter who lovingly calls me, “Gigi”.  I love spending time with her in my gardens sharing my knowledge and passion for growing with her. 

I tell her the names of the plants while showing her the different leaves and the flowers.  I let her smell the soil and loves smelling the lavender and chamomile flowers.  She tastes the basil, mint and the spinach because she sees me taste it and this is all a part of her learning and appreciating food.  I want her to have and understanding and respect for how food grows and tastes naturally.  This was a part of the inspiration for starting K & D Edible Landscaping to share my love for nature with others.