Gardens have been the center of homesteads for generations. Providing much of the food in the family diet, the garden has been perhaps the most carefully nurtured in the homestead. From seed to sprout, the garden must be tended for properly for pleasurable results. Truly this careful tending requires patience and dedication. However, gardens are not extremely difficult to grow. There are many dealers that supply a wide variety of seeds, like Burpee and Pinetree, and several local store chains also offer a selection of seeds and plants. Gardens can be as simple as indoor plants scattered in pots throughout the house or as in-depth as numerous rows and beds outside. We started our garden several years ago in a strip of our property and, because of the size of our family, the project took a rather long time. The process we employed, however, was simple. First, we laid newspaper and straw on the selected spot once the area was devoid of all sod. Of course, we hosed down the newspaper when we laid it to prevent it from flying off. This process was to prevent the sprouting of weeds. So far, we have had very little problems with weeds. Next, we laid down dirt and wood chips (playground chips, for pathways) in rows. Both of these items are usually available at a local landscaping company. Finally, we planted! For planting, we keep a garden "nursery". It's nothing complicated; merely shelves with grow lights above (these can be purchased from Amazon or stores like Lowe's and Home Depot) and heating pads beneath (also check online and at your local supply chains). Then of course, on each shelf on top of the heating pads are trays filled with seedlings. We encourage you to try a garden of your own!