(540) 940-6615 | HOURS DAILY 7 AM – 9 PM

Blog

Grow Your Own: A Beginner’s Guide to Gardening with the Co-op

🌱 Grow Your Own: A Beginner’s Guide to Gardening with the Co-op

Spring is in full swing, and there’s no better time to dig into gardening. Whether you’re planting your first container of herbs or building out a full backyard plot, the Co-op is here to help you grow—literally!

We offer everything you need to get started, from organic and heirloom seeds to gardening-friendly produce and even free used coffee grounds (great for composting and soil health!).

🌼 Start with Seeds

We proudly carry a wide selection of organic and heirloom seeds—perfect for gardeners who care about sustainability, biodiversity, and taste. These seeds are non-GMO and bred for hardiness and flavor, helping you create a more resilient and rewarding garden.

Great beginner picks include:

  • Leafy greens like lettuce and kale

  • Herbs such as basil, cilantro, and parsley

  • Easy veggies like cherry tomatoes, green beans, and radishes

Need help choosing? Visit southernexposure.com to read their easy-to-digest growing guides.


☕ Coffee Grounds = Garden Gold

Did you know you can take home used coffee grounds for free from the Co-op? Just ask a team member!

Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen and can be:

  • Added to compost bins

  • Mixed into garden soil for a nutrient boost

  • Sprinkled around plants to deter pests like slugs and ants

It’s a simple way to give your garden a boost and reduce waste. Win-win!


🥕 Regrow from Your Grocery Bag

Some of your favorite Co-op produce can actually be regrown at home! It’s a fun project for kids and a great way to stretch your food even further.

Try regrowing:

  • Green onions: Place the white root ends in a glass of water and watch them grow back in days.

  • Lettuce or celery: Place the base in shallow water and move to soil once roots appear.

  • Potatoes or garlic: Use sprouted pieces to plant directly into soil.

Buying organic produce from the Co-op ensures your regrowth projects are free from synthetic pesticides or growth inhibitors.


🌿 Keep It Simple, Keep It Joyful

Gardening doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a sunny windowsill can grow a few herbs. Whether you’re growing your own food to save money, eat healthier, or connect with nature, the Co-op is here to support you.

Stop by to explore our seed selection, pick up gardening-friendly produce, and grab some free coffee grounds for your soil. Let’s grow something great—together!