Hi I’m Nicole, the new Food Culture and Communications Ambassador for Nourish Nova Scotia. I am a current student at the University of New Brunswick in the Interdisciplinary Leadership program where my studies focus on leadership in public policy and social justice. I was inspired to join Nourish NS by my own experiences in school food systems that often lacked nutritious value and a focus on community engagement.

Engaging in food programming can help youth discuss personal and cultural beliefs on health and wellness. By taking part in the food system, youth can promote healthy ways of living by making their own food choices. Gardening is one great way for students to work together and with others in their community.

I was lucky to grow up in Nova Scotia surrounded by fresh produce. This year, I began to grow my own food through outdoor and indoor gardening. Gardening has been a way for me to develop healthier eating habits because I get to play a role in growing what I love to eat. Starting to garden as a beginner was tough at times, but it was helpful to start off with easy-to-grow plants such as microgreens and herbs. This process helped me learn to properly care for my garden space before I try my hand at a wider variety of fruits and vegetables.

Chatting with my friends and neighbours for tips on gardening was another great way to learn about the growing season of different foods. Gardening is something I have learned to enjoy, and I will be continuing this adventure this summer and fall. The next steps for this gardening novice include beans and peas for a (hopefully edible) summer snack.

Find below a few links to beginner garden projects and plants to help get you started:

Growing Your Own Microgreens
Long-Season, Easy-to-Grow Vegetables
Making a Vertical Garden Bed (Great for growing herbs indoors!)

Introduction and Micro Gardening Success