I always grow a combination of flowers and edible plants in my garden, but over the years I have dedicated more time and effort to growing different vegetables and learning how to best take care of each kind. One of the most exciting things about growing vegetables is seeing how they flower and fruit and seeing how that fruit grows from such a wee version of it’s plump and juicy final form. Though I’ve been gardening and sewing for many years, I only recently started to appreciate their similarities.

It’s spring! And I’ve found myself trading some of my sewing projects for some garden ones. I experience all four seasons where I live, so when the spring temperatures bring warmth all I can do is get excited for my favourite season: the summer! One reason why I love the summer is that I get to garden. I love being outside in the sunshine. I love how rewarding plants are to grow and vegetable gardening in particular is always a fun project. One of my favourite garden elements are vertical lettuce walls. First, they are a great use of space, which is a big win when you have a little backyard. One lettuce plant can offer multiple harvests and the ability to cut fresh lettuce as you need it a lovely summer luxury. Finally, the lettuce garden is really pretty, especially when a few flowers or other plants are included. As far as the construction goes, the project can come together in just a couple of hours and can last years.