Initially, Zee was just growing tomatoes and bell peppers; the typical things other nurseries sold. In her own backyard, however, she was growing Okra, Amaranth, Mallow, and many other heritage vegetables. The inspiration came when her mom and grandma were in disbelief that all of these heritage crops could be grown in California. They had not seen Amaranth in twenty-five years since coming to the U.S. This made Zee go on a quest to track down seeds that were not so readily available here. The following Spring, Zee applied to the Fremont Farmer’s Market, and that’s where her nursery journey truly began.

Representing the cyclical nature of both life and death, the Mexican Marigold, a medicinal flower with twenty ruffled petals, is associated with Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

Having a small garden means getting creative with the space you have which is why growing vertically is the way to go!

Pine trees are evergreen trees mostly known for their iconic role during the holiday season, but they were also used by the indigenous people for making incense, topical ointments, fragrances, and internal medicines, and served greatly in spiritual practices; Pine trees were givers of medicine and wisdom. Many resins such as Frankincense and Myrrh are the more well-known aromatics…

The town of Valensole is home to the most beautiful lavender fields throughout Provence. Waking up early to watch the sunrise as well as coming out for a picnic on the fields for dinner until sunset is the most magical experience that needs to be on your bucket list!

Monarchs travel several thousand miles every year migrating from Canada, through the U.S., and finally ending up down in Mexico for the cold winter months every year. Their migration journey coincides with Día de los Muertos on November 1st, so they have come to symbolize the arrival of all the souls that have passed.

What a dream it was getting to follow the butterfly migration down south to Michoacán. It felt like a fairy forest! It was quiet and serene once we got to the top. The sounds of wings fluttering and birds chirping were unlike any other feeling of stillness.