A Gardening Design Guru Reveals How to Turn Our Backyard into a “Foodscape”

SHOW DESCRIPTION:   

Every year, Earth Day seems to arrive just as many of us are welcoming spring’s burst of flowers and new foliage—like Opening Day for the home gardening season. And to usher in the season, we’ll be talking today with Brian Zimmerman, the owner of Whole Yard Consulting, who will offer an array of tips and advice about how to start or maintain your home garden—including some unusual ones that you might not expect. The author of “Gardening My Way!”, Brian will explain his philosophy of “sustainable gardening,” using native plants, no-till-gardens, wildflower perennials, rotating colors and…getting rid of lawns, which he believes use too much water, pesticides and money! He’ll also talk more broadly about the importance a creating a more local food system in the country, not only to reduce our carbon footprint, but to create more flavorful and nutritious foods. He’ll describe his unusual concept of “foodscaping,” integrating fruits and vegetables into our landscaping design. And he’ll talk about his still evolving career as an author, including a children's book that aims to teach children to always to be themselves.

GUEST DESCRIPTION: 

Brian Zimmerman is the owner of Whole Yard Consulting, a unique gardening design company focusing on the concept of “foodscaping.” Brian has been a conservationist, farmer, chef, and entrepreneur, adhering to the philosophy that life is a continuous process of development and growth. He has previously worked for the U. S. Department of Agriculture in Natural Resources Protection, New York State Soil and Water Conservation Districts and Cornell Cooperative Extension and past president of the Long Island Lower Hudson Resource Conservation and Development Corporation, as well as running his own farm.

In his next chapter, Brian has been sharing his experiences and philosophy through his writing. His first book, “One Confident Duck,”’ is a children’s book written to teach children the need to always be themselves. He believes that children and adults alike have an opportunity to gain experience and grow through reading and imagination. Brian also cares about the future of the agricultural system, food systems and how they are affected by climate change. He also has written a gardening book called, “Gardening My Way!’” a simple guide to gardening environmentally. Brian, who grew up on Long Island, enjoys kayaking, hiking, and the many natural areas the region has to offer. He also frequently travels, believing that travel is one of the best learning experiences one can have.

Contact: brianz@msn.com

516-477-7089

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-zimmerman-694221296/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Whole-Yard-Consulting/100065590415773/

Website: www.whole-yard-consulting.com