My mom taught me to garden, as did Susie, Mrs. Kimball, Christie, and Aunt Dallas. My passion didn’t bloom overnight—it grew, like a garden. It started with a four-year-old girl and an avocado seed in a jar. Then came a ginkgo seedling on Arbor Day in first grade. Over many seasons, that passion matured, and my skills began to bear fruit.

At the same time, I was learning other skills that would shape my journey. I taught my children at home and later others as a high school English teacher, where I developed a love for teaching and helping others grow. Later, I spent over a decade as a Realtor, guiding families to connect with spaces they could call home. These experiences taught me to listen, encourage, and guide, but something was still missing. My health was suffering. I had become sedentary and joy lay dormant. I was disconnected from the things that once grounded me.

The garden had always been a place of joy and strength, but the less time I spent there, the more weeds grew in my life. Longing for the connection I once felt, I realized I could return to the garden and cultivate a business that helps others rediscover the same connection.

At Connected Gardener, I combine my passion for restorative gardening and teaching with a desire to help others grow and enjoy nourishment from their own beautiful, sustainable kitchen gardens. Through years of trial, error and success, as well as more formal training with Nicole Burke founder of Gardenary and author of Kitchen Garden Revival, I’ve deepened my skills to help others succeed in their gardening journey.

My mission is to cultivate confident and connected gardeners by equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and encouragement to thrive. Let’s grow together!

Joyfully yours,

Corrie Hayes

Founder of Connected Gardener & Your Garden Coach