Hi there! I’m Jo, the passionate gardener and self-sufficiency advocate behind The Suburban Smallholder.

My journey into the world of gardening began with my grandmother, who was my biggest inspiration. Her lush garden was a haven of fresh produce and beautiful flowers, and her love for cultivating the earth was infectious. She taught me the basics of gardening, instilling in me a deep appreciation for the magic of growing your own food.
My passion for self-sufficiency took a significant step forward during my university years when I got my first chickens. Balancing studies with caring for these delightful creatures was a challenge, but it deepened my commitment to sustainable living. Raising chickens taught me the importance of responsibility and the joy of harvesting fresh eggs right from my back garden.
Without my own space, I began growing plants in allotments and in the gardens of generous friends. These experiences were invaluable, allowing me to experiment with different gardening techniques and crops. Each season brought new lessons and a greater understanding of how to work with nature to yield the best results.
This year, I finally fulfilled my dream of having my own smallholding. It’s a dream come true, providing the perfect space to implement everything I’ve learned over the years. My smallholding is more than just a plot of land; it’s a symbol of my journey and the culmination of years of hard work, learning, and passion.
At The Suburban Smallholding, my mission is to help others achieve their own self-sufficiency goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your gardening skills, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way. Let’s grow together!

