Homegrown Abundance for Minburn Family

Homegrown Abundance for Minburn Family

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

Growing up in the metropolis of Manila, Philippines, Abbey Foster simply went to the market for groceries growing up. That has all changed since she began growing fruits and vegetables with her husband Dallas and daughter Addisson on their property in Minburn.

They have a large garden and three season Greenhouse on their 43-acre property that borders the tiny hamlet. Abbey said they grow fresh fruits and vegetables for themselves, but if they have extra produce they will sell it to people in the surrounding area.

Abbey began gardening eight years ago, and said she’s learned a great deal in that time. With the greenhouse she has been able to grow watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, eggplant, sweet, chili and jalapeno peppers. She also has an abundance of potatoes, onions, squash, and corn.

Addisson and Abbey Foster.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Abbey said growing fruits and vegetables is a lot of hard work, but that it’s very satisfying. There has been a lot of trial and error over the years, but says, “Don’t be afraid to try new things.”

She said knowing what type of plants, and the amount of sun required for each one takes some time to learn. Abbey recommends starting slow with a few containers or raised beds before expanding to a garden. There is a lot to learn, and she continues to acquire new knowledge and skills along the way.

This is the first year that she has tried pressure canning with the encouragement and assistance of her husband and mother-in-law.

She has branched out in other ways by helping to raise chickens, sheep and pigs. “This is our first year with pigs,” said Abbey, pointing to the six-month-old pigs

in the pen behind the garden. Addisson holds one of two sheep in her arms, pointing out that they were born only a week ago. She has a big smile on her face and it is clear the livestock are definitely a pleasure to have around.

There’s always something to keep them busy and now they can enjoy the fruits of their labour.