Welcome to Grown on a Hill
Join us in the exploration of Grown on a Hill, where we transition from cultivating plants in a backyard oasis to tending a flock of chickens and quail. Discover the art of preserving your harvest and relish in the security that food preservation provides.
Learn alongside me as I unveil the secrets to self-sustainability, even in the heart of an urban setting. From the joys of nurturing your garden to the care of feathered companions, Grown on a Hill is your guide to creating a harmonious and bountiful environment right in your own space.
Embrace the comforting journey of cultivating, preserving, and enjoying the fruits of your labor, and find solace in the self-sufficient lifestyle that Grown on a Hill advocates. Let us show you how to share in the delight of sustainable living, bringing a touch of serenity and security to your everyday life.
Our Story
Grown on a Hill: Cultivating Dreams into Reality
Grown on a Hill blossomed from a dream to transform an urban property into a flourishing haven of self-sustainability. A decade ago, we found ourselves on a property with an acre of land—a perfect blend of city living and the space to cultivate. However, challenges loomed in the form of a heavily wooded backyard, poor sandy soil, and persistent deer raids.
Undeterred, each year became a quest for improvement. In 2022, a pivotal decision was made to enlist professionals to clear the overgrowth, witnessing a rapid transformation. In 2023, the vision took shape with raised beds crafted from repurposed pallets—a unique and cost-effective solution.
Collaboration was key as my husband and I built 13 beds, breaking down pallets, layering on soil, and carving out a thriving garden. The persistent deer problem led to the installation of a fence, and my dad's involvement brought forth an irrigation system, ushering in a new era of efficiency.
Tracking the harvest on a simple whiteboard became a daily ritual, unveiling not just more produce but a tangible sense of control. The comparison to CSA and farmers' market costs underscored the financial benefits.
The addition of a backyard orchard in 2023, featuring hardy fruit varieties, aligned with the overarching goal of self-sustainability. The dream expanded in 2024 with plans to introduce chickens, a response to the realization during the egg shortages that simple ingredients could be secured at home.
Grown on a Hill stands as a testament to resilience, creativity, and family collaboration—a journey from wooded challenges to a thriving, self-sustaining oasis.