Hi! I’m Lisa, Midwest Garden Gal (MGG). A certified Master Gardener volunteer with Iowa State Extension since 2011, I’m an author, blogger, speaker, consultant and frequent podcast guest.
In 2016, I founded Midwest Garden Gal, LLC and now help gardeners around the world find success in their gardens, from a few pots on a patio to multi-bed annual, perennial and vegetable paradises. I create my own educational programs, which I present throughout the United States and virtually. I’ve been featured in numerous publications, podcasts and events. My speaking appearances include the Duluth Arrowhead Home & Builders Show, Fort Wayne Home & Garden Show, Wisconsin Garden & Green Living Expo, Tulsa Herb Society, Builders Home & Remodeling Show in St. Louis, Peoria Home Show and many Master Gardener and garden club events.
I am honored to be a member of the Linn County Master Gardener Planting for Pollinators Initiative. That project was featured in the Community Service category for the Search for Excellence Award at the 2019 International Master Gardener Conference in Philadelphia.
My first book, Cheap Tricks Gardening: ‘Cause You Don’t Need to Spend a Fortune for Fabulous, was published in 2022 and is based on my popular class by the same name. My second book, Bernice’s Big Adventure: One Little Caterpillar’s Incredible Journey, is a beautifully illustrated storybook that inspires children—and the grown-ups reading right alongside them—to discover the wonder of pollinators and the magic of metamorphosis.
I’m blessed to be the mom of two adult children and one spoiled standard poodle. I believe in all kinds of education, green or otherwise, and hold a Master of Strategic Leadership (MSL) degree.
My mission through Midwest Garden Gal is to break down barriers and fears around gardening so everyone can find success in their own spaces. Whether I’m teaching adults from the stage or through my blog, or introducing children to the wonders of the garden through Bernice, I believe gardening should be filled with joy, curiosity and confidence. I use a down-to-earth approach (no intimidating Latin words here!) to share research-based education that leads to early wins, quick successes and a lifelong love of gardening.
Interested in collaborating?
Visit the Partner page to learn more about working together.
In my garden
My private home garden began when I purchased my home in 2005. Starting from near zero, today’s gardens include a custom designed garden shed complete with front porch, a hidden away back patio tucked into a secluded corner, expansive borders with a mix of perennials and annuals, natives and non-natives, along with 9 raised beds, vertical gardening elements and numerous containers, most of which are vintage auction finds or heritage family connections. Today’s garden demonstrates a growing interest in pollinator-supporting natives with the addition of dedicated pollinator and native gardens in recent years.
Garden recognition:
Let’s get growing!
~ Lisa