Jessica Walliser: A Horticulturist’s Journey
Jessica Walliser is a horticulturist and the award-winning author of seven gardening books. Her degree in horticulture is from Penn State University, and she’s the former owner of a 25-acre organic market farm. Jessica currently lives and gardens on 2 acres in Western Pennsylvania (hardiness zone 5b). For 15 years, Jessica contributed two weekly columns to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review where she had the pleasure of covering a wide range of gardening topics. Jessica was also the co-host of The Organic Gardeners, an award-winning program on KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for nearly 20 years. Currently, she is the Editorial Director for The Quarto Group’s garden book publishing imprint, Cool Springs Press.
A Career in Horticulture
Jessica’s passion for horticulture began early, and her dedication has led to numerous accolades. She received a degree in horticulture from Penn State University, setting the stage for a successful career in the field. Her degree provided her with a solid foundation in plant science, soil science, and entomology, among other subjects.
From Market Farm to Editorial Director
After completing her degree, Jessica went on to become the owner of a 25-acre organic market farm. This experience not only honed her skills as a horticulturist but also taught her the importance of sustainable farming practices. She eventually moved on to become the Editorial Director for Cool Springs Press, where she oversees the publication of gardening books.
Author and Columnist
Jessica is a prolific author, having written seven gardening books, including the best-seller Good Bug Bad Bug, the award-winning books Attracting Beneficial Bugs to Your Garden and Plant Partners: A Science-Based Guide to Companion Planting for the Vegetable Garden, along with Container Gardening Complete. For 15 years, she contributed two weekly columns to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, where she covered a wide range of gardening topics. Her writing style is engaging, informative, and accessible to gardeners of all levels.
Radio Host and Educator
Jessica was also the co-host of The Organic Gardeners, an award-winning program on KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for nearly 20 years. This experience not only honed her public speaking skills but also allowed her to share her knowledge with a wider audience. Currently, she offers online classes, where she shares her expertise with gardeners worldwide.
A Passion for Organic Gardening
As a gardener, Jessica’s passion is growing and preserving enough food for her family’s year-round enjoyment while relying only on organic gardening practices. She focuses on using natural methods to control pests and diseases, rather than relying on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Her ornamental gardens are designed to support pollinators and other beneficial insects, showcasing her commitment to creating a sustainable ecosystem.
A Diverse Garden
Jessica tends a large, 12 raised bed vegetable garden, a backyard meadow garden, multiple perennial beds (in sun and shade), and over 55 gorgeous patio containers. Her garden is a reflection of her passion for growing a wide variety of plants, from native flowers to heirloom vegetables. She also has a “bug hotel” in her garden, providing a habitat for beneficial insects.
Awards and Recognition
Jessica’s contributions to the world of gardening have not gone unnoticed. She is a two-time winner of the prestigious American Horticultural Society Book Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the field of horticulture. Her books have been praised for their accuracy, clarity, and engaging style, making them a favorite among gardeners worldwide.
Conclusion
Jessica Walliser is a true expert in the field of horticulture, with a passion for organic gardening practices that is evident in her writing, teaching, and gardening. Her dedication to creating a sustainable ecosystem has inspired countless gardeners worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Jessica’s expertise and enthusiasm are sure to inspire and educate you.
Atomic Facts:
- She is a horticulturist
- She received a degree from Penn State University
- She is the former owner of a 25-acre organic market farm
- She lives on 2 acres in Western Pennsylvania
- She contributed two weekly columns to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review for 15 years
- She was the co-host of The Organic Gardeners for nearly 20 years
- She is the Editorial Director for Cool Springs Press
- She is a two-time winner of the American Horticultural Society Book Award
- She has authored a diversity of gardening books
- She focuses on organic gardening practices
- She tends a large vegetable garden
- She has over 55 patio containers
Find Jessica’s Articles and Classes:
- Find all of Jessica’s articles here [link]
- More about Jessica’s online classes [link]
Follow Jessica:
- Follow Jessica on [social media links]
