Welcome to The UpBeet Gardener!
I’m so glad you’re here.
I'm Marion Owen, founder of The UpBeet Gardener—a friendly hub of life in and out of the garden. You'll find organic gardening tips, composting how-tos, good garden news, fun experiments, simple recipes...
...and uplifting stories to help you grow what matters.
If you enjoy creative, organic gardening, you’ve come to the right place. This isn’t about striving for perfection or working harder than you need to. It’s about gardening in a way that brings peace and a deeper connection with nature.
After 40+ years of hands-in-the-dirt experience, I’ve learned a few things:
- Most of us are just trying to do our best—pay the bills, raise a family, fall in love—and, for gardeners, grow the garden of our dreams for as long as we can.
- I’ve been told I have a knack for breaking down complex topics (like composting) into simple, doable steps.
- When we garden with nature, not against it, everything grows with more ease, including us.
- And nothing brings me more joy than sharing what I’m learning with people like you.
Gardening is a journey, not a finish line.
Each season has something to teach us.
Just for fun, here are a few of my favorite things:
- Building nesting boxes for bumblebees .
- Making compost (I may be a little obsessed!)
- Learning what plants need Helping fellow gardeners grow with confidence.
I grow an eclectic mix of veggies, herbs, flowers, and fruiting shrubs—and I’m always experimenting with ways to stretch the growing season, especially here in a cold climate. I also enjoy creating simple, practical solutions to keep gardening doable (and delightful) as we age.
Thanks for visiting. I’m honored to share this space with you. Be sure to explore and make yourself at home here.
And if you feel inspired, subscribe to The UpBeet Gardener weekly newsletter or drop me a note—I’d love to learn about your garden.
Here’s to growing what matters.
Blessings,
Marion Owen
If you’ve ever felt frustrated with gardening—I’ve been there. When I started over 40 years ago, I was full of self-doubt. But with time (and plenty of compost), I found my way. I even co-authored the New York Times bestseller Chicken Soup for the Gardener’s Soul—and now I help gardeners around the world grow with more confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or starting over, I’m here to help. Every gardener has a dream. And since you’re here, I believe you have one, too. Welcome.
Join the Newsletter
Want a little more garden joy?
Each week, I send out The UpBeet Gardener newsletter—a relaxed, down-to-earth note filled with helpful tips, stories, recipes, videos, interviews, and bits of inspiration.
It’s like a friendly visit from your gardening neighbor—minus the muddy boots.
And if it’s not your thing? You can unsubscribe anytime. We’ll still be friends.
40 years of gardening have taught me that it’s not just plants that grow—it’s YOU, too. Gardening can add years to your life and life to your years. Curious? Click below for a video or two.
Some kind words from fellow gardeners:
"Marion cuts through all the misinformation, contradictions, and confusion about gardening that's on the internet." ~ Christine K.
"Marion Owen is a rock star! She helped me jump-start my new garden! Her classes would make a great gift for anyone who wants to take their garden to the next level.." ~ Jodie V., Atlanta, GA
"I strongly encourage every caring gardener to join Marion's community for the encouragement and to have access to the large amount of info she provides. "~ Debra S. Manjimup, Western Australia
"I love Marion's enthusiasm to help others. It’s clear she wants people to succeed." ~ Terrell
"Having just received and read my first newsletter. I THANK YOU! SO many things of interest and well-written. It is so wonderful and I look forward to future ones." ~ Nancy L.
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