When we started Back to the Garden Jax, we honestly didn’t know a shovel from a spade. We were regular folks—busy schedules, little free time, zero gardening experience. But something was calling us back to the dirt. Back to the roots. Back to something real.
And now? We’re running a U-Pick vegetables garden in Jacksonville. Here’s why we chose this path—and why we believe the U-Pick garden model is one of the most powerful, rewarding ways to grow food, community, and connection.
We Weren’t Gardeners—We Just Knew We Wanted Change
Gardening seemed impossible at first. Between soil types, planting zones, pests, and watering schedules, we were overwhelmed. And yet we felt called to start growing. Not just plants. We wanted to grow something deeper. Stronger. A place where we can invite people in. A place where people can flourish as much as the garden.
A seed was planted in our hearts and we began to ask: What if people could walk right into the garden, pick what they wanted, and take home something they helped harvest? No grocery-store middlemen. No mystery chemicals. Just fresh food, grown with care, ready to be picked at its peak. A place where you can come with your family or come for some peace or come to connect.
We found an amazing local mentor, our friend Nathan Ballentine. With his extensive knowledge in food garden consultation, design, installation, education, and maintenance, this Man in Overalls helped us get where we are now.
That’s where our Back to the Garden Jax U-Pick vegetables idea began to bloom.
Why a U-Pick Model Just Made Sense
We believe the best food is the food you know—where it came from, how it was grown, and what it took to grow it.
When you harvest your product, you don’t just buy food—you experience it.
Real, Local, and In-Season
Everything you pick is in-season. It had to be—because it’s growing right in front of you! That means better flavor, better nutrients, and far less waste. You’re not getting a pepper that was picked three weeks ago and shipped across the country. You’re getting today’s pepper.
Education That Sticks
We see families walk through the rows, asking questions. Kids tugging on sleeves: “What’s that plant?” Adults learning what okra looks like before it’s chopped and fried. The garden becomes a classroom. It’s not abstract—it’s hands-on.
That kind of education sticks. It’s not a lecture. It’s life.
Community You Can Taste
Jacksonville is huge. But here, in this little patch of soil, we’ve seen strangers become friends. People trade recipe ideas while picking tomatoes. They help each other carry bags of squash to the car. It’s not just about food—it’s about people.
How It Works—And How We Keep It Simple
Starting from scratch meant we had to think like beginners. Because, well, we were! That’s actually what helped us build this in a way that’s approachable.
You Subscribe. We Grow. You Pick.
We’re not a farmer’s market. And we’re not a one-time thing.
Back to the Garden Jax works like a veggie CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), but you don’t just receive a mystery box—you get to choose what you pick and when. You come during open hours, grab a pair of shears, and harvest what’s ready.
No Green Thumb Required
Seriously. You don’t need to know a thing about gardening. You just show up. We give you an orientation tour and signage to help you navigate what's what. Think of it as a guided adventure through a living produce aisle. And of course, you're always welcome to get in touch with us for additional questions. You might even spot us in the garden out and about in the mornings.
Why It Matters (More Than Ever)
Let’s be honest—most of us are disconnected from where our food comes from. We grab a bell pepper in a plastic bag and call it a day. But at what cost?
When you pick your own food, something changes. You feel more invested. More aware. You eat differently. You waste less. You appreciate more.
And maybe, just maybe, you go home inspired to grow something yourself.
That’s what we hope for.
What’s Next for Back to the Garden Jax?
We’re growing—literally. We’re expanding our rows, adding more crop variety, and inviting more folks to come see what we’re about.
If you’ve been searching for a place that feels grounded, a way to reconnect with your food, or just a peaceful spot to slow down, we’d love to welcome you to our U-Pick garden.
Come Pick With Us
Whether you’re a curious first-timer or a seasoned gardener without space to grow, there’s a row here with your name on it.
Come visit our U-Pick vegetables garden in Jacksonville. See what’s growing. Smell the basil. Harvest dinner with your own hands.
We promise—it’ll taste better that way.
Ready to get your hands in the dirt? Join our wait list today. See you in the rows!