Cheryl Spencer – Writer and Certified Gardener
“Let’s simplify your world, one system at a time.”
I’m Cheryl Spencer, a writer, a Certified Gardener, and the creative mind behind Simply Smart Gardening.
My love for gardening took root in my own backyard, where I learned that even the smallest patch of soil can be a gateway to a happier life.
With a blend of practical wisdom and a love for anything green, I strive to make gardening accessible and easier for everyone.
I believe you can grow your dream garden and still have time to enjoy it.
Whether you’re a busy professional with limited time for gardening or a newbie looking for reliable guidance, my goal is to provide you with smart, time-saving strategies that bring your garden dreams to life!
My career highlights
I have decades of gardening expertise
My gardening journey spans over 25 years, a path filled with learning and growth fueled by a passion for helping others.
I’m the founder of Simply Smart Gardening
In 2017, I channeled my passion and expertise into creating Simply Smart Gardening. It’s more than just a website; it’s a culmination of my experiences and a resource for busy gardeners seeking practical, time-saving gardening strategies. Whether you’re struggling with growing in a small space, battling weeds, or looking for ways to maximize your garden’s productivity, Simply Smart Gardening offers simple solutions to overcome your challenges.
Why I became a Certified Gardener
A significant milestone in my career was completing the Certified Gardener program at Colorado State University, which is based on the Colorado Master Gardener curriculum.
This rigorous, comprehensive program covered everything from the fundamentals of botany and pest and soil management to water-wise garden design, equipping me with a solid, scientific understanding of horticulture.
I became a certified gardener to enhance my decades of hands-on experience with formal, scientific knowledge, ensuring my gardening advice is both practical and rooted in proven principles.
This blend of knowledge is what I bring to you, offering guidance that’s as reliable as it is actionable.
I’m a recognized gardening expert
As a garden writer, I’ve been recognized as a gardening expert in various publications, including The Gardening Channel and LifeHacker.
My garden writing addresses common problems you might face, from selecting the right plants to optimizing your gardening routines for better results.
I’m a gardening educator and product creator
In addition to publishing helpful gardening articles, I’ve created digital products and courses, including:
- Small Space, Big Harvest, a square foot gardening course
- What To Do When: Monthly Gardening Checklists
- Grow Smarter, a printable garden journal
- Learn how to tame your weeds in my Freed from Weeding Workshop.
- Love Your Landscape, a flower garden planning course
These products offer practical solutions to make home gardening more manageable and enjoyable, no matter your level of experience or the size of your garden.
A peek into my world beyond the garden
Historical fiction: My escape hatch
When it’s time to step away from the garden, I often find myself lost in the pages of historical fiction. It’s like gardening in a way – you plant yourself in a different era and watch a whole new world unfold. They’re a little escape pod where I recharge and let my imagination run wild!
Hiking: My kind of adventure
When I’m not sitting at my computer, working in the garden, or enjoying a good book, you’ll probably find me on a hiking trail. It’s the perfect way to unwind. Each hike offers something new, much like each day in your garden. It’s all about exploring, soaking in the beauty of nature, and loving every minute of it!
Spreadsheets: More fun than you think
Believe it or not, I have a thing for spreadsheets. Yep, you heard that right! They’re not just for number crunching; they’re my secret weapon in the garden. From planning garden plots to scheduling garden tasks, spreadsheets help me keep everything in order. It’s a surprisingly creative tool that keeps my green thumb and my brain equally happy.
Sharing knowledge and building connections
My garden writing
On my blog at Simply Smart Gardening, it’s like we’re having a friendly chat over the garden fence. I share all sorts of tips and tricks – the kind that makes gardening feel like a breeze. It’s not just about throwing information at you; it’s about sharing stories, successes, and sometimes even the oops moments we all have.
Bringing gardeners together
I’m all about building a community where we can all grow together – literally and figuratively! Whether it’s through my gardening newsletter, where I share the latest gardening insights, or my online courses, it’s all about connecting. I love hearing from you, learning about your gardening adventures, and sharing in your triumphs!
Dive deeper into Cheryl Spencer’s world
Grow smart with these gardening guides
If you’re itching to get your hands dirty but unsure where to start, check out my gardening guides. From beginner tips to advanced techniques, there’s something for everyone.
Grow smarter with my digital products and courses
Ready to improve your gardening skills? My online courses, like ‘Small Space, Big Harvest,’ are just a click away. Visit the Simply Smart Gardening Shop to start transforming your garden space, no matter its size.
Stay updated with Simply Smart Gardening’s newsletter
For the latest tips and gardening updates, don’t forget to sign up for Simply Smart Gardening’s newsletter to join a smart group of home gardeners.