Ogden, UT April 2026

Invest in Success THIS SPRING!

LIFE + CULTURE

MUST SEE: TIM TEBOW

EDUCATION

KINDNESS CHRONICLES: ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

THE MOST PREVENTABLE CANCER IS ALSO THE MOST COMMON

Utah has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the nation. With our elevation, outdoor lifestyle, and yearround sun exposure, regular skin checks aren’t optional — they’re essential.

At Wasatch Dermatology, Dr. Julie Maughan and her experienced team specialize in early detection and precise treatment of skin cancer, including advanced surgical removal when needed. Most skin cancers are highly treatable when caught early. The key is not waiting.

If you are over 40, have a history of sun exposure, notice a changing mole, or simply haven’t had a professional skin exam in the past year, now is the time.

A full-body skin check is quick, thorough, and could make a life-saving difference.

Protect your health. Protect your future. Schedule your annual skin cancer screening today.

Investing in What Matters Most

This month’s issue is centered around the importance of investment. Most of us immediately think about things like retirement accounts, portfolios, property, or planning for the future. But the truth is, we invest in something everyday. We invest dollars alongside our time, energy, and attention.

This month you’ll find Josh Doutre of Doutre Financial Coaching sharing the importance of healthy money habits and how you can influence those around you.

We introduce Isaiah Merriam with Schooley Mitchell who helps businesses stay up to date by fine tuning their investments.

Lon Hudman walks us through smart strategies over home and auto coverage, reminding us that protecting what we’ve built is just as important as creating it.

We’re also honored to bring you an exclusive Q&A with Tim Tebow, whose life is a testament to investing in faith, discipline, and service beyond the spotlight.

Ryan D. Peterson shares a deeply personal story about when planning matters most — a powerful reminder that long term care preparation is an important investment.

We also have our special Earth Day edition of the Kindness Chronicles. This month we highlight TreeUtah and the meaningful work being done to invest in our environment. Now that’s a return we can all believe in!

This month, I’m personally highlighting Flopsy, a sweet rabbit currently up for adoption at the Weber County Animal Shelter. Check out Best Friends Animal Society for your next companion. Friends come in many shapes and sizes, and choosing to adopt is truly an investment in unconditional love and happiness.

As I put this issue together, I’ve found myself reflecting on what I’m investing truly means. Time moves quickly. Deadlines stack up. Responsibilities pull from every direction. But the most valuable returns in my own life haven’t come from numbers on a page — they’ve come from relationships, lessons, and moments.

My hope is that this issue encourages you to ask yourself:

What am I investing in? And what kind of return do I truly want?

Here’s to investing wisely — in our finances, our families, our futures, and our community!

With gratitude,

EVANA MAURIZ, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @OGDENCITYLIFESTYLE

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Katrina Hammond | katrina.hammond@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Evana Mauriz | evana.mauriz@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Evana Mauriz, Josh Doutre, Ryan D. Peterson, Kasandra Cherry, Lon Hudman

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

"Photo John" Shafer, Midnight Imagery, TreeUtah

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Make a Statement in Leather

Where Modern Design Meets Everyday Comfort

Turn your living room into a showpiece with our newest leather sectional. Featuring premium leather, clean lines, and an ultra-comfortable design, this piece brings effortless sophistication to any space. Hand-selected by our design team at Pieces Furniture & Design, it’s the perfect blend of luxury, durability, and livable style.

city scene

1: Nuames High School's seniors celebrated their Capstone projects by presenting to the public. Senior Alex. 2: Capstone projects start during their Sophomore year. Senior Zach presents his "Stacking Dimes" project. 3: The projects focus on internships or volunteer work. Sarah presents her community service project. 4: Juniors Sami and Adalynn support the seniors while getting ideas for their projects next year. 5: Senior Jessen displays the service he provided through Deseret Industries. 6: Grace brought in her pet snake and presented her research. 7: Mishel presents about her culinary journey.

Team Brave Coaches: Masters of Intentional Health Transformation

Dave and Ramona Blanchard are the dedicated leaders of Team Brave Coaches, serving as high-level health coaches within the OPTAVIA community. With a focus on metabolic health and “Intentional Creation,” they empower clients to achieve lasting physical and mental transformations. Dave and Ramona leverage their decades of experience to provide compassionate accountability, helping thousands of individuals break self-sabotaging habits and cultivate a life of vitality and purpose.

Peralta Cleaning: Ogden’s Trusted Professional Shine

Located in Ogden, Peralta Cleaning LLC is a top-rated, family-owned business with over 20 years of industry experience. They specialize in high-quality residential and commercial services, including deep cleans, move-in/out transitions, and Airbnb turnovers. Known for their reliability and professional touch, the team focuses on personalized, affordable solutions that leave spaces pristine. Whether you need a one-time refresh or recurring maintenance, Peralta Cleaning delivers excellence with every visit.

Scan to read more

Lancelot Electric: Powering Northern Utah with Integrity

Based in Coalville and serving Northern Utah, Lancelot Electric, LLC is a locally owned and operated electrical contractor with nearly 20 years of experience. Specializing in residential services, they handle everything from EV charger installations and panel upgrades to new construction and complex remodeling projects. Known for an owner-operator approach, they prioritize honest communication, meticulous safety standards, and fair pricing, often offering specialized discounts for military, first responders, and seniors.

Scan to read more

The Confident Smile You Deserve

HAVE YOU EVER HEARD OF SCHOOLEY MITCHELL?

HELPING YOU FIND CLARITY IN THE COSTS OF DOING BUSINESS

Schooley Mitchell is the largest independent cost-reduction consulting firm in North America, with offices from coast to coast across the United States and Canada.

The company helps businesses reduce their essential service expenses by an average of 28% and has delivered more than $1 billion in documented savings. Local franchisees like Isaiah Merriam play a vital role in delivering that value to our local community.

The mission is to identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining an efficient, transparent, and non-disruptive process.

He works with decision-makers and ensures expert analysts provide accurate, data-driven recommendations.

“I connect with business decision-makers and gather information so our expert analysts can secure the best rates possible for our clients,” Isaiah explains.

A common challenge many organizations face is assuming their expenses are already optimized. In reality, operating expenses often go unmanaged due to a lack of independent oversight.

Benchmarking and ongoing audits ensure expenses remain competitive over time.

The results of a careful review can sometimes be eye-opening. In one case involving an agricultural products company, the initial assessment revealed nearly $44,000 in annual wireless savings. With ongoing monitoring, an additional $20,000 per year was identified later on. The experience highlighted how regularly revisiting expenses — rather than treating them as a one-time task — can uncover opportunities that might otherwise be overlooked.

Efficiency and ease remain central to Isaiah’s work. Information-gathering sessions are brief, secure access to invoices and contracts minimizes disruption, and when vendor changes are recommended, clients are supported throughout implementation to ensure a smooth transition.

For organizations considering a review, Isaiah summarizes the value simply: “We want to help you spend more time on your business than in your business.” Through disciplined analysis and client-focused service, Schooley Mitchell continues to help businesses strengthen their bottom line and reinvest in growth.

ARTICLE BY KASANDRA CHERRY

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

The One Minute Metabolic

9

Here are the most common warning signs...

You are not getting a good night’s sleep

You don’t have the energy you need

You have elevated blood pressure, blood sugar levels, high triglycerides, and/or excess belly fat

You go to the doctor not feeling well and not not sure why

What is the condition of your metabolic health? It’s Time

and it only takes a minute.

Take the quiz today and find out!

ARTICLE BY JOSH DOUTRE

FINANCIAL

Triggers Begin EARLY

“CHILDREN ABSORB MORE THAN NUMBERS— THEY NOTICE STRESS, TENSION, AND MONEY HABITS. PARENTS CAN TURN THESE MOMENTS INTO TEACHABLE LESSONS, BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND LIFELONG SKILLS.”

When Sarah’s eight-year-old son started asking why their neighbors had a bigger house and newer toys, she felt a familiar knot in her stomach. Money was tight, and every trip to the grocery store seemed to end with a quiet sigh or a “not today” when her kids asked for treats. What Sarah didn’t realize was that her children were picking up more than numbers on price tags. They were absorbing her stress, her worries, and her beliefs about money.

HOW TO INVEST IN HEALTHY MONEY HABITS AT AN EARLY AGE

Sarah’s story isn’t unique. As a financial coach, I see families every week who are trying to do right by their kids but feel overwhelmed by their own financial pressures. The truth is, money triggers start early. Kids notice when parents argue about bills, pick up on tension after shopping, and internalize the stories we tell—sometimes without a word being spoken. Children are natural observers. They watch how we react to unexpected expenses, hear our offhand comments and notice comparisons.

Over time, these small moments can plant seeds of anxiety, guilt, or even shame around money. But here's the good news. You can turn triggers into teachable moments. Parents have the unique power to break the cycle. It takes a willingness to talk openly, model healthy habits, and celebrate small wins. Start honestly. If money is tight, explain it in age-appropriate terms, but always pair it with a plan.

Instead of “We can’t afford that,” try, “That’s not in our budget right now, but let’s save for it together.”

Bring your kids into the process. Let them help with grocery lists, set a family savings goal, or manage a small budget for an outing. These hands-on experiences turn abstract worries into practical skills— and build confidence along the way.

At Doutre Financial Coaching, we encourage families to:

• Talk about needs vs. wants: Make it a game when shopping. “Is this a need or a want?”

• Model healthy habits: Let kids see you budget, save, and celebrate reaching goals, no matter how small.

• Create Money Rituals: Weekly checkins, savings jars, or gratitude lists help make money a normal, positive topic.

• Normalize Mistakes: Share your own slip-ups and how you bounced back. Kids need to know it’s okay to make mistakes and that they can learn from them.

Money is emotional, and that’s why our coaching goes beyond spreadsheets. At Doutre Financial Coaching, we believe the most important lessons about money often happen in the quiet moments over dinner, in the grocery aisle, or during bedtime talks. By focusing on both the practical and emotional sides of finances, parents can help their kids build confidence and lifelong habits.

Sarah’s family isn’t defined by what they can’t buy, but by the conversations they have and the values they share. Every parent can start this journey—one honest talk, one shared goal, and one small celebration at a time.

Think back to a money lesson from your own childhood. Was it about saving, spending, or maybe a mistake that taught you something important? How did it shape your beliefs today?

Now, imagine the lessons your kids will remember from you.

What’s one small step you can take this week to open up a healthy money conversation at home?

If you’re looking for more ideas or want to share your own family’s approach to money, connect with us at DoutreFinancialCoaching. com. Let’s keep the conversation going and support each other in raising the next generation of money-smart kids.

3 THINGS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW

Shopping for home and auto insurance can feel overwhelming. Between online quotes, catchy commercials, and “too good to be true” prices, it’s hard to know what actually matters. Before you choose a policy—or switch from your current one—here are three key things every insurance customer should understand.

1. THE CHEAPEST POLICY IS RARELY THE BEST POLICY

Price matters, but coverage matters more. Many low-cost policies cut corners by offering higher deductibles, lower liability limits, or exclusions you won’t notice until you file a claim. For auto insurance, that could mean insufficient coverage if you’re at fault in a serious accident. For homeowners, it might mean discovering your roof, basement, or detached structures aren’t fully covered. A good policy balances affordability with protection that actually fits your life, your assets, and your risk.

2. BUNDLING CAN SAVE MONEY—BUT ONLY IF IT’S DONE RIGHT

Most people know that bundling home and auto insurance can lead to discounts. What’s less obvious is that not all bundles are

created equal. Sometimes one policy is strong while the other is weak, or discounts are applied in ways that don’t truly benefit you long term. A proper bundle should be reviewed as a complete package, making sure both policies complement each other and that coverage limits are consistent. Done correctly, bundling simplifies your insurance and can provide significant savings.

3. LOCAL EXPERTISE MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE

Insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially in Northern Utah. Local weather patterns,

rebuilding costs, traffic conditions, and even neighborhood growth can affect the coverage you need. Working with a local insurance professional means you’re talking to someone who understands Ogden—not just an algorithm. More importantly, you have a real person to call when life happens, whether that’s a cracked windshield, a kitchen fire, or a major life change.

At the end of the day, insurance is about peace of mind. Taking the time to understand your coverage—and who’s helping you choose it—can make all the difference when you need it most.

KINDNESS CHRONICLES: ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY EVANA MAURIZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY "PHOTO JOHN" SHAFER

INVESTING IN OUR ENVIRONMENT IN CELEBRATION OF EARTH DAY THIS APRIL, WE HIGHLIGHT TREEUTAH, A LOCAL NONPROFIT.

In celebration of Earth Day , we would like to highlight a local nonprofit that helps maintain Utah’s beautiful ecosystems. We live in a state defined by stunning landscapes and rapid growth. However, preservation requires appreciation alongside dedication.

For nearly four decades, TreeUtah has been leading that front. Established as a nonprofit in 1989, the organization was built on a simple but powerful idea: planting trees improves communities.

Today, that vision has expanded into a statewide movement dedicated to enhancing Utah’s environment through tree planting, stewardship, and education.

TreeUtah partners with students, local businesses, community groups, and volunteers to plant trees across the state. Their efforts stretch from neighborhood schools and parks to river corridors and national forest lands.

Trees of all types and sizes are carefully selected and planted to ensure long-term success and meaningful environmental impact.

In fact, the impact reaches well beyond the trees themselves. These efforts strengthen Utah’s environment and quality of life for present and future generations.

Equally important is the organization’s commitment to education. TreeUtah works to ensure that communities understand not only how to plant trees, but why they matter. Students and volunteers participate directly in projects, gaining firsthand experience in stewardship and environmental responsibility. That engagement fosters a culture of long-term care — ensuring that the trees planted today continue to thrive tomorrow.

“AS THE OLD SAYING GOES, THE BEST TIME TO PLANT A TREE IS 30 YEARS AGO, THE NEXT BEST TIME IS NOW.” DID YOU KNOW?

"It’s known that trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. But did you know that one acre of trees produces enough oxygen to support 18 people a year? Through shade and natural evaporation from their leaves, trees reduce surrounding air temperatures, and can cool buildings by up to 20 degrees. Their root systems slow and filter rainwater, protecting aquifers and improving water quality. In a high-desert state facing continued development, rising temperatures, and increased water usage, these contributions are essential for sustainable infrastructure. With the help of local volunteers, TreeUtah’s Ecological Restoration program plants thousands of trees along riparian corridors and sensitive watershed areas. These restoration projects strengthen ecosystems, stabilize soil, and support wildlife habitats critical to the state’s environmental health."

TreeUtah doesn’t just plant trees — it plants belonging. Events are for anyone to step in and be part of the impact. You don’t have to be an expert. There's always a place for willing hands, steady eyes, or an encouraging spirit. From children to grandparents, first-timers to seasoned volunteers, every role matters. TreeUtah ensures that showing up is enough. Everyone leaves knowing they made a difference.

Since its founding, TreeUtah has planted more than 415,000 trees with the support of over 200,000 volunteers and donors. Demonstrating that meaningful change begins at the local level. Executive Director Amy May shares, “We love for new volunteers to reach out and join us at events, and tell us where there is a need for new tree plantings! As the old saying goes, the best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago, and the next best time is now. Together, we can make a difference that will serve Utahns for generations to come!”

To find out more visit treeUtah.org

A Healthier Margarita

DISCOVER THE DELICIOUS FRESH TASTE OF A CLASSIC MARGARITA MADE WITHOUT SUGARY MIXERS

ARTICLE BY ANA MEYER

Whether you’re hosting a pool party or simply enjoy sipping the sweet and tartness of an amazing Margarita, this healthier version with these natural ingredients is sure to make your palate happy. This is all fresh ingredients, no mixers. It’s just as easy, much cleaner and better for you!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. Casamigos Reposado or Blanco Tequila

• 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice

• .25 oz. Fresh Orange Juice

• .5 oz. Agave Nectar

• .5 oz. Orange Liqueur

• Garnish with a lime wheel through a skewer

INSTRUCTIONS

• Combine all ingredients into a tin shaker.

• Add ice, shake vigorously and strain into rocks glass.

• Add fresh ice and garnish.

When Planning Matters Most

Does your financial plan include a care plan?

ARTICLE BY RYAN PETERSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIDNIGHT IMAGERY

As a Certified Financial Planner®, I was taught through textbooks and lectures about long-term care insurance (LTCI). I didn’t truly understand its value until I watched my mother slowly fade.

My mom was vibrant, sharp, and fiercely independent. When her health began to decline, my father did everything he could to care for her at home. Eventually, it became more than one person could manage alone. My brother moved back in, putting his own life on hold to help care for our mom and support our aging dad. We often discussed whether a care facility might offer greater comfort and safety for her as well as for my father. But without LTCI, that option simply wasn’t financially possible. Love was abundant. Resources were not.

That experience changed me—not just as a son, but as a financial advisor. Meanwhile, I had the opportunity to discuss the financial plan of my mother-in-law. We talkedhonestly about her future, her independence, and what she wanted if she ever needed help.

She chose to apply for LTCI. Today, as she begins to need services, there is a deep sense of comfort in knowing she can draw from that plan instead of depleting her retirement savings. She has choices. Her family has support.

I’ve also seen the consequences of waiting. One client easily qualified for long-term carecoverage but didn’t feel emotionally ready to move forward.

“Maybe next year,” they said. When they returned a year later, ready to apply, their health had changed just enough that they no longer qualified. The door had quietly closed. Much like life insurance, longterm care coverage can only be purchased before it’s needed.

Statistically speaking, nearly 70% of those over the age of 65 will require some form of care. Whether help at home, assisted living, or full-time care near the end of life.¹ While no one knows exactly how their story will unfold, the odds strongly suggest that planning ahead is simply prudent.

People often ask me, “How much does it cost?” or “What benefits will I get?” The honest answer is that it depends on age and health. The best way to understand what coverage might look like is to have a personal conversation with an advisor who can walk through the options—before choices are taken away.

LTCI isn’t just about money. It’s about protecting families, preserving relationships, and giving yourself the gift of choice.

Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative of and securities offered through OneAmerica Securities, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA, SIPC. These concepts were derived under current laws and regulations. Changes in the law or regulations may affect the information provided. Provided content is for overview and informational purposes only and is not intended and should not be relied upon as individualized tax, legal, fiduciary, or investment advice.

1. Caregiver Resources & Long-Term Care (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)

Plant You r Kitchen Garden

A quick guide for simple ideas to start off your backyard kitchen garden. With endless health and medicinal benefits, combined with the beauty and enjoyment to be found, gardening is endlessly rewarding.

GETTING STARTED

• Plant your vegetable options right into your beds with flowers, the pollinators (bees, butterflies and more) are attracted to the beautiful flowers and your veggies will easily and abundantly go-to-fruit, living harmoniously in one bed.

• Every garden needs a rain gauge - you’ll be surprised at how fun it is to check. There is nothing like rain water for your garden. (This is optional, but definitely fun).

• Get your family involved. It’s never too late!

• Just go for it, our local climate can be weird and often extreme but don’t let it stop you- the most success and fun I’ve had was just going for it. Experiment and see what you love and what works best for you!

• In most cases, when watering, don’t water the petals and leaves, (especially when they’re in direct sunlight) try to water straight to the soil. All they need is water, nutrients and light to thrive! (and maybe a little love helps too!)

• Don’t forget herbs: Lavender, Mint, Lemon Verbena, Oregano, Basil, Cilantro, Parsley and more. Don’t be afraid to skip the spice rack and grab your seasoning from the garden.

ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN

BACKYARD GARDENS OFFER FRESH VEGGIES AND FOOD FOR YOUR SOUL

What to Plant

Whether starting from seed or seedlings, you can’t go wrong with these options. Start with foods you know you like to eat.

TOMATOES:

They’re delicious, money-saving, good for eating fresh and for preserving. Tomatoes come in endless colors, shapes and sizes. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil, ideally in full sun, and ensure they receive consistent moisture, supporting them with cages or stakes as they grow.

EGGPLANT:

Eggplant is a short season vegetable and a relative of peppers, potatoes, tomatoes and tobacco. It thrives in heat and full sun and can be deliciously made into baba ganoush and many other delicious dishes.

OKRA:

Okra loves our hot summers and full sun. Don’t wait too long to pick your okra, ideally harvesting them when they are 2 to 4 inches long. Can be eaten raw on a salad or best served deep fried. (The flower that turns into the okra itself is uniquely beautiful as well!)

PEPPERS:

Like tomatoes, peppers have many purposes and variations. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil after the last frost, spacing them 18 inches apart, and provide consistent watering while ensuring the soil doesn’t become waterlogged.

Flowers Bring Pollinators

Flowers bring joy to all five of our senses, but they also bring pollinators to our garden in order to ensure your backyard kitchen will produce lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Not to mention they also contain health and even medicinal properties.

HIBISCUS:

Make sure your hibiscus plants, whether tropical or hardy, get at least 6 hours of sun per day in order to achieve optimum blooming. Hibiscus flowers can be made into a delicious tea that can be served hot or ice cold (and is a good source of Vitamin C). With over 200 varieties of hibiscus world wide, their blooms only last a day or two! Stunning in all shapes, sizes and colors.

MARIGOLDS:

To the surprise of most people, marigold flowers are edible. Whether used fresh, dried, or infused into various beverages, Marigolds have a multitude of uses in the kitchen. An added benefit of planting these bright and low maintenance flowers next to tomatoes– they help keep pests away from devouring your tomatoes while also encouraging pollinators.

ZINNIAS: PLUMBAGO:

These bright, colorful garden gems have many benefits beyond their beauty and ease of care. Along with attracting pollinators, and being low maintenance they also have medicinal properties. Zinnias have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, they’re rich in antioxidants, and the natural compounds in zinnias can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness.

Plumbago is thought to have many health benefits, such as its anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties, resulting from its principal chemical components, which are concentrated in the roots, leaves, and stems of plants. This attractive light purple flowering plant thrives in the sun, and has moderate watering needs. Trim and prune to suit your own preferences of growth and it’s a welcome, abundantly beautiful member of any garden.

NEW BUILD. REMODEL. ADDITION.

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