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My Story
Hi, I’m Jessica Atherton, Gardener, Homesteader, Artist and Owner of Valhalla Homestead and Gardens, located in the hills of Western Pennsylvania. I've always lived on the edge of self sufficiency, growing up we hunted, fished and raised livestock, while my herbalist mother taught me all about gardening and how to forage for edible natives.
My first adult garden began while I was in college, in containers, just outside my front door. But my husband and I truly started this modern homestead journey and expanding my garden about 10 years ago. We now have a small piece of land where we grow an abundance of food, natural medicine and livestock for our family.
I've tried many different career opportunities from healthcare to commercial carpentry. There are so many choices when it comes to deciding what you are going to do “for the rest of your life.” And, like many others, I’ve taken my time finding my path.
My husband said that I was always giving advice on how to grow plants and design gardens and I didn't realize how much I enjoyed it until I found myself working as a TSC Garden Specialist in 2023. After immersing myself in native holistic medicine, combined with 20+ years of gardening, I have discovered my calling.
Experience
As I said, I have spent the last 10 years of my life dedicating my time, energy, and resources to learning more skills and growing my skills and knowledge as a gardener, homesteader, herbalist and artist.
I specialize in heirloom vegetables, medicinal herbs and native Pennsylvania plants. We currently raise laying chickens, heritage turkeys and rabbits. With this knowledge and experience, I can teach you how to start your own homestead journey.
Design
I have a degree in Architectural Drafting and an inherited talent for creating beautiful pieces of art. With all of my combined skills and experience, I am able to show you what the homestead or garden of your dreams will look like.
Mission
My mission is to teach people about the benefits of homesteading, growing native plants, heirloom vegetables and help them build for their future!
