Mary Ellen Christou Artist; Edible Flowers, Art, Jewelry of South Florida

A Florida native, Mary Ellen Christou has been an avid gardener for 35 years. When she began, there was not much information available on gardening specifically in the microclimate of sub-tropical South Florida. She relied on local experts, an article here or there, and a whole lot of experimentation.

She learned that annuals were a ton of work and prone to failure without constant attention in the heat. This led her to look towards perennials which can double as ornamentals and food sources. She dug deeper and began experimenting with permaculture and food forests to attain a sustainable garden in line with her ideals of sustainability.

Interest in the native plants and herbs led her to study the local ecosystems and work to create a haven for pollinators, the insects and birds she loves so much. A turn in her health and the emergence of migraines led her further to perennial and forest gardening as she sought a way to continue her passion without the time and labor annuals require. And she started to share that knowledge with others.

When Mary is not gardening, she can be found spending time with her family and loving husband of nearly 40 years, petting the neighbor’s cats, creating one of a kind wire jewelry and other art pieces, and visiting botanical gardens for inspiration and the sheer love of plants.

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