Name: Casi
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Type of space: Back deck
Tell us about your outdoor project and how you enjoy it: I grew up surrounded by gardeners and when we moved to the big city, I wanted to keep the tradition going. Because it is a second floor deck, I have to keep everything in containers. I wanted to be able to harvest vegetables in addition to having flowers. I'm growing lots of tomatoes, zucchini, sweet and hot peppers, peas, lettuce, cilantro, dill, mint, parsley, basil, purple sage, rosemary, and thyme. I use the herbs in my cooking and can't wait for tomato season! I made sure the cats have their own edible garden and planted cat grass and cat nip in a window box on the floor for them.

How did you create it? When we first moved into our apartment, there was no deck. Last year, our landlady offered to build a deck and we said heck yes! It took about two months longer than she said it would but it's been worth it! I had to add the trellis to make sure our cats stay on our deck and am using it to grow climbing plants.

Recommended store, site, product or resource? IKEA is great for foldable furniture, which allowed me to use the space as a lounge and dining area. I went plant shopping at First Seasons in Vermont when I was home visiting the family and schlepped most of the edible plants back to Philly. Greensgrow has been mentioned for Philly and it really does have a wonderful variety.