about VK gardens

Katie Shamis

Garden Consultant and Coach

Gardening and produce are in my blood.  My great-grandfather arrived from Greece and delivered fresh produce to stores and restaurants in the Chicago area via horse and wagon.  Since I was a child, we've embraced my great-grandfather's spirit and have kept a garden.

Everywhere I've lived, I've built a garden and have helped my friends and neighbors build their gardens.  Having created dozens of green spaces, I furthered my knowledge and earned my Level II Master Square Foot Gardener and Raw Food Insititute Coach certifications.

VK Gardens came to be because of my best friend's daughter.  Her affectionate moniker of Vegetable Katie (VK) helped me to recognize my passion for gardening and how I share it with others.

To me, a garden is a playground full of adventures and knowledge.  It's a place to breathe, sit with yourself, and grow with your plants.  I love to learn and show the fun a garden brings, and I'd love to share that light with you.