Our story
SmartRiver Herb Guild began as a neighborhood seed swap where cooks and growers traded basil cuttings for favorite pesto recipes. We kept hearing the same thing: people didn’t want more theory — they wanted clear steps and supportive feedback. We built a course library that moves at the pace of busy lives and a community that celebrates small wins.
Mission
Help every home grow at least three herbs they love and use weekly — with safe, practical guidance and friendly accountability.
Values
- Practical over perfect
- Kind feedback and clear steps
- Evidence-informed methods
- Seasonal, local mindset
Approach
Short lessons, weekly office hours, and kitchen-first projects. You’ll practice in containers, raised beds, or windowsills you already have.
Timeline
Seed swap roots and first pilot workshop in a community kitchen.
Launched cohort model with office hours and peer feedback.
Built a 20-course catalog and partnerships with local gardens.
Team
Avery Lane — Head Grower
Container wizard, soil testing enthusiast, and calm coach for first-time growers.
Maya Brooks — Culinary Mentor
Connects fresh herbs to weeknight cooking with simple, flavorful techniques.
Jon Park — Research Lead
Evidence-informed methods, from light meters to gentle pest control.
Ready to grow?
Most learners start with one container, one herb, and one small win. We’ll help you stack those wins week by week.