When Alex and Shené Scott planted their first seeds over a decade ago, they had no idea they were laying the foundation for something far bigger than a backyard garden. What began as a way to support their son’s health after a Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis has grown into a mission—one rooted in wellness, education, and a deep love for their community.
Today, the Scott family—alongside kids Kirra and Alex Jr.—is cultivating more than produce at A & S Farm, just outside Lebanon. They’re growing connection, knowledge, and access. “We wanted space to grow food not just for ourselves, but for others,” Shené says. “This farm gives us the opportunity to serve the community while also supporting our nonprofit, Vine Branch Fellowship (VBF).”
The Scotts' journey started small—raised beds, tower gardens, and a dream. Now, their farm features a hoop house, greenhouse, herb and fruit gardens, and even a cheerful flock of chickens. A & S Farm is where you’ll find seasonal heirloom produce, fresh from the soil, grown with care and no chemicals.
But it’s the educational work through VBF that sets their mission apart. From school gardens and classroom towers to BeHealthy Kids Summer Gardening Camp at Fiddlers Grove, their impact reaches every generation. “We want kids to know where their food comes from,” Alex says. “Gardening is hands-on, healthy, and fun.”
Gardening in Middle Tennessee: Tips for Our Zone 7b
If you’re gardening in Lebanon, you’re in luck—our long growing season offers a bounty of opportunities. Here are three summer-smart tips from the Scotts:
- Know Your Sunlight Some crops love full sun, while others need partial shade. Be sure your plant is in its preferred light zone for maximum growth.
- Water with Intention In our warm summers, soil can dry quickly. Keep seeds and new plants moist at the surface so roots establish well—but avoid overwatering.
- Test Your Soil Healthy soil is the key to healthy plants. Get your soil tested through UT/TSU Extension to understand what nutrients you may need to add.
Their advice for July planting? Try kale, beets, radishes, lettuce, or collards—all great fall crops that thrive when planted now and harvested before frost.
Want to support their work? Stop by the farm at 653 Jennings Pond Road for weekend produce sales Saturdays 10a–2p, Sundays 1–5pm, and follow their growing journey on Facebook (A & S Farm) and Instagram @raisedbedfarming.
"Gardening is what we love—growing food and growing community go hand in hand for us."