For decades, Chicago was home to daytime TV talk shows with hosts so familiar they were known by one name. But Oprah Winfrey's rise to fame went beyond the confines of the studio. As a media mogul, philanthropist, and cultural icon, she has become a household name, inspiring millions of people around the world. And one of the things that sets her apart from other celebrities is her love of gardening.
From her Tuscan farmhouse in Montecito to her Maui estate, Oprah's homes have always been surrounded by lush gardens and breathtaking landscapes. But it's not just about the beauty of nature. For Oprah, gardening is a way to connect with the earth, to find inner peace, and to give back to her community.
So, it's no surprise that Oprah has selected her annual roundup of perfect gifts for her 2022 list of Oprah's Favorite Things. Shop all of her official holiday picks here. And this year, she has included some of her favorite gardening tools and accessories, from ergonomic shears to compost bins and rain barrels.
But Oprah's love of gardening goes way beyond buying the latest gadgets. She's also a hands-on DIY enthusiast, always looking for ways to improve her gardens and make them more sustainable. From building raised beds to creating homemade fertilizers, Oprah's garden projects are a testament to her creativity and passion.
One of Oprah's most ambitious garden projects was the creation of a vegetable garden at her Montecito estate. In 2008, she partnered with chef and author Alice Waters to plant a 1,500-square-foot garden filled with organic vegetables and herbs. The garden became the inspiration for Waters' Edible Schoolyard project, which promotes healthy eating and sustainable agriculture in schools across the country.
But Oprah's gardening DIY projects are not limited to large-scale initiatives. She's also a big fan of container gardening, which allows her to grow herbs and vegetables in small spaces, such as her balcony or windowsill. Her favorite plants include basil, thyme, rosemary, and cherry tomatoes, which she uses to make fresh salads, sauces, and cocktails.
Another aspect of Oprah's gardening philosophy is the use of natural and eco-friendly products. She's a big advocate of composting, which helps reduce waste and enrich the soil. She also uses organic fertilizers and pest control methods, such as companion planting and beneficial insects, to avoid harmful chemicals and promote biodiversity.
But Oprah's green thumb is not just a personal hobby. She's also a vocal supporter of environmental causes and sustainable living. In 2020, she launched the "Oprah's Your Life in Focus" tour, which focused on wellness and sustainability issues, including the impact of climate change on our health and communities.
From Promised Land to a Maui farmhouse, explore Oprah Winfrey's multimillion-dollar houses, kicking off with her magnificent Montecito... See photos inside the most expensive mansions owned by Trevor Noah, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, Adele, Oprah Winfrey, and more. But what sets Oprah's homes apart is not just their size and opulence, but their connection to nature. Her gardens and landscapes are an integral part of her homes, creating a sense of peace and harmony that reflects her values and vision.
So, if you're looking for inspiration for your own home garden DIY projects, look no further than Oprah Winfrey. Her love of gardening, sustainability, and community is a reminder that we can all make a difference, one plant at a time.
