Jeanette Bell is an expert gardener who's been growing flowers, veggies, and fruits on vacant lots in New Orleans for over 25 years. She was awarded a 2015 People’s Health Champion for her urban gardening efforts. “At 71, I'm living proof that gardening keeps a person healthy and happy.” Her favorite flower is the medallion rose. 

On April 23, 2013, at the age of 68, Jeanette Bell opened her first teaching garden in the New Orleans area. Located on Mars Street in Gert Town, Jeanette's garden on Mars was created to help local residents learn how to open their own businesses.


Erin Zimmer led local marketing for Good Eggs, a farm-to-fridge delivery service, where she met the one and only Miss Jeanette. Prior to that, Erin was the managing editor of James Beard award-winning website Serious Eats. She has written for Saveur, Bon Appetit, Food Network, and The Washington Post. Her favorite flower is the zinnia.