Mermaid City Flowers

When we think about lush gardens, our minds often conjure images of lush greenery filling sprawling countryside yards. Dee Hall’s growing space in Norfolk is far from those idyllic landscapes; but, she proves that with dedication, you can make urban farms, like Mermaid City Flowers, just as beautiful. 

Dee’s grandmother was a huge influence on her, passing down the love for flowers and dedication to gardening in non-rural spaces. 

“She completely transformed their space, which was about half an acre from a sandy lot. She had soil trucked in and she created this beautiful garden that still exists long after she's gone.”

Not only does cultivating these spaces bring beauty to Dee’s home, it creates connections with her community. 

“I love the way that the garden has enabled me to connect with my neighbors, to make new friends and to expand my social circle at large…bonding over something that is beautiful, useful, has an environmental benefit.”

Building these relationships has strengthened Dee’s passion for gardening even more, and she hopes that others can find the same enthusiasm for plants. 

“You know, that really helps you to feel like you're, you know, you're not alone…I want a world that's more filled with plants. It's great for us and great for the environment. It's a great way to connect with others.”

Produced and Edited by Laura Christian

Director of Photography: Terra Turner

Additional Camera: Laura Christian