Role: Garden Technician/Garden Educator
Joined H.O.P.E. Gardens: Summer of 2022
Josh Usadel became part of the H.O.P.E. Gardens team after his mom shared a help-wanted ad, and it sounded like the perfect fit. With a background in organic vegetable farming and substitute teaching, Josh saw H.O.P.E. Gardens as a great opportunity to combine his skills in education and agriculture.



Josh’s favorite part of his role is interacting with students and growing produce. As the staff “handyman,” he also enjoys the variety of work his job brings. Josh’s dedication to gardening is supported by his completion of the MSU Extension Master Gardener class in 2015, along with years of hands-on experience.



Outside of work, Josh loves reading, bicycling, playing in bands, and hosting a radio show for WYCE. His days off are often spent walking his dog, spending time with his wife and kids, practicing trombone, cooking, and tackling housework.
When it comes to gardening advice, Josh’s top tip is simple yet impactful: add compost every year. His favorite vegetable is collard greens, which he sautés with onions and beans, tops with a flavorful sauce, and serves over quinoa.



Josh’s multifaceted skills, enthusiasm for teaching, and passion for gardening make him an invaluable part of the H.O.P.E. Gardens team.