Hello
I’m Desiree—a wife, mom of two, children’s book author, nutrition professor, and previously certified Master Gardener based in El Dorado Hills, California.
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But this project isn’t about me—it’s about all of us. The Backyard Fruit Tree Project can only thrive when everyone takes part.
How it Started
My love for fruit trees began in my own backyard. We had a single peach tree, and as a child, I’d climb the ladder to pick the firm, green peaches long before they were ripe. I’d proudly take them to my mom, and she’d smile and say, “Let me show you how to pick them when they’re perfectly ripe.” That small moment taught me patience, curiosity, and the joy of truly connecting with our food.
The Heart Behind The Project
The Backyard Fruit Tree Project grew from that simple childhood lesson—and from my desire to make a subtle yet lasting impact on our environment. My hope is to inspire others to join me in teaching and encouraging communities everywhere to slow down, dig in, plant, learn, and become more mindful of the world around them—then share the abundant fruit of their work with others.
My Work
With a background in dietetics and maternal and child nutrition, I’ve dedicated my career to helping families—especially children and young adults—connect with wholesome, homegrown foods through cooking, storytelling, and classroom education. My children’s books, Did You Know You Can Eat Dandelions? and Did You Know You Can Eat Miner’s Lettuce? were inspired by my son’s classroom nutrition lessons and my favorite illustrator Angela Holland. They reflect what I love most: nutrition, connection to our environment, and the simple magic of being out in nature.
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