The Best Things Dad Grows Aren't Always in the Garden

By Eileen Graham

When I think about my dad, Francis Ferragine, I don't think about business first.

I think about his tomatoes.

Every summer, Dad took great pride in growing the biggest, tastiest tomatoes he could. He was always checking on them, watering them, and making sure they had everything they needed to thrive.

I also think about his fig tree.

Year after year, he cared for it patiently, protecting it through the winter and celebrating each new crop. Like many gardeners, he understood that the best things in life take time.

Looking back, those plants were never really just about tomatoes or figs.

They taught us patience.

They taught us hard work.

They taught us that if you care for something long enough, it will reward you.

Those are lessons that have stayed with our family for generations.

This Father's Day, I'm grateful not only for the gardens Dad grew, but for the values he planted in all of us.

Because the best things a father grows aren't always found in the garden.

If you're looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Dad this Father's Day, here are five garden projects that create more than beautiful plants—they create memories.

1. Grow Dad's Favourite Tomatoes

If there was one plant that represented my dad, it was the tomato.

Tomatoes are one of the most rewarding crops a gardener can grow. They connect us to family traditions, summer meals and countless memories around the dinner table.

Tips for Success

• Plant tomatoes in full sun (6–8 hours minimum)
• Water deeply and consistently
• Feed regularly with a vegetable fertilizer
• Remove lower leaves for better airflow
• Support plants with cages or stakes

Family Project

Plant three different tomato varieties and host a family taste test later in the summer.
Try Beefsteak, Cherry and Heirloom tomatoes.

2. Build Dad a Backyard BBQ Herb Garden

Fresh herbs elevate everything from burgers and steaks to vegetables and homemade pizza.

Best Herbs for Grilling

• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Basil
• Sage
• Oregano
• Parsley

Easy Herb Container

Plant rosemary in the centre and surround it with basil, oregano and parsley.
Place it near the BBQ for easy harvesting.

Memory Maker

Prepare a Father's Day meal using herbs harvested from the garden.

3. Start a Family Fig Tree

The fig tree was always something special to our family.

Unlike annual plants, a fig tree can become part of a family's story for decades.

Growing Tips

• Use a large container
• Plant in premium potting mix
• Provide full sun
• Water consistently
• Move to a protected location for winter

Memory Maker

Take a family photo beside the fig tree every Father's Day and watch both the tree and family grow together.

4. Create a Pollinator Garden

Pollinator gardens support bees, butterflies and hummingbirds while adding beauty to the landscape.

Great Pollinator Plants

• Coneflower
• Salvia
• Bee Balm
• Milkweed
• Verbena
• Lantana
  

Family Activity

Keep a pollinator journal and record all the butterflies, bees and hummingbirds spotted throughout the season.

5. Spend Time Together Outdoors

The most meaningful Father's Day gift often isn't something purchased.

It's time.

Gardens create opportunities to slow down, work together and create lasting memories.

Simple Ideas

• Plant a container together
• Visit a garden centre
• Share a backyard BBQ
• Harvest vegetables together
• Walk through a public garden
• Take a family garden photo
  

The Real Gift

Gardening isn't really about plants.

It's about people.

It's about traditions.

It's about memories.

My dad's tomatoes are gone.

The fig tree continues to grow.

The lessons remain.

And that's why the best things Dad grows aren't always found in the garden.

Happy Father's Day from our family to yours.

— Eileen Graham