Sophia bush turns gardener: from one tree hill star to blooming advocate
Actress and activist Sophia Bush is trading the spotlight for soil, revealing a surprisingly passionate side as a dedicated gardener. Forget the red carpets – she’s currently cultivating a thriving urban oasis, blending her love of environmentalism with a deep appreciation for the history of agriculture.
From hollywood to horticulture: bush's unexpected passion
The One Tree Hill star, known for her work as a producer, podcast host, and vocal advocate for women’s rights, has quietly become a serious plant enthusiast. Her home in Los Angeles is a testament to this newfound dedication, boasting a flourishing collection of pollinators, bees, and even chickens – all tended with the same meticulous curiosity she brings to her popular podcast, Work in Progress.
But Bush’s interest extends beyond personal enjoyment. She’s diving deep into the historical roots of agriculture, particularly exploring the often-overlooked contributions of Black farmers through the teachings of horticulturist Abra Lee. “There’s always something to learn,” she explained. “It’s a window into our American history to learn lessons that we haven’t been given before.”
Inspired by giants: design and historical roots
Her influences are diverse, ranging from the iconic Huntington Gardens in Pasadena, a childhood favorite that sparked her initial love of the outdoors, to the visionary Martha Stewart’s Bedford estate, which she’s reportedly eager to visit. “Martha, I’d like to take you up on your offer from a while back. I’m coming to Bedford. I have questions.” Bush clearly admires the aesthetic sensibilities of Omay Design in Los Angeles, praising their ability to seamlessly blend the indoors and outdoors, and the innovative approach of Christopher Griffin, known online as Plant Kween, who maintains an impressive collection of over 100 plants in his Brooklyn apartment.
“If it’s warm out, garden barefoot,” she insists, a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates her approach to the craft. “It’s good for the soul. It’s good for the soil. Get a little dirty.” Beyond the aesthetic, Bush advocates for practical considerations, recommending starting with an herb you regularly cook with – a zebra plant, known for its air-purifying qualities, is a solid starting point. And don’t underestimate the power of good soil: “Start there.”
Tools and a radical recommendation
She favors a pair of Japanese trimming shears, calling them “adorable,” and doesn't shy away from a little dirt under her fingernails. “Being a beekeeper is one of my favorite hobbies in my life, so I think I did the right thing,” she admits, highlighting her commitment to supporting vital pollinators. And perhaps surprisingly, Miracle-Gro potting soil consistently tops her list of essentials, “because if your plants aren’t thriving, you have nothing to trim and bring in the house.”
A simple truth: get your hands dirty
Bush’s Gardening philosophy is refreshingly straightforward: “If it’s warm out, garden barefoot.” It’s a sentiment that resonates beyond the garden gate, reflecting a broader call for connection with nature and a deeper understanding of our history. Forget the polished image – this is Sophia Bush, digging in and proving that even Hollywood stars can find fulfillment in the simple act of growing something beautiful.