Holly McCosker, Tiny Farm CBR
At Tiny Farm CBR, Holly McCosker is growing more than seedlings — she’s nurturing confidence and joy in home food gardens. From organically raised starts to thoughtful seasonal guidance, Holly’s work connects people with the rhythms of their own soil. In this conversation, we dig into her journey, her approach to growing locally resilient seedlings, and why community-centered gardening matters now more than ever.
Tell us the story of Tiny Farm CBR.
How did it come about?
I actually took the business over from my sister. She set it up in her Reid backyard, expanded to land in Pialligo, then upped and moved to Tasmania! I left my job in accounting several years ago, realising work and my family commitments weren't compatible, and hadn't yet found my groove.
We transferred a stack of equipment and seeds, set up a greenhouse, and rebranded as Tiny Farm CBR. Three years in and with three kids homeschooling, I feel lucky to have this for me, bringing beautiful seedlings to gardens all over Canberra and beyond.
What does gardening mean to you?
Gardening is like magic. Planting a seed, loving on it, seeing their first leaves pop out of the soil - it never gets old. It's creation, growth, food, joy.
Every day there is something different to see, smell, touch, explore.
The joy our garden brings through the seasons is endless. And at a truly basic needs level, gardening is life. If you can grow things, you have food.
Why are gardens important now and into the future?
Gardens provide so much. They provide shade, and colour, and experience. They are a space for animals and insects to live and make their homes. They provide diversity in plants and environments. And they bring so much joy.
What is the role of gardening in the city?
Gardening in the city helps with grounding people. You see green and it calms you; you see flowers and you almost can't help but smile. It connects us with nature and with the food we eat. And it provides shade and places for us to be and to enjoy.
How or why does Tiny Farm CBR align with your values?
I kind of fell into the seedling business but I haven't looked back. I'm at home with a high stress household as mumma to three boys who homeschool out of necessity not choice. Tiny Farm CBR gives me an identity outside of being a mum, and grounds me everyday. More than that, it connects me to my community in a really beautiful way.
What is your favourite part of your job? What brings you meaning?
My favourite part is when the seeds emerge and you see the plant babies for the first time. Growing is such a pleasure - it never gets old, and there's always new life to be appreciated.
Tell us about your proudest moment.
This bit is so hard for me! A couple of years ago I had a gorgeous lady working for me and she did the set up for one of my stockists. When she posted it on Facebook she noted that she was so proud to have a part in producing such beautiful seedlings. I wanted to feel that too, and it's taken a good year and doesn't feel that way all the time, but this year, in spring, looking in the tunnel overflowing with healthy green seedlings filled me with joy.
One thing you'd like to share with Canberra gardeners?
Growing is for everyone. Sometimes it goes to plan and sometimes it doesn't, but you'll rarely regret trying.
Holly’s beautiful garden is nestled in Canberra’s inner north suburbs, and unobtrusively houses her seedling tunnel. Her garden maximizes space and productivity, and showcases how it’s possible to balance form and function in an suburban environment. This design was delivered by Bluebell Horticulture Studio, in conjunction with Naturescapes Canberra.
Holly’s generous approach through sharing seedlings, wisdom and building community — resonates with Bluebell Horticulture Studio’s desire to make gardens feel joyful and to create connection. Holly’s organically raised seedlings enable our Canberra community to grow food easily, independently and sustainably. If you’re ready to get hands dirty, grow with confidence, and connect with other local gardeners, explore Tiny Farm CBR’s seasonal offerings and see what magic can take root in your own garden.
