By Lucie Trépanier
Before providing a summary of featured wineries, here is an overview of the 3 major buzzwords relating to eco-friendly farming, which were well explained by Vintages at the tasting.
Sustainable relates to viticulture and winemaking. It is a way of life in the vineyard and in the winery, where a long-term vision aims to integrate people, soil, plants and fauna. Sustainable agriculture adheres to 3 fundamental principles:
• environmental health
• economic profitability
• social and economic equity
Major green solutions linked to sustainability include water conservation, waste reduction and liveable wages and benefits for workers. Sustainable producers today tend to adhere to such principles on a voluntary basis, monitored by self-regulating bodies rather than official government-run certifying bodies.
A return to natural farming methods. Organic practices take sustainable farming one step further as they encompass jurisdiction, which varies per country. Main rules of organic viticulture include the ban of chemical fertilizers, herbicides or pesticides in the vineyard. Certification is granted only after a winery adheres to organic methods for three years.
The most radical agricultural system in terms of eco-friendliness. Developed in the early 1900’s by Austrian philosopher and scientist Rudolph Steiner, biodynamic agriculture was the first modern ecological farming system. In relation to winegrowing, it is a holistic approach, where a vineyard is treated as a single, harmonious organism. As with organic viticulture, it forbids the use of chemical fertilizers, herbicides or pesticides but includes further steps towards natural farming. Methods may include unique practices such as using compost and field sprays crafted from fermented herbal and mineral preparations, the use of astronomical sowing and a planting calendar which follows the lunar cycle.
Certification is required for wineries wishing to become biodynamic. Although biodynamic viticulture is not new to the wine world, Southbrook Vineyards is the very first Canadian winery to be certified biodynamic since 2008.
Wineries featured at Green Evolution included:
This year, on Earth Day, Southbrook Vineyards released two new certified biodynamic wines. The 2008 Triomphe Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2009 “Fresh” White joined their Cabernet Rosé, already biodynamic since 2008. These wines are all certified by Pro-Cert Organics and Demeter.
This winery was a pioneer in eco-friendly winegrowing and winemaking and has been cultivating its grapes according to organic and biodynamic principles since 2005. Official certification is anticipated for 2010.
Domaine Weinbach products available at Lifford Wine Agency
Pommery’s NV Champagne Pop Earth was released this Earth Day. This predominantly Pinot Noir-based bubbly is made according to sustainable practises and bottled in a lightweight glass bottle (1.85 lbs versus the standard 2 lbs Champagne bottle) which will considerably reduce pollution and energy costs during shipping. The new Pop Earth also features recycled labels printed with water soluble inks.
Valle de Aconcagua, Chile
Another direct project of Chile’s Eduardo Chadwick (owner and president of Viña Errázuriz, and founder of Viñedo Chadwick, Seña and Caliterra brands), Viña Arboleda is a boutique winery featuring sustainable handcrafted wines from the Aconcagua Valley.
A thorough detailed conversation with winemaker Soledad Meneses shed light on the term sustainability and provided concrete examples of everyday actions it entails. Key points adopted by sustainable viticulture include:
• Precision farming: Farm management at a level that allows inputs to be tailored to variable conditions across short distances in a single field.
• Integrated pest management: An integrated, ecological approach of crop management to solve ecological problems when applied in agriculture. It’s main goal is to significantly reduce or eliminate use of pesticides in the vineyard through prevention, observation and intervention.
• Water waste reduction: the rational use of water resources by developing and improving irrigation strategies to maximize the efficient use of water and reduce unnecessary energy use.
• Ongoing staff education and improved conditions for vineyard workers
Benziger Family Winery
Lake and Sonoma Counties, California
Sonoma’s Benziger family has been leaving its trace—or working at reducing it—for thirty years. All its wines are certified organic, sustainable or biodynamic and all of their estate vineyards are certified biodynamic by Demeter. With the increasing effects of water shortage being felt in California, viticulturists will need to innovate and find solutions to survive. At Benziger, initiatives to reduce land, air and water waste are not simply seen as the most concrete action in favour of Mother Earth, but has also become a company trademark as it is the best way to make distinctive, quality wines for today’s competitive market.
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AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CAVOLO
Grape Varieties: Corvinone 55%, Corvina 25%, Rondinella 20%
Vineyard: Grezzana - Cavolo 3 ha (250 mt/a.s.l., easterly exposition) - Cavolo di Grezzana
Training system: Guyot
Vineyard area: 3 ha - 4000/5000 plants/ha
Year vineyards planted: since 1994
Annual production: 10.000 bottles
Harvest period: Grapes are hand-harvested during the second half of October
Wine Making: The grapes are selected in the vineyard and placed in crates. They are then left to dry in the fruit-drying loft for several months. The wine stays in contact with the grape skins during fermentation. It is pumped over twice a day with a delestage half way through the fermentation process.
Aging: 2 years in barrique and 2 years in 25hL slavonian oak barrels
Alc. content: 16%
Amarone Cavolo is a wine that derives from a careful selection of the grapes in the vineyard and a strict management of the drying process. The grapes designated for the production of Amarone wine are the best exposed and the sparsest. They are left to dry in crates for ca. 120 days and are then vinificated. The winemaking favors the transmission of all the noble components from the skins to the wine. Amarone Cavolo follows the traditional production method, employing large-volume wooden barrels capable of evolving the wine in its ca. 4 years of aging.
Garnet red with fruit jam, sour cherry, cherry and vanilla aromas, with hints of dried grapes and spicy notes. It is a wine of great structure. Complex, elegant and velvety.


Guwahati, November 10 : In a bid to empower the farmer community of North East and to help them come out of their mental and emotional distress, the Rural Development Wing of Rajyoga Education and Research Organisaiton (RERF), a sister organisation of Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya has organised “ Sampurna Gram Vikash Kishan Sanmalen “ today at Sonaram H.S. Playground here. The program aimed to introduce to the farmers the unique concept of “ Shaswat Yogic Kheti “ which is a judicious blend of Organic Farming and Rajyoga Meditation. More than 3,000 farmers from various parts of the state participated in the august gathering attended by many dignitaries and officials from State Government as well.
Participating as Chief Guest from Mehsana, Gujrat, Rajyogini Brahma Kumari Sarala Didi, Chairperson, Agriculture and Rural Development Wing, RERF urged the farmers to adopt “ Shaswat Yogic Kheti “ for health and well being of the entire nation. She reiterated that just as Mahatma Gandhi had made a determined thought to free the country from British Rule, let the farmers use this power of thought and decide that they would not make their fellow countrymen consume poison in the name of enhanced productivity. She said that farm produce from Shaswat Yogic Kheti gives more nutrition, health and satisfaction than chemical based fertilizers besides being more effective than chemical pesticides.
Speaking as Special Guest, Sri Ranjit Das, President, Assam State Committee, BJP, expressed happiness that being a spiritual organisation, the Brahma Kumaris are beautifully accomplishing the task of farmer’s empowerment which was hitherto considered as only government’s duty. He said that the State Government is working tooth and nails to fulfil Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream of making North-East hub of organic farming and would provide all necessary support to the Brahma Kumaris in their endeavour to empower farmers.
Dr John Ekka, Principal Secretary, Panchayat and Rural Development Department, Govt. of Assam addressed the gathering as representative of Minister of Panchayat and Rural Development, Govt. of Assam said that today the same west which has introduced chemical farming has turned towards organic farming. He also said that the state government has taken up various schemes to ensure that our food, water and environment does not get polluted by use of chemicals and urged the farmers to make use of all these schemes.
Brahma Kumar Sumanth Bhai, Head Quarter Co-ordinator, Agriculture and Rural Wing, RERF, Mount Abu explained to the farmers the ways and methods to implement Shaswat Yogic Kheti technique which not only improves quality of the produce but also its quantity.
Sri Dhiren Kalita, Principal Scientist, Assam Agricultural University stated that is a matter of grave concern that farmers are not able to make enough earning so that they can save for the education of their children and treatment of their family members. He advised the farmers to take up multi crop cultivation to enhance their earnings and also approach the regional Krishi Vigyan Kendra regularly for help in this regard.
Addressing the Kisan Sanmalen, Sri Mukut Deka, Vice Chairman, GMDA agreed that if Shaswat Yogic Kheti is implemented by farmers, the future of our coming generation gets secured.
The Kishan Sanmalen was also addressed by Sri Pran Kumar Das, President and Sri.Mukul Bora, Vice President, BJP Kishan Morcha. Smt. Manju Rani Barman, Principal, Sonaram H. S. School thanked the organisers to take up such an important issue and wished that the government include Shaswat Yogic Kheti in School Curriculum.
Earlier, Rajyogini Brahma Kumari Sheela, Incharge, Guwahati Sub-Zone, Brahma Kumaris welcomed the participants and Rajyogini Brahma Kumari Panchatapa conducted the mass meditation session. Rajyogini Brahma Kumari Jonali, Incharge, Nalbari and Baska Centers of Brahma Kumaris beautifully co-ordinated the stage and Sri. Vijay Gupta, Chairman, Assam Financial Corporation, Guwahati placed vote of thanks. A beautiful dance was also performed by group led by Ms. Namrata Tiwari and Brahma Kumari Mridu presented a song written by Lt. Bhupen Hazarika.


Garden Groupies is a fun little event we schedule most months typically on a Tuesday morning to allow us to show off some of our favorite and prettiest plants. A variety of folks from beginning gardeners, transplanted gardeners (from the north or west to the south) that aren’t sure how to garden here, master gardeners, garden clubs and vegetable gardeners join us. We start off with refreshments about 10 am in the garden or on the porch and begin our talk at 10:30. An informal talk ensues with somewhere between 10 and 15 plants shown and taught including soil preferences, light and water requirements, blooming expectations, cold weather care, medicinal properties as well as a little trivia and history. Sometimes there are jokes, sometimes give-aways, sometimes new friendships bloom, always followed by shopping of garden plants and accessories and the question “When is the next Groupies scheduled for?” which lets us know, they had a good time. We hope you’ll join us sometime and brings a friend. Sign up for our monthly newsletter to find out the next groupies scheduled or call the shop at 465-1460 and ask our cashier.


Fertilizer is important to your tree’s health. Unlike a potted plant the soil in your bonsai pot will lose its nutritional content quickly. Every time you water a small portion is washed away. The 3 essential plant nutrients are nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. For general use it is important to keep these nutrients balanced. Such as a 10:10:10 or 15:15:15 ratio. The type of fertilizer used is not as important as the balance of these nutrients. Nitrogen helps produce protein which promotes leaf growth. Phosphorous encourages sap flow, increases disease resistance and promotes root growth. Potassium provides energy and promotes fruit and flower production.
Outdoor trees only require fertilizer during the growing season. Typically this is between March and the end of August. Indoor trees can be fertilized all year round. We recommend a pellet type fertilizer for the outdoor trees with supplemental liquid applications. We add pellets about every 6 weeks and apply a liquid fertilizer every two weeks. You may use pellets on your indoor trees, but they tend to have an obnoxious odor. Be sure to read the dosage amounts, more does not necessarily mean better. In fact too much could potentially cause unrepairable damage.
“Fertilizer does no good in a heap, but a little spread around works miracles all over.” Richard Brinsley Sheridan


|Home | Seeds | Herbal | Gallery | Contact Us | Links|
www.certifiedorganic.bc.ca COABC ~ Certified Organic Association of BC
Where you'll find Planting Seeds Project Seeds
For Seedy Saturdays, Seed Growing and Seed Cleaning Workshops: Also see Calendar:
Lillooet Seedy Saturday Feb 16th, 2013 .....9:30- 2:00 featuring Mojave Kaplan and Martin Faucher at the wheel for all day seed cleaning demo's with Planting Seeds Project winnowers and screens, as well as seed exchange and seeds for sale..............Plus, 2:30-5:00 workshop: Sharing circle of our seed growing experiences.
Vandeussen Gardens Seedy Saturday , Feb. 23rd, 2013
COABC Conference, Vernon: Ongoing hands on SEED CLEANING and mini workshops!
PLEASE BRING YOUR SEEDS TO SHARE WITH THEIR STORIES FOR THE SEED EXCHANGE PLUS YOUR HOMEGROWN SEEDS TO CLEAN WITH on site WINNOWERS AND SCREENS!
Roberts Creek Seedy Saturday, March 2nd, 2013? to be confirmed.
Enderby Seedy Saturday, March 2nd, 2013.
Kelowna Seedy Saturday, March 9th, 2013
Calgary Seedy Saturday, March 16th, 2013.
RETAIL STORES by March:
Drive Organics, 1045 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
Skihiish Esso, Chase, BC.


Inside a farm hidden under the streets of Paris in an abandoned parking garage
Something is growing underneath La Chapelle, a neighborhood north of central Paris.
It’s an underground farm by Cycloponics, a local indoor farming startup that harvests lettuce, herbs, and mushrooms in a space it calls la caverne (the cave).
The farm uses an agricultural technique called hydroponic farming, in which greens are grown under LEDs in nutrient-rich water without sunlight or soil.
Take a look inside.
SEE ALSO: 19 of the most beautiful public spaces in the world, according to urban designers
Since late 2016, Cycloponics has grown vegetables in a 37,700-square-foot farm underneath the streets of Paris.
The 10-person team calls its …read more
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Avoid chemicals - Avoid chemical pesticides, as these can be harmful for your local ecology. They reduce diversity and ecosystems. Instead of chemicals, use biological pesticides that won’t affect plants and insects that aren’t your intended target. Sure, you may want bugs to stop eating your vegetables, but don’t risk damaging everything else in the garden. Here are some tips to tackle pests naturally.
Collect rainwater – If you live in a particularly dry area, you may suffer from droughts. We all need to be water conscious and be aware of how much we are taking from the public supply. Installing a barrel into your garden is a great way to collect rainwater that you can use to water your lawn and plants.
Ditch the lawnmower – If you use a gas-powered lawnmower you are emitting carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. A way to avoid this is to use a manual mower, which is admittedly more difficult, and time consuming, but it is great exercise. Another option is to let your lawn grow wild - consider cultivating a meadow, which requires little maintenance and is beautifully natural. Click here for some tips on creating a wildflower meadow.
Think about your lighting – Think about how your garden lighting is powered. Many of us want our outside spaces illuminated at night so we can enjoy an evening in the open-air. However, it is important to consider the carbon usage of standard lighting. Use solar-powered lighting instead.
Use lime mortar – If you are building or constructing anything in your garden, think about the cement you use. Traditional cement is not easily recyclable but lime mortar, on the other hand, is. This means that future generations will benefit from being able to recycle materials instead of it ending up in landfill.
Use compost – Compost is a life-giver to any garden. Establish a compost heap or bin in your garden to store your organic household waste. It will decompose in the bin and in the process release a myriad of nutrients that plants and flowers love. Once it is fully decomposed, use it on your soil near your plants. It will help everything in your garden grow, and in a purely natural way. It is the best source for feeding your garden.


Niha Corp has been established with the vision of embracing the concept of eco-friendly and sustainable environment & agriculture. The company strives to establish itself as a reputed manufacturer and a preferred supplier of biological solutions & products in the area of Fertilizers and Renewable Energy. The company is committed to provide the socially responsible research and technology based solutions ensuring minimized cost of production and waste with maximum yields.
We emphasize the need to provide our customers with unique and innovative inputs in a hygienic and healthy environment for enhanced profits. To be an end-to-end bio-solution provider, ensuring widespread distribution, education of the customers /consumers, consultancy services and timely delivery of products.


Step into your grocery store and you’ll see shelves dedicated to organic produce. Organic foods are gaining popularity in an era where health, food security, and sustainability of the environment are at crisis point. The amount of US agriculture space dedicated to organic crops has doubled since 1997, and in 2005 organic produce turnover in South Africa was estimated at R200 to R400 million.
But, is organic food truly superior, or is it merely hype? And in particular, is organic food more nutritious and safer than non-organic food?
What is organic food?
Organic farming involves growing fresh produce without synthetic pesticides, chemicals and genetic engineering, and raising livestock without growth hormones and antibiotics. According to the International Foundation for Organic Agriculture (IFOA), it is a farming method that prides itself in strengthening the health of soils and our ecosystems.
In 2008, two out of three US consumers bought organic products, and more than one in four bought organic food at least once weekly. Closer to home, in a local study on Gauteng consumers’ purchasing behaviour, one in three respondents reported buying organic food at some point during the month. The majority of consumers who purchased organic food perceived it to be healthier.
Organic food in SA
South African organic produce includes various cereals, vegetables (mostly asparagus and potatoes), herbs, spices, fruits (largely bananas, pears and mangos), avocados, nuts and rooibos tea. Organic wine and olive oil are also produced, and organic dairy farming is increasing all over the country. In South Africa, according to estimates by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries there are currently 250 organic farms in the country, which account for only 0.05 % of the country’s total farming area.
Despite growing popularity, to date South Africa does not as yet have an official certification system for organic farming and organic farming is not held to strict standards by law. This lack of regulation makes the SA consumer vulnerable to misleading claims by bogus organic fresh produce suppliers. SA consumers have demonstrated their concerns, as it has been found that less than half of consumers purchasing organic food believe that the products are really organic.
Is it more nutritious?
The primary argument for going organic is that organic food is healthier, containing more and higher levels of nutrients than non-organic foods. This is supported by the above mentioned Gauteng-based study where the majority of SA consumers purchase organic food because they perceive organic food to be healthier. Interestingly, while it may be argued that organic food is healthier because of fewer pesticides or has less of an impact on the environment (though this too is highly questioned), at this point, there does not appear to be convincing evidence of a substantial difference in nutritional quality of organic compared to traditional produce.
In two large reviews of the research done to date, the authors concluded in both cases that there is little evidence of nutrition-related health benefits from the consumption of organically produced food. There are no disease-promoting benefits deriving from eating an organic diet. On the flip side, there are also no detrimental or negative health effects from an organic diet.
Fresh produce like fruit and vegetables is the most commonly purchased organic food. While there have been small differences in nutrient levels demonstrated by some studies, this may simply relate to differences in the way the produce is grown. It is likely that the nutrient content of fresh produce is affected by a variety of factors such as the geographic location of the farm, local soil characteristics, climatic conditions which vary seasonally, the maturity of the produce when picked, and how the produce is stored.
Reserved for the elite market
Research has also shown that milk from organically raised cows has the same protein, vitamin, antioxidant and fat content compared to conventionally raised cows. In those studies that have shown that organic milk has higher concentrations of antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids, this is not necessarily associated with the organically raised cow but related to what the cow eats, which differs depending on the time of year and the type of soil the grass is grown in.
Organic food is traditionally reserved for the elite market, fetching premium prices compared to non-organic food. In the US, organic food prices are as much as 40% higher than non-organic foods. This is because higher production costs, increased labour to produce the food, as well as a lower demand for organic products. In fact, some researchers argue that the high cost of organically produced fruits and vegetables may just lead to consumers to eating less of these supposed super healthy, nutrient-rich foods. This is occurring despite well-established evidence documenting the health benefits of eating a minimum of five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis.
Is organic food safer
Is organic food safer to consume since no pesticides are used during the farming process? It appears that diets with more organic produce may expose consumers to fewer pesticides. Interestingly, South Africa is one of the largest users of pesticides in Africa (Hanford, 2014). Not only is the exposure of produce to pesticides of concern, but also the occupational exposure of farm workers. Alarmingly, evidence of pesticide exposure has been observed in almost nine out of 10 Venezuelan farm workers. These farm workers also showed the impact of pesticides on sperm quality, affecting male reproductive health.
The nervous system is particularly sensitive to toxins that can contribute to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. The most prevalent findings on the role of pesticides in health indicate various cancers. Pesticides have also been associated with hearing loss, diabetes and obesity. An exhaustive review that evaluated over 600 scientific publications concluded that no final conclusion can be made, as there are many factors that contribute to the development of disease.
In summary, while it seems that organic food is not necessarily more nutritious, it may be that the lower pesticide levels in organic foods is better for our overall health. Fortunately, international parties such as the European Union (EU), Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), and North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) have attempted to regulate pesticide use in farming by setting maximum levels of pesticides allowed. The consumer is encouraged to attempt to limit their exposure to pesticides as far as possible by for example choosing organic fresh produce (when economically feasible), washing all fresh fruit and vegetables before preparation, and growing their fresh produce in a home, school, church or community vegetable garden.


Coffee Plants in Pots
After we discussed growing your own coffee plants where many of you wrote in and gave some great tips I got inspired and are now growing my own coffee plants in pots in my Brisbane backyard. I know they don't like too much wind so they are being sheltered and they are also getting as much sun as I can find for them. I am hoping come July and September this year or next I might be able to make some "real coffee" from scratch. It was said you need 30 coffee plants to have 2 cups of ground coffee every day of the year. Just think how many coffee plants there must be in the world. If this all works out and these plants provide the Utopian cup of coffee then in the next picture there might be 10 times as many coffee plants to photograph. I am growing the Coffee K7 variety and because it is grown in a pot it will be naturally dwarfed however there is a new variety called Dwarf Coffee Plant - Catui.


Cannabis is a plant which is most commonly known as weed or bang. Even though most people have always known it to be a plant which is used for recreational purposes, those people's min ds have been blown by the fact that it has health benefits. There are two types of cannabis that can be grown and they are called sativa and Indica. Get more info on sativa vs indica. Since the health uses of cannabis were realized, most of the countries have legalized its use as well as allowed the people to grow the cannabis plants. Some of the uses of the cannabis products include the treatment of diabetes, heart attacks and strokes, stress and depression together with health management problems. It is therefore important due to those health benefits.
For that reason, people usually grow the cannabis both on small scale and large scale. The practice of growing cannabis has very many benefits. In this article, we are going to enlighten you on the benefits of having your own cannabis plantation. First of all, cannabis growing means that you don't always have to buy your weed from the dispensaries and weed stores. You just make your own cannabis products from the garden and this is important in saving your money considering the fact that buying the cannabis products can be very expensive.
Another reason why growing cannabis is important is that when you have your own weed, you can be sure of the kind of products unlike when you buy it from a person you don't even know. The quality of your won home made weed is always good because sometimes buying from outsources can be risking to buy contaminated weed or one that is mixed with other non-weed products. This is also important because when you grow your weed, it means you take the responsibility of drying it until it is finely cured and that makes it very important.
Another benefit which comes from growing weed is that you become independent whether you have money or not. There are sometimes when the amount of weed on the market can be very low which means when you have yours, you will never luck even when business is down. Click to learn more about Growing Cannabis. Another economic benefit of growing weed is that you can supply the weed products to other users and get money in return. People who sell cannabis products usually make a lot of money so growing cannabis gives you a chance to make your own money. Learn more from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiPbfcZl9xQ.


this is what
petaluma spring 2021 program
Thank you to all of the Spring '21 Starter home gardener volunteers! Vegetable starts continued to grow in the hands of your neighbors who received them at regional food pantries.
We encourage new friends to join our mailing list so we can let you know how to be involved in the future.
Following a successful pilot in summer 2020, getstarted once again partnered with Petaluma Bounty to continue the program in spring/summer 2021 in Petaluma, CA!
Based on requests gathered from surveying approximately 60 local families receiving food assistance— including their interest in receiving edible plant starts, preferred plants and growing conditions— we expanded the array of edible plants to be seeded and tended by "Starters” this spring and to be shared, grown and enjoyed by under resourced “Growers” throughout the summer. New this season, we created two kits— one designed for growing in partial, the other for full sun.
In addition to new plants offered, the spring/summer 2021 program also included more educational materials to support everyone throughout the process. Helpful tips and videos were supplemented with on-going, personalized email and phone support from knowledgeable professionals, courtesy of a new collaboration with the UC Master Gardener Program of Sonoma County.
Via collaboration, getstarted is able to leverage local know-how to reinforce and expand the gardening skills of the community, as well as increase knowledge of, and interest in, year-round edible gardening, which is viable in the region.
The Details (from spring/summer '21 program):
There is no cost to participate, either as a home gardener “Starter” or recipient “Grower.”
Each Start Kit consists of a recycled 6-cell pack (approx. 7" long x 5" wide x 3" deep) pre-filled with soil, three different types of seeds, and directions for growing and care. "Starters" can be amateurs or experts and will not need to plant the kits in-ground.
getstarted is prepared to provide 300 kits, so please spread the word, and kindly register your planned “Starter” participation by clicking the button below by Wednesday, March 31, 2021. NOTE: Registration is now closed. Thank you for your enthusiastic response!
If you are organizing for a group of 10 Starters or more (i.e. a school garden program), please email us directly at email@example.com so that we can help you coordinate.
This spring, we will have two days for Starters to pick up and drop off Start Kits at Petaluma Bounty, located at 55 Shasta Avenue, Petaluma, CA. For questions, please call 707.775.3663.
Pick up reserved complimentary Start Kits on either Saturday or Sunday, April 3 or 4 from 2-5pm. Visit the News page for videos on starting, tending and thinning your kit, as well as other troubleshooting tips.
Drop off the resulting, sprouting Start Kits on either Saturday or Sunday, May 8 or 9 from 2-5pm.
Established starts, along with bi-lingual educational and resource information, will be distributed at the following locations free of charge to families and individuals receiving food assistance, for summer growing season enjoyment!
Tues 5/18: Salvation Army Petaluma Food Pantry
Thurs 5/20: Elisha’s Pantry, Santa Rosa
Fri 5/21: Petaluma Family Resource Center at McDowell Elementary School
Tues 5/25: Una Vida Community Market at Hillside Church, Petaluma
Thurs 5/27: West Side Interfaith Pantry at Elim Lutheran Church, Petaluma
Fri 5/28: Redwood Empire Food Bank Distribution at Petaluma Fairgrounds
Thurs 6/3: Redwood Empire Food Bank Distribution at Resurrection Church, Santa Rosa
Spotlight on a very Special Starter
Paula Glogovac is a powerhouse. In addition to being a Starter, she offered to single-handedly grow from seed a whopping 300 tomato plants for getstarted’s Spring/Summer 2021 program. No small beans, given that they needed to be started, tended and maintained before the program’s official cycle began. Plus, c’mon, 300 starts?!
We think it takes a pretty special person to make a commitment like this—so let’s get to know Paula a bit, shall we?
gs: What’s your professional connection to food gardening?
paula g: I became an Alameda County Master Gardener in 2010. When I moved to Sonoma County I transferred to their program. My focus has been on edibles and my favorite thing is propagating plants.
gs: How long have you been growing food?
paula g: I’ve been growing food since I was a little kid. I helped my father in our home garden. When I got older and I had my own space I gardened again.
gs: Who originally inspired you to grow food/who “got you started?”
paula g: My father did. We had the best raspberries and fruit trees at our home. We always had great tomatoes in the summer. I was in charge of amending the soul, watering and harvesting. My parents tell me that whatever I ate that had a seed, I would go plant it out in the garden.
gs: How did you find out about getstarted and what inspired you to reach out and participate?
paula g: It was through the Master Gardeners of Sonoma County that I heard of the program. I’m such a big believer in home gardens that I wanted to help others have that same opportunity.
gs: Why did you offer to grow tomatoes, how many did you grow, what are the types you decided to grow for the program and why?
paula g: I know how much my family loves the fresh tomatoes from our garden and wanted others to have that experience. I grew 300 tomato plants. I grew 3 varieties that would require less staking and could be grown in containers. Inca Jewels is a dwarf determinate tomato, Litt’l Bites is a super dwarf cherry tomato, and Super Bush is a dwarf slicing tomato.
gs: What’s your all-time favorite tomato to grow?
paula g: That is so hard to say as it’s changing all the time and I have so many favorites for different reasons. I love Big Beef as a great slicing tomato, I love Black Krim, Persimmon and Green Zebra for a caprese salad, San Marzano, Granadero, and SunRise For Sauce, Principe Bhorghessi for sun dried and dust, Nova, Sun Gold, Five Star, Sweet 100’s, Green Bee, Pink Bee for cherry and grape tomatoes. Roma and Orange Caprese for salsa and pico de Gallo.
gs: Any tomato-growing tips?
paula g: I plant my tomatoes as deeply as possible with at least three sets of leaves at the top. In the hole or bottom of the container I put a fish head, a handful of bone meal, 2 non-coated aspirin and a handful of worm castings. Put the plant in and bury it to those top sets of leaves. Tomatoes are unique in that those cute little hairs on the stem when buried will grow roots making for a stronger plant.
gs: Anything else you’d like to add?
paula g: What a great project to support in my new community. I hope everyone enjoys their tomatoes.
getstarted would also like to give a very special thanks to Charlie Parker (Starter 2020), who helped transport the tomatoes Paula grew, and to Claudia de la Pena, Claire Jahns and Erika Sweet who went above and beyond to grow additional starts for the program.
Enjoy ongoing updates and see photos of the program on our news page.
getstarted continues to be grateful to program partner Petaluma Bounty for its leadership, network and outstanding record of promoting healthy food choices to its region’s families. A program of non-profit Petaluma People Services Center, its mission is healthy food for everyone through collaboration, education and promoting self-reliance. They seek to foster a thriving local food system while improving low income families’ access to sustainably grown, local food.
The University of California Master Gardener Program's mission is to provide unbiased, high quality, science-based information to non-commercial home gardeners, taking a proactive role in extending information for community improvement.
Thanks also to the following product donors:
future program communities
getstarted is designed to be scalable and applicable to other communities. we are currently in the process of bringing the program to other Bay Area neighborhoods. If you are an individual organizer, non-profit organization, or relevant business interested in seeing getstarted sprout up in your city, email us at firstname.lastname@example.org.


I was sitting in my friends backyard this weekend, and When I looked at just beyond their pool there is the garden that we planted a few months ago, and most of the plants are dying. Or already dead, but they are not necessarily to blame. There was a previously installed drip system, and while it should have been effective at keeping their plants watered in a safe and cost effective way. It wasn’t doing what it should.
In the hot Vegas weather water evaporates very quickly, we looked at their timer, and it was set to go off one time, in the hottest part of the day. This allows water to evaporate before the plants are able to get any nutrients from the water or the soil. For any living thing water is important for its survival it keeps vital tissues in tact. Some plants like cacti are able to go a substantial amount of time without water because they have storage tanks in you will, reserves that allows the storage of water. But most of the plants in there garden are not succulents, we are still able to allow these plants to flourish in the harsh Las Vegas summer.
When watering plants the most effective times to water plants are an hour before sunrise and an hour before sunset. This allows water to get water without keeping it too moist for fungal growth which could present a new harm to your plants. You should water for a full two hours daily. This is true for both desert landscapes as well as traditional landscapes, and especially true for natural grasses.
Allowing your landscape to flourish through appropriate watering practices is a vital part of landscape maintenance. You can also contact us and ask about artificial grass, and drought resistant plants and we would be happy to update your landscape.


New 2022 fresh hop beers now available from participating New World stores nationwide
A special range of ‘once-a-year beer’ that can only be created during the New Zealand hop harvest is
hitting New World’s beer chiller shelves as brewers release their latest season of fresh hop brews.
Following fast work from hop growers, brewers and logistics teams, it’s now up to beer fans to get in
quick to snap up their chance to taste all the deliciousness of the 2022 hop crop in a can (or bottle!).
What are fresh hop beers?
Each year while the New Zealand hop harvest is in full swing and the bulk of the crop is being
preserved in pellet form, brewers get a fleeting chance to work with a small amount of their
favourite ingredient: freshly picked hops.
Supplied within hours of being plucked from the bine (yes, bine), fresh hops are crisp, green and
bursting with pungent hoppy goodness – all qualities brewers aim to capture in each unique beer.
Timing is everything.
“Timing is everything with fresh hops,” explains Chris Anderson, head of all things beverage for
Foodstuffs North Island.
“Hops are quite delicate, and it’s a race to get them picked, chilled and into brews before their best
qualities start to degrade.
“Many brewers work one-on-one with their chosen hop growers to nail down the harvest of their
fresh hops to a precise day and time, and then transport them to the brewery within hours –
sometime by chartered plane – where bubbling brews are ready and waiting.”
For at least one brewer, it took less than 12 hours to get their hops from bine to brew.
Luke Nicholas, owner and founder of Epic Beer explains: “Our friend from Eggers Hop Farm in the
Moutere Valley was up at 5am picking the hops, so we could get them into the brew as fast as
“He even went through the field to personally select the very best plants for us, so we have the most
aromatic and perfectly ripe Riwaka hops – a real cult favourite among beer lovers.
“The hops were delivered to Nelson airport by 7am, were in Auckland by noon and into the brew by
2pm the same day – so our customers can be sure they are getting some of the freshest fresh hop
Timing remains critical once the beers are ready too, says Anderson. “Like the hops, fresh hop beers
have to be handled with care and kept chilled for the best fresh taste.
“Our stores work closely with brewers to get their stock from brewery to New World chiller shelves
quickly, so customer can enjoy them in perfect condition.”
Participating New World stores across the North and South Islands will stock a selection of fresh hop
beers from a range of 18 brews – the largest number the supermarket has optioned to range since it
began supporting fresh hop beers back in 2018.
There are pale ales, IPAs, hazies and pilsners from legendary brew brands including: 8 Wired,
Baylands, Behemoth, Deep Creek, DVB (Double Vision Brewing), Eddyline, Epic, Garage Project, Good
George, Panhead, Parrotdog, Renaissance, Sawmill and Urbanaut.
Nature’s role in when different hop varieties are ripe for picking, means releases to the supermarket
shelf will span through the month of April.
And yep, you guessed it…. Beer fans who want to get a taste of this year’s fresh hop beers will need
to move fast too.
“Numbers of each beer are very limited across the country, and last season’s fresh hop favourites
sold out within a week of arrival in some locations.”
A full list of the brews is available here, and selected stores stocking here.


Feed Pellet Cooler Introduction
This counter flow pellet cooler is widely used to cool finished pellets with high temperature or high humidity. It adopts counter flow cooling theory, and pellets can be cooled completely and evenly through the machine, which is good for the pellet packing and storage. The advantages is energy saving, easy to operate, preferred choice for most users of feed and wood pellets plant.
Counterflow Pellet Cooler Features
● The counter flow cooling principle is adopted to cool the pellets with high temperature and moisture. Hot air touches hot pellets and cool air touches cool pellets so as to avoid the pellet surface crack caused by sudden cooling produced by direct touching between cool air and hot pellets.
● It adopts air-lock valve for feeding and ensures a large air inlet area, thus reaching an outstanding cooling effect.
● Special rotary product distributing mechanism results in even product distribution and more complete cooling.
● Also, with the up-to-date design of eight squared cooling box, it can cool the pellets without residue.
● Due to its slide valve reciprocation type discharge mechanism, it is featured by stable and reliable movement.
● Low power consumption, easy operation.
● It can reduce the temperature of pellets from 80~90℃to about 3~5℃ above ambient temperature, and the pellet moisture content is reduced from 17%~18% to 12%~13%, which is good for the pellet packing and storage.
Main Parts and Functions of Pellets Cooling Machine
◆ The discharging system is going among the whole surface of our cooler. It is sealed against granules and opens for fresh air.
◆ On the cooler head there is one connection for aspiration tubes included manual flap to regulate the velocity of air.
◆ Due to the pelting process the pellets get filled in the top by passing the airlock and collected in the cooler center part until the second level indicator is reached.
◆ The cooling time is adjusted by changing distance of level indicator.
☞ 1st level indicator (S-1): Stop the discharging system
☞ 2nd level indicator (S-2): start the discharging system
☞ 3rd level indicator (S-3): Overload sensor to protect the cooler against overfeed
Less than 10-15 Mins
Temperature after Cooling
Not higher than ambient temperature +3-5°C
Power of Airlock (kw)
Mr. Kevin +86-15264102980


Add some greenery to your home with these unique planters! Available in three different sizes. Mia Mélange planters are made from 100% cotton rope which are carefully sewn together in a coiling technique. The cotton is grown locally in South Africa by farmers who are members of the Better Cotton Initiate (BCI). Please note that all our products are handcrafted and variances may occur. No two products will be exactly the same. When we pack our products, we often fold them. Due to the products being made from cotton, it is easy to bend the products back to their original shape.
Small: D 6.29" x H 5.12" [fits 5" pot] Medium: D 7.08" x H 5.9"[fits a 6" pot] Large: D 9.05" x H 8.27" [fits a 8" pot]
To clean dirt and scuff marks off the cotton, rub with the adhesive side of broad scotch tape; or gently spot clean with a wet cloth and mild hand wash soap. Dyed rope may run when wet. It is best for the cotton rope not to get wet. It is, however, possible to hand wash the cotton products gently (without dyed rope), but please ensure the product dries evenly.


The Most Influential Asians of the Century
A cavalcade of towering individuals and a newly awakened populace
Emperor Hirohito - Diffident dynast
Ho Chi Minh - Uncle Insurgent
Pol Pot - Heart of Darkness
Issey Miyake - Beautymaker
Daisuke Inoue - Karaoke King
Rabindranath Tagore - People's Poet
Sun Yat-sen - Father to All China
Mohandas Gandhi - Peacefull Warrior
Sukarno - Revolution's Star
Mao Zedong - Red Emperor
Lee Kuan Yew - Master Planner
Deng Xiaoping - Strategist Supreme
Corazon Aquino - Lady Liberty
Park Chung Hee - Task Master
Eiji Toyoda - Auto Motivator
King Rama V - Royal Reformer
M S Swaminathan - Green Revolutionary
Akira Kurosawa - Ace Auteur
Dalai Lama - Apostle of Peace
Akio Morita - Gadget Man
Born Aug. 7, 1925 in India
1952 Graduates from Cambridge with a Ph.D in genetics
1966 Uses Mexican seeds in Punjab, which results in vastly increased harvests
1967 His team develops high-yield, cross-bred wheat seed that starts Green Revolution across S E Asia
1971 Awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership
1974 Chairs U.N. World Food Congress in Rome
1987 Wins the World Food Prize in Washington
The father of the Green Revolution used his skills in genetic engineering and his powers of persuasion to make famine an unfamiliar word in Asia
If you travel by land from any Asian metropolis, it doesn't take long to hit a timeless landscape carpeted with fields of rice, wheat, millet or maize. Whether you're at the rice paddies of Kuttanad, Kerala in southern India or the wheat bowl of central China, farmers tend fields as their ancestors did, harvesting grain for their families and countrymen.
But beneath the soil of those seemingly unaltered tableaux is a high-tech invention that changed not only Asia but the world. The seeds planted today by farmers from Punjab to Pusan are nothing like those used by their ancestors. If they were, the entire continent would either be starving or enslaved to the outside world for food or financing.
That turn of history, one of the truly astonishing transformations of the century, is now known as the Green Revolution. It relied heavily on the work of a diminutive Indian geneticist named Monkombu Sambasivan Swaminathan. As godfather of the Green Revolution, Swaminathan, 74, is modest about his own achievements but forthright about his work's impact on his native land and the planet Earth. "Our history," he says, "changed from that time."
Swaminathan, together with colleagues in India and around the world, managed in a few short years to demolish the dire Malthusian worldview that was so prevalent, and pertinent, four decades ago. Asia's populations were growing uncontrollably. None of the largest countries was self-sufficient in food. China lost as many as 30 million people to famine from 1958 to '62 during and after the Great Leap Forward, and postwar India lived a "ship-to-mouth" existence, subsisting on foodgrains imported from the U.S. Too many mouths, ever more pregnancies, the same farmers growing the same crops--something had to give.
Instead of tragedy, though, a miracle was born in the mid-'60s at Swaminathan's laboratory in New Delhi--and, a few years later, at the International Rice Research Institute in the Philippines which he later headed. Swaminathan brought into India seeds developed in Mexico by U.S. agricultural guru Norman Borlaug and, after cross-breeding them with local species, created a wheat plant that yielded much more grain than traditional types. Scientists at IRRI accomplished the same miracle for rice. Imminent tragedy turned to a new era of hope for Asia, paving the way for the Asian economic miracle of the 1980s and '90s.
As with all great revolutions, though, the seed was but the starting point. Swaminathan combined all the great components of a revolutionary: vision, dedication, energy and follow-through. He was born in what is now the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. His physician father was an ardent follower of Mohandas Gandhi, and the young Swaminathan was brought to a rally in which British cloth was burned. (Gandhi exhorted Indians to end their dependence on imported goods.) It was a lesson the boy would never forget. In college, he eschewed more lucrative professions and studied agriculture. "I believed I had to serve the nation," he says from his Madras-based M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, which is involved in a range of activities, including ways to hook farmers up to the Internet. He almost became a police officer, but a 1949 fellowship to study genetics in the Netherlands changed his career path. In 1952 he earned his Ph.D from Cambridge University, then crossed the Atlantic on the liner Queen Elizabeth to do further studies in Wisconsin. There he turned down a professorship. "I asked myself, why did I study genetics? It was to produce enough food in India. So I came back."
Swaminathan's poor, overpopulated homeland was importing vast amounts of grain. "Importing food was like importing unemployment," he recalls. "Seventy percent of our people were employed in agriculture. We were supporting farmers in other countries." By 1966, Swaminathan was director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi, spending his time in fields with farmers trying to help improve their productivity. Fertilizers were a dead end: when the wheat plant's pod grew more seeds, its stalk collapsed under the weight. With help from the Rockefeller Foundation, Swaminathan found a cross-bred wheat seed, part-Japanese and part-Mexican, that was both fruitful and staunch. (He would later marry this plant to an Indian variety to produce the golden-colored grain favored by Indians.)
That was the breakthrough in the Green Revolution, but there was a lot more work to be done. Indian farmers, immersed in traditional ways, had to be convinced to grow the new wheat. In 1966, Swaminathan set up 2,000 model farms in villages outside New Delhi to show farmers what his seed could do. Then came the hardest part. He needed the government to help--specifically, to import 18,000 tons of the Mexican seed at a time of fiscal hardship. Swaminathan lobbied then-Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. "He probably thought nothing could be worse," Swaminathan recalls. "Famine was imminent. There was a willingness to take risks." The first harvest with the new seeds was three times greater than the previous year's.
But the revolution was still incomplete. Only Punjab state had the right irrigation for the new technologies, the state-run food collection and distribution networks were notoriously inefficient, and new fertilizers and pesticides were needed, along with credit lines for small farmers. Political leadership was vital to solve that tangle of problems, and Swaminathan found it in Shastri's successor. "Indira Gandhi was a strong nationalist," he recalls. "She wanted an independent foreign policy, and food was a political weapon." Gandhi bluntly asked him how India could be free of imports and gave Swaminathan a free hand to organize a new agricultural program. Today, India grows some 70 million tons of wheat a year, compared to 12 million tons in the early '60s.
Swaminathan now believes farmers must adopt more eco-friendly methods, and he's using his influence to spread the message. And although populations continue to mushroom, he maintains that still greater harvests are possible. All that's needed, he says, is "inspiration, perspiration and luck." The greatest stroke of luck for hundreds of millions of Asians has been Swaminathan's revolution.
Reported by Meenakshi Ganguly/Madras


Lie in ancient times dating back 8,000 years to the Egyptians.
Weaving stalks of grain into harvest symbols had its origin in the religious beliefs of early farmers.
The sun, moon, and rain - the very cycles of nature - had spiritual significance, and therefore myths were developed
to explain these wonders of nature and people's complete dependence upon it for their life and livelihood.
Many ancient cultures believed that a spirit lived in the grain. Weaving provided a trap for the spirit of the field,
thus ensuring hopes of a good season in the spring and a bountiful harvest in the fall.


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Roses have been in our hearts ever since humans have set their eyes upon this passionate flower. Being the pride of many ancient royal gardens, roses have proved their worth in ornamental as well as medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
Roses typically grow in temperate climates with low humidity. Naturally grown wild roses exude purity and beauty since they aren’t forced to grow under adverse climatic conditions or with any artificially created environment or fertilizers. These roses and rose petals have slowly become the most sought-after ingredients for preparing 100% natural products – especially for skincare.
As roses became more and more appeasing for various purposes including decorative, medicinal, cosmetic and gifting, growing hybrid varieties under a controlled environment became a popular trend. This improved their availability any time of the year and any place in the world! These varieties have extraordinary color with vibrant shades and are artificially grown with heavy doses of fertilizers and nutrients to intensify the flower color and encourage flowering canes. They are grown anywhere and everywhere – a very appealing idea when you need to gift a bunch of roses, but when used as an ingredient in skincare products or natural homemade remedies, are we making the right choice? Is there anything we should consider before making a choice of ingredients?
Natural, wild roses have all the virtues that you look for in a flower when you are thinking about using them in chemical free beauty products. Furthermore, these roses are harvested in small batches, and because they are in such demand in the food and dessert industry, it is almost impossible to scale up their volume, so large companies prefer not to release such stock, for fear it will harm their financial bottom line. Purvari roses are grown without any pesticides or harmful fertilizers. This maintains the integrity of the skincare products and your skin benefits from the purity of the vital nutrients that remain intact.
Purvari, a natural skincare brand known for their rose water and rose water mists ensures that you get the best of what nature has to offer. We use only naturally grown wild roses herbs that are grown organically on India’s fertile farmland, we cultivate and forage the same botanicals that have been used for centuries—no modern hybrids, GMOs, or toxic pesticides.
Dependent on the natural cycles of the earth and the seasonal harvest, our formulas are made in small batches and packed with natural antioxidants that protect and refine the skin. When it comes to effective skincare, nature truly is the only luxury we need!
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TOGGLED Full Spectrum Horticulture Lamps Lamps are engineered to provide improved growing performance for green leafy plants using selected LED output wavelengths. Peak wavelengths of 455 and 600nm are optimal for light absorption leading to better plant growth.
As with all TOGGLED LED tubes, the horticulture lamps are mercury-free and energy efficient, and designed to work in standard T8 and T12 fluorescent tube fixtures. They run directly off of building line power and eliminate fluorescent ballast systems to deliver high quality lighting.
Already know what you're looking for? Visit the Where to Buy page to find out where to purchase TOGGLED products.
Start with us! We can help you decide which of our products is the right fit for your project and provide expert support at any stage.
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Politala- On Thursday 11 November 2021, Tanah Laut State Polytechnic together with the Development Planning, Research and Development Agency (Bappelitbang) of Tapin Regency, held a Study on the Development of Agricultural Biomass Waste as Bioenergy and Sustainable Agriculture. This activity was carried out in the Sungai Bahalang Village Office Hall, Tapin Regency.
This study was conducted as a follow-up to the collaboration between Politala and Bappelitbang Tapin Regency, which previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding (22/10).
This activity was attended by the Secretary of the Tapin Regency Bappelitbang H. Meidy Harris Pryoga, S.E., ME, representatives of the Tapin Regency Agricultural Extension Agency, the Village Head and all members of Sungai Bahalang Village, representatives of the Sungai Bahalang Village Farmers Group and representatives from the surrounding community.
Meanwhile from Politala, it was attended by lecturers of Politala Agroindustry Study Program including Meldayanoor, S.Hut., M.S, Ir. Nuryati, S.T., M.Eng, Raden Rizki Amalia, S.T., M.Si and Nina Hairiyah, S.T.P., M.Si, where they presented their work, namely a biogas production tool using organic waste.
In the presentation session, the background for the creation of biogas production equipment was explained. That rice straw and cow dung have the potential to be developed in Kab. Tapin as a biomass material that produces biogas. It also explains how to manufacture and the total cost to make the tool.
Meldayanoor said that the creation of the biogas-making device was initiated by public unrest with wasted agricultural and livestock waste. So there needs to be a tool that is able to process all of the waste so that it can be reused in this case into biogas.
The tool is operated directly in front of the Bahalang River Village community and all invited guests present. It also explains the steps that need to be taken to be able to produce biogas and can then be used for cooking.
As a representative of Bappelitbang Kab. Tapin, H. Meidy said, “In our office there is still one more tool that has been prepared, which is just waiting for the leadership’s direction, and it is hoped that this study will provoke other villages to be interested in developing the innovations that we are doing”, he said.
It is hoped that the tool created by the lecturers of the Politala Agroindustry Study Program can be an alternative to the use of LPG gas so that it can reduce the household costs of the people in Sungai Bahalang Village. Hms_Politala


Since its inception, Pleasantrees has continuously redefined the standards of cannabis cultivation, setting new benchmarks in the industry. The company is committed to producing superior cannabis, meticulously cultivated with consistency and quality for an enhanced experience. Pleasantrees tirelessly seeks better methods of propagation, pursuing the delicate harmony between cutting-edge technology and Mother Nature’s wisdom. The team behind Pleasantrees comprises an ensemble of experienced cultivators, scientists and enthusiasts, united by a common passion for cannabis. They consistently apply their extensive knowledge to every step in the production process, beginning in the heart of the dedicated cultivation facilities and extending to the final product. Through transparency and an unwavering commitment to quality, Pleasantrees guarantees an unparalleled experience for every user. The company’s dedicated quest for growth complements its commitment to sustainability, seeing a bright future in a world where cannabis is not just accepted, but celebrated. In essence, Pleasantrees stands as a testament to superior cannabis cultivation, ensuring that each product surpasses expectations and delivers the desired effect.
The Story of Pleasantrees and Superior Cannabis Cultivation


Liquid PK Fertilizer SEIKI 500ml
Potassium Phosphite - PK - is a fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium, which favors flowering and fruiting.
The action of phosphorus in the form of phosphite ion, combined with potassium, stimulates growth and acts on the hormonal system, activating the production of phytoalexins, stimulating the self-defense mechanisms of plants and producing a strengthening of the fundamental tissues of the trunk and of the roots.
As a fungicide, it prevents the appearance of fungal soil diseases, such as Phytophora.
Being a nitrogen-free fertilizer, it is ideal for the autumn season, favoring the accumulation of nutrient reserves.
In irrigation: Apply 4 to 5 ml per liter of water.
Via Foliar: Apply from 1 to 3ml per liter of water.
Its use is recommended from the birth of the first leaves in spring until mid-September.
42% (p/v) or 30% (p/p) phosphorus (P205) diluted in water.
28% (w/v) or 20% (w/w) of potassium (K20) soluble in water.


DemographicsDalby is approximately 323.22 square kilometres. In 2016 the population of Dalby was 12719. The population is 50% male and 50% female. On average the monthly mortgage repayments in Dalby are $1400 to $1799. The most common weekly income bracket is $800 to $999 per week. Weekly rents in the area are on average $275 to $349.
DescriptionDalby is a town in the Darling Downs region of Queensland, Australia, and is approximately 208 kilometres (129 mi) north northwest of the state capital, Brisbane, at the junction of the Warrego, Moonie and Bunya Highways. Dalby is the administrative centre of the Western Downs Region and the centre of Australia's richest grain and cotton growing area. At the 2011 census, Dalby had a population of 12,299. In the heart of the downs, Dalby lays along the banks of the Myall Creek surrounded by an incredibly diverse cross section of farmers, all taking advantage of the rich black soil this area provides.


Basil wants his spotlight in the walk of fame
Basil, our beloved greenhouse cat, has been immortalized in our new concrete sidewalk that was installed earlier this month. The sidewalk now connects the Teaching Brewery, Teaching Greenhouse and the Benchmark Restaurant together making it easier for students and patrons to navigate our beautiful campus. It is part of our ongoing list of projects that are improving our campus and overall student experience.
Basil is doing very well for a 14 year old cat! He is a fierce hunter that keeps our campus clear of mice and a gentle soul that soothes students stresses.
Basil is our beloved greenhouse cat that has been with us for nearly 15 years. He is a fearless mouser that keeps us pest free, and a student lover that keeps them stress free.
Earlier this week, the college poured a new sidewalk to connect the greenhouse to the restaurant and we thought that it was a great opportunity for Basil to immortalize himself by imprinting his paw into the cement.
Here are a few pictures of him leaving his mark…
Student Grown Poinsettias
Our student grown Poinsettia crop has never looked better! Our greenhouse is a sea of red and white, with 3000 6″ and 500 10″ pots that our students have been growing since the beginning of August.
NC Greenhouse is open 7 days a week from 9-5
Here are our prices:
4″ Poinsettia – $4.50
6″ Poinsettia – $7.50 ($1.00 from each purchase is donated to the United Way)
10″ Poinsettia – $20.00
I am amazed how my perception of time speeds up in the spring. Every year I have big plans to accomplish many things in my garden and complete only a fraction of them. If you are like me you still have a list of things that you would like to do, I would like to help you with that list by letting you know that all of the annuals at Niagara College Greenhouse are on sale! If you buy one at our regular price of $2.75 you will get one for free! Our quality is great, our selection is dwindling but still have an abundance of plants to choose from. Hanging baskets are $10 each, Patio Planters are priced to go. We have an amazing selection of perennials that are on sale as well, 3 4″ perennials for $10! It is time for us to clean out the greenhouse and get it ready for the new crop of students.
Stop in and get some fresh vegetables, strawberries, lettuce etc. our vegetable garden is beginning to produce some delicious product.
Spring is here and it is time to get your planting done! You are in luck because Niagara College has what you need! Come and see our greenhouse, we have annual bedding plants, hanging baskets, vegetable transplants, herbs, perennial plants, nursery stock, house plants, tropical plants, mixed planters and much more.
As you can see from the pictures taken below, our plants are well cared for, full of colour and ready to be taken to a good home.
Here are a few prices for you to look at before you come:
- 4″ annual bedding plants and vegetable transplants are $2.75
- 10″ hanging baskets are $12.00
- 12″ hanging baskets are $16.00
- Herbs are $4.00 each or 3 for $10.00
- 4 packs are $1.25 each or a full tray for $10.00
- We have Spreading Phlox, a beautiful spring flowering perennial ground cover on special right now on for $5.00 while supplies last.
- More nursery and perennial plants are available as well.
Hope to see you soon, our knowledgeable and friendly staff are here to help.
Selecting Annuals or Perennials for Your Ornamental Bed
By Kelly Masterson
The choice is yours!
With the right information and knowledge from Niagara College’s Greenhouse Technician Program, you can design, implement and watch your garden grow. Each garden bed planted whether on a commercial property or for a residential garden is a unique and visually appealing piece of art. “Good landscaping can add up to 28% to overall home value, says landscape economist John Harris. Even taking your landscaping from “good” to “excellent,” in terms of design, condition, and placement, can add 6% to 7% to a home’s value, according to a Clemson University study of homes in Greenville, S.C.” (1). Gardens are designed for the purpose of aesthetics, hiding imperfections in structures, highlighting structures like balconies and decks, creating moods for peaceful study at a college or creating serenity in your backyard. Gardens are shared with the community or kept hidden for your eyes only creating a world of privacy. Knowing the purpose of your garden bed makes it that much easier to design, implement and enjoy. Start your research by choosing a selection of your favourite annuals, perennials or a mixture of both.
When selecting plants — whether annuals or perennials — keep in mind the overall needs of the plants for a successful growing season. The height of the plants including the foliage and finished bloom height, water requirements, hardiness zone for proper climate restrictions, colour, light requirements and nutritional requirements are the necessities to research for each variety of plants chosen.
If you visit a nursery to help with your selection, tags are available in each pot with the descriptions of growing conditions. Some of the information is tricky to understand such as height. The height of the plant usually includes the full height of the bloom. For instance, a 36” daylily will reach approximately that height but will remain at 24” after bloom time. After the blooms have faded the daylily might be lost in the garden not taking advantage of the water falling foliage. Colours on the tags might be faded not giving an accurate description from red to pink changing the overall theme of your garden completely. Light requirements can also be misleading labelled improperly or not descriptive enough. For instance, a plant that requires morning sun and afternoon shade might be labelled as partial sun or partial shade. Double check your findings with reputable greenhouse websites or research material before opening your wallet.
Annuals are “Plants that perform their entire life cycle from seed to flower to seed within a single growing season. All roots, stems and leaves of the plant die annually. Only the dormant seed bridges the gap between one generation and the next” (2). Annuals are generally less expensive than ornamental perennials. From spring to fall, annuals with fill the space with non-stop colour as long as the watering, lighting and temperature requirements are met. Make sure the garden beds are amended with a porous, light sandy soil full of organic material. Annual roots are soft and supple and will not grow to their potential in a dense clay. They normally do not need any attention, little deadheading with the new varieties and will never over crowd your garden beds. Garden centres sell thousands of annuals per year just for the low maintenance to the buyer. Leave them in the garden to till in the following season or rip them out in the fall to prepare the gardens for next year’s new design. Better yet, change the beds for themed gardens for holidays and celebrations. For Canada Day weekend add red and white annuals or add the colours of fall for the celebrations of Thanksgiving and Halloween. The selection of annuals grow rapidly each year with big box stores selling the latest and greatest. Research is constantly being done for brighter colours, larger blooms, and more blooms. Buyers beware.
“Perennials are plants that persist for many growing seasons. Generally the top portion of the plant dies back each winter and regrows the following spring from the same root system (e.g. Purple Coneflower). Many perennial plants do keep their leaves year round and offer attractive borders and groundcover (e.g. Tickseed, Shasta and Ox-Eyed Daisy). NOTE: WHEN STARTING PERENNIAL PLANTS FROM SEED, BLOOMS WILL BE OBSERVED IN EITHER THE SPRING OR SUMMER OF THE SECOND YEAR AND EACH YEAR THEREAFTER (e.g. Ox-Eyed Daisy planted in the spring of 1996 will not bloom until the spring of 1997)” (2).
Perennials in a garden centre tend to sell for ten times the price of annuals. To keep costs lower, seeds are always an option, understanding they will take up to 3 years to mature. Perennial beds done right the first time will supply a lifetime of colour and waves of bloom throughout all of the seasons including winter interest. Perennials need more attention during the growing season. In the spring, they need to be cleared of any lasting debris from the following season to be rid of overwintering pests and diseases. The garden beds need to be amended with compost, preferably natural fertilizers like fish emulsion, Epson salts, blood meal, bone meal, the list goes on. To keep maintenance low adding mycorrhizae each season helps build up the porosity, necessity for watering, and limits the amounts of fertilizer needed. Mycorrhizae do the majority of work for you, breaking down nutrients and bringing them to the root surface. Perennials attract wildlife, beneficial insects, reduce rain run off on the property and raise the value of your property exponentially. They fill every humanly sense: the fragrance of the rose, the beauty of mother nature’s muted and complicated colour structure, the touch of silk caressing the pedals in your palm, the taste of heaven when growing flowering herbs and spices. Lastly the sound of nature whistling through the blades of grass with birds chirping in harmony. In the fall, the garden needs to be closed up, the roses hilled and layers of protection from the bitterly cold winter. To witness the spring arrival and watch the plants awaken from their deep sleep is a wonder in its own.
To maximize your garden space and keep the maintenance to a minimal the choice is always available to incorporate perennials as well as annuals in your garden bed. Niagara College students from the Horticulture Programs are taught every year what, where and how the annuals are planted in the mass planting in and around the college for each season. Filling in empty spots with bright colourful blooms of annuals when the perennials are done their lifecycle with only foliage remaining. The possibilities are endless. The shapes, colours and designs are as good as the imagination of the artist themselves. Regardless your choice, building a garden bed is a satisfying accomplishment for your family, friends, neighbors, or clients to enjoy with each visitation. Research, preparation and physical hard work is necessary but in the end worth every muscle ache and drop of sweat. So this spring don’t be sour grow some flowers. The choice is yours!
- Does House Landscaping Increase Home Value? | Retaining … (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from https://www.houselogic.com/by-room/yard-patio/landscaping-home-value/
- What Is An Annual, Perennial, Biennial? (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/wildseed/growing/annual.html
Our Horticulture technician students have been growing this Hydrangea crop for the winter term, and they are now ready to go! Beautiful, large blooms of pink white and blue that are picture perfect and scream spring is here. If you are looking to add some life and colour to your home or office come to our greenhouse, pick up one of these incredible plants! Our students would love to see you here, discuss how to care for them and tell you how they grew them!
The price of these amazing plants are $15 each or 2 for $25!
Our greenhouse features plants that are “Proudly Grown by Students” and is open 7 days a week: Monday to Friday from 9am until 5pm; Saturday and Sunday 10am until 4pm.
Handmade Soaps at Benchmarket
Wash away the winter with soaps from Roots and Radicles. A “home grown” company started by a graduate from our very own Horticulture program (Sarah McLeod). Sarah makes all of the soaps by hand, with all natural, plant based materials (which are listed on her labels).
Here are a couple of examples:
KELP! I need some – body! (clever right!) Ingredients are: Olive oil; Coconut oil; Palm oil, Hemp seed oil; Castor seed oil; distilled water; sodium hydroxide; lemongrass oil; lavender oil; rosemary oil; patchouli oil; rosemary leaf powder; kelp.
Rose Clay Ingredients are: Rice bran oil; coconut oil; palm oil; Shea butter; sodium hydroxide; distilled water; Essential oils of: Rosewood; Sweet Orange; Lavender; Geranium; Kaolin Rose. White Clay; rose petals.
Pamper yourself or the ones you love with soaps from Roots and Radicles, their soothing ingredients are great for your senses and the environment!


A well taken cared of and maintained lawn and a well manicured plants are signs that a lawn and a home is a prestigious one. Many of us are either eager to have our own yards and lawns be beautified but don’t have the means to do it because of lack of time and supplies, or we are eager to have the yards be beautified but only through our own hard work and creativity with the use of our own materials and tools.
It does not matter which one are you, there is actually a way for you to have that lawn be beautified to the fullest without you making yourself all dirty or worrying about sparing some time, and that is through hiring a team of lawn carers that can do the job for you. Despite the fact that the idea is somewhat extreme, this is basically the only way for homeowners to have their lawns be well maintained without the need to give so much time from their part. Through availing of the services of a lawn care team, you will not only have the privilege to have a well managed lawn, but you will also achieve the lawn that you have always wanted. You can have as much benefits as you want other than those mentioned above if you decide on hiring a lawn care team for your mismanaged yard. Read on to continue knowing more about the benefits.
You can free yourself from worries about having your own lawn mower since the care team will basically have their own to work on your yard.
You don’t need to worry about cutting or trimming your plants and keeping them in their healthy state at all costs, since it will be the responsibility of the lawn care team to do those stuff.
The lawn care teams has all the knowledge and skills necessary for you to get the correct plants and grasses to be put and planted on your lawn to make it look green and beautiful. The lawn care team does not only choose the best plants and grasses for you, but they also are the ones responsible for maintaining them at all costs.
These lawn care teams also are very much knowledgeable about other plants that can go well with the kind of grass appropriate for the environment where you lawn is at, making you get a list of choices that are pretty much beautiful.
You can also enjoy the privilege of getting to create their own schedule as to when you prefer them to work on your yard and take control of the plants and flowers that are in there.


Big Mikes in Agriculture
The Big Mike Vacuum Cleaners have been a part of farming for many decades.
They're ideal for bulk grain shifting, sucking up grains quickly. The range of emptying options also make it easy to shift grain quickly into your own hoppers.
The Big Mikes have very long suction hoses letting you reach right down into grain pits and the furthest corners of your grain store or elevators. Clean up more quickly without having to drag your vacuum cleaner around behind you - plug it in and off you go.
The extensive hand tools available mean you can clean every part of your grain store from the huge floors to the smallest of crevices. Ideal for thorough cleaning before fumigating or storing new harvests.


1.25L MAKES UP TO 1125L OF SOLUTION!
Whilst Seamungus contains a wide range and good levels of plant nutrients, it is perhaps the additional unique properties contained within seaweed that provide the catalyst for providing higher yields of sustained quality. Retains all the micronutrients, alginic acid, trace elements and natural growth regulators contained in the fresh seaweed. That means I can skip seamungus if I'm already doing seasol + powerfeed. Your crops will just love Seamungus. The key ingredient in seasol is of course brown kelp. Seaweed contains naturally occurring growth stimulants along with a huge range of other essential elements – its ability to aid in the protection of plants from heat stress and frost is well documented. TheImage = document.getElementById(TheImageId); Derived from all around the world; King Island Bull Kelp, Child Bull Kelp and Knotted Kelp from the North Atlantic Ocean. TheButtonPintrest.href += "&media=" + TheImage.src; Seasol is a seaweed concentrate containing plant nutrients, trace elements, alginic acids and bioactive compounds. Ltd. © 2010-2020 GardensOnline Shopping Pty. The most ideal time to apply seasol is first thing in the morning, or late in the evening. var TheButtonPintrest; Includes Poultry Manure, Bone Meal, Seaweed, Zeolite, 4 forms of Natural Nitrogen, 4 forms of Natural Phosphorus, 3 forms of Natural Potassium, 4 forms of Calcium, 2 forms of Sulphur and 2 forms of Silicon. Pure castings from Superworms (Zophobas Morio). When seasol is used on food crops it increases the yield, promotes good health and even improves flavour!
Seamungus will help increase resistance to pests and disease, stimulate healthy growth (both above & below ground) and most importantly, generally aids in improving the well-being of your soils and crops. Most importantly, the resultant product retains the microbiology necessary for a “living” product. As a pre-plant application on new crops: 800-1200kgs per hectare. Your crops will just love Seamungus . However, if you have a real green thumb then you may want to use Seasol because you will have more control over the concentration and will be able to monitor the development of your garden. The seaweed is composted and combined with poultry manure to produce a well-balanced feed and soil conditioner. The unique properties of Seamungus are specifically developed to stabilise the soils nutrients, maximise nutrient availability and rid the soil of parasites, pathogens and weed seeds. .
100% organic and produced in Australia. Seamungus increases the ability of the soil to retain moisture and importantly, stimulates root growth – this increases the surface area in which the plants can draw moisture and nutrients from. Again, always remember to wash food crops before eating them! Seamungus undergoes a unique composting process, speciﬁcally developed to stabilise the nutrients, maximise nutrient availability and to ensure the product is free of any parasites, pathogens and weed seeds. It is ideally suited for fruit and vegetable crops along with grape vines. So, if you are a seasonal gardener it may be better to use Seamungus as this will feed your plants for a longer period of time and does not need much monitoring. Seasol comes mainly in a highly concentrated liquid form meaning that it acts as an instant fertiliser and sinks into the soil fast. The processing plant used is completely unique and maximizes the extraction of essential nutrients in seaweed.
Superworm Casting Fertiliser (Worm Castings), Egg Incubator, Fits 18 Poultry Eggs, Fully Automatic (JN18), Natrasol Seaweed Concentrate (High Strength), Organic Life High Performance Fertiliser Pellets 25 kg. This way you’re able to “feed and forget” because once you have used Seamungus you will not have to apply again for quite some time. The mushroom compost has already been prepared and inoculated with the... NEW STOCK & HUGE PRICE DROP. Seasol Plus is a unique blend of Seasol, fish, humate and fulvate for use where soil condition and root activity are important. TheButtonPintrest = document.getElementById("ButtonPintrest"); International approx. Seamungus can be used as a stand along product for established crops or you could use it as a supplement to an existing crop upkeep routine. Seasol commercial strength is a liquid seaweed extract which is 100% organic and provides a synergistic range of natural compounds and trace elements derived from a blend of the finest brown kelps from around the world.
Great... Only users who already bought the product can add review. Seamungus by Neutrog. One of the German Frauleins (don’t ask) is seen here scattering the Seamungus pellets over the soil at the rate recommended to me by Vince from Neutrog.
Australian grown hemp seed is a high source of essential Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. Each have their unique advantages. Seamungus increases the ability of the soil to retain moisture and importantly, stimulates root growth – this increases the surface area in which the plants can draw. Share
Google+ Visit your local store for the widest range of garden products. Seamungus increases the ability of the soil to retain moisture and importantly, stimulates root growth – this increases the surface area in which the plants can draw moisture and nutrients from. Seamungus acts as a heat, drought, frost and pest resistant by increasing the moisture level of the plants cell sap.
Our Metropolitan Melbourne stores will remain open for Trade customers only. Seamungus has a number of applications – it can be used as a stand alone application for new or established crops, or alternatively as a supplement to an existing program. Its jam-packed full of goodness. The benefits of applying organic materials such as seaweed and humic acid are well documented – in particular, seaweed contains naturally occurring growth stimulants along with a wide range of other essential elements, ideal for promoting plant growth and health. If you are finding that fungal problems are an issue then apply seasol in the morning as this avoids residue which occurs on the foliage overnight. var TheImage; Best suited for all turf, ornamental, vegetable and fruit crops. Seamungus, a health tonic for plants - Neutrog. As a supplement to an existing program:250-500kgs per hectare. Note: email address will not be displayed. Vince and I will be getting our heads together with soil nurturing Seamungus comes in pellet form which slowly releases nutrients into the soil over a long period of time. Due to the organic nature of Seamungus, it is safe to use on food crops anytime of the year. Seamungus is an Australian Certified Organic (ACO) products, ensuring that each use of Seamungus increases the quality of the plants or crops you use it on. NEWTON 28-30 Papagni Avenue Newton SA 5074, Copyright © 2020 Newtons Building & Landscape Supplies |. Is Seamungus safe to use around dogs? Sign up to our newsletter today for discounts and specials! Seamungus has a number of applications – it can be used as a stand-alone application for new or established crops, or alternatively as a supplement to an existing program. Q. 18-25working days. For established crops: 800-1200kgs per hectare. Containing naturally occurring growth hormones, Seamungus transforms poor soil into one which is fertile.
Seamungus undergoes a unique composting process, speciﬁcally developed to stabilise the nutrients, maximise nutrient availability and to ensure the product is free of any parasites, pathogens and weed seeds. Pinterest.
I have a dog that may try to eat is from the garden. This results in increase in flowering, fruiting and helps plants cope with stressful environments such as heat, drought, frost and pest attacks.
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Source: Public Orthodoxy
Associate Professor, Theology Department, Saint Peter’s University
As Orthodox Christians prepare for Easter by partaking in fasting this Lenten season, we ought to pause to reflect on the ways in which this practice, in addition to being a source of spiritual renewal, can serve as a source of social transformation and ecological restoration. In order to ameliorate the ecological crises we currently face, that which Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople, long known as the “Green Patriarch,” asks “of us is not greater technological skill but deeper repentance, metanoia, in the literal sense of the Greek word, which signifies fervent ‘change of mind’ and radical transformation of lifestyle.” With its focus on consumption, I believe the Orthodox Christian practice of fasting is an area where Orthodoxy may enter into dialogue with the growing field of food ethics and begin to enact the “radical transformation of lifestyle” that Patriarch Bartholomew implores us to undertake as the foundation of a more ecological mode of living in the world.
But what is fasting and what is its purpose? Within Orthodox Christianity fasting consists of abstaining from most animal products, including meat, poultry, fish and dairy, and is seen as an askesis, or spiritual exercise, that engages the biological, psychological, spiritual and social aspects of who we are as persons and communities. St. Basil the Great referred to fasting as an exercise of continence that is to be pursued communally and which ought to contribute to the welfare of the whole community. In addition to cultivating the virtues of temperance and prudence on both personal and communal levels, fasting has enormous ecologically beneficial consequences as well. As such, fasting may be thought of as one way to perform the types of ecological metanoia that Patriarch Bartholomew calls upon us to engage in.
But why the focus on the ethics of food? As I have noted in an earlier essay, agriculture has succumbed to the pressures of the current neoliberal economic paradigm’s obsession with overspecialization and insatiable growth. As a result, industrial agriculture transformed farming from a career with a life-sustaining focus to one that is now heavily contributing to the ecological crises we face. Agriculture is one of the largest producers of carbon emissions, far exceeding even automotive emissions, due to its use of heavy machinery and poor land use practices; it is an industry that is deteriorating soil quality due to a lack of crop diversity and excessive tilling practices; it is a contributor to desertification and deforestation by turning forestlands into farms; and, agriculture is one of the largest contributors to water-waste as a result of turning deserts into farmlands, amid other reasons. For instance, the agricultural industry overproduces crops such as corn and sugar so that they may be unnecessarily added to foodstuffs, such as bread and canned tomatoes, at the behest of interest-groups representing these industries. Not only is this horrible for human health but practices such as this have drastically reduced crop diversity over the past one-hundred years, which in turn has caused widespread erosion of topsoil and a large-scale depletion of nutrients from the soil that is leftover, which then significantly diminishes those lands’ fertility. Add to this excessive tilling of topsoil and the overuse of harsh chemical fertilizers, and it becomes easy to see the reasons why monocultural industrial agriculture is a leading contributor to the ecological crises we are currently experiencing.
What has happened to the mainstream agricultural industry is a shame because agriculture was a profession that Saint Basil believed was noblest of all, since it provides the necessities of life. Unfortunately, like almost every other type of livelihood in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, with farming and food cultivation having succumb to the pressures of the economic system’s demands for overspecialization and perpetual growth, farming is no longer a practice that necessarily contributes to local prosperity and empowerment, as it has transformed from a community-building venture into the food production arm of the global capitalist system. Nowhere is this more evident than in the case of meat production. Corporate food production conglomerates are constantly creating Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), colloquially referred to as “factory farms,” in order to produce enough meat, often beef, to meet rising global demands as a result of the proliferation of the “Western,” or “American,” diet along with modernity’s excessive consumerist lifestyle; both of which are major contributors to environmental degradation. The restoration of the physical and ecological health and vitality of degraded ecosystems may be partly attained through routine and collective fasting periods in which people both abstain from particular foods and also come to embody the life-oriented and regenerative dimensions of fasting as an askesis that engages the ecological and social aspects of who we are as both individual persons and as communities.
Orthodox Christians ought to realize that fasting is a rich resource for ecological activism that today’s secular food movements, such as “Meatless Mondays,” inadvertently seek to imitate when they call for periodically abstaining from animal products throughout the year. This is because there are enormous environmental benefits to abstaining from the consumption of animals on collective levels in that it would drastically reduce our output of greenhouse gas emissions, reduce the slaughter of animal life, and create a demand for a diversity of vegetative life which can assist in retaining genetic diversity as well as soil fertility. However, one of the major problems with these secular forms of “fasting” is that they are unable to adequately affect a business’s production or output of animal products in that they do not occur for sustained periods of time and are not institutionalized and hence, become unpredictable from a business’s point of view. On a socio-economic level, communal fasts, such as those found within the Orthodox Christian ecclesiastical calendar, are predictable, and hence can be accounted for, enabling producers to actually anticipate their own need to reduce their output during these periods so that they will not experience an economic shock to the functionality of their business. If, in solidarity with Orthodox Christians, all Christians regularly partook in the strict fasting periods of the Orthodox ecclesiastic calendar, business’ catering to the Christian community would be able to calculate this into their business models ahead of time and hence, would be aware of the decreased demand for animal products, thereby ordering less from their suppliers, who would in turn anticipate such a decrease in demand and may alter their production practices.
In addition to enacting socio-ecological change, by fasting and engaging in periods of eating more simply and mindfully we can better appreciate the value of food itself and better prepare ourselves to venerate the Source of life’s vitality. This is why it is so important for Orthodox Christians to avail themselves of foods cultivated bio-dynamically and regeneratively so that by our consumption practices we perpetually contribute to the regeneration and renewal of life rather than becoming accomplices in causing the destruction, death, and illness of the life of ecosystems and the myriad creatures who dwell within them. This is especially true when it comes to regenerative farming, because this type of completely organic and no-till farming, in which neither poisonous chemicals nor harsh treatment of topsoils is used, has actually proven effective at restoring the productive vitality of lands that have experienced desertification and soil fertility degradation.
As we once again find ourselves in this great and holy season of Lent reflecting on our food choices, what better way to prepare for and anticipate the paschal Anastasis, or Holy Easter resurrection, than by attempting to embody modes of consumption that directly contribute to the renewal and rejuvenation of the ecosystems from which we derive our life-sustaining nourishment.
 Message of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the International Conference on Ethics, Religion, and Environment, University of Oregon, April 5, 2009
 E.F. Morrison. St. Basil and his Rule: a Study in Early Monasticism (New York: Oxford University Press 1912), 111.
 Basil. The Long Rules. The Ascetical Works. The Fathers of the Church. M. Monica Wagner, C.S.C., trans. (Washington, D.C.: Catholic University of America Press, 1950), 312.


This is a very special Syrah, one with a beautiful spring bouquet with touches of cedar and sweet wood. Black currants, blackberries, and rich spices linger on the pallet finishing with a hint of vanilla.
OA very special Syrah — one with a beautiful spring bouquet with touches of cedar and sweet wood. Black currants, blackberries, and rich spices linger on the pallet finishing with a hint of vanilla. Ripe and delicious red.
Syrah is one of those unsung varietals that can be found the world over. It is a grape that can thrive in extreme heat changes, yet continue to be balanced and subtle. A very close friend of ours grows this Syrah in the northern part of the valley on a vineyard that he usually reserves for his own wine, but was nice enough to share some of the fruit with us.
The vineyard from which this fruit comes can be found on the eastern side of the Silverado Trail just north of St. Helena. It is located near Bale Lane, where the valley floor begins to slope up the base of the mountains. Being in the shadow of the mountains allows continuous cool shade throughout the morning hours, and then direct sunlight during the afternoon heat, allowing for the balanced ripening of both acids and tannins.
The 2005 growing season was a winemakers dream, though he may not have realized it at the time. An unseasonably cool and rainy spring set the stage for the grapes to achieve optimal acid and juice qualities. This was followed by a mild summer that allowed for slow ripening of the skins and the achievement of complex, soft tannins.
14.9% Alc. by Volume.


When it comes to Fresh Food, there really is no substitute, we are your trusted source of the fresh quality Fruit and Vegetables.
Our family has been involved in Fruit and Vegetables ever since 1952, and it's no secret that with almost 70 years of experience, you can rely on us to provide you and your family with the freshest quality produce.
Only the best is good enough at LaManna's, sourcing our produce daily with our commitment to Australian Grown produce and supporting local.
“While Melbourne sleeps, the LaManna team is hand picking the best of the best at the fruit and veg market.”
- Pasquale LaManna O.A.M