Scuppernong is arguably the most well-known assortment of muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia) climbed through U. S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 9. This fast-growing, hardy native American grape is a great selection for home gardeners who need lots of big grapes for making juice, jelly or wine. Even though they require less maintenance than bunching grapes, muscadines have to be pruned aggressively to keep them in perfect shape — also much old timber is detrimental to fruit production.
Prune a newly planted muscadine grape to a major stem with no more than two or three buds emerging from it. Allow the plant to climb to the very top of its support the first year, removing all but the strongest length of vine once it goes dormant in the late fall or early winter. Remove any portion of the major vine that reaches over a few inches past the cover of the wire at dormancy, to induce the formation of unwanted shoots.
Allow new buds to develop on surface of your vine at a 90-degree angle from the main back during the next season. Select the best two to four buds, depending upon your trellis style, and get rid of the remainder as soon as they are approximately 2 inches long. Remove any buds that develop below the top of your grape trellis or so are clustered close to other buds. Allow both to four sections you kept to develop along the surface of the trellis in various directions to their entire length during the next season.
Thin the buds that form along the lateral parts of the vine in the preceding year to no longer than approximately six, spaced evenly along the length of every section, early in the spring of the next season. At the close of the season, remove these six sections of vine to support fruiting the following year — muscadines fruit only on new wood, so these old fruiting canes are a naturally drag on the plant’s sources. Continue removing fruiting canes at the end of each growing season for the life of the muscadine vine.


Shadow Mountain Vineyards
San Diego's backcountry is dotted with boutique vineyards, where they grow and bottle award winning grapes. And, there's a mom and pop vineyard just outside Warner Springs, where it's harvest time.
Shadow Mountain Vineyards is in the middle of nowhere - 80 miles from everywhere.
It is here, on 40 acres, that Alex and his wife Pam have been planting, harvesting, crushing, fermenting, bottling and selling wines for the past 21 years.
"Ninety five percent of our wines that we produce we sell direct to the consumers, either visiting the winery and the tasting room, wine club, internet," said Alex.
When this mom and pop operation first opened in 1990, there were eight wineries in the county. Now there are 60, making San Diego the fastest growing wine region in California.
"Mother Nature is good to us," noted Alex. "We've been picking all week. All the white variety grapes."
Some of the vines on this property even preceded the McGeary's.
"Old Gus planted this vineyard in 1945 as a field blend. He put together and made what we used to call Dago Red," added Alex.
And this year's harvest in all varieties will be bountiful.
"We can grow world class grapes in San Diego County," continued Alex. "The next wine we are going to try is a Viognier, French grown grape been in the US about 30 years," said Alex.
Eighty miles from somewhere, along Highway 79, the fruit of the vine is ready to be sampled.
"Eighty miles to San Diego. Eighty miles to Palm Springs. Eighty miles to Santa Ana. Eighty miles to Brawley. Right in the middle of north central San Diego County, eastern slope of Palomar Mountain at 3400 feet," detailed Alex McGeary of Shadow Mountain Vineyards.


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High-quality, locally grown plants in Belding, MI
Started out of the back of a van, Two Seasons has grown to 15 greenhouses in Belding, Michigan. Our annuals and many of our perennials are grown on-site, and the rest of our plants are all from Michigan farms. Two Seasons is committed to providing plants well adapted to Michigan's unpredictable weather.
Our plants are hand-groomed throughout the season to ensure that you go home with the most beautiful plants possible, free of disease, ready to face the elements with a full smile of flowers.
At Two Seasons, there is no such thing as a dumb question. Whatever you need to grow juicy tomatoes, luxurious petunias, or hardy geraniums, we will do the best we can to give you the advice you need to get the most out of your gardening.


The mobile phone is in many ways more valuable in Africa than it is in developed countries, simply because of its power in transforming peoples’ everyday lives. Development in Africa has traditionally been hampered by a lack of infrastructure (basic roads, transport links etc), and ineffective communications. The humble mobile phone is a way of circumventing these barriers. It is proving hugely effective as a means of a mass-communication tool, and in no area is this more prevalent than in agriculture, traditionally one of the most important areas in African life.
Mobile phones are giving farmers access to vital information about the quality and availability of crops before they travel long distances to buy them, saving people time and money. Mobile SMS alerts can also warn farmers of outbreaks of animal diseases, floods and other natural disasters – allowing farmers extra time to prepare for the event. M-Farm is another SMS based system service that gives farmers access to market prices.
Kenya’s iCow has had a huge uptake, and allows farmers to register livestock through their mobile phone and receive information on livestock gestation periods and health advice.
Agriculture is vital to the continent’s future, but when you consider that 80% of arable land is not being used, there is clearly a long way to go. Mobile phones are a way in which farmers can improve their productivity, and protect their land and livestock. In addition, technology contributes around 7% to the continent’s GDP, which is above the Global Index, so there are plenty of opportunities for the Technology and Agricultural industries to work together in improving farmers’ lives.


Funny how thoughts will just pop into our minds as we stand around doing the mundane sorts of things that occupy most of our daily lives.
During the summer Richard finished the retaining wall to keep runoff from the lawn from rushing across the driveway, and steps to replace the gash in the bank that was eroding more and more.
He bought topsoil and back filled against the retaining wall and I decided to plant some tomatoes that he had bought but forgot to plant.
The tomatoes were very happy there but got a late start. The bucket is not sloppy yard keeping, the water from our washing machine travels down a Rube Goldberg systems of gutters and pipes into the bucket, which has holes in the bottom, to water them.
Right now the plants are just beautiful, lush and green, and are continuing to set tomatoes, but a hard frost is likely within the next week or so -- we almost always have had a hard frost by Oct 31 -- and so these tomatoes do not have long to live.
I picked a few of the biggest green ones to make fried green tomatoes, and with the others that are too small to slice, dip in cornmeal, and fry in a little oil in a hot cast iron skillet, I will probably make "Penne with Green Tomato Sauce" which is in the September 1996 issue of Gourmet Magazine. That issue of the magazine had a section of recipes for using green tomatoes. Every time I think about throwing away this stack of old magazines, I hesitate because there might be other gems in there.
Or I could try "Cold Turkish Green Tomato Soup", or "Green Tomato and Walnut Relish," or "Gingered Green Tomato and Apple Chutney." Or I could just leave the green ones to sit on newspapers in the fruit cellar to ripen. Or maybe Richard will pull up plants and leave them hanging upside down in the fruit cellar for the tomatoes to continue to ripen.
But in the meantime, as I was tending the slices of cornmeal-covered tomatoes sizzling away in the very hot big black cast iron skillet, I suddenly remembered one of my favorite scenes from the Fannie Flagg novel.
The scene where the seemingly frail old woman, who has been cooking for years with a hefty cast iron skillet, picks it up and whacks the bad guy in the head…
I too have been cooking with a heavy cast iron skillet for many years; fortunately, I don’t feel the need to whack anybody here in the head with it.


We are fortunate to have hops yards just seven miles down the road from the brewery.
Living so close to our primary ingredients has helped us form strong relationships with the growers to source the finest hops varieties to brew our award winning beers for you to enjoy.
Over 80% of the hops used are grown in the nearby Teme Valley. Geoff Thompson of Little Lambswick Farm, Eardiston, some seven miles from the brewery, delivers requirements direct from his kiln to ensure that the required bitterness and keeping quality of each brew is covered. Today, The Little Lambswick Partnership accounts for about a tenth of the production from the Tenbury Wells area. Traditionally in excess of 800 hectares were grown in this important hop producing area. Now however, what with more efficient hop use in the brewing process, better growing techniques all be it with the challenges of disease pressures, only around 120 hectares are grown in the Teme Valley and no more than 1000 hectares nationally. Most of the current hopyards are of high wire-work type while some recent plantings use the dwarf system. All in all a 85% area reduction over the past seventy years or so means a niche cropping enterprise. At Hobsons we use the British varieties of Challenger, Progress, Fuggles and Goldings.
Hobsons has signed up to an initiatives called Hopshires which is championing the regions hops, its growers and beers. Hopshires was set up by the counties hop growers and brewers to promote the region's hop-growing prowess and the vital role it plays in the future of British brewing has received backing to continue for a second year. The 'Hopshires' project is a collaboration between the hop growers and brewers of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire to celebrate our hops and the beers made with them. Visit the website for more information.


The transitional climate of North Carolina is best suited to grow: tall fescue, Bentgrass, kentucky bluegrass, zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St. Augustinegrass sods. The information provided below is intended to help understand the agronomic choices available and how best to select the right choice for your lawn's needs.
Whether you're interested in learning how to reduce irrigation, when and how to properly fertilize, or even what height to mow your lawn, it all starts with what type of grass you have. That's why the NCSU Turf CENTERE has created the online program TurfSelect to help homeowners do just that-find the right turfgrass for their needs. The key to selecting the right grass type for your needs begins with a few simple questions.
What are the intended uses?
- Is this a utility (road side/erosion control, etc.) - or
- Is this grass a high or low profile home lawn - or
- a high or low profile athletic field -or
- is this a golf course?
Answers to these questions will help define the types of grass suitable to your application.
Providing information regarding shade level (shady or not shady), and your geographic location will trim the list of grass types down further. After these three easy questions, you will have a list of grasses left for your consideration. From this list, your decision can be based on your aesthetic, economic, or management preferences. See how easy TurfSelect can make answering these questions and explaining your grass choices can be: www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/turfselect/. TurfSelect also offers a year-round calendar look at grasses. This helpful feature allows users a visual guide to what your grass selection will look like throughout the year.
Once you have decided upon a grass type, there is then the selection of cultivated varieties (or cultivars) to consider. Cultivars are cultivated plant varieties that are purposefully propagated for commercial plant production. Both asexual (cuttings or vegetative propagation) and sexual (seeded) reproductive propagation methods are cultivar propagation practices.
Plant type cultivar names are regulated under the guidance of the International Code of Nomenclature for Cultivated Plants or (ICNCP). In essence, a cultivar (or cultivated variety) is in fact a trade designation or legal name created primarily for commercial purposes. The cultivar name is a legal designation and serves in part to protect the plant breeders rights-and ultimately the buyers expectations of performance and plant characteristics. Cultivar selection allow growers to rely on years of research and classification of growing expectations as is found in studies such as the NTEP (National Turfgrass Evaluation Program) study program.
NOTE: The term "Varieties" comes from the botanical naming convention you may have learned in 10th grade biology class (Family -> Genus -> Species -> Variety). A "Cultivar" is a cultivated variety specifically grown for purposes such as commercial sale.
If you buy a bag of seed, or a roll of sod it is likely going to contain a specific grass type (say Tall Fescue), and contain a cultivar (or blend of cultivars) specifically selected by the grower (or manufacturer). This grower will have selected the cultivar for reasons or plant characteristics such as, color, resilience, commercial popularity, reputation, cost, texture, leaf shape or size....and the list goes on. Examples of just a few Tall Fescue Cultivars include: "Rebel IV", "Silverstar", "Firebird", and "WolfPack". Notice the clever names? This legal naming convention doubles as a marketing tool.
The North Carolina State University Turfgrass Program works in partnership with the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) to conduct unbiased reviews of North Carolina's regional turfgrass cultivars. This arduous process consists of multi-year studies reviewing cultivar performance under the same maintenance regime AND while in the same location. Located side by side, cultivar plots are mowed at the same height, watered at the same depth, and fertilized at the same rates and times. Often, not released on the market yet, these research turf cultivars are given numbers at this stage of development in expectation of a commercial release. The number system allows researchers a tracking mechanism specific to that plant cultivar, but the trade-mark naming process often is saved for PROVEN performers. Researchers record growth performance characteristics and rate these 12' by 12' cultivar plots to better define variety performance expectations. These results are assembled and recommended cultivars are published annually: http://www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/NTEP/Default.aspx#AR000904
Once the average lawn enthusiast begins their quest for a healthy happy lawn it becomes quickly apparent that there is a lot of information, products, and services out there to choose from. Where you find the grass you've selected is often the FIRST critical step. The average North Carolina home owner spent over $838 for all lawn and landscape services in 2005*. In this economy, it is important for homeowners to know where to turn to help find the best information, reputable growers, and turf care professionals-and of course-where to find the grass type they are looking for!
As part of North Carolina's $8 Billion dollar GREEN industry, turfgrass plays an important role to its over 150,000 employees and the local economy. Spray painted logos of the NC SPA (North Carolina Sod Producers) , TCNC (the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina), and of course NC State University's Block S, line the hillside located on the Northern slope of the State Fairground's Exposition building. This symbolic display of togetherness does in fact have its "roots" in reality. These organizations work together and individually to help promote North Carolina turfgrass education and outreach. They are a primary resource for turfgrass professionals and serve as an excellent starting point for homeowners looking to find information regarding grass sales, installation, certified lawn care professionals, sod, and more. The types of questions you have will help determine which organization you contact for more information.
It is important to the Certified Turfgrass Professionals to maintain North Carolina's beauty and serve as stewards of the land. That is why they are required to maintain applicator's licensing and pass certification requirements above and beyond NC State laws. With a curriculum established and taught by North Carolina State University's Turfgrass Program professors and staff, short course attendees prepare for the Turfgrass Certification Exam. It is an extensive test administered by the Turfgrass Council of NC and just one of the requirements to become a certified turfgrass professional. When your lawn care professional offers you a quote, you SHOULD consider asking them, are they a NC Certified Turfgrass Professional? Do they have a pesticide applicators license? Do they belong to a professional organization?
Working together with professional turfgrass organizations like the TCNC, NCSPA, NCSTMA, NCCIA, and NC extension services, you can maximize your available resources and achieve a beautiful, environmentally friendly lawn.
*North Carolina's Green Industry 2005 Total Economic Impact Survey can be found: http://ncgreenindustrycouncil.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/green-industry-cover-2006-lowres.pdf


Using a lawn aerator is a must if you own a lawn with natural grass. That is because aeration is a must if you are looking to get healthy grass in the long run. That is why, in this article, we will discuss some of the best qualities of a good lawn aerator.
The best aerator brands in the world provide you with great aeration results along with versatile solutions for your lawn.
So, here are some of the best type of lawn aerator you should look for when buying one for your own lawn.
It Should Have Different Options Available
One of the most important features you should be looking for in your lawn aerator is that it should have different options available. For example, it should be able to trade your grass with both the coring and slicing methods.
For even better results, you should invest in an aerator which has a rotor to allow you to switch between both mods seamlessly. This allows you to use your own way of aerating your lawn.
It Should Be Sturdy Enough
Since you won’t be buying an aerator daily, you should look for one which is sturdy enough to last you for a long period of time. For this, you should look for an editor which has a welded frame. When you invest in an aerator which has a welded frame, it will surely last you a lifetime.
It Should Have a Big Base
In addition to looking for a sturdy appliance for your lawn, you should also make sure that your editor has a void base for more efficient work. This way, you will be making sure that your time is saved whenever you are working on your lawn.
These were some of the best qualities of a lawn aerator.


As long the bulb is not rotting it has a big chance to sprout. Germination time may vary . From days to weeks.
These like to spread and one plant will become a clump of plants in one growing season. They like semi-shade and have the deepest purple and maroon color if not given too much light. When they bloom they have little pale pink flowers. These are growing in an acidic soil, but they will do well in a neutral ph soil also. They are very easy to grow and require almost no care. In very hot and dry weather they enjoy watering. Perennial and deer resistant.
They can slow be grown in a container indoors.
Bloom Color: Purple
Soil Type: They will do well in a neutral ph soil.
Package Included : 10pcsx Flower Seeds
Ship from Hong Kong and it takes 14-20 days to arrive US customer.


You may have noticed my absence this week. I just got back from a workation in Canada. I will fill you in on my adventures next week. For the time being, feast on some randomness.
You can't beat fresh pasta. I picked up some pappardelle at one of the local farmers markets. The girls who run it are about my age, so I bonded with them immediately.
It's so pretty! And so fresh! They have so many other shapes and flavors, but I never get to the market in time. Damn, early birds getting the...pasta.
Breakfast discovery shortly after Easter, obviously. Schmearing avocado on toast - with a sprinkle of salt. I'm addicted.
My first harvest! This spring and summer, I'm attempting to grow my own veggies. I picked my first spring lettuce leaves right before I left. Not bad for a window garden crop. I just finished potting three different types of peppers, butternut squash, acorn squash, zucchini, cucumber, Roma tomatoes, and cherry tomatoes. Let's see if anything produces! See you on Monday, regular time, with the down low on my venture.


Over 81% of people in the country live in homes with lawns in front of them. And most people ensure that their yard is close to a perfect shade of green. However, maintaining a lush green yard is not as easy as it looks. Grass and vegetation fade, dry, and wither away with time. But with these six care tips, you can ensure that the lawn stays dense and vibrant all the time.
Test and improve soil
Lawn grass requires nutrients and ideal conditions to flourish. And the best way to ensure the soil is healthy is to test it. You can check pH and nutrient levels and change the nutrient profile with the appropriate type of fertilizer.
Your lawn needs to be mowed at least once a week, especially in the spring and summer. But we recommend cutting only about a third of the grass’ height in each mowing cycle. This way, you can ensure that the grass is well moisturized and gets sunlight.
Maintain the mower
A lawn mower comprises parts that undergo extreme ware and tear and require periodic maintenance. Sharpening the blades for an effective slicing of grass is one way to maintain the mower. Another maintenance tip for mowers is to clean the undercarriage to prevent rusting and ensure smooth functionality.
Control the growth of weeds
Weeds can disrupt the green aesthetic of any lawn. Apart from mowing and fertilizing, try deep watering the lawn. The process helps keep weeds from growing uncontrollably. Some weed types, like broadleaf weeds and crabgrass, might need to be controlled by professional landscaping services.
Reseed thing regions
You may notice patchy, bare regions on the lawn. Such spots need reseeding so that a healthy mat of grass can grow. Areas with overgrown weeds may also require reseeding. But before you initiate the process, eliminate the weeds with an effective herbicide.
Install a gutter guard system
Installing a leaf gutter guard system can help maintain a law, especially during the rains. The system diverts excess water to the gutters instead of letting it flow uncontrollably onto the lawn and other components around the home. And when you decide to install this system, we recommend shopping for a reliable gutter installation service like LeafGuard. Choosing LeafGuard for gutter installation will help improve lawn survival in the rains and keep our insects, pollen, and leaves.
Many gutter cleaning contractors also provide lawn services and roof replacements. Look for local roof replacement contractors near you to get faster and more personalized service. Once the backyard is set, you can enhance its look and comfort with Tommy Bahama’s backyard décor essentials. Check out Tommy Bahama’s clearance sale to get useful lawn-perfect products like comfortable chairs, anchored umbrellas, stylish pop-up canopies that can be folded into a backpack, and steel roof for grilling at great discounts.


Main Irrigation Functions and Methods.
The process through which water is applied to plants through controlled amounts is referred as irrigation. The water is availed at the plants in intervals since the irrigation process requires proper handling and wastage free process. In areas where rain water is not sufficient, irrigation is the common option of growing plants. Apart from growing agricultural products, irrigation is also majorly used in landscape maintenance.
Under agricultural purposes, irrigation is used to reduce growth of weed. Soil hardness and improper firmness can be greatly reduced through use of irrigation. Irrigation is mainly applied in the agricultural and crop production, but it is also used in livestock production for cooling livestock bodies. Irrigation helps reduce and control dust. Irrigation in mining can be done to soften the rocks and also reduce the dust in the mining areas. Irrigation is purposeful in carrying out sewage disposal. Irrigation can be seen as a way of drainage since it can be done in order to eradicate water from a certain surface.
Irrigation has been used in many countries throughout the world in different social cultures and hence different ways of usage. Many countries have had use of irrigation in maintaining crop production to ensure self-sustaining production of food. Irrigation has been greatly used in desert and semi-desert countries throughout a large period of time. The practice of irrigation have also developed throughout the ages due to the rise in irrigation technology. Through the efficient technology, countries are using their available resources that is the water bodies to supply water to the dry parts of the country.
The types of irrigation depends on the method of water supply to the crops. The consumption needs of the plants determines the amount of water to be supplied. Some plants vary in the consumption level including plants that entirely require water for growth like rice and sugarcane. Among the oldest type of irrigation is the surface irrigation. Water is supplied to the cultivated land through use of furrows. Maximum saturation of the soil makes this type of irrigation cause flooding. Countries with sufficient and large water bodies mainly use the surface irrigation.
Another famous mode of irrigation is the micro irrigation which can also be referred as the trickle irrigation. There is the use of pipes and water is distributed in low amounts at a certain pattern. Sprinklers and spraying equipment are used to carry out drip irrigation and is common to small plants that have low water consumption rate. Whilst offering equipment and irrigation suggestions and schemes, irrigation in Yakima can be termed as one of the successful irrigation entities and locations.


Hemp is a cannabis plant that is grown specifically for industrial use. It is a dioecian plant having separate male and female plants. The plant’s flowers are small and greenish-yellow in color, and its leaves are in palmate shape.
These are heliotropes plant means it requires a lot of sunlight and warmth. If it does not receive enough sun and warmth throughout the season, then biomass and seeds will be reduced.
What are the uses of the hemp plant?
However, it is the world’s oldest cultivated crop, but the modern cultivation hemp guides are not good enough what they used to be. This plant has a wide variety of purposes and benefits as well. The stem of the plant is rich in fiber, and seeds contain an abundance of protein. The leaves and flowers of the plant are used in making oil and smoking items.
Apart from this plant is also used for many other purposes. It includes rope, building material, clothing, furnishing fabric, paper, etc. It is also used to make feedstock and fuel. As there are so many uses and benefits of hemp, we are eager to know its cultivation process and how to begin the process? Let’s learn about hemp guides in detail-
Analyze the conditions
If you want to cultivate hemp, the first and foremost thing is to study and understand the scenario before beginning the process. It is not as simple as growing any other crop; to begin the process, you need to keep a few key points in mind.
However, the 2018 farm bill permits the legal production of hemp. It also declares hemp as an agricultural commodity and removes it from the controlled substances list. It permits the cultivation of hemp in all 50 states. This declaration sparked the interest of many hemp farmers.
Study the regulation
The farm bill in 2018 recently permits to begin the cultivation of hemp, but still, there are certain restrictions regarding hemp cultivation. You need to study the state and federal regulations before you begin the process. Before cultivation, you need to take approval from high authorities.
Section 10113 of the farm bill states that one must discuss a plan with the governor of the state and chief law enforcement officer, which will be submitted to the USDA secretary, and then you can get approval. If your state doesn’t create a regulatory program for this, you have to apply for a program license.
Capital and overhead cost
Capital expenditure means the expenditure you need to spend on purchasing land and the required equipment. It requires a considerable sum of money, but if you already have land, you require less capital investment. But you need to buy equipment if you are a first time farmer.
Overhead cost refers to the expenditure that occurred in daily operations of hemp cultivation. For this, you need to keep some balance as cash in hand.
Know the law
Knowing the law is the main requirement one needs to keep in mind if you decide to cultivate hemp. You need to be very careful regarding the laws; otherwise, your entire hemp production will be destroyed. As in the US, there is a limit to cultivate hemp that is 0.3%THC limit.
After knowing the law, taking approval from the higher authorities, and managing funds to invest capital, one can begin the process of cultivating hemp. But when it comes to growing, the process is easy and straightforward as like other crops.
As this is not a simple product like potato and cabbage, you need to follow the laws for getting approval. These are the steps you need to consider; they act as hemp guides and make the process easier for you.


Herb container gardens are one of my favorite ways to bring herbs easily into the kitchen when cooking. Whether you grow an herb garden on the patio or a couple pots on the windowsill, growing herbs is one of those essentials that every home cook should have. Containers can come in all shapes and sizes and are made from different materials like terra cotta, coconut husks, or even heavy duty plastic containers that come cool colors. You can grow most herbs in a container, as long as the container is the correct size and has drainage holes.
Having the right size pots for your herb container garden is key. If an herb plant has only a small pot to grow into, then it will not grow very large on top. The more room the roots have to grow, the more edible leaves and flowers the herb plant can produce. So for herb gardening, bigger is certainly better. If you want 3-4 herb plants in one container garden, start out with a pot that it is at least 12” wide and 4-6” in depth. If you want each plant to grow in its own pot then you can group the pots together to give the allusion of a larger garden. Putting pots up on stands and organizing them either by style of container or type of plant is a great way to group your herb garden together.
Drainage holes are essential to a good herb container garden and if the pot does not have any pre-drilled holes, you will need to drill at least 3 ¼” holes in the bottom. Layer an inch of pebbles in the bottom of the container and then fill ¾ full with potting soil that has bone meal and blood meal already mixed in. Bone meal is an organic fertilizer that helps the roots grow and develop a healthy root system and blood meal is a nutrient for the leaves and flowers of the herb plant. A key thing to remember about using organic fertilizers is that the plant will only uptake the nutrients it needs and you can’t burn the plant with too much fertilizer as you can when using synthetic fertilizers.
The most popular herbs to grow in a container herb garden are basil, thyme, oregano, marjoram, cilantro, parsley, rosemary, and lavender. When growing multiple plants in one container, put the tallest plant like basil or cilantro in the center and have the plants that like to vine out like thyme and rosemary on the outside edges of the pot.
Once the plants have been transplanted into the container and new potting soil is gently put around the roots, water the herbs in deeply until the water runs out the bottom drainage holes. Water the container garden daily the first week and if the temperature is above 90 degrees, water twice a day.
Once the soil settles down into the pot, add more of the mixed potting soil with the organic fertilizers to it – usually every 2 weeks.
Once the plants are 6” tall, snip off a few leaves to go in your recipe.
Having an herb container garden makes many cooks happy campers.
You might want to also try these gardening tips:


Florida’s waterways are in peril. Increasing death rates of bottle-nose dolphins and diminishing populations of marine life are observable evidence that we are polluting our waters. If we don’t take action, the waters will “die” and become algae soups, producing no marine animals and exuding toxic fumes, such as Red Tide, harmful to people. This already has happened in some of our lakes and streams and Tampa Bay came close.
A major source of this pollution is the nutrients found in fertilizer- phosphorus and nitrogen. We Floridians are known to over fertilize and use too much of these nutrients. The excess runs off and ends up in our surface waters. Both phosphorus and nitrogen produce algae, one pound of fertilizer can produce 500 pounds of the stuff. The algae cloud the water and restrict sunlight from reaching the sea grasses. Sea grass is the foundation of most marine life, the nursery and habitat for nearly every living creature. As the sea grass dies off from lack of sunlight, the wild life follows. Algae also consume dissolved oxygen, robbing the marine animals of this essential element. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) found, in 2008, that 1000 miles of rivers, 350,000 acres of lakes and 900 square miles of estuaries are nutrient polluted. Our waters are receiving at least 50% more nutrients than they can safely absorb.
The good news is that, by managing our use of fertilizer, we can reduce the nutrient pollution by as much as 30% and have healthier lawns in the bargain. Fact is, most Florida soil is naturally rich in phosphorus and adding more is harmful to lawn health as well as running off to pollute the water. Fertilizer containing water soluble nitrogen tends to run off at the first rainfall or irrigation and is wasted. Slow release nitrogen, however, will feed the grass at a rate that it can absorb while minimizing run off. Fertilize properly using the right fertilizer, zero phosphorus and slow release nitrogen, and doing it at the right time is about all it takes.
You might think this no cost measure to help save Florida’s multi-billion dollar marine industry is a no brainer. Think again. The Florida DEP published an ordinance to manage the use of fertilizer state wide. Good idea, but lobbying and pressure from fertilizer interests so weakened the ordinance that it is ineffective in reducing nutrient pollution.
Over 40 local Florida governments have enacted ordinances that are stronger than the state version. The reported results of these ordinances have been positive in every aspect and the stronger ordinance is being considered by many other locals. But hold on, bills are now working in both the Florida House and Senate to change the state fertilizer laws so that local governments cannot enact tougher fertilizer requirements and will even void some local ordinances already in effect. If passed, to accommodate special interests, these bad bills will allow nutrient pollution to continue to degrade our waters and could result in costs of billions of dollars to clean up our waters in addition to the loss of billions by our marine economy. Tell your state representatives to oppose these bills and tell your local government leaders to enact the stronger fertilizer ordinance. Please do it now.
David Botto, former chairman of Florida’s Marine Resources Council


Reflex Eco Group – Uganda News
by Stephen Otage (Local journalist)
Because of the dwindling global supply of wheat, food scientists at the National crop resources research institute in Namulonge are currently conducting trials on how cassava flour can be used to substitute wheat.
The development follows unconfirmed reports that some of the flour currently being sold as wheat on the market is a blend of high quality cassava flour and wheat flour. According to Dr. Bua Anton the head national cassava program at the National Crops Resources Research Institute, most of the wheat flour currently on the market has up to 90% cassava flour with only 10% of it wheat. He says one can confirm this by looking at the quality of products which were previously being made out of wheat. “If it is chapatti, you will find that it is thicker than the original chapatti and when one eats it, there is a lot of heart burn because of a lot of starch. You will realize that even the bread today has a longer shelf life especially if it is refrigerated,” he said.
In last month’s budget, government introduced a new tax on wheat. Asked what this meant to the ordinary Ugandan, Dr. Bua said it is meant to discourage wheat importation into the country and boost the cassava market but unfortunately, the national bureau of standards has only developed the flour standards but no policy regarding its use. He said that the flour trade is currently booming in Bukedea district where undisclosed biscuit producers are buying the flour.
He added that the Nigerian government has developed a national policy requiring all wheat dealers in the country to promote the use of cassava four as a substitute to wheat so as to promote its cassava industry in response to the dwindling global wheat supply. Cassava is one of Uganda’s main staple crops which is largely produced for domestic consumption According to Dr. Bua, Uganda has not yet tapped into the industrial use of cassava which among other uses is becoming an important crop in the pharmaceutical industry, breweries and the textiles sector.
- Cassava flour to substitute wheat (reflexecogroupafrica.wordpress.com)
- 10 Billion Naira for Cassava Growth Enhancement Scheme (ukoedet.wordpress.com)
- CASSAVA BREAD-which is BAMMY BREAD IN JAMAICA! BOUNCHES BACK! – THIS WILL SAVE AFRICAN AGRICULTURE! (yeyeolade.wordpress.com)
- Zambia Breweries gets cassava processing licence (times.co.zm)
- Jonathan approves N10b Cassava Bread Fund (newsheralddotme.wordpress.com)
- Nigeria saves N254bn on cassava substitution for bread baking (vanguardngr.com)
- Gowon, Obasanjo, Shonekan honour Akinkugbe at 80 in Ibadan (newsheralddotme.wordpress.com)
- Finally! (meganinuganda.wordpress.com)
- Jonathan approves N10b cassava bread fund (naijainvest.com)
- Quality Evaluation of Glucose Syrup from Sweet Cassava Hydrolyzed by Rice Malt Crude (queenscollegeaurangabad.wordpress.com)


Chef David Gross of Cook Hall demonstrates Spring Broccoli Salad with a Spicy Vinaigrette at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market. Broccoli. Fairyfire Classic Pepper Jelly, Spring Garlic, Spring onion, Ginger, Olive oil, Rice wine vinegar, and Honey join to make this tasty spring salad.
Fresh market ingredients from: McMullan Family Farm, Fairywood Thicket Farm, Indian Ridge Farm, Country Gardens Farm, Hidden Springs Farm
The Peachtree Road Farmers Market is the largest producer-only farmers market in the state. Producer-only means that everything at the Market has been grown, raised, or made by the seller, ensuring fair prices for both the vendors and the consumers.
The Peachtree Road Farmers Market takes place on Saturday mornings beginning April 5th, rain or shine, until December 13th.
Peachtree Road Farmers Market is a Wholesome Wave market and we accept and double SNAP (EBT/food stamp).
There are over 35 chef demonstrations scheduled for this season and 50 weekly vendors. Each week brings new produce, vendors, events and fun!
Peachtree Road Farmers Market is at Cathedral of St. Philip – 2744 Peachtree Road, NW – Atlanta, Georgia 30305


Get fresh by sampling free Hudson Valley Fresh dairy products and taste the difference.
Click below to see a list of our upcoming tasting eventsFind a Tasting
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Domino Farm has been a family dairy farm since 1955. Started by Gerald and Eleanor DeWitt with Holsteins, the farm began a slow but dramatic transformation when Eleanor bought a Jersey calf for their daughter Margaret as a 4-H project, reasoning that a small Jersey calf would be easier for a 9-year-old to handle. As is the case with so many 4-H projects, a small idea grew into a large one, and the farm now consists of 100% registered purebred Jerseys, all homebred for more than 30 years.
Margaret assumed the management of the farm when she graduated from Cornell. Her passion for Jerseys is based on her love of a breed that, as she says, has “personality, protein and productivity.” Domino Farm’s Jerseys are bred for productivity and type. As Margaret says, “Life’s too short to milk ugly cows.” For the past several years, the American Jersey Cattle Association has ranked Domino Farm in the top 10 herds, either of their size or of any size, in the nation for the amount of milk, fat, and protein.
Margaret’s niece, Katherine, shares her passion for the Jersey breed. Past Ulster County Dairy Princess and Ambassador, Katherine helps out at the farm and is currently a freshman at Cornell University, majoring in Animal Science. Katherine enjoys speaking with the public about agriculture and about the Jersey breed in particular, and has especially loved showing the farm’s Jerseys at fairs, including Ulster and Dutchess County Fairs and New York State Fair. Three of her cows have won National Junior Production Awards from the AJCA. “So many people at fairs ask where they can get our milk,” Katherine says. “It will be so nice now to have a locally available product we can tell people about.”
In spring, summer, and fall, cows are out on pasture when they are not being milked, weather permitting. Margaret’s brother, Meade, supplies the forages for the farm’s cows, growing hay and corn for silage on the farm’s 150 acres and nearby rented land. Katherine’s mother, Janet, manages the calves at the farm.
“Farming is a difficult way of life, ” Margaret says. “But milking cows that are productive and beautiful to look at makes it easier. Being part of a cooperative that makes a great product will also make it easier as well.”


The Turfco KisCutter Sod Cutter makes cutting sod faster and easier than ever. This gas-powered unit with a 5.5 HP Honda GX160 engine is the most maneuverable, easy-to-use sod cutter available. With it’s revolutionary 140-lb. lightweight design, it can cut up to 9000 sq. ft. per hour. That’s as fast and productive as a much heavier 300-lb. unit. The innovative 4-wheel design is ideal for a variety of sod cutting jobs, from sculpting lawns and flower beds, to trimming ball fields.
Weight/Wet: 12 in Model: 161 lb.
Width: 25 in.
Length: 53 in.
Height: 40 in.
Cutting Thickness: Adjustable up to 2.5 in.
Speed: Up to 135 ft/min


7 edition of Backyard Cash Crops found in the catalog.
by Homestead Design
Written in English
|The Physical Object|
|Number of Pages||231|
Many specialty crops can bring as much as $80, per acre, and are quite easy to grow. Pick your own hours Best of all, most specialty crops can be grown without a full-time commitment, which makes them ideal for anyone over If you have a few extra hours a week, then you can be a specialty crop . My wife and I banked $4, our first 12 weeks with just 2 of the 7 niche small space cash crops. I show and tell you all about these 2 plus 7 more money makers in my new “Big $$$ Small Gardening” book. Get your copy of “Big $$$ Small Gardening” before anyone else in your area gets a chance by sending for it today.
Les Jardins de la Grelinette isn't designed to feed the world — it feeds just families a week during the summer months with a diversified mix of crops including beets, broccoli, salad greens. Starting a backyard bamboo nursery is a great way to turn your love of plants and gardening into cash. Bamboo is one of the best landscaping plants to grow, as the demand is strong and the prices of container grown plants is high. You’ll find bamboo nurseries ranging in size from tiny backyard nurseries to large operations covering several acres.
This post was most recently updated on May 4th, Growing garlic is super easy, and takes very little skill or input. Garlic is what is considered a cash crop for many g garlic is a low-effort way to make a little money on the side in your own backyard. Regardless of how big or small you plan to go with your herb business, one thing is for sure, the demand for herbs will never go away and that ensures success in any way you choose to approach this great little income producer. To learn more about the profitable backyard cash crop, visit:
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Backyard Cash Crops: The Sourcebook for Growing and Selling over High-Value Specialty Crops. [Wallin, Craig] on *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. Backyard Cash Crops: The Sourcebook for Growing and Selling over High-Value Specialty Crops/5(5).
Backyard Cash Crops book. Read reviews from world’s largest community for readers/5(6). Backyard cash crops: The sourcebook for growing and selling over high-value specialty crops Hardcover – January 1, by/5(5).
What are the best cash crops for a square foot backyard garden. On an investment of less than $, you can grow lavender, bonsai plants, gourmet mushrooms, garlic and specialty herbs. All have ready markets and are easy to grow. Open Library is an open, editable library catalog, building towards a web page for every book ever published.
Backyard Cash Crops by Craig Wallin,Homestead Design edition, in English - 2nd : Get this from a library. Backyard cash crops: the sourcebook for growing and selling over high-value specialty crops. [Craig Wallin]. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Backyard Cash Crops: The Sourcebook for Growing and Selling over High-Value Specialty Crops.
at Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users/5(5). This book is probably one o the best books on market gardening tht you can possibly get. In a age when the government is telling us in Europe that we must diversify.
This book provides a great insight into how to grow Niche crops for a particular market/5(2). Raising backyard crops is a fairly easy business to set up and operate.
You'll need at least 1/2 acre of ground. Preferably, 1 acre or more. Then you'll need to master the gardening techniques Backyard Cash Crops book growing top quality crops. After that, it's simply a matter of choosing how you want to market your crops for cash.
PROFIT POTENTIAL. There are six specific profitable cash crops that are ideal for backyard growers and they include the following: Salad greens – The top earning salad greens you can grow for profit include lettuce, arugula and Asian greens. The most profitable vegetables to grow here are turnips, bok choy, radishes, arugula, baby red Russian kale, and spinach as well as lettuce, mizuna, mustard, and tatsoi for greens mixes.
You could. - Backyard Cash Crops: The Sourcebook for Growing and Selling over High-Value Specialty Crops. Stay safe and healthy. Please practice hand-washing and social distancing, and check out our resources for adapting to these times. The Complete Guide: Mike's Backyard Growing System Manual ($ Value) This page PDF guide is a culmination of everything I've learned over the years about the backyard nursery business.
I've pulled the best pieces out of all of my written products that I've sold over the years and organized it all into one easy to read manual. The fact is that just about anyone with an average-sized yard can create a profitable garden. Depending on what the “crops” are, the financial yield can range from small change to a significant amount of money.
Much depends on the quality of the soil, the local climate, and the regional market for various herbs and “cash-crop” plants. It’s easy to turn your backyard or small acreage into cash. Our Grower’s Guides can show you how.
Each of these books covers all the basic information you need to get your new business up and running. You’ll find page after page of to-the-point directions on: How to grow and market each crop.
How to decide on the best plants for you. Top 10 FAQs About Growing Lavender For Profit October 8, by Craig Wallin Growing lavender for profit can be a great way to turn your love of herbs and gardening into an solid income from selling lavender plants and the value-added products you can make.
You could make over $60, a year growing gourmet mushrooms for profit. If you have a few hours a week to spare, and you have a growing area where you can control the temperature, humidity and light, then you can be a successful grower. Gourmet garlic is one of the easiest and most profitable cash crops for small growers, whether your growing area is a few raised beds in the backyard, or an acre or two.
It’s a perfect crop for organic growers, as garlic has few pests and diseases due to its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. But the nut and fruit tree grove is only part of Bill’s cash crop income.
On the remaining 2 acres, he grows tree seedlings and grafted trees in a backyard nursery, his most profitable plants. His trees are such high quality, they are sold out for two years in advance. Most Profitable Crops. Here are some of the most profitable ones to consider.
Lavender. Lavender can be used in just about everything, from food flavoring to medicines to fragrances. Its essential oil is among the most popular in the thriving wellness space as well.
Bamboo. Bamboo is mainly sold as a potted plant or landscaping feature. Top 60 Profitable Agriculture Business Ideas. Backyard Plant Nursery.
Sunflower is often called a commercial cash crop. Growing sunflower for oilseed with maintaining the right process is a viable business opportunity.
An entrepreneur passionate about agriculture and having owned land can start sunflower farming business. Turn Dirt Into Dollars With a Microfarm Decem by Craig Wallin In the last few decades, the number of traditional farms in the United States and Canada has dropped by half or more, but a new type of farm is growing faster than a prairie weed.
55 videos Play all Crop Videos Urban Farmer Curtis Stone THIS IS HOW MY FARM WORKS! - $K on a quarter acre - Duration: Urban Farmer Curtis Stone 1, views.


A garden or lawn space left to overgrow can quickly start to look quite undesirable. A small section of the garden with weed development can be left if wanting to bring in beneficial bugs, such as butterflies and bees. Here are numerous of the most effective steps to help with avoiding weed growth:
A thick layer of mulch is one of the most-effective alternatives for suppressing the development of garden weeds. Any mulch material can assist with slowing the germination of weeds, consisting of plastic, natural, gravel, garden shed,lawn clippings, wood chip, etc at www.shedsfirst.co.uk.
Provide the bare soil an excellent soaking with a high-quality contact herbicide prior to planting the fruits, vegetables, or flowers. This application of weed killer should assist to restrict the germination and growth of weeds later in the season. Prevent using this kind of treatment on the lawn because it will cause damage to the surrounding areas of grass. Many sprays require to be watered down, so carefully follow the standards noted on the label.
A safe and non-chemical choice to clear the existing weeds is to use an easy garden tool like a fork. A fork is much safer to use for weed control compared to a spade because it causes less damage to the root structure.
An easy tool like the daisy grubber is extremely efficient at pulling out the individual weeds. It is great at digging out fast growing seasonal weeds like the dandelions and thistles. The design of the daisy grubber suggests it triggers very little damage to the plant and grass locations.
A selective weed killer is the favored choice for eliminating the unattractive weeds on the yard without triggering damage to the areas of yard. A range of chemical-based solutions are offered at the garden. They have to be diluted or are ready to spray. Also, ensure to wear the proper protective attire when making use of the high stamina sprays.


The Hispanic Farmers' Conference develops workshops based on the most influential issues affecting farmers today. In addition, the workshops are conducted by experts in all major agricultural industries.
|Track||Session 1||Session 2||Session 3||Session 4|
|Urban Farming||The Million Dollar Question:
Small scale agriculture funding programs and options for the direct market producer.
|Organic Matter. Where to find it!? Resources available to Urban Producers to help build soil health. Tapping into resource recovery options, composting and soil amendment alternatives.||Diversifying Sales Outlets. CSA, Farm to Work, Farmstand. Understanding and identifying market diversification opportunities available; how to enter and succeed in these settings. (Veggie Compass?)||Value Added Opportunities:
Turning excess product into profit. A discussion of market alternatives and best practices.
|Ranching||Grass Finished Beef from A to Z:
An overview into the grass fed industry including market outlook, operational challenges, grazing decisions and animal selection.
|Improving Pasture Performance: Grazing management strategies and practices intended to build soil health, improve water holding capacity and increase carrying capacity.||Genetics and Herd Health:
Building your herd. Understanding the importance of sire selection and strategic heifer retention in cow-calf operations. Discussion of common livestock diseases with prevention and treatment applications.
|Marketing. What the Butcher Looks for:
Understanding and selecting carcass characteristics to improve consistency and quality in finished beef.
|Farming||Show Me The Money!
Real world experiences in the Ag funding world along with representatives from SSARE, NRCS and FSA.
|Minimizing Input Costs. Using Cover Crops to boost soil Health.
Cover crop uses and varieties for hot and humid areas. Discussion of uses, benefits, best practices and available resources.
|Successful Planning for New Food Safety Laws:
Preparing for FISMA food safety law implementation. What you need to know and do, for fresh fruit and vegetable producers.
|Variety Selection and Pest Management:
Crop variety selection research developments along with a look into Sugar Cane Aphid issues and pest management strategies.


Village elders in Africa played a crucial role in a global seed-collecting project that aims to bolster food security in a changing climate. Through cross-breeding common crops with their wild relatives, scientists plan to create strains that are better able to cope with higher temperatures and extreme weather.
The Crop Wild Relatives project, funded by the Norwegian government, announced its completion in December last year. Over the course of six years, it gathered 4,644 seed samples from 371 wild crop relatives in 24 countries on four continents. Many of these plants are threatened by deforestation and other pressures, and could soon be lost—along with their ability to improve their domesticated cousins.
“Increasingly, breeders are looking to crop wild relatives to find that genetic diversity, those sturdy traits that can help our food crops produce more with less water, less fertile land, less fertilisers and pesticides,” says Hannes Dempewolf, a senior scientist at the Germany-based Crop Trust, who led the initiative.
In Africa, the project targeted crops like millet, rice, eggplant, and sorghum. Researchers in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Ghana, and Sudan participated in the global effort. But they were greatly helped by local village elders in the often-remote collection areas, who led the researchers to the wild plants they sought.
Desterio Nyamongo, a crop scientist at the Nairobi-based Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization who participated in the project, says the information village elders held in their heads was often more accurate than the maps that his teams had brought on collecting trips. One team had to ask locals for help on the Kenyan coast, close to the border with Tanzania, when the maps they had brought failed them. The elders were able to find the plant without any difficulty, he says. “Overall, we learnt that the role of local knowledge cannot be underestimated.”
Elsewhere, local expertise informed the timing of expeditions, which had to coincide with the times when collectors would be most likely to encounter mature seeds. On occasion, that meant that the difference between collecting an elusive crop, or missing it, rested with a young shepherd and his knowledge of the local area.
The African seeds were split between local gene banks and partner banks, like the Millennium Seed Bank in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London, United Kingdom. The seeds and the data derived from them will be shared with scientists who want to use the information to create hardier commercial varieties.
Collectors also faced down significant risks to find the seeds. In Nigeria, first Boko Haram insurgencies, then severe floods hampered their efforts. Only in 2017—the penultimate year of the project—were scientists in the country able to collect seeds in all six of their target areas. In the end, the risk-taking was worth it: In Kenya, collectors found four wild eggplant relatives, none of which had previously been stored in any gene bank.
Nyamongo says the African plants will help plant scientists in Europe and America climate-proof commercial crop strains. “Climate prediction models predict that these regions will in future have near-tropical climatic conditions, [and] that [they] will need crops well adapted to higher temperatures,” he says.
But Dempewolf emphasises that the plants will also be useful for African scientists. He says the project was carried out in line with the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation’s international treaty on plant genetic resources. This treaty allows its more than 140 signatories to freely exchange genetic materials of important food crops.
Filippo Bassi, a Morocco-based plant breeder with the Lebanon-based International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas, who also participated in the project, said that incorporating “useful genes” from wild wheat had been the key to the success of his centre’s durum wheat programme over the past 30 years. “To me the only true shield we have to protect our crops is the use of wild traits, which have grown and prospered under climatic hammering for millennia.”
Image credit: CIAT/Flickr


Farmers Parliament is the voice of Latvian farming.
Farmers Parliament (ZSA) is a member organisation / industry association for farmers in Latvia.
The Union was begun by 134 farmers in 1999 to ensure that the comercial farmers of Latvia are represented in communication with the government. The organisation has grown ever since and has become the largest farmers’ organisation in Latvia and one of the most influential unions in the country, reaching nearly 900 members, who together produce more than half of Latvian total agriculture produce. Farmers Parliament negotiates with the government and national organisations and institutions on behalf of Latvian farmers, as well as represents Latvian farmers’ interests at European Union level being a member in European Farmers umbrella organisation COPA/COGECA.


Then, after my yard chores are done, I get to settle into the sewing room and create beautiful summer togs for your children. Thanks to Linda for purchasing a bunch of outfits for her neice--she'll be the best dressed child at the beach this summer! Thanks also to Rachael for purchasing the baseball outfits for her girls. If you are looking for something cute for the summer, please let me know. I am busily gearing up for the trunk show which is Sunday, May 16th from 2pm - 6pm. New items will be listed on etsy after the show! thanks, michelle
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
gardening & sewing!
With extra time at home right now, I have discovered that I actually enjoy gardening. I have put in a decent-sized vegetable garden that I hope will feed us this summer and maybe provide a little extra to put up. Lots and lots of tomatoes, some yellow squash, zucchini, bell peppers, cucumbers, and okra. The girls are excited to see the progress and very interested in the whole process. Everything is blooming and many plants have started to sprout their fruit already. I can't wait! and I cannot believe how quickly everything is growing! I weed in the morning and talk to the plants while I stake them, provide support to heavy branches, water, and pollinate the squash - the bees left when the azaleas stopped blooming :-( Oscar, our old cat friend surveys the crops with me each morning and pretends to stalk birds (he's too old to do much anymore).


Pickings can be slim in the late winter vege garden. But there are plenty of greens to be foraged, both in the wilderness and in the wilder corners of your own patch.
Growing food takes a lot of care and effort, right? Well, yes it does, but not always. Some of the most useful and productive plants in my garden can look after, water - and even plant - themselves.
I'm talking about self-seeding silver beet, parsley, lettuce, puha and other greens; but also their wilder cousins such as onion weed and chickweed (both of which are not just edible, they're actually tasty. )
Foraging of course comes with warnings. Firstly, always carefully identify what you are eating - some plants are toxic. For identification, I can recommend the book 'A Forager's Treasury' by Johanna Knox - expecially useful because it's written in New Zealand, about the plants available locally. It also includes great recipes.
Secondly, don't forage from places that may be polluted or sprayed. Though there is plenty of clean wilderness out there, there are also areas along roads or in parks where you can't be sure what sprays or pollutants may have been added. This is all the more reason to grow these plants in your own backyard (not to mention the convenience factor).
I'm not advocating a totally hands-off policy in the garden - for every useful weed, there are ten that are just a pain. But puha, for instance, can be gently encouraged by harvesting the growing tips, letting the stem re-sprout, rather than pulling up the whole plant. Later, once flowers appear, the plant turns bitter so stop harvesting and let it self-seed.
By encouraging plants that naturally do well, gardeners make life easier for themselves (something to harvest, with minimal input), as well as needing to add less compost and water.
Onion weed (Allium triquetrum): Identify this by the three-cornered leaf and strong onion smell. Grows in shade, usually in clayey soil. Bulbs, leaves and flowers are all edible: use as you would spring onions, though they are best cooked, eg. in soup, or use the flowers as garnishes.
Puha (Sonchus oleraceus): Great from now until late summer: it becomes more bitter as it flowers. The classic recipe is to add this to a pork bone boil-up, but it can be used in any soup or stew and is said to be highly nutritious, even medicinal. Bruise the leaves by rubbing together under cold water first.
Chickweed (Stellaria media): A delicate green that indicates light, slightly alkaline, fertile soil. Eat as a salad green or add to pesto, soups and stews. Chickweed is killed by frost and drought; when you see it growing, that indicates that conditions are also right for sowing peas.
By any other name: onion weed (Allium triquetrum) in Trompenborg Arboretum, Rotterdam.


Should MSAD #1 Keep The Harvest Break Recess Or Should They Eliminate It Altogether? [POLL]
A workshop is scheduled to be held in Presque Isle and hosted by the SAD #1 School Board. The workshop will entail hearing from the public as to whether or not they should keep the harvest break recess.
The County reported that the workshop is to be held on Monday, January 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Conference Room at Presque Isle High School.
The format is scheduled to hear from 5 people who are for keeping the traditional harvest recess break and to hear from 5 people who are for doing away with it altogether.
Each speaker will have 5 minutes to speak to the board.
Historically, generations of youngsters in the County found themselves working the potato fields in order to help local farmers bring in the harvest.
Many local farmers are finding that fewer and fewer youngsters are signing up to help them and on top of that, there aren't as many potato farmers as there were many moons ago.
Some families take a vacation during the potato harvest, but years ago that was not the case. When it was harvest time; it was harvest time.
However, this is not the first time that County schools have re-evaluated whether or not they should take harvest recess.
In 2012, the Greater Houlton and Hodgdon School Districts did away with their harvest recess, but still allow students time off if they make up missed school work.
We'd like to know what you think.
Please take our quick poll below and let us know if you think SAD #1 should continue to keep the harvest recess, or if you think it's time to eliminate it altogether.


- Henrik Haller, Department of Ecotechnology and Sustainable Building Engineering, Mid Sweden University, Sweden,
- Elisabeth Simelton, CIFOR-ICRAF, Vietnam.
- Madelene Ostwald, Department of Technology Management and Economics/Environmental Systems Analysis, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg Centre for Sustainable Development, Sweden.
- Stephen M. Mureithi, Department of Land Resource Management and Agricultural Technology, University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Goals and Objectives of the Track
Track 5f addresses the topics of food security and agriculture from an interdisciplinary and systemic perspective at all spatial levels from local to global. It aims to bring light on environmental as well as nutritional, agricultural, demographic, socio-economic, political, technological and institutional aspects of food security. The goal of this track is to highlight practices and actions that increase Earth’s ability to sustainably feed the global population by 2050. The current global food production is the largest pressure caused by humans on Earth, threatening not only local ecosystems but also the stability of the Earth system itself. It is also failing to provide sufficient food to more than 820 million people. An even greater fraction of the population is consuming an unhealthy diet that contributes to premature death. Agricultural production has thus reached a point where a radical transformation is necessary if food quality, food security and food sovereignty are to serve the needs of humanity. At the same time, food systems may be a strong lever to optimize human and environmental health and promote sustainable development on a local or global level.
Agricultural production is the cornerstone of rural economies and in most developing economies; agriculture accounts for a substantial proportion of foreign exchange earnings and employs much of the active labour force. Even though there are no silver bullets or systems that by default supply a win-win situation, well-designed and well-managed agro-ecosystems may not only promote rural incomes and enhance rural welfare but also provide some of the ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, erosion control, water regulation and preservation of biodiversity. In order to feed an increasing population on existing agricultural land within a safe and just operating space (defined by the planetary boundaries), agricultural production needs a transition based on sustainable intensification and driven by sustainability and system innovation.
The overarching objective of track 5f is to assess opportunities and challenges for restructuring agricultural production towards sustainability. Sustainable agriculture should put an end to poverty and hunger, safeguard food security (SDG 1 and 2) without crossing the biophysical thresholds of the planetary boundaries or obstructing an equitable social foundation.
Accordingly, we invite submissions from various disciplines, in the context of (but not limited to) agro-ecological concerns such as:
- Studies on the links, hurdles and opportunities between the ecological common goods’ goals of climate, water and land (SDG 13, 14, 15) and the goals for improving human well-being (poverty hunger, health education, gender, sanitation – SDG 1-6)
- Trade-off assessments of or methods around the phenomenon of increased productivity vs. secured or enhanced ecosystem functions
- Paths from here towards the production and distribution systems that generate enhanced food security. What are the main levers and challenges? What about practical experiences? What are the trade-offs? What are some challenges when scaling up sustainable small-scale practices?
- Examples of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) and innovative designs of multifunctional land uses that support, provide and restore ecosystem functions – and how these system’s products become marketable? Studies on landscape and catchment scale actions are encouraged.
- Examination of actions and ambitions of stakeholders in disrupting existing unsustainable systems of food growing and provisioning, and endeavouring to secure more just and sustainable practices of production, access and supply
Length and content of the proposed abstract to the track
Each proposed abstract (in connection to an area pointed out above) of between 300 and 500 words (including all aspects),
- shall be best organized (without headlines) along usual structures (e.g. intro/method/findings or results/ discussion/conclusions)
- does not need to, but can include references
- shall provide in a final section
a. to which SDG(s) and SDG-target(s) their proposed abstract especially relate to (e.g. “SDG+Target: 14.1.”).
b. a brief indication how the proposed contribution relates to the topic of the Conference (“ACCELERATING PROGRESS TOWARDS SDG’s IN TIMES OF CRISIS”).
Abstracts which do not outline points 3.a.) AND 3.b.) might not be given special consideration in the selection for potential publications and might be considered less relevant in the Review.
Potential publication channels
With regard to potential publications, depending on the number and quality of contributions the following publication opportunities have already been inquired:
- Special Issue in Ambio – A Journal of the Human Environment Springer, Impact factor: 4.778 (2019) https://www.springer.com/journal/13280?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2cHm3uOz7QIVgdOyCh3GKQZ0EAAYASAAEgJHmfD_BwE
- Special Issue in Land, Livelihoods and Food Security in Frontiers in Sustainable food systems, https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics?domain=all&journal=1335
- Edited Book with the ISDRS partner Taylor & Francis/Routledge (http://isdrs.org/routledge/)
Please submit your abstract by visiting the abstract submission system (you will be required to setup an account first) at
Extended deadline for abstracts: 15 February 2021
PLEASE ALSO CONSIDER A PARTICIPATION IN OUR PHD-WORKSHOP! https://2021.isdrsconferences.org/phd-workshop/


Campanula, commonly known as Bellflower, is a diverse and charming perennial that adds beauty to gardens with its bell-shaped flowers. Follow this planting guide to ensure successful cultivation and a bounty of lovely blooms.
Selecting the Planting Site
Sunlight Requirements: Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Campanula generally thrives in well-lit areas but appreciates some protection from intense afternoon sun.
Soil Conditions: Plant in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Campanula is adaptable but prefers fertile, loamy soil.
Optimal Timing: Plant Campanula in the spring or early Autumn. These seasons provide moderate temperatures and allow the plants to establish before extreme weather conditions.
Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of 12 inches, incorporating organic matter such as compost for improved fertility.
Spacing: Plant Campanula according to the specific variety, but generally, space plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation.
Plant Depth: Set the plants at the same depth they were in the nursery containers. Water thoroughly after planting.
Establishment Period: Water regularly during the first growing season to aid in establishing strong root systems.
Consistent Moisture: Campanula appreciates consistent moisture. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
Organic Mulch: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the soil.
Balanced Fertiliser: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring before the growing season begins. Follow package instructions for application rates.
Staking: Taller varieties may benefit from staking to prevent flopping. Install stakes early in the growing season to provide support.
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Trim back the entire plant after the first flush of blooms to encourage a second round.
Pest and Disease Management
Aphid Control: Monitor for aphids, particularly on new growth. Use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to control infestations.
Good Air Circulation: Ensure proper spacing between plants to promote good air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Cold Hardy: Campanula is generally cold-hardy. Mulch lightly in late Autumn to provide some protection in harsh winter climates.
Avoid Waterlogging: Ensure the soil drains well during winter to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Periodic Division: Every 3-4 years, consider dividing mature Campanula clumps to rejuvenate the plants. This is best done in early spring.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly monitor the overall health of your Campanula. Adjust care practices based on specific growing conditions and be prepared to address any adverse effects.
By following this guide, you’ll establish a flourishing Campanula, filled with the delightful charm of bell-shaped flowers. Adapt care practices based on your specific growing conditions and enjoy the enduring beauty that Campanula brings to your landscape.


Tophay Agri-Industries Inc. is a growth-oriented agri-business started in the year 2012, and it was initially established in Western Canada with the purpose to self-produce, source from and partnership with local farmers, and export trade the finest Agri-commodities worldwide. In the past years, Tophay has been a huge support to local farmers in BC, Alberta, Idaho, Washington in Canada, and the US, and it has been establishing long-term partnerships with them to enhance traditional farming with an industrialized management system and business expansion globally.
From the facility and market perspectives, Tophay is comprised of a compression plant facility area of 80 acres with the capacity to produce 25,000 metric tonnes of hay per annum in Vanderhoof, BC, and self-operating its own farm over 13,000 acres. Tophay also partnered with Driscoll family, and produce 100,000 metric tonnes of hay per annum in Pocatello, Idaho. Tophay generally produces and source three kinds of hay: Alfalfa, Oat Hay, and Timothy Hay, with the help of its experienced team who are experts in farming, compressing, trading and distribution, finance, shipping, and operations. Tophay clients are from Asia, mainly mainland China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
Tophay Agri-Industries Inc.
Xiamen Tophay Import and Export Co., Ltd.
Specializes in cultivation,harvest,storage, and the handling of hay forage. It has an 80-acre compressing plant, which is designed for the productivity of 100,000 metric tons annually.
With a location around 43 degrees North Latitude and at the 1,700m of the high-altitude desert, we form joint ventures with the Driscoll Group in Pocatello Idaho, which has rich cultivation experience of 60+ years.We own 30,000 acres of farmland and a 27-acre compressing plant, designed for the productivity of 100,000 metric tons annually.
Marketing Centre in China. Supplies forage and grains from the US and Canada. Tophay group dedicated to offer the best services from growers and suppliers in North America to the direct end-users.X
Exceed Agro Japan Co., Ltd.
Subordinate company in Japan. We cultivate, store, process, sell, export and import the agricultural products such as hay. And we also invest venture business and supply management consulting.


Gardening to Give: Frederic’s Farm
The St. Vincent de Paul Conference at St. Ann’s in Marietta recently established a “Frederic’s Farm” garden to supplement their SVdP Food Pantry that has been in operation for over 40 years. The garden is an innovative way to bring conference members together on a purpose to help their clients and help raise awareness to their parish of the good works with their parishioners.
We have 4 raised planters containing a total of 27 plants. We are growing squash – zucchini and summer, peppers – jalapeno (many of our families like spicy) and a variety of sweet bell, tomatoes – different varieties of cherry and slicer, and cucumbers – pickling, Japanese and burpless. We will also be adding some pots of herbs this week,” said Karen Miller who is the creator of Frederic’s Farm and who is also in charge of the food pantry.
The opening of the garden was a true team effort by Conference members, Betsy Van Etten (Conference President), Kathy Gist, Barbara McLoughlin, and Karen Miller. “Our vision is to have fresh vegetables and herbs year-round to share with the families that visit our Food Pantry. We also plan to add fruit to the garden in a coming season,” Karen said.
The Fresh produce at the garden will provide vitamins and minerals that are important for everyone. For families with children, good nutrition is essential and plays an important role in their development and ability to learn. The garden is helping families be able to offer a healthy diet that will impact both their children’s academic achievement and overall life.
Access to healthy (especially fresh) food can be a challenge to families with limited resources. Often the lack of good nutrition over time can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Being able to offer fresh produce will help in the management and prevention of these diseases.” said Karen.
I have been blessed to serve in our Pantry for a number of years. During this time, I have gotten to know many of the families personally and experienced different health crisis with them. The inspiration for Frederic’s Farm was the hope to offer healthy and fresh choices that could help someone feel better, manage a health condition or provide their children with a healthy start. Our hope is for the garden to be a community effort and to share the joy in feeding families in need.
How Can You Help?
Outreach ministry, Food Well Alliance was able to give the Conference a lot of good advice on starting the garden. Here are some great ways that you can help as well:
There are many ways that you can get involved at the garden. The Conference will need people to help with the maintenance of the garden including planting, watering, weeding and of course picking all of the vegetables when they are ready! They are also asking people to send recipes to share with clients and their families, using items that are being grown and staples that they always have at the Pantry.
Another way that you can help and also donate is to plant a row or a pot at home to share with the Pantry. The Pantry also has a team of volunteers ready to pick up your vegetables if you are not able to get to the Pantry to drop off.
Garden Contact Information:
(770)552-6400 ex. 6105


We have some cool and fascinating facts about peppers to tell you about.
You wouldn’t believe the hottest chili pepper in the world is so hot it could kill you.
Here’s a picture of the hottest peppers.
The “weapons-grade” Dragon’s Breath chili pepper is so hot, it’s downright deadly. If you ate one, it could potentially cause a type of anaphylactic shock, burning the airways and closing them up.
We got these facts are from https://bestlifeonline.com/world-facts/
Green, yellow, and red bell peppers are not actually the same vegetable
These vegetables are not always the same plant. Though some green pepper. are unripe red
peppers, green, yellow, orange, and red peppers are all unique plants. with their own seeds.
Bell peppers are usually sold green, but they can also be red, purple and yellow.
Facts from this site Vegetables: Fun Facts
Peppers are actually fruits because they are produced from a flowering plant and contain seeds-most people think of them as vegetables. Red bell peppers are sweeter than green ones. because bell peppers sweeten as they ripen.
Fact from www.natureandmore.com


My Most Successful Homemade Hydroponic System
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Posted: Wednesday, August 04, 2010
by Jason Willkomm
My most successful homemade hydroponic system is the result of many years of trial and error. The system design eliminates most of the problems I have had with different homemade systems over the years. It is also affordable to build, easy to maintain, and it produces excellent results. The basic plans are for a 4' x 8' system, but the design is very flexible and can be customized to make larger or smaller systems.
Holes need to be manufactured in the system for the plants. Each pipe can hold 9 plants when the holes are spaced 8" apart. Carefully mark out the plant holes on the top of each pipe, then drill them out using a 2 3/4" hole saw. After drilling the holes, it is important to clean all of the little PVC shavings from the hydroponic system. This debris tends to clog the water pump and burn it out if it is not cleaned out well.
There are still two open ends in the system. On the first pipe, an elbow pointing down can be placed (but not glued). On the fourth pipe, an elbow pointing straight up can be glued. This will be where the nutrient solution enters the homemade hydroponic system, and the other elbow will be where it returns to the nutrient reservoir. For the nutrient reservoir, you can use a 32 liter plastic storage tote or similar container.
Netted pots can be purchased, or can be manufactured out of cheap (disposable) 16 ounce plastic "party" cups by carefully burning many small holes in the bottom and sides of each cup. The holes only need to come about half way up each cup. If you decide to manufacture your own netted pots, be sure to do this in a well ventilated area. Place one netted pot into each plant hole.
A 4" half circle piece of plastic, cut from a milk jug or similar material, is wedged in the PVC pipe just before the point where the nutrient solution returns to the reservoir. This little piece of plastic is responsible for maintaining the nutrient solution levels inside the PVC pipes of the homemade hydroponic system....which should be as high as you can keep it without causing any leaks.
The whole system is placed on two sawhorses for operation. A fish aquarium water pump rated from 200-400 GPH is used to pump nutrient solution into one end of the system, and the nutrient solution is allowed to flow back into the nutrient reservoir (which should be placed beneath the end of the hydroponic system). One or two fish aquarium air bubblers should be placed in the reservoir to keep the nutrient solution oxygenated, and expanded clay pellets are used in each netted pot to hold clones/seedlings in place. Simply add a fan, a grow light, plug in your plants, and enjoy your new homemade hydroponic system!
For a more detailed version of this article with pictures, visit Jason's Indoor Guide .
This Article has been viewed 632 times. (Not updated in real-time.)Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
You've explained how to put this system together very well.


Although the vines, cherries, and field crops are looking for rain, the weatherman is predicting comfortable days with lots of sun for the weekend and into next week.Just what our visitors want to hear. Kimmy – barely visible in the rear of the picture – is weeding the vegetable garden and those delicious lettuces are waiting to be picked for this week’s CSA and our stand at the TC farmers market on Saturday.
The town of Leland puts on its fireworks show July 3rd so if youâre visiting, Lelandâs Lake Michigan beach is the place to be at duskâ¦which doesnât even begin to arrive before at this time of year.Both Glen Arbor and Leland host hometown parades on the 4th in Glen Arbor at 11:30 and in Leland at , where folks start lining up for the best spots on the five-block route by 2:30, and M-22 is closed to traffic for the duration of the parade.Northport has fireworks on the 4th with best viewing at the MarinaPark.
If you havenât made your holiday plans as yet, our Inn still has some availability next week, but is full beginning on July 5th and through the upcoming weekend.Call us, weâd love to pamper you!231.944.1251 will connect you to Jill, Kelly, or Kari.
John and Anne will be making cheese on the 4th â an every other day event for them at Leelanau Cheese Co. â so they and their Milky Way wonât be parading this year.Come to the Tasting Room around to watch them as they pull the curds to make their award-winning Raclette.
The Tasting Room is getting a new look with new shelving replacing some of our rolling metal racks.Chris has been doing his best to get them ready and stocked for this weekend.He wondered just why they hadnât been polyurethane coated before they were put together.That would have made his job much easier.
Traverse Cityâs National Cherry Festival begins on July 7th this year with plenty of reasons to celebrate our local bounty.Our spring has been warm, and our sweet cherries are ready for the picking, so this yearâs Festival will feature local cherries â something that doesnât always happen.
Work is progressing here at the Farm on the conversion of a stables barn into our new farmers market.Weâre hoping to open it by mid-July.Weâll have produce grown on our farm as well as from other local farmers.We plan to carry only Michigan products and are busy sourcing Michiganâs best for your delight.
Thatâs it for this week.Come see us â Up on the Farm.


Our partnership with Farmers Harvest has allowed us the opportunity to work with some of America’s Finest, the farmers and growers who provide food for our tables. We work together to fulfill the unique requirements associated with their processing and handling operations. We have manufactured all types of conveyors, sorting tables, wash tables, sizers, etc. for their processing lines. We also build bulk haul bodies for their trucks.
- Equipment Design and Manufacturing
- Sweet Potato, White Potato, Apple, and Onion Processing Equipment
- Conveyors, Sorting Tables, Wash Tables, Sizers, etc.
- Bulk Transport Truck Bodies


Team Moon Gazer are thrilled to have brewed a special ale celebrating the 100th anniversary of NIAB – The National Institute of Agricultural Botany which was founded in 1919.
It is the mission of NIAB to provide independent science-based research and information to support, develop and promote agriculture and horticulture.
As a major international centre for plant science, crop evaluation and agronomy, NIAB still carries out the statutory crop inspection and seed testing for all cereal varieties, including barley, making sure varieties are true to type and healthy.
Of particular interest to us is the involvement that the organisation has had with our favourite barley – Maris Otter. Indeed, in 2004 it was NIAB who took on the task of ‘cleaning up’ the Maris Otter for our good mates at seed merchants H Banham Ltd.
So, when asked to create a beer to celebrate their centenary we were also keen to showcase Maris Otter and NIAB’s involvement in it.
It will come as no surprise therefore to learn that the beer is made predominantly of Maris Otter pale ale to give it that signature biscuit, malt notes – with just a touch of Crystal 400 and Chocolate malt added to create a beer of a rich amber colour.
As for the hops we wanted to create a beer using a home grown hop as we are celebrating a British institution.
We were also looking for something which was new and exciting as that would add to the concept of the importance of crop development.
Chatting to our hop merchants Charles Faram they recommended the Mystic hop variety. This new variety is the daughter of the very popular Jester hop, and will give the beer a rich fruitiness with blackcurrant, citrus and passionfruit characteristics.
Although big on flavour the hops will balance nicely and lead to a good traditional bitter – a fitting tribute to the work of such a great institution.
It’s a limited-edition brew and one we are very pleased to have been involved in.
Do please check out the work that they do: https://www.niab.com/


A VERY BUSY DAY INDEED!
This weekend was a busy one. My husband and I ventured out to the one of the many areas that features a Farmer's Market. We returned with a bushel of peaches, two dozen sweet corn and a very large bag of green beans. After preparing the beans and corn, they were promptly put in the freezer. Then I started to tackle the peaches. My first time canning peaches...I think it's easier to go to the store and buy a jar or two, but then again it would not be nearly the fun.
Well, I keep telling myself it was fun? The peaches will be used for the winter, when nothing will satisfy as a warm peach cobbler.
This is the partially filled box of peaches, I had already prepared half when I took the picture. They look yummy don't they?
The pre-canning stage........mmmmm, what fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Finally, the finished product. I think these will make lovely peach cobblers this winter!
Once the peaches were complete, I tackled the zucchini from our garden.
From this......to this......
Okay, I think I've worked in the kitchen long enough. In addition to the canning, I baked two loaves of banana bread from some very over ripe bananas. Monday brought more canning of the zucchini....zucchini is another story. Our garden is over run by zucchini.
Our very small garden, which produces sooooooo much!!!!! Gotta love it!!!!!!!!!
There is certainly much more zucchini to can or bake with, but for today I am only working on
creative things in my room. I need a break from the garden and the kitchen!
Tomorrow, more zucchini cannning and perhaps a loaf or two of zucchini bread!


“This course design has been a highlight of my career since its location, while strikingly obvious in hindsight, did not jump out at me after the first of several site visits and tours of the 12,000 acre estate. But once I strode over the plateau, with views which reminded me of the highlands of Scotland, I knew this would test the mettle of golfers who want to play courses that would challenge the professionals.”
– Donald Steel
Highlights of the Blue Ridge Mountain golf course include:
- Closely cut areas around greens provide many short game options.
- Use of bent grass gives the golfer fast surfaces, and fescue grasses add challenge and a contrast of color.
- A 150 slope measurement attests to the course’s degree of difficulty, and the rating of 75.1 strokes confirms it.
- Bio-filters are strategically placed around the golf course to protect the natural trout streams and rivers that originate within and surround Primland.
- Wetlands around the course remain untouched and are treated as environmentally sensitive areas.
- Electric golf carts are included with your greens fees.
- 25 dollar charge applies for use of the driving range. These fees are included in a daily green fee.
- Use of the putting greens is complimentary.
Address: 4621 Busted Rock Rd, Meadows of Dan, VA 24120, USA
Phone: +1 276-222-3827


This winter has hardly been bleak here in the northeastern U.S. Temperatures fluctuate into spring weather every few days, and I spied some green shoots (crocuses? daffodils?) poking up by the side of the house a month and a half early. I heard the weather woman say we’ve had a mere 7.5 inches (19.05cm) of snow this winter — down from last year’s abundant 60+ inches (1.5+ m).
It’s not glum here, not really. It’s the dearth of growing things that makes the winter gray. And this teasing, unseasonable warmth! I can’t bear to think that planting season won’t start for another two months.
Then I remembered my compost last week, that glorious bin of kitchen waste that is turning into black gold over rotations of earth and sky. It is superb.
I had forgotten it because, with three of us in the house and occasional contributions from the neighbors, my bin became too wet. I added leaves and shredded brown paper when I could, but couldn’t keep up with the amount of kitchen scraps we add daily. The compost was rotting. I didn’t want to look at another lifeless object, especially one under my care that should have been growing and changing into beautiful dirt.
And then one golden day, a kind soul on Craigslist posted free sawdust from his furniture making shop, unadulterated and in large quantities. It was just what I needed. I emailed him immediately, and then tricked Mr. Savvy into driving out and carrying three enormous trash barrel sized bags of sawdust back to the car. Three! I couldn’t stop giggling. Moving each bag was like trying to carry a slippery, unruly chub of a dog.
We came home. My eyes may have been bigger than my stomach because one bag of sawdust filled the compost bin to the brim. Don’t tell Mr. Savvy.
Over the next month, the compost bin grew alive. It was no longer a pile of wet, stinking vegetables that froze every night as temperatures dipped. It became something warm and sweet smelling. The sawdust settled as we mixed in more banana peels and eggshells and coffee grounds and onion skins. The pile is doing what it promised: changing from garbage to earth before my eyes. It is beautiful.
My compost’s life cycle is slow. As I watch and wait for it with the patience of a tender young plant, I realize it satisfies my yearning for growth and life — yes, even in the dead of winter.
©2012 at Simple Savvy, the simple living blog where my neighbor caught just as I was photographing the compost bin, but luckily he knows me too well to think anything strange about it.
I can totally picture the sight of you giggling as Mr. Savvy is helping you carry the sawdust. This is because I would have done the same thing.