Cannabis is going from underground sensation to headline status in politics, culture, and the eyes of businesses. Where does the road lead for the burgeoning industry already employing thousands and raking in billions? All indications point to one direction: up. It isn’t just growers who have high hopes, either. Cultivation is only one piece of the pie.
Arcview Market Research estimates that by 2019, the cannabis-related industry will be worth $11 billion dollars. According to Veridian Market Research, It isn’t just cultivation that is growing in the cannabis market. Cultivation only counts for about 25% of the entire industry.
Be it the software that helps keep track of inventory, databases of genetics, or smartphone apps for cannabis delivery, programming firms are booming within the field. The field of biotechnology, specifically in agricultural applications to grow cannabis bigger, faster, and more potent with specialized nutrients and supplements…


Are you on the hunt for healthier, tastier, and more sustainable coffee choices? You’ll find that organic coffee stands out not only for its exceptional flavor but also for its benefits to health and nature. In this guide, we reveal the top organic coffee brands of 2024, tailored to satisfy every palate from light to dark roasts—without costing the Earth.
- Fragrant medium roast Peruvian coffee with a smooth finish
- One 12-ounce bag of ground coffee
- 100% Arabica coffee grown in Peru
- Contains one (1) 18 Ounce Bag of Peet’s Organic French Roast Ground 100% Arabica Coffee
- Flavor and Roast: Dark Roast. Chocolate truffle, smoke, caramel. A meticulously grown, deep-roasted coffee that is a bold dedication to flavor, farm, and future
- Brewing Methods: Our ground coffee is perfectly suited to make drip or a pour over in your Chemex. For other brewing methods – espresso, cold brew, or French press – consider our whole bean coffees and grinding at home
- 100% PROFITS TO HELP KIDS: Newman’s Own proudly supports organizations such as SeriousFun Children’s Network, which delivers more than 160,000 life-changing experiences each year to kids living with serious illnesses.
- 100% ORGANIC: 100% USDA Certified Organic and Certified Orthodox Union Kosher
- TASTE: Newman’s Own Organic French Roast delivers a dark roast blend of deep and full flavors of caramel and dark chocolate for a rich and robust flavor with ample body that’s 100% organic.
- Brought to you by Whole Foods
- Vienna Roast
- Premium Grade Whole Bean Coffee – The Organic Peru Medium Roast is a single-origin smooth coffee
- Luscious Flavor Note Profiles – Flavor notes of Nutty, Chocolate, & Citrus make amazing coffee
- 100% Roasted Whole Beans – 2.5 Lb resealable bag for maximum longevity, freshness, and flavor
- Dark roast, ground: Sweet, smoky, audacious. This remarkable blend of beans is the spirit of Kicking Horse Coffee, and a bold invitation to wake up and kick ass with us.
- Tasting notes, brew method: Chocolate malt, molasses, licorice and an earthy lingering finish. Recommended methods: Drip machine, pour over and cold brew.
- Origin Indonesia & South America: Grown in a socially and environmentally responsible way, by farmers with sustainable businesses they can depend on.
- Organic Rainforest Blend is a medium dark roast from beans grown in Central America. This is a smooth and balanced coffee that is full of flavor. Perfection.
- FOR FINEST TASTE: Store in a cool, dark place and grind beans just berfore brewing
- QUALITY COFFEE: San Francisco Bay Coffee uses only 100% arabica coffee and certified Kosher coffee beans. Hand picked and grown in high altitude. We’re so confident you’ll love it, we back it with a satisfaction guarantee.
- Sweet, bold complexity with tropical fruits, brown sugar, and warm spices.
- Dark roast, caffeinated coffee
- Fair Trade Certified and USDA Organic
- PACKAGING MAY VARY: Coffee will ship in a plain white bag with a black label (bulk coffee)
- ALWAYS SMOOTH, NEVER BITTER: (1) 4-Pound Bag of Whole Bean Coffee, 100% Premium Arabica Beans, Organic Scandinavian Blend
- MILD & WARMING ORGANIC MEDIUM-DARK ROAST: This medium-dark roast coffee is mild, balanced and rich with a smooth finish; It’ll keep you warm even on the coldest days
- Organic coffee offers a healthy, eco-conscious alternative to regular coffee, retaining rich flavors and ensuring minimal environmental impact due to a chemical-free cultivation process.
- From light roasts like Lifeboost Coffee to dark roasts from brands like Stumptown Coffee Roasters, there’s a diverse range of organic coffee available to satisfy different taste preferences—all with a commitment to fair-trade and sustainability.
- Choosing organic coffee not only supports personal wellness, due to reduced pesticide exposure and antioxidant benefits, but also promotes sustainable farming practices and often comes in eco-friendly packaging.
Exploring the World of Organic Coffee
Organic coffee, the healthier cousin of your regular morning brew, is more than just a trend – it’s a return to traditional coffee cultivation methods. From the lush, unspoiled fields where it’s grown, to the meticulous process that ensures every bean is free from harmful chemicals, organic coffee is a testament to nature’s bounty. It’s not just about the superior taste, but it’s also about the peace of mind knowing your daily cup is not just good for you but for the environment too.
The best part? Whether you’re a fan of a light roast, medium roast, or a dark roast, there’s an organic coffee out there that will tickle your taste buds and make your morning coffee ritual a whole lot better.
You might wonder, what sets organic coffee apart from the regular blend? How does it contribute to your well-being? Also, which organic coffee brands should make your must-try list? We will address all these queries and more as we navigate through the fascinating realm of organic coffee.
What is Organic Coffee?
Organic coffee encompasses more than just the bean; it signifies the entire journey from the farm to your coffee cup. It’s about:
- the commitment to embrace natural processes
- shunning harmful artificial substances and synthetic fertilizers
- producing a healthier, cleaner, and more flavorful brew
From the soil where the coffee plants are grown to the rigorous inspection and certification processes, every stage plays a crucial role in ensuring the whole beans are genuinely organic.
The result? A delightful, healthier brew that celebrates the natural flavor of the coffee bean. Beyond being beneficial for your health, organic coffee farming also vastly contributes to environmental preservation. By prioritizing soil and water conservation, and refraining from using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, organic coffee farming minimizes environmental impact, making it a sustainable choice.
Therefore, each time you relish your delicious medium dark roast whole bean coffee, keep in mind that it’s more than just a cup of coffee – it’s your pledge to personal health and planetary wellbeing.
Health Benefits of Organic Coffee
While the rich and robust taste of organic coffee is reason enough to make the switch, it’s the health benefits that truly sweeten the deal. For instance, with organic coffee, your exposure to pesticides is significantly reduced. This means, with every cup, you’re not just relishing a great taste but also ensuring you’re limiting your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
But that’s not all. Organic coffee is also packed with antioxidants, including a variety of compounds that contribute to its caffeine content:
- Hydrocinnamic acids
- Caffeic acid
- Chlorogenic acids
These antioxidants offer a multitude of benefits, such as boosting heart health and enhancing focus and memory retention. Now, isn’t that a great reason for another cup of coffee?
Top Organic Coffee Brands: From Light to Dark Roast
With the rise in popularity of organic coffee, several brands have stepped up to offer a variety of roasts that cater to the diverse taste preferences of coffee lovers. Here are some options to consider:
- Light roasts: Known for their delicate and nuanced flavors
- Medium roasts: Strike a perfect balance between acidity and full-bodied flavor
- Dark roasts: Boast a robust and bolder taste profile
There’s a chance to find the best organic coffee for every palate, including strong coffee, in our organic bean coffee selection.
Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or a newbie ready to explore, these brands offer an excellent starting point to experience the best of organic coffee. Eager to find your next favorite brew? Allow us to guide you through the organic coffee brands universe, traversing from light to dark roast.
Light Roast: Lifeboost Coffee
For those who prefer a light and delicate coffee, Lifeboost Coffee is a wonderful choice. Here’s why:
- Famous for its low acidity and non-GMO certification
- Promises a smooth and mellow taste that’s perfect for those with sensitive stomachs
- The secret to its low acidity lies in the careful selection of Arabica beans and the fresh roasting process in small batches
- The longer brewing time further reduces the acidity level, ensuring each sip is smooth and enjoyable.
But that’s not all. Lifeboost Coffee’s commitment to quality is reflected in its non-GMO certification, guaranteeing that its beans are grown, processed, and handled with 100% all-organic ingredients. With flavor notes ranging from fruity hints of dried figs to a sweet impression similar to raw sugar, Lifeboost Coffee offers a delightful coffee experience that is both flavorful and eco-friendly.
Medium Roast: AmazonFresh Fair Trade Peru Ground Coffee
Following on our list, we have the AmazonFresh Fair Trade Peru Ground Coffee, a medium roast adored by organic coffee enthusiasts. What sets it apart is the meticulous wet milling process that ensures the moisture content of the coffee seeds is reduced, resulting in a balanced and flavorful brew.
Reviewers can’t stop raving about the following features of AmazonFresh Fair Trade Peru Ground Coffee:
- Its robust chocolatey flavor
- Its smooth texture
- Its rich, aromatic notes
- The hint of fruit in every sip
Plus, with a 12-ounce bag priced at just $8.74, it offers incredible value without compromising on taste.
Dark Roast: Stumptown Coffee Roasters
If you’re a fan of dark roast coffee, then Stumptown Coffee Roasters is the brand for you. Known for its exceptional organic dark roast blend, Stumptown Coffee Roasters uses high-quality beans sourced from Central and South America, ensuring a rich and deeply satisfying brewing experience.
Their dark roast blend boasts a delightful mix of clove, bittersweet chocolate, toasted marshmallow, and brown sugar, providing a complex yet enjoyable flavor profile. But what truly sets Stumptown Coffee Roasters apart is their unwavering commitment to sustainability, demonstrated through their fair trade practices, and stringent, organic-certified supply chain.
Decoding the Flavor Profiles of Organic Coffee
Having discussed some leading organic coffee brands, it’s time to delve into what sets each brand apart – their distinctive flavor profiles. The flavor profile of a coffee is a complex blend of tastes and aromas that are influenced by factors such as the geographic origin of the coffee beans, the roast level, and the brewing method.
From chocolatey and nutty to spicy and fruity, the flavor notes in organic coffee offer a delightful range that caters to a wide palate. Identifying these flavors is part of the joy of drinking coffee, and the more you taste, the better you’ll get at distinguishing these subtle notes. Let’s delve into the intriguing process of decoding these flavor profiles.
Understanding Flavor Notes
Flavor notes are the distinct tastes and aromas that characterize a coffee, and understanding them can greatly enhance your coffee experience. These notes are influenced by various factors, including the origin of the coffee beans, the roast level, and the brewing method.
There are several ways to identify these flavor notes. You can attend coffee cupping sessions, consult with local coffee experts, or refer to flavor descriptions provided by coffee brands. These methods can help you recognize specific flavors in the coffee, making your tasting experience more rewarding and enjoyable.
Popular Flavor Combinations
Just like a gourmet meal, a good coffee also boasts a variety of flavor combinations that complement each other. Some of the popular flavor combinations in organic coffee include fruity notes combined with chocolatey and nutty flavors. These combinations result in a unique taste profile that makes every sip an exciting experience.
For instance, a coffee with a fruity note of orange blossom can be paired with a nutty flavor to bring out a unique taste profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Similarly, a coffee with a chocolatey note can be paired with a fruity flavor to create a rich and decadent taste experience.
Brewing Tips for the Perfect Cup of Organic Coffee
Brewing organic coffee is an art in itself. The way you brew your coffee can greatly impact its taste. From choosing the right grind size to selecting the optimal brewing method, each step is crucial in enhancing the flavor of your coffee.
In the following segment, we will equip you with valuable tips on brewing the quintessential cup of organic coffee. Regardless of whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned coffee aficionado, these suggestions will aid you in maximizing your organic coffee experience.
Choosing the Right Grind Size
The grind size of your coffee plays a key role in determining the flavor of your brew. A coarser grind size allows for a more deliberate extraction process, while finer grind sizes lead to quicker extraction and a more intense flavor.
Selecting the appropriate grind size can significantly intensify the flavor of your coffee. For instance, a coarse grind is perfect for French press coffee, while a fine grind is essential for producing a rich and flavorful espresso shot. So, the next time you grind your coffee, make sure to choose the correct grind size for your brewing method.
Optimal Brewing Methods
Choosing the correct brewing method is just as important as selecting the right grind size. Different brewing methods can bring out unique flavors in your coffee.
For instance, the pour-over method is perfect for bringing out the best in organic light roast coffee, allowing its full flavor to shine through and delivering a clean, delightful taste. On the other hand, immersion methods like the French press can enhance the body and complexity of your coffee, making it a great choice for dark roasts.
Organic Coffee and the Environment
Choosing organic coffee is not just about enjoying a better-tasting brew, but it’s also about making a positive impact on the environment. Organic coffee farming practices, such as reducing the carbon footprint, increasing biodiversity, and using organic fertilizers, contribute to a healthier planet.
Additionally, many organic coffee brands are embracing innovative packaging solutions to further minimize their environmental impact. From compostable coffee bags to plantable packaging options, these eco-friendly choices ensure that your coffee habit doesn’t come at the cost of the environment.
Supporting Sustainable Farming
Organic coffee farming practices not only protect the environment but also support local communities. By providing fair compensation to farmers and improving their quality of life, sustainable farming helps bolster the overall well-being and economic stability of farming communities.
Thus, when you opt for organic coffee, it’s not merely a healthier decision for yourself, but also a nod towards a system that respects both humanity and the environment. Even such a simple choice can indeed bring about substantial change.
Eco-Friendly Packaging Choices
While the coffee itself is an important factor, the packaging it comes in is equally crucial. Many organic coffee brands are making the switch to eco-friendly packaging, such as compostable coffee pods and recyclable bags.
By choosing brands that prioritize eco-friendly packaging, you’re not only getting a great cup of coffee but also doing your part in reducing waste and the environmental impact. Hence, the next time you’re on a coffee shopping spree, don’t forget to take the packaging into consideration.
Decaffeinated Organic Coffee Options
For those who want to enjoy the rich taste of organic coffee without the caffeine, there are decaf options available. These coffees undergo a decaffeination process that removes most of the caffeine while retaining the coffee’s natural flavors.
Be it due to caffeine sensitivity, or a preference for a late-day coffee sans the buzz, these decaf options provide an excellent means to savor the wholesomeness of organic coffee, devoid of the caffeine.
VitaCup Perfect Low Acid Instant Coffee Packets
One such decaf option is the VitaCup Perfect Low Acid Instant Coffee Packets, a great alternative to traditional k cups. Known for its low acidity and rich, dark roast flavor, VitaCup offers an easy-to-prepare decaf option for coffee lovers.
What makes VitaCup stand out is its low acid formulation. With a smoother taste and lower pH level, VitaCup’s coffee offers a full-bodied, rich, and robust flavor without the acidity, making it a great choice for those who prefer a milder coffee.
Four Sigmatic Decaf Organic Ground Coffee
Another excellent decaf option is the Four Sigmatic Decaf Organic Ground Coffee. What sets this coffee apart is its unique blend of organic coffee with immune-boosting mushrooms. This not only gives the coffee a unique flavor but also makes it a great choice for those looking for a stress-reducing brew.
In addition to its unique flavor, Four Sigmatic’s decaf coffee is also caffeine-free, thanks to the Swiss water decaffeination process. This natural method uses water, temperature, and time to decaffeinate the coffee beans without the use of chemicals, ensuring you get a pure, caffeine-free coffee.
From exploring the world of organic coffee, understanding the different roasts and flavor profiles, to learning about the environmental impact and discovering decaf options, we have covered a lot of ground in this guide. Organic coffee is not just about the superior taste. It’s about making a healthier choice for yourself and the planet. So, the next time you sip your morning coffee, remember, it’s not just a cup of coffee, it’s a lifestyle choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is organic coffee really healthier?
Yes, organic coffee is healthier as it contains higher levels of nutrient-rich antioxidants, and some people can even taste the difference in quality. So, choosing organic coffee can be a better option for your health.
What coffee has no pesticides?
You can enjoy pesticide-free coffee by choosing Purity Coffee, a third-party certified organic brand with up to 2x the antioxidants of other leading brands. It’s a sustainable choice with exceptional quality.
How do I identify different flavor notes in organic coffee?
To identify different flavor notes in organic coffee, smell the freshly ground beans, taste the coffee, and note the flavors you detect. Coffee experts often slurp the coffee to enhance the tasting experience. Enjoy exploring the rich flavors of organic coffee!
How does the grind size affect the flavor of coffee?
The grind size of the coffee affects the flavor by determining how quickly the flavor compounds are extracted. A coarser grind produces a more deliberate extraction, while a finer grind results in a quicker and more intense flavor. Adjusting the grind size can help tailor the flavor to your liking.
Are there decaf options for organic coffee?
Yes, there are decaf options for organic coffee available from brands like VitaCup and Four Sigmatic, which undergo a decaffeination process while preserving the natural flavors of the coffee.


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Standing in front of a wild native Coral Honeysuckle vine in bloom.
- Landscaper / Irrigation worker at
- Lives in
- December 22, 1957
- Followed by 133 people
Friends · 54
- As noted at end of my intro wrt Calea zacatechichi, unless the plant is stressed, it will not be producing as much active alkaloids. This is true for most of the common ebible herbs, they should not be watered very often in order to get more flavorful oils to use in cooking.
The problem is that if you want as much CZ leaf material to sell to public, then you'll want the plant to be as bushy as possible so you can harvest and sell more CZ leaf.
Unfortunately, the product will probably have much less active components which will be used to enhance dreaming. IOW it won't taste as bitter as a more stressed-out CZ plant. So again, caveat emptor when buying in bulk online. Better to grow your own herb in a pot, which allows more controls over environmental variables.
I have not made CZ tinctures yet, but I will be testing CZ extracts with a calibrated pH meter and pH test strips to get a general idea of potency. I assume an extremely bitter CZ extract means higher pH due to increased alkaloidal content.0 0 0 0
- New posts: my original OOBE procedures in my Projectiology message threads, and also a link to feng shui in my "Family Altar" message threads.0 0 0 0
- Now that I'm often into close proximity of my CZ (Calea zacatechichi) plants on a regular basis, I am beginning to think this fact alone, being near the plants, that is enough to assist in dreaming.
So it's not always necessary to brew it into a tea or smoke it for the oneirogenic effects.
The downside to this is that CZ is very much an outdoor plant, it needs to develop a healthy root system and have lots of sun. So I would think it's not the kind of plant you can keep longterm indoors in a pot. with artificial sunlight.0 0 0 0


The sun is shining and beconing me outside, but, I hear the windchimes warning me of the cold day. I see the June grass starting to grow and know I need to get out and till the ground to stop the growth or we will be battling it later on.
I am already planning to grow a nice garden this year. Last year was a bomb...my fault...and I have repented of the fact that I just didn't want to deal with it.
With the prices continually rising in the grocery stores, I know I will be happy I worked hard growing and harvesting. Two years ago I planted broccoli and froze it. We were eating it until February 2008! I plan on redoing the herb garden.
I am teaching a quilting class. We are making a darling table runner. That class is April 1st at my home. April 24th I am teaching a Prarie Flower quilt class. Both applique, which is a love of mine.


The Basics About Aquaponics -Aquaponics in Home
So, you’re contemplating an aquaponics system but you’re unsure as to what this might involve? Well, here is a friendly aquaponics guide which will help you understand the task at hand.
Using a tank no larger than 60 cubic feet, with some pumps, tubing, and netting pots, it is feasible to grow a sufficient amount of produce to feed your own family and, potentially, gift some to your neighbors.
Aquaponic farming is not difficult...
One aspect of aquaponic farming is the ease at which in can be accomplished. By placing the key elements of the system, the tank, the netting pots and the faciliatory tools such as the aerating equipment at waist level, taking care of these elements, caring for both the aquaculture and the hydropinics is as easy as a child’s game. When cultivating your aquaponic garden, say good bye to digging, bending, and stretching in order to reach or prepare the growing surface. Eliminate the kneeling and crawling required of weeding and soil cultivation. Anything and everything you require to maintain your garden can be within arm’s reach.
We have been working on the Home Aquaponics for almost a year now with the goal in mind to bring to you the best content, product reviews and resources for those products that we can find.
Organic, environmentally friendly and healty foods are a passion for us and we hope that you will try and enjoy a fun and economical way to provide that to you, your family and friends. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments or concerns at firstname.lastname@example.org. If I cannot provide tthe answer to you question I am sure that one of the fine aquaponic products suppliers that we are affiliated with can answer your question and will be happy to do so.
Enjoying the "fruits" of your labors, eating wholsome, delightful tasting fruits, vegitables and herbs is what we want to share with you, please stay in touch and share what ever comments you have with us, we will share them with all of our subscribers, no matter what they are and please follow us as we grow (lol) our site with more information for you gardeners.
The Home Aquaponics Crew
Hydroponic Classroom In Care Of Kachina Marketing and Designs LLC
Adress : 9415 N Camino Vista Ln.
Phoenix, AZ 85028
E-mail : email@example.com
Phone : 602-635-7584


If you work on or own one of the 2 million farms in the United States you must be familiar with a seed planter. This essential piece of farming equipment allows you to seed wide swaths of land each spring.
Without a functioning seed planter, your farm would not be able to operate. Part of keeping seed planters working at their peak operational capacity is to conduct regular seed planter maintenance.
This seed planter maintenance guide will give you some planter maintenance tips so you can keep your farm equipment operational for many seasons.
1. Maintain Gauges
Gauges, meters, and other indicators of equipment performance need to be kept clean. They are your window to the health and performance capabilities of your machine.
A dirty or broken gauge is useless to you and can lead to a broken piece of equipment if you are not careful. Always maintain your gauges so you can get a good read on how your seed planter is performing in the field.
2. Inspect the Planter Units
The planter unit controls the depth at which your seeds will be placed. If this piece of equipment is compromised, you will not have consistency during your planting process.
Make sure that the planter units are not wobbly and are all placed at the same height. Look for loose or broken components as well and replace them as needed.
3. Check Your Seed Planter’s Disks
Seed opener disks also play a big role in the proper spacing and depth of your seeds. They should always be in a “V” position and come together in front of your machine.
They also need to be spaced properly from one another to perform right. If you can fit two business cards between them there is the right amount of space.
4. Unclog Seed Tubes
Seed tubes are subject to clogs and wear and tear. Make sure that they are in one piece and free from debris or other obstructions. This will help ensure proper seed placement.
5. Maintain the Mechanical Systems
Like all machines, a seed planter needs to have its mechanical systems serviced often. This means changing the oil, fixing any engine problems, and ensuring that all critical mechanical systems are functioning.
6. Inspect Fertilizer and Insecticide Systems
A cracked or broken insecticide box can play havoc on your farm and jeopardize your crops. Make sure that it is in good condition and inspect your fertilizer system as well.
If your fertilizer unit isn’t calibrated the right way, the wrong amount of fertilizer could end up in your fields. Make sure that it functions the right way before using your seed planter for fertilization.
7. Keep Your Machine Clean
Farming is dirty work, but keeping your seed planter clean is an important part of maintaining its integrity. Dirt can clog vital components if left to cake on and settle in.
Clean your seed planter after each use to prolong its lifespan. You should keep all of your other planting equipment clean as well to keep them operational.
A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way
The best way to keep your seed planter serviceable for the many long seasons to come is to do a bit of preventative maintenance.
You made a sizable investment in your farming equipment so it behooves you to keep it around for as long as possible.
Maintain your seed planter using these 7 tips. Also, make sure to stop by our page again soon for other vital information.
June Potter wrote this article on behalf of FreeUp. FreeUp is the fastest-growing freelance marketplace in the US. FreeUp only accepts the top 1% of freelance applicants. Click here to get access to the top freelancers in the world.
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Farm home on 40 acres wooded land located in Hickory County Missouri.
Property includes 3 bedroom home with 1 1/2 baths, detached 2 car garage/shed, barn, other out buildings, and ponds. A large, fenced garden area and a small orchard is close to the house; also a small pasture area.
Approximately 35 acres of land is heavily wooded (oak, walnut, red bud, cedar, etc.) and rich in
wildlife: deer, turkey, fox, occasional bobcat and cougar sightings, and others. This land has excellent hunting as it connects to woods on 2 sides and has row crop corn and soybeans planted on nearby properties. It is approximately 1 mile off state highway.
Please reply by email.
Please no inquiries from real estate agents/brokers.


If you have come this far, you know, or are interested in, what permaculture is and the opportunities it offers to those who get involved. This approach to land treatment and philosophy includes mechanisms and solutions that natural ecosystems themselves produce for a sustainable growth system. At ELC we are developing a permaculture project on our farm and home. We are trying to build a small home community setting to house some of our teachers and other helpers, in exchange for a few hours of daily work.
We are looking for nature lovers willing to immerse themselves in a rural area of southern Spain. The project on the farm is an approach to the principles of permaculture. We have a design that has been developing for the past few years. Our goal is to establish a food production system capable of feeding the people who live on the farm. These people will learn all of these skills in the mornings while working in the afternoons as professional ESL teachers and earning a monthly salary.
If you want more information, contact us or keep reading about the possibilities of getting involved in our Workaway page.


European Biostimulants Market: Global Industry Analysis, Market Size, Share, Trends, Application Analysis, Growth and Forecast, 2022-2027” provides a deep and thorough evaluation of the global European Biostimulants market based on its segments including type, end use and region. The report tracks the latest industry trends and analyses their overall impact on the market. It also evaluates the market dynamics, which cover the key demand and price indicators, and studies the market on the basis of the SWOT and Porter’s Five Forces models.
Historical Year: 2016-2021
Base Year: 2021
Forecast Year: 2022-2027
Download a free sample report to get detailed insight about the market: https://www.syndicatedanalytics.com/request?type=report&id=770&flag=B
Biostimulants are substances made using enzymes, microorganisms, trace elements, plant hormones, and seaweed extracts. They help in minimizing dependency on fertilizers and enhancing overall crop productivity. They also support sustainable agricultural practices, which assist in improving soil fertility and maintain the ecosystem of the soil. This, along with their performance efficiency, is resulting in the increasing utilization of biostimulants in Europe.
Note: Our analysts are continuously monitoring the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the market. This insightful information is included in the report to improve the efficiency, resilience and overall performance of businesses.
Global European Biostimulants Industry Trends and Drivers:
The European Union (EU) has implemented regulations to favor organic farming and promote ecological safety. This, along with increasing awareness among individuals about the impact of chemically synthesized pesticides and fertilizers on human health, represents one of the key factors impelling the growth of the market.
Besides this, there is a rise in the adoption of biostimulants in different parts of Europe as biostimulants are non-toxic and they do not contaminate the soil. Furthermore, rising research and development (R&D) activities, along with increasing innovations in the field of agricultural sciences, are strengthening the market growth in the region.
Request Brochure: https://www.syndicatedanalytics.com/request?type=report&id=770&flag=A
Global European Biostimulants Market Segmentation:
The market is segmented in on the basis of type, end use and region.
- End use
- North America
- Asia Pacific
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
The report also provides insights on the competitive landscape of the global European biostimulants industry with the leading players profiled in the report.
About us: Syndicated Analytics is a market research firm that offers consulting services and provides comprehensive market intelligence in the form of research reports. Our team, consisting of experienced researchers and analysts from diverse industries, is deeply committed to the quality of the information and insights delivered to the clients which range from small and medium enterprises to Fortune 1000 companies. They are able to achieve this by studying the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the market as well as staying up to date with the current and evolving trends of the industry. Our set of syndicated as well as customized market reports thus help the clients to gain a better view of their competitive landscape, overcome various industry-related challenges and formulate revenue-generating business strategies.
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Oakley Road Vineyard
The soils at Oakley Road vineyard are so sandy that early growers in this region were disparaged as “sandlappers.” Little did those wags know that the delta sands, with their Phylloxera inhibiting properties, would be the key to the survival of some amazing 100-plus-year-old, own-rooted, unirrigated vines. The micro climate of Oakley allows grapes to ripen early. It is not so much that it is hot during the growing months—the average temperature is about 74 degrees with the nights in the mid 50s and the days in the 90s during the month of July and August—but that the sandy soils warm earlier in the year than most other areas in California, and vine growth starts sooner. As the season progresses, the grapes continue to ripen consistently in spite of the cooling maritime winds from the Carquinez straits, due to the reflected sun from the Antioch sandy soils.
The resulting wines can be, in a word, graceful. The combination of own roots, old vines, deep sandy soils, and cooling afternoon breezes seems to encourage gentle, suave wines. Some winemakers like to make big, powerful, dark wines from these grapes, though I believe the wines are much more enjoyable, interesting, complex, and finer when picked earlier.
These Oakley Road vines may not be around much longer. This part of Contra Costa (CoCo for short) is changing rapidly. It has been an industrial backwater for a long time. High tension electrical lines, a PG&E power plant, and motels that rent by the hour stand in contrast to an inordinate number of churches and an increasing reality of fast food restaurants that populate a disjointed human landscape. There is increasing urbanization as roads are widened and BART pushes east. Many of these vineyards are for sale with inflated land prices, having been designated as commercial land—the result being land costs that are more compatible with strip malls than farming. For now, the vines remain in the ground, producing viticultural treasure. And for now, we continue to make lovely wine and cherish our moment.
2017 Contra Costa Mataro, Oakley Road Vineyard
Tasting Notes - Mourvedre, the famous grape of Bandol, is known by the name Mataro in California. The Mataro grape has been planted in California since the 1870s, mostly as an adjunct in blends that were Zinfandel dominated. Though scarce, Mataro is an exceptional standalone grape in a few places. One of those is Oakley. In the eastern rain shadow of Mount Diablo near the San Joaquin River, vines on their own roots planted in sand dune-like soils in the late 1800s and early 1900s continue to produce some of the most interesting and highly regarded Mataro in California. The climate conditions are perfect for slow ripening grapes like Mataro. The 2017 shows bright vanilla-laced red fruit with hints of earth and spice. Round, full finish.
2017 Contra Costa Zinfandel, Oakley Road Vineyard
Tasting Notes - Oakley Road Zinfandel is planted on the same sandy slopes as the Oakley Road Mataro. These vines, planted around 1900, are on their own roots. Coming out of the sand with multiple arms like hydra, they are truly bush vines. Unlike most other California Zinfandel vineyards, the fruit is carried relatively low to the ground. The proximity to ground acts as shelter from the wind, which can be moderately intense in the afternoon in Oakley, while reflecting radiated light and heat back on the grapes from the sandy soils. The vineyard has about 10 percent Carignane and Mataro interplanted with the Zinfandel. The sandy soils and the own-rooted vines tend to produce unique, suave, textural characteristics in the wines. The wines have bright, ripe flavors, and are very spicy, with fresh acidity and smooth fine tannins in the finish. The 2017 shows full, rich red and black fruit flavors. Big without being heavy. Very refined astringency.
Bedrock Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel Sonoma Valley, 1888 planting
[Disclaimer: Much of this history is stolen from the website of my son Morgan’s Bedrock Wine Company, which makes the spectacular Heirloom Blend from the same vineyard. It isn’t plagiarization if it’s your own genetic material, right?]
Situated on the Agua Caliente Bench, Bedrock is one of the premier vineyard plots in Sonoma Valley. When Eugene Hilgard, the most important viticulture professor of his time, was asked in 1890 if any place in California could grow grapes to rival the great clarets of Europe, he unhesitatingly singled out this vineyard, whose history is also rife with some of the most notable figures of the nineteenth century.Founded in 1854 by Generals “Fightin’ Joe” Hooker (just back from the Mexican-American War) and William Tecumseh Sherman (a San Francisco banker at the time!), the spot has grown grapes for more than 150 years. Following the first phylloxera epidemic in the mid-1880s, it was replanted in 1888 by Senator George Hearst, a mining magnate and father of publisher William Randolph Hearst; in the early 1900s, Hearst’s widow Phoebe sold it to the California Wine Association, which made wine from it until Prohibition. In 1934, the vineyard was jointly purchased by the Domenici and Parducci families, who ran the Valley of the Moon winery; when that relationship became acrimonious, the vineyard was split, with the Parducci's taking the winery and smaller land parcel and the Domenici's taking 152 acres that became as Madrone Ranch.
In 2005, the Domenici's sold the property to the Deininger / Peterson family. We renamed it Bedrock with a nod to its soil: Tuscan Red Hill series, washed down from the adjacent Mayacamas Mountains to form the alluvial fan on which the vineyard is planted. Because the place had been cultivated harshly for 100 years, we broke up the pan with a mechanical spader and revitalized the soils with compost and cover crops of vetch, bell beans, and rye grass; the cobbly, well-drained loam, combined with long warm summer days and cool evening air flowing through the Bennett Valley Gap alongside Sonoma Mountain (a climatic profile similar to that of Joe Swan’s domain, the Forestville area of the Russian River Valley) is superb for growing Zinfandel, a tradition we’ve maintained with old-school, head-pruned viticulture.
Once and Future Zinfandel is crafted from the 128-year-old vines planted by George Hearst. The wines have an aromatic raciness and fine tannin structure that renders them elegant and long-lived.
2017 Bedrock Vineyards, Sonoma Valley Zinfandel
Tasting Notes - The 2017 has that very typical Bedrock ripe raspberry, baking spice character with a fresh, mineral-like smooth tannin finish.
Teldeschi Vineyard, Frank's Block
From the Here and Now, the early 1980’s seem like a long time ago!
I was a long-haired bearded young man who found himself having an unexpected luncheon with Frank and Caterina Teldeschi and their sons Dan and John…. Welcoming hosts, they represented the most recent two generations of an Italian family that had been farming their part of Dry Creek Valley since the early 1900’s. The lunch included copious amounts of wine (some made by me, some by Frank) and extraordinarily delicious food cooked by Caterina. I can still remember the menu; stuffed zucchini, homemade pasta with meat sauce made from tomatoes that Catarina grew in the back yard from seeds she brought with her from Italy as a young bride, roast chicken from her chicken yard, and a pork roast with potatoes from a wild pig Frank had caught rooting around the vineyard. To finish the meal, perfect biscotti and delicate rolled anise flavored cookies.
I don’t know whether it was the food, the wine, the people or the amicable mix of all the ingredients that created the magic, but at the end of that lunch, Frank and I had a handshake deal for 4 tons of grapes and as it turns out, a 36 plus year friendship with the family.
Over the years from that small beginning, the wine made from the Frank Teldeschi family grapes grew into one of Ravenswood’s most successful and most awarded single vineyard designated wines.
Located in the heart of Dry Creek Valley on the Eastside bench land, Teldeschi Vineyard is in the best location of a valley that might be one of the best spots for growing Zinfandel in the world. Of course, Frank Teldeschi had his favorite blocks of grapes on the ranch; one of them was a small somewhat mixed block planted in the cobbly Tuscan Red Hill Series soils that Frank claimed was the oldest block on the ranch - that would mean it was planted sometime around 1900. “Frank’s Block” is low production – around a ton and a half per acre – and includes Carignane and Alicante Bouchet in the mix.
When I started Once & Future, it seemed right to honor Frank and my long friendship with the Teldeschi family by making this favored old vineyard block into a stand-alone wine.
2017 Dry Creek Zinfandel, Teldeschi Vineyard, Frank's Block
Tasting Notes - The 2017 is dark and aromatic. Lots of bright cherry, blackberry, and vibrant flavors combined with a juicy, mouthwatering finish.
Sodini Ranch, Russian River, Zinfandel
In the eastern portion of the Russian River Valley, there is a section of gently sloping hills that is dense with high-quality, historic vineyards producing grapes that make delicious wine. These vineyards are planted along a small county road that branches off and heads east from the Old Redwood Highway through country that seems like an older version of California. The road is Limerick Lane. That name might conjure up images of Ireland, humorous doggerel, or, if you are a wine aficionado, of the talented Jake Bilbro and Limerick Lane Winery. Jake’s family estate vineyard and winery is just east and across the road from Sodini Vineyard. His father, Chris Bilbro, made wine from Sodini grapes starting in 1978.
When I started Ravenswood Winery in the mid-1970s, I followed my mentor Joseph Swan’s lead and fermented my wines in open-top redwood tanks. The source of these fermenter tanks was Bellagio Wood Tank Company, which occupied the building that is at the edge of Sodini Vineyard. I sometimes would walk through those old vines, coveting Chris Bilbro’s grapes, while waiting to have my new tanks loaded onto the flatbed truck. I suppose it is ironic that some 40 years later, I fermented Sodini Ranch grapes in those very same, well-worn Bellagio redwood tanks.
Sodini Vineyard was planted in 1905 in sandy clay loam soils typical of the Russian River Valley. It is head pruned and dry farmed. While it is mostly Zinfandel, it does have an assortment of the mixed black varieties that were typical of plantings of that era. Carignane and Petite Sirah are the most common vines found among the Zinfandel. In a typical year, the vineyard produces about 2 tons of grapes per acre. This area of the Russian River Valley is a bit warmer than the areas to the west. As a result, the wines have some of the density and dark fruit flavors typical of the warmer Dry Creek area just to the north, while retaining some of the brightness and verve found in the Russian River Zinfandels.
In another interesting twist of interconnection, the vineyard is now leased and farmed by my son, Morgan, of Bedrock Wine Company. As with other old vineyards that he owns or leases, Morgan has begun revitalizing the vineyard soils and replacing missing vines in the vineyard. It is comforting to know that this special vineyard is getting the care that it needs to continue producing top-quality wines into the foreseeable future.
2017 Sodini Vineyard, Russian River, Zinfandel
Tasting Notes - The 2017 shows cherry, raspberry, and plum flavors integrated perfectly with a pretty, structured finish.
Palisades Vineyard, Napa Valley, Petite Sirah
There’s a good reason that, until the 1960s, Petite Sirah was the most widely planted grape variety in Napa Valley. As is shown by the few remaining examples, grown in the right places it does very well there, making lovely, evocative wine even darker and spicier than Zinfandel, that other “California grape” from Europe. If Napa had only had the guts to stick with Petite through the renaissance that transformed California wine, it would have been a more distinctive and interesting choice (not to mention better value) upon which to hang one’s regional hat than today’s dictatorial monarch, Cabernet Sauvignon.
The best evidence is tucked into a narrow riparian canyon just east of the town of Calistoga, at the foot of the magnificent Palisades cliffs. This is Petite Sirah heaven: The cobbly loam soil of the alluvial fan is perfect for the variety. Hot summers, cool westerly morning breezes, extended sunlight and adequate winter rainfall bless the fruit with exceptional concentration and depth. Viticulture here dates back to 1878, when James Horn, a settler from Scotland, first planted grapes; in 1908, Domenico and Gilda Barberis, recent arrivals from Italy, planted more vines along Horn’s Creek. Seven years later, they established “Bonded Winery Number 118” on the site.
Sadly, despite a capacity of more than 20,000 gallons, the winery didn’t survive Prohibition, closing down in 1932. The vineyard, however, survived. Continuing to farm it until 1992, Domenico and Gilda’s son Frank planted Petite on St. George rootstock in 1968 and again in the mid-70s. In the 90s the property was bought by Anne Carver and Denis Sutro who farmed the property, preserved the Petite Sirah and, as importantly, preserved the beautiful character of the Palisades by putting the 500 acres directly below the massif into a land trust. In 2015 Felicia Woytak and her husband Steven Rasmussen, who thankfully had the soul and character (not unlike petite itself) to ignore the prevailing commercial formula, choosing to respect and preserve the site’s heritage. Committed to organic horticulture, they’ve retained Jim Munk to manage the place’s traditional dry farming and head-trained viticulture.
The Barberis would no doubt be pleased; I am overjoyed.
2017 Palisades Vineyard, Napa Valley, Petite Sirah
Tasting Notes - The 2017 is deep colored, a fairly massive wine, but not ponderous, with lots of black currents, blackberries, and black pepper in its flavor profile.
In 1989, I made my first Sangiacomo Merlot at Ravenswood. I learned of this vineyard from Dave Ramey, who had encouraged the Sangiacomo family to plant it for his use at Matanzas Creek. I continued to make Merlot from Sangiacomo Vineyard until the early 2000s. Ultimately, Constellation decided that Ravenswood’s focus should be on Zinfandel, not Merlot. At about the same time, Matanzas Creek discontinued its purchase of the Sangiacomo Merlot fruit.
I had assumed that the Sangiacomos had pulled all these grapes out and replaced them with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, so I was happily surprised when my son, Morgan, told me he had been talking to Mike and Steve Sangiacomo, and they mentioned a section of Merlot still remained on the Kiser Ranch. I was very fond of the Merlots that Sangiacomo was making. Fortunately, the Sangiacomo family was gracious enough to sell me some of the Merlot block’s remaining fruit for Once & Future.
This block, formerly 13-year-old Riesling vines, was budded to Merlot in 1987 and interplanted to reduce spacing in 1991. The soil is shallow gravel clay-loam, which is ideal for Merlot. Originally, the trellis was a bilateral cordon vertical shoot position set-up. Due to the timing of the Carneros winds, which are frequently coincident with flowering and fruit set, a great deal of shatter resulted in very low crop levels. In some years, this imparted a fairly strong jalapeño character to the grapes. To combat this, the Sangiacomos have added an additional fruiting cane to the system, which increases the crop, bringing it into balance with the canopy and providing more harmonious ripe flavors. The combination of soil, trellising, crop, and canopy management, along with the cool Carneros climate, produces some of the most delicious Merlot in California.
2017 Carneros Merlot, Sangiacomo Vineyard
Tasting Notes - The wine is 100 percent Merlot, fermented with indigenous yeast and aged in French oak. The 2017 is full of aromatics reminiscent of fresh plums with hints of green olives and vanilla. Flavorful, bright, and full bodied. I have opened bottles of Ravenswood Sangiacomo Merlot with 20 years of age, which continue to show beautifully and are more than satisfying to drink.


Microgyn (microgreens) is a concept that has become popular at the peak of a healthy lifestyle and has become absolutely its own in our food culture. In this article, read more about this interesting and useful nutritional supplement.
In general, microgreens began to be used back in the not so distant 80s. American chefs have added some kind of microgreens to decorate their dishes. After that, they began to add it to various salads, first courses, toasts and burgers. But today, microgreens are considered an integral part of many dishes, and if earlier it was grown only on farms in the most remote corners of the United States, now the cultivation of microgreens is available to absolutely everyone, anywhere in our globe, and most importantly, it is done at home .
Microgreens literally blew up our healthy lifestyle culture and took its strong position from nutritionists and nutritionists.
Microgreens are sprouts that are initially grown for one to two weeks, then “harvested” and eaten with food. To understand when we can start “collecting”, just check the size of the sprout: it should vary from 2.5 to 4 cm.
If you suddenly left the greens to germinate further up to a size of 8–10 cm, then you should know that such sprouts will have a completely different name — mini-greens and completely different properties. To get exactly microgreens, you need to wait a maximum of two weeks after sowing, and also carefully cut it with scissors.
How to grow microgreens?
Growing microgreens is absolutely easy: all you need is a container with holes and a drip tray to drain excess moisture. Fill the container with special soil and before planting the fields with water. After, arrange the seeds loosely from each other. Next, lightly cover the container with foil and take it to a dark place. After the first sprouts begin to appear, remove the film and place the container in a sunny place. And the only thing you will need to do for the next week or two, depending on the growth of greenery, is to keep the soil moist, but it should only be watered with a sprayer.
You can use microgreens immediately, but you can store it for a very short time: a maximum of 3–4 days, wrapped in paper, and also, always in the refrigerator.
Why is microgreen so useful?
In the 2000s, the USDA Agricultural Research Service of America published the first studies on various types of greens. These studies have determined the health benefits of eating microgreens and their maximum shelf life. The USDA used 25 different plants. The main test was the presence of vitamins such as: E (tocopherol), K (phylloquinone), A (carotene) and C (ascorbic acid).
The microgreens of cilantro, daikon, red cabbage and red amaranth became the leaders in the presence and concentration of these vitamins. Also, these scientists managed to prove that green sprouts grown up to two weeks, depending on the species, contain 5 times more various trace elements and vitamins than their more “adult” specimens (the so-called mini-greens).
The microgreens of most grown sprouts contain a daily dose of vitamin C and vitamin A, as well as iron, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium. Not to mention the whole complex of vitamins: E, D, B, K and PP.
What to grow?
Let’s take a look at some of the available microgreens with you:
red cabbage microgreen
Red cabbage sprouts have the highest concentration of ascorbic acid, according to USDA data. Moreover, it contains 40 times more of it than in an adult plant.
Therefore, if you want to strengthen your immunity, be sure to include red cabbage microgreens in your diet.
In addition to being sweet-tasting and great with any meal, pea microgreens are also rich in phosphorus, fiber, and protein. It is pea sprouts that contain such complexes of vitamins as: A, B, C, PP, K, E and folic acid. Also, microgin has a high calorie content (81 kcal / 100 grams), contains a large amount of vegetable insulin and choline.
Pea microgreens will help you lower your blood sugar, lower your cholesterol levels and energize you for the rest of the day.
Freshly pulled young wheat cannot fail to please each of you. Since wheat microgreens are not only beautiful, but also rich in vitamins, pantothenic acid and oxygen.
Due to the fact that microgreens contain pantothenic acid, it has a very beneficial effect on our body. This acid helps in the work of the digestive tract, and also has a significant effect on the production of hormones and red blood cells. Also, I want to note that it is wheat microgreens that help to get rid of excess weight, because it takes an active part in the process of processing fats and carbohydrates into energy.
How to use?
When using any food, especially those that are rich in various trace elements and vitamins, there are always warnings.
Here, for example, you should not use microgreen for people with gastrointestinal problems. And in general, those who suffer from these problems should refrain from consuming any fiber, as this can backfire. And microgreens of almost any plant necessarily contain fiber.
There is one more feature of almost any microgreens. The enzymes that are in it slow down the process of digestion of food. Therefore, I recommend, especially cereal sprouts, first throw into a blender, grind thoroughly, and then you can add liquid to fresh juices, smoothies, first courses or salads.
I understand that not everyone is ready to eat microgreens, even after I tried to convince them otherwise. The reasons may be different, but one of the most popular:
- appearance (yes, girls, I know that it’s hard for many to overcome themselves and eat something that “does not look very tasty”);
- herbal aftertaste, although it is felt only if you use clean microgreens, without jamming with soup, and in fresh juices and smoothies, the taste is even more so not felt.
What is the guide to use without prescriptions? Record the best!
Salad for all occasions
Take carrots and zucchini and cut into small cubes. Add a tablespoon of red cabbage sprouts to the plate, and after that — everything is simple! Pour olive oil on top, add soy sauce and a few drops of lemon juice to taste. You can add flax seeds or sesame seeds. And then, if desired: a few pieces of boiled chicken, tofu or mozzarella cheese, well, they won’t be superfluous. Bon appetite, dear ones!
Decoration of dishes
Microgreens are one of the main decorations of any dish! So be bolder, you can decorate everything with it: from soup to fresh juice.
Oh, how great is the black bread toast with a slice of mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, decorated with arugula microgreens!
Smoothies for weight loss
We take a banana, (strawberries can be added in season), celery, zucchini, fresh cucumber, mint, lemon juice and pea microgreens. Pour everything with a little water or milk. You can add some more fruit for sweetness. Beat for 2–3 minutes, and voila! An incomparable and at the same time insanely healthy smoothie is ready to drink!
Irina Storozhenko, a sports nutritionist and nutritionist, answered all questions.
We hope that soon microgreens will become an integral part of your diet!
The opinion of the editors may not coincide with the opinion of the author of the article.


Please register in advance for classes & workshops.
Fruit Tree Pruning taught by Francois. Practical techniques for proper timely pruning of your fruit trees and fruiting vines/shrubs.
Saturday March 10th at 11:00 am $5
Shade Tree Pruning & Flowering Shrub Pruning: Ric will go over the sometimes confusing pruning schedules and techniques for plants in your landscape.
Saturday March 10th at 1:00 pm $5
Rose Bush Pruning: Ric will teach how and when to prune all types of roses. Do not start too early. Best off waiting until April.
Saturday March 31st at 11 am $5
Beginning Vegetable Gardening 101: Learn some of the basics of seeding and planning/planting your first veggie garden.
Saturday March 17th at 11am $5
Coming Soon! Drip Irrigation, Waterwise Gardening (Xeriscaping)


Welcome to Terraseed®
Terraseed® is “advancing crop technology” by offering a major step-change in food quality, assurance and safety, to the benefit of consumers, food retailers, suppliers and the environment.
This is achieved by the use of physical barrier systems, replacing agrochemicals for weed, insect and disease control.
Public anxiety about food safety and health is addressed by Terraseed® technology through reducing the threat of salmonella and E.coli contamination in fresh salad crops. The technology also has applications in pharmaceutical crops and herbs.
Terraseed® is proven in organic and conventional farming for salad and vegetable production and makes large-scale production viable, where consumer demand exceeds the ability of leading growers to supply.
Terraseed® provides a very positive image in an industry where the technology has often been portrayed as potentially harmful or controversial. The system replaces agrochemicals and is not dependent on genetic modification (GM).
Environmental benefits of Terraseed® are substantial, by conserving soil and moisture and in remediation of degraded or contaminated land.
Terraseed® patented systems and products are available for:
• Organic and conventional farming
• Salad and vegetable production
Terraseed® retains moisture and heats the soil, accelerating germination and crop growth.
We offer specialist advice, staff training, laying equipment and licences for manufacture and international distribution of Terraseed® products.
Terraseed® is committed to ongoing development projects covering a range of other crops and applications including amenity and phytoremediation.


Welcome to Rice!
Sustainable tourism is always a difficult balance; a need to offer quality facilities for the traveller but without destroying the very reason they come to experience the region.
As the Sidemen Valley evolves and becomes an increasingly desirable destination, we are delighted to introduce Rice @ Samanvaya. The concept of Rice was derived from our wish to blend naturally with this delicate environment.
Our guests will be able to enjoy the ambiance of being immersed within the rice field itself. Here at Samanvaya and unique to Sidemen, we are delighted to offer Lumbung style accommodation. Lumbungs are traditional rice barns originally used for the storage of harvested rice. Bamboo is one of the most sustainable building materials in the world. Our Lumbungs are a high quality construction of bamboo and alang alang which will blend effortlessly with the rice crops and simply enhance ones senses of the environment.
Growing rice throughout the year is not always possible due to water shortages on Bali. Here in the Sidemen Valley, rice crops are alternated with a variety of vegetables, tapioca, chillis, garlic, pak choi to name just a few. At Rice, there will be no formal gardens, no manicured lawns, just rice and vegetables.
Rice sits snuggly beside Samanvaya where not only will you be 'at one' with the rice padis, but also enjoy incredible vistas and all the facilities one would expect of a boutique resort.
Already iconic in the Sidemen landscape, The Ananda Yoga,Chakra and Spa, a stunning cultural fusion built of bamboo and alang alang. With three treatment rooms, Spa bathroom and a Yoga Hall offering amazing vistas across the rice terraces to the hills and coast, it compliments beautifully the facilities offered both to our guests and visitors to Sidemen.
The addition of Kenyeri Lodge offering 'suite'style accommodation has now completed our wooden lodge accommodation.
The opening of our four new spacious 'villa style ' Lumbungs to complete our guest accommodation at Samanvaya.
Our new Restaurant aptly named 'Rice', situated deep in the rice terraces at Samanvaya. It will not only offer great cuisine, but also panoramic views of the valley all the way to the coastline of Bali. Adjacent to our 'Rice' restaurant will be a new sun terrace and hot tub to enhance our guest facilities.
Our original restaurant will still retain the bar and with comfy sofas, will be strictly for 'chillaxing', whether its reading a book, playing a boardgame or just mixing with others whilst sipping a cocktail!
Finally, it is not just about development, we are proud to announce our small part in protecting some of the surrounding rice terraces of Samanvaya. By collaborating with some of the local farming community, we have secured the views for years to come of some 3000 square metres of rice terraces. Not only our guests will continue to benefit from the fabulous views, but the farmers having received substantial financial reward, may continue their traditional way of life with greater financial security. It's a 'win win' situation and one that we are delighted to participate in.
Why not follow us on Facebook or Samanvaya news on our home page for all current news and progress at Samanvaya.
So, please enjoy......................!
Copyright www.samanvaya-bali.com © 2018. All rights reserved


Vancouver-based clean water startup Ostara has built a new sewage treatment technology that reduces water pollution and saves money simultaneously. Founded in 2005 after licensing its technology from the University of British Columbia at Vancouver, Ostara hopes to market its technology to industrial customers, including commodities-grade phosphorus rock processing plants.
Ostara’s sewage treatment technology harvests phosphorus and ammonia from municipal sewage treatment plants and turns it into fertilizer pellets. The process saves cities money by keeping sewage treatment plants humming efficiently, and it will likely reduce polluted runoff from agriculture because the fertilizer is easier for plants to absorb than standard fertilizer applications.
Phosphorus for agricultural fertilizer has typically been harvested from rock, with the greatest remaining reserves in Morocco and Western Sahara, China, and Algeria. The price of phosphorus has tripled since 2006 due to supply shortages. That value has created a key market opportunity for Ostara.
“Waste water is no longer seen as waste,” said Phillip Abrary, president and CEO of Ostara.
The company is offering an important service to municipal treatment plants. State and federal regulations have grown increasingly stringent on the amount of phosphorus that can be in the water a plant returns to nature after processing. That’s because, although phosphorus occurs naturally, when there is too much of it in water – from human or animal waste or from runoff from gardens, lawns, or agricultural – algae – can bloom, sucking oxygen out of the water and killing other aquatic life.
Ostara partners with plants that meet their phosphorus discharge limits by using microorganisms to remove the element from the rest of the sewage, a process called bio-P. The microorganisms are then treated in a digester, which in turn creates a solid “sludge cake” that is given to farmers as a soil amendment or incinerated, biogas, and a liquid waste stream. The latter contains most of the phosphorus and is typically routed back through the treatment plant.
Routing the phosphorus back to the head of the plant is a burden because it causes scale on the pipes and can reduce capacity to manage and process incoming phosphorus and ammonia. “The bugs can go out of balance,” said Abrary.
Phosphorus can build up on pipes and equipment, forming a concrete like scale called struvite. Removing it, either manually or with chemicals, is time-consuming and expensive. Avoiding those costs is part of what makes the Pearl system economically attractive.
Ostara’s Pearl system, takes that liquid waste stream, known as “dewatering liquors”, and pulls out more than 85% of the phosphorus and approximately 10-30% of the ammonia by adding magnesium to form a precipitation reaction. The end result is crystals composed of phosphorus, nitrogen, and magnesium that Ostara markets as Crystal Green fertilizer. “We help them dispose of the waste stream in an efficient way,” said Abrary.


Do you grow herbs in your kitchen? One of the most effective winter-blues remedies I've tried so far was creating my own window herb garden. There is something so cheerfully wonderful about tons of greenery that spreads the most divine scent around the whole flat. I even have a little lemon balm plant on my work desk and this rosemary plant on our coffee table.
Big plus: you don't have to have a green thumb to be able to keep those goodies fresh and alive. You just need to keep to a few little basics and you are set.
Here are a few tricks I learned from my friend Paul:
- try to start your herb adventure with those four: sage, rosemary, parsley and thyme. They are easier to care for
- always choose organic potting mix
- only water your herbs twice a week under the kitchen tap and only until the water runs out of the draining holes
- try not to wet the leaves
- the best place for herbs is a sunny window spot but not on a direct light.
That is it - easy, right? So, what do you say? Are you planning to start your little herb garden now? xo
P.S: Radiator-shelf plants and here is a brilliant window farm idea that I am dying to try!
P.P.S: A sassy GIVEAWAY Wednesday is coming up!
(Photos by/via Neest, Indulgy, Allison Jones, Décor de Provence and Jillm. Layout by exPress-o)


Artificial pollination of date palms has been practiced over thousands of years to improve the fruiting traits in date palms. Due to the changes in agricultural practices in the modern period, mechanical pollination techniques were tried in some parts of the world. But machine pollination of date palms has not gained popularity worldwide owing to economic, environmental, or technical challenges. Of late, agricultural drones were introduced to pollinate date palms in significantly less time and reduce the risk of injury, manpower, and cost. Modern drones can have integrated, built-in smart data-collecting devices to provide the farmers with all relevant information. Although this autonomous method provides a number of benefits in terms of labor and cost, pollination time, ease of use, etc, studies have not yet entirely evaluated the efficacy of drone pollination on date palms. This paper summarizes the outcomes of an autonomous drone pollination study performed during the 2022 season in the orchards of Oman. The pros and cons of this artificial aerial pollination method are examined in the paper. The impact of this method of pollination on crop yield, fruit quality, and fruit set percentage are analyzed. This study also explores the limitations of the autonomous drone pollination system and throws light on ways to improve its efficiency.


Items by dicksonchow tagged with "plants"
What is Plant Friends?
Plant Friends is a plant environmental monitor system. It monitors the soil moisture, air temperature, and air humidity of your indoor plant(s) and will alert you via email and SMS when your plants are thirsty. The system is battery operated, wireless, Arduino and Raspberry Pi based and comes with an Android app. The app enables you to look at the real-time and historical data (temperature, humidity, soil moisture) on your phone.
More info here! http://dicksonchow.com/plantfriends2
Follow me and I'll show you how you can build your own Plant Friends system! Beginners welcome!


You Will Not Buy Tangerines Again. Plant Them In A Flowerpot and You Will Always Have Hundreds Of Them!
Mandarin oranges also known as tangerines are orange-colored citrus fruit. This fruit is variety of oranges but, tangerines are small citrus fruit has a loose skin and have sweeter and juicy flesh.
This tasty fruit is packed with nutrients and antioxidant properties and offers numerous health benefits. Namely, tangerines are abundant with vitamin C and this vitamin is powerful treatment for common cold and flu, arthritis and also has antiviral and anticancer activity. Tangerines contain natural soluble and insoluble fiber and it is scientifically proved that this fiber can prevent cholesterol and improves the work of the digestive system. In addition to this, the mandarin organs are rich source o flavonoid antioxidants and iron. We can conclude that tangerines are remarkable fruit and are extremely beneficial for the health of the heart and in same time prevent obesity.
You can buy tangerines in the local grocery store, but what about growing your own tangerine tree that is organic? People who live in tropical or sub-tropical regions can grow this tree in their garden, but another option is to plant this tree in a pot. The procedure is super easy and all you need to is few tangerine seeds, pot and soil. Now you can have your own tangerines that are100% organic.
How to Grow Tangerines at Home
Preparation and Planting
In order to grow tangerine tree you will need a medium-sized flower pot. It is important to take a pot with holes at the bottom. First of all place small stones and a bit of sand on the bottom of the pot and after that add organic soil. Next step is to put 2-3 tangerine seeds in the soil and then cover them well with ½ inch of potting soil. You should press the firmly into the soil and after that cover the pot with a plastic bag. On this way you will promote germination. Last, but not least, you should place the flower pot in area with plenty of sunlight.
It is extremely important to keep the potting mixture moist. Occasionally you should ad some fertilizer that contains zinc, magnesium and iron. With a proper care, within 3 weeks the seedling should develop. Once the seedling is developed you should remove the plastic and move the pot to a place with a direct sunlight. Over time, as your tangerine tree grows, you should transfer it into a larger container.
Don’t forget to water the tangerines regularly and cut the broken branches.
In order to grow tangerine tree you need to place the pot in a direct sunlight for 8-12 hours a day. It is advisable to place your tree near the window. You can promote the growth of the tangerines by using a supplemental light.
Ideal temperature for growing a tangerine tree is70–80°F (21–27°C) during day and no lower than 55°F (13°C) at night. If is well watered, the tangerine tree can tolerate even lower and higher temperatures.
You should keep in mind that tangerines are susceptible to spider mites, mealy bugs and scale. In order to prevent damage you need to check your tangerine tree regularly and also you should apply insecticidal soap. For mild infestations you can apply rubbing alcohol using a Q-tip.


The preservation of plant diversity and seed heritage is a global issue at the crossroads of science, technology, and society. Today, preserving the past and the fashioning the future can no longer be in contradiction. Research must rise to the challenge of feeding growing populations without jeopardizing natural habitats and biodiversity, and with this aim, scientists are in the process of reshaping and further developing plant biotechnology in order to contribute to sustainable agriculture.
Join the discussion on this topic between Professor Christian Hardtke, Director of the Department of Plant Molecular Biology at the University of Lausanne, in Switzerland, and Professor Kent Bradford, Director of the Seed Biotechnology Center and Distinguished Professor of Plant Sciences at the University of California, Davis.
*This event is part of Cultivating our Future, a month-long program in June 2014 during which swissnex San Francisco investigates our relationship to plants and imagines a green and healthy future for cities and the planet. Events tackle the theme through the lens of community, research, art, and design.
6:00 pm doors open
6:30 pm program begins
7:30 pm audience Q&A
8:00 pm networking reception
9:00 pm doors close
[ART] Month of June: GARDENS | BOTANICA photography exhibition from Mario Del Curto
[COMMUNITY] June 2: Urban Farming: Food Cultivation as Civic Engagement
[ART] June 12: Artists Mario Del Curto and Rachel Sussman in conversation
[DESIGN] June 14: Material Matters
Prof. Kent J. Bradford
Kent Bradford is the Director of the Seed Biotechnology Center and Distinguished Professor of Plant Sciences at the University of California, Davis. His research interests include physiology, genetics, ecology, biochemistry, molecular biology and biophysics of seed development, dormancy, germination, and longevity; hormonal regulation of seed and plant development; mathematical modeling of germination responses to environmental factors and agricultural biotechnology. The UC Davis Seed Biotechnology Center is a research, education, and outreach unit of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences dedicated to the development and commercialization of new plant and seed technologies for agricultural and consumer benefit.
Lisa M. Hamilton (moderator)
Writer and photographer Lisa M. Hamilton focuses on agriculture and rural communities. Her work has taken her from castration time on a Wyoming sheep ranch to a meeting of radical plant breeders in Iowa; from quinoa farms in the highlands of Bolivia to sacred rice paddies along the coast of Japan. She is the author of Deeply Rooted: Unconventional Farmers in the Age of Agribusiness, and her work has also been published in Harper’s, The Christian Science Monitor,McSweeney’s, and Orion.
Prof. Christian S. Hardtke
Christian Hardtke is the Director of the Department of Plant Molecular Biology at the University of Lausanne, Switzerland. He is particularly interested in the remarkable plasticity of plants in their development and their adaptation to variable environments. His research revolves around the molecular genetic control of plant development, with a focus on genes that modify quantitative aspects of plant growth and morphology. He is particularly interested in the hormonal control of root system architecture and the organization of the plant vascular system. His studies also exploit natural genetic variation, adding an occasional evolutionary ecology twist to his work
Photo: Myleen Hollero


Seth Shulman: Got Science? Pushing Back Against Corporate ‘Counterfeit Science’
There’s more to corporate counterfeit science than ghostwritten articles, however. Consider the eye-opening case of the agribusiness firm Syngenta and its product atrazine, a widely used agricultural pesticide on corn, sorghum, and sugar cane crops.
Read more: Fraud, Corruption, Politics News, Koch Brothers, Corporations, Health, Environment, Science, Food Safety, Corporate Social Responsibility, Corporate Greed, Syngenta, Georgia Pacific, Climate Science Denial, Counterfeit Science, Climate Change Denial, Science News
via Health on Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/seth-shulman/got-science-pushing-back-_b_3586540.html


Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species that is grown specifically for the industrial uses of its derived products. It is one of the fastest growing plants and was one of the first plants to be spun into usable fiber 50,000 years ago. It can be refined into a variety of commercial items, including paper, textiles, clothing, biodegradable plastics, paint, insulation, biofuel, food, and animal feed.
Hemp seeds and oil are also used in food and dietary supplements. The seeds contain high levels of protein, dietary fiber, and essential amino acids, and they are a good source of iron and vitamin E. The oil, which is obtained by cold pressing the seeds, is often used as a cooking oil and in personal care products.
Hemp has a number of potential benefits as an agricultural crop. It is a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional crops, as it requires fewer pesticides and fertilizers and has a shorter growing season. It is also a versatile crop that can be grown in a variety of climates and soil types.
In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of hemp for medical purposes. Some studies have suggested that certain compounds found in hemp may have potential as treatments for a range of conditions, including anxiety, chronic pain, and epilepsy. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential medical benefits of hemp.
Hemp can be used in a variety of ways as a sustainable material. Some examples include:
- Building materials: Hemp can be used as a replacement for traditional building materials such as wood, concrete, and fiberglass. Hempcrete, a mixture of hemp and lime, is a popular building material that is strong, durable, and insulating.
- Textiles: Hemp can be used to make clothing, ropes, and other textiles. It is known for its durability and resistance to pests and rot, and it requires less water and pesticides to grow compared to traditional crops such as cotton.
- Biodegradable plastics: Hemp can be used to make biodegradable plastics, which are plastics that break down naturally in the environment. These plastics are a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to decompose.
- Paper: Hemp can be used to make paper that is stronger and more durable than traditional paper made from trees. It requires fewer chemicals and less energy to produce than traditional paper, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
- Biofuel: Hemp can be used to produce biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel. These biofuels are made from the oil extracted from hemp seeds and can be used as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels.
By using hemp as a sustainable material, it is possible to reduce the environmental impact of various products and industries, while also supporting the growth of a sustainable and environmentally friendly crop.
why fast fashion should use hemp fiber in the collection ?
There are several reasons why fast fashion companies may want to consider using hemp fiber in their collections:
- Sustainable: Hemp is a sustainable and environmentally friendly crop that requires fewer pesticides and fertilizers and has a shorter growing season than traditional crops such as cotton. This makes it a more sustainable option for fashion companies looking to reduce their environmental impact.
- Durable: Hemp fiber is known for its durability and strength, making it less likely to wear out or tear compared to other fibers. This can help fashion companies reduce waste and save money by producing clothing that lasts longer.
- Hypoallergenic: Hemp fiber is hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin. This can make it a good option for fashion companies looking to appeal to a wider customer base.
- Soft and comfortable: Despite its strength and durability, hemp fiber is also soft and comfortable to wear. This can make it a good choice for fashion companies looking to produce comfortable and stylish clothing.
Overall, using hemp fiber in fast fashion collections can provide a number of benefits, including sustainability, durability, hypoallergenicity, and comfort. By incorporating hemp into their collections, fashion companies can help to reduce their environmental impact and appeal to a wider customer base.
Hemp is considered a sustainable crop for several reasons:
- Low water usage: Hemp requires less water to grow compared to traditional crops such as cotton. This makes it a more sustainable option for farmers, as it reduces the strain on local water resources.
- Low pesticide and fertilizer usage: Hemp is naturally resistant to pests and diseases, meaning it requires fewer pesticides and fertilizers to grow compared to other crops. This helps to reduce the environmental impact of farming and can also be beneficial for the health of farmers and consumers.
- Fast-growing: Hemp is a fast-growing crop that can be harvested in just a few months. This means it can be grown more quickly and efficiently than other crops, reducing the overall environmental impact of farming.
- Versatility: Hemp can be used in a wide range of products, including clothing, building materials, paper, and biofuels. This versatility makes it a sustainable alternative to traditional materials, as it can be used to replace a variety of products that are less environmentally friendly.
- Carbon sequestration: Hemp is able to absorb and sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as it grows. This means that it can help to mitigate the impacts of climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in the soil.
Overall, the sustainable properties of hemp make it a valuable and environmentally friendly crop that has the potential to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Why Thailand can produce the good hemp fiber ?
Thailand has a number of factors that contribute to its ability to produce high-quality hemp fiber:
Climate: Thailand has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures, which is well-suited for the growth of hemp. The hot and humid conditions are ideal for the plant to thrive, producing strong and durable fiber.
Soil quality: Thailand has a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, which are suitable for growing hemp. The country also has a long history of cultivating crops, which has helped to improve the fertility of the soil over time.
Agricultural expertise: Thailand has a long tradition of agriculture, and its farmers are experienced in cultivating a variety of crops. This expertise helps to ensure that hemp is grown effectively and efficiently, resulting in high-quality fiber.
Government support: The Thai government has shown strong support for the hemp industry, including through the development of policies and programs that support the cultivation and processing of hemp. This support helps to create a favorable environment for the production of hemp fiber.
Overall, the combination of favorable climatic conditions, good soil quality, agricultural expertise, and government support make Thailand an ideal location for the production of high-quality hemp fiber.
If you do require more information about using the hemp fiber or yarn for your global or local product in any industries , please feel free to contact us so that we can provide you for the hemp network in Thailand and connection. However, Kongkiat is one the most advanced research team in ASIA and have knowhow to produce the hemp-related product. be sure to keep in touch.


Convenient for an on the go measured dose in a soft gel capsule. Moon Mother Hemp Company’s full spectrum hemp extract capsules are made from USDA certified organic hemp suspended in certified organic coconut derived MCT Oil.
Quantity: 30 Soft Gel Capsules – 300MG
Ingredients: Full Spectrum Hemp Extract Made from USDA Certified Organic Hemp, Organic MCT Oil, Softgel Capsule (gelatin, vegetable glycerin, purified water)
Moon Mother Hemp Co. Process: Full Spectrum Hemp is extracted with CO2. Full spectrum hemp extract contains over 80 naturally occurring phytocannabinoids (including CBD, CBG, CBN, THC & more), amino acids, vitamins, trace minerals, omegas and other phytonutrients. All of Moon Mother’s hemp is grown by their own team in Boulder, CO and is USDA Certified Organic. Moon Mother ensures quality by overseeing each stage of production from seedlings to sale.
Lab Results – Moon Mother Lab Capsules


Our story began from the desire to resume an old project started by our grandparents. They wanted to cultivate the indigenous vines that have always been cultivated in our territory, therefore well rooted and adapted to the pedoclimatic conditions, and the make them on the spot.
We have converted the old marquee-type plants with new counter-espalier farming methods to increase the quality of the grape raw material thanks to the inherited experience and the knowledge acquired through in-depth studies. Furthermore, all the vineyards are BIO certified from 2017.
Love for our land comes out from the respect for the native vines “vertically trellised”, a way of plantation with an horizontal permanent cord used as an extension of the trunk
Thanks to the respect of the land tradition and its vines, we produce wines such as Nero di Toia, one of the oldest and most characteristic in the northern of Apulia, Primitivo, introduced into our region by the Phoenician colonization or the next Hellenic one, and Negramaro, dating back to the Greek colonization.
A story that reflects itself in the tradition of our company, in the passion for our job which has its roots in family history
The grapes who are produced in our 22 hectares of land are harvested and vinified in our cellar with the most modern wine-making techniques. The company operates in a short supply chain since all the production steps take place internally with the management of the owners Gianni (wine-making expert) and Nicola (winemaker) with the collaboration of external technicians.
From the care of our vineyards to produce excellent quality grapes, the wine making and refining of the wines take place at a controlled temperature until the final bottling phase. All stages of production are kept under control daily to ensure the highest quality, healthiness and organoleptic expression of the final product.


Automation is becoming increasingly important on modern dairy cow farms to allow for efficient and profitable milk production. In particular, the ability to feed several times per day has a positive impact on the cows dry matter intake and feed conversion efficiency. Research shows that a higher feed conversion ratio is the basis for improved overall condition and health of the cattle, resulting in a higher milk yield, better fertility and animal health. The addition of automatic feeding may appear to be a unmanageable step for many dairy producers, but due to improved efficiencies automatic feeding can be profitable with as few as 50 cows.
Automatic feeding results in a higher milking frequency when an automated milking system is used. However, even without an automatic milking system, the cows produce more milk with a feeding robot. The reason is the continuous supply of freshly mixed feed. This means less competition for feed and more timid cows receive the ration they need. It is also very important for each group to get the right rations, with different menus for calves, lactating cows and dry cows. Precisely formulated rations achieve the best results. This also applies to goats and beef cattle. With an automatic feeding system you can get the best possible results. With a feeding robot you can program different rations, and each group of cattle can receive fresh feed up to 12 times per day. That's really not practical without automatic feeding.
Flexibility and quality of life
Automation also means flexibility for the livestock farmer, simplifying the farm management process, resulting in a more relaxed private life. Depending on the design, the feed can be stored in the feed kitchen for one or more days, which leads to more flexibility in when the feed kitchen is restocked. The automatic feeding system can be programmed so that the feeding robot carries out the feed turns on its own, without any intervention by the (dairy) farmer. This flexibility makes it easier to schedule other activities, such as making silage. Loading the feed kitchen can also be planned in such a way as to minimize farm work at times like weekends or holidays.
Automatic feeding system from Trioliet
Trioliet has developed the Triomatic automatic feeding system, where simplicity is king. The 12 different Triomatic systems are easy to use and to install. The different feed storage systems can be combined with the wheel-based feeding robot, the battery powered robot and the rail suspended feeding robot.
Switch to an automatic feeding system?
As you investigate automatic feeding you will see that its benefits are many times more than just the savings in labor. Research among Triomatic users has shown that the cost savings can add up to as much as EUR 40,000. The savings come mainly from improved usage of feedstuffs, higher milk production with better content, reduced labor and lower energy costs. The Triomatic's energy consumption is approximately 10 kWh per day per 100 livestock units, which is still less than EUR 2 per day. But it is not only the bottom line that improves, the cows' health also improves because they are being fed multiple times per day.
It has been proven that feeding more frequently means higher feed conversion, higher milk production, better health and higher fertility among the livestock. To be able to feed more frequently, modern farmers with livestock opt for robotic feeding systems. the addition of automatic feeding may appear to be a unmanageable step for many dairy producers, but due to improved efficiencies automatic feeding can be profitable with as few as 50 cows.


A Memory from My Youth
It was time for wheat harvest. The days were very hot. Dad and Uncle Finley kept a close watch on the fields so that the wheat could be harvested at just the right moment.
They also kept a close watch on the sky. A hard rain and/or high wind could ruin the crop. That is a fearful thing for a farmer.
I can still see Uncle Finley eating grains of wheat as he leaned back against a wall. He would take the wheat tops and rake the seeds out into his hand and eat them.
As a child I was curious. I remember asking Uncle Finley why he was eating the seeds. He told me that the seeds were wheat and placed some in my hand and told me to eat them.
I looked at him strangely. I thought, ‘I have never eaten these seeds. Will they hurt me?’
Uncle Finley started telling me that the seeds were what we used to make our bread. In order to convince me, he also told me of other foods we make with wheat.
Yes, I ate the seeds. They were hard, of course, yet they were tasty.
Winnowing by Machine
Usually a farmer in our community came with his combine. The combine would thresh the wheat, separating the seeds from the chaff and straw. Then another man riding on the combine would pull a lever and let the grains of wheat pour into sacks.
The sacks of wheat were tied with twine and stored in our granary. Some would be used for flour; but most for feeding our animals.
The straw (the stems of the wheat plants) would be left behind in the field. Later, we would bind the straw into bales and store in the barn for bedding.
Winnowing by Hand
I remember times when we had to separate the wheat from the chaff by hand. Those were back breaking days.
The wheat would be spread out on a large white sheet. Each of us would take a corner and lift the sheet. Then we would fling the wheat up into the air so that the wind would carry away the chaff leaving the heavier grains of seed to fall back into the sheet. This process is called winnowing.
It seemed we could never get the wheat clean enough. Yet, when Mom saw that the wheat was finally clean, we would gather up the corners of the sheet so that we wouldn’t lose any of the precious grains. Then we would pour the grain into clean sacks and store for later use.
Winnowing the World
Those harvesting days help me to understand Scriptures such as Matthew 13:30 and Matthew 3:12.
“Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.” Matthew 13:30
“Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” Matthew 3:12
Jesus speaks of His children as being precious wheat. The floor is the world that He has created. The wind and other forces of nature are under His control.
Just as our family lifted the sheets and let the wind carry the chaff away, so will Jesus separate or winnow His precious seed from the chaff.
Jesus will gather his precious children into His garner which is heaven. And the chaff, those who rejected His love extended toward them, will be cast into an unquenchable fire.
Having harvested wheat, I understand just how precious each grain of wheat is. Plowing, disking, seeding, fertilizing, and harvesting is no easy task. It is very labor-intensive.
Neither has Jesus spared any expense, even giving His own life, so that at harvest time many souls will be ready for heaven.
I am glad that I am one of those that Jesus considers precious seed. I look forward to the day when He will garner me into heaven.
Are you one of those precious seeds? If not, you can be.
Let Jesus speak to your heart as you read these words from John 3:16-17; 36.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Believe on Jesus the Messiah. Give your heart to Him today, and He will prepare you for heaven.
Then when Jesus winnows the peoples of the earth, you will be part of those who will be gathered to live with Him in heaven.


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Public Profile: Calgene Inc was acquired by Monsanto in 1996. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Monsanto Company, By modifying canola seed oil, Calgene has created a portfolio of unique edible and industrial oils with a variety of new applications. Calgene's cotton genetic engineering program is focused on the development of herbicide resistant and insect resistant cotton varieties. Calgene has identified and cloned or acquired rights to a portfolio of genes which influence the ripening and post harvest physiology of many fruits and vegetables


Audemars Piguet is starting off the week with some incredible news. The luxury watchmaker has released photos from Brazil, where the Audemars Piguet Foundation financed the redevelopment of forest lands to help populations at risk escape poverty.
The initiative was executed in the Cerrado, a vast tropical ecoregion to the north of Sao Paolo. This savannah region has recently been ravaged by mining activity, pushing small farmers to the margins.
The Audemars Piguet Foundation’s project aims to help those in need by financing the creation of family nurseries and a training cycle for young farmers.
Families involved in the project have received the seeds and the necessary training to create nurseries for trees, vegetables and grains that are adapted to degraded soil and climatic changes.
The Audemars Piguet foundation has worked closely with Entraide Protestante Suisse (EPER) to fund EPER’s local initiatives, which will recreate biodiversity and reforest lands.
Photos courtesy Audemars Piguet.