… Growers are experimenting with spacing and seeding rates. Broadcast seeds should then be lightly disked or dragged to bury them to a depth of about one inch deep. 2 - 9 lbs. In a straight stand, cowpeas form a dense weed suppressing mat and fix nitrogen. 4,100. Bradyrhizobium. The growing period for cowpeas is about 60 to 90 days from planting. 1.11 The Harvesting of Cowpea: 1.12 The yield of Cowpea: 1.13 The bottom line of Growing Cowpeas: Share to Help Farming. per acre - Broadcast Rates of 20-30 lbs. Address 14656 Pittsburg Rd Marion, … As low as $11.99 53. Seed rate Growing Cowpeas. Replacing 10 percent of the normal cowpea seeding rate with a fast-growing, drought-tolerant sorghum-sudangrass hybrid increases dry matter production and helps support the cowpea plants for mowing. If broadcast, use 100 lbs per acre and lightly till or harrow. There are many varieties of cowpeas out … These types of seeds have over 80% germination rate, survive a wide range of soil conditions and are drought resistant. 7. Soil Well drained soil with rich organic matter content and warm humid climate is best suited for the cultivation of vegetable cowpea. Commercial seeding rates would depend on plant spacing. AER 1 = Agro-Ecological Region 1. A lower rate of 70 lb./A can work with good moisture and effective incorporation (361). Home Seeds Legume Cowpeas (Red Ripper) Cowpeas (Red Ripper) SKU: WSLG012 Legume Keywords: Legumes, Nitrogen Production $ 2.63 per lb. Plant bush beans in either rows or blocks, with 4-6 inches between each seed. Varieties differ in 10 - 19 lbs. 50+ lbs. If drilling cowpeas, the seeding rate should be increased in a similar percentage that soybeans are increased for this same application (row planting versus drilling). Cowpeas Growing Info ... Seeding Depth: Seeding Rate (1,000 Sq. Season in Growing Cowpeas . Key. The upright variety Cowpea seed plants are harvested by a machine. It is important to note that cover crop mixtures express themselves very differently based on season and location. Seeding Rate Studies Results from our three site-year study on seeding rates conducted in 2015 and 2016 in Perkins County showed the field pea response to plant population was linear at lower densities (up to 200,000 plants/ac), then began to plateau at about 200,000 plants/ac, reaching its maximum at approximately 310,000 plants/ac (Figure 2).Yield in 2015 was higher (maximum yield 33 … Be notified by email when this product is back in stock. Iron Clay Cow Peas produce forage in 45 days and mature seed in 100 days. Iron and Clay Cowpeas. These peas are ideal mixed with other food plot crops and are easy to divide and plant as short strips between other crops. Weed management. Iron Clay Cow Peas - Iron Clay Peas are a warm season Legume used as an added ingredient to Spring, Summer and Fall food plots for wildlife. You'll notice that I rounded up some values for practicality. Planting For optimum yield, cowpeas should be planted in early June in Missouri, although planting dates from the late-May through mid-June are appropri-ate. Dual and Outlook). They are also free from pests and diseases and grow to healthy crops. Cowpeas are great for fixing nitrogen during the main growing season when temperatures are warm. Planting Ebony cowpea with sorghum or millet as a combination crop can add some real benefits; adding nitrogen to the system for increased yield, while also providing a more balanced ration for grazing stock, and adding quality to hay and silage cuts through increased protein content. $43.99 10 lbs. Iron and Clay Cowpeas. But ensure you select the healthy ones. $1.84 / lb. 25-30 lbs. In pure stands, most common seeding rates is 50 - 60 lbs/acre. I have successfully planted cowpeas without inoculating them; however, inoculation will increase crop productivity and success. Drilled seeding rate: 50lb/acre OR Plant 3-5 lb. seed, young leaves or seed and pod. A seeding rate of 50 pounds per acre is recom-mended and the field type seed cost is typically $0.35/pound. Vegetable Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp.) Seed rate: 12kg/ha: Spacing: 75 x 15 cm: Target regions: I, II, Yield potential: 1,000-1,500kg/ha 1-ZAMBIA’S AGRO-ECOLOGICAL ZONES. The base temperature for germination is 8,5 °C and for leaf growth 20 °C. 1.10 Water Supply for Cowpea Production. Seeding rate for each mixture was calculated according to the seed rate proportion of both grasses and legumes.Diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser was applied at planting at rate of 100 kg ha-1 in all treatments, and 50 kg ha-1 nitrogen fertiliser in the form of urea was applied after establishment for pasture plots receiving only grass species according to pervious recommendations (IAR, 1988). The final seeding rate for each species is then carried over and sum up for a total of 95 pounds of cover crop seed per acre. Clover, Red: Anytime: 1/4 – 1/2″ 1/2 lbs. Cowpea roots have been documented at penetrating over 8 ft. into the soil profile, which is far superior to soybean roots. Email adamdahmer @advancecovercrops.com. 30 - 39 lbs. Cowpea grown as a dried seed and can be directly combined, using a platform head or a row crop head. Hancock's Spring & Summer Food Plot Seed Mix **Hancock's Spring & Summer Food Plot Seed Mix is currently a P... $26.99 5 lbs. $1.31 / lb. These plots were drill planted in 7.5 inch rows in a no-till seedbed on May 15, 2017, at the Noble Research Institute Headquarters Farm in Ardmore, Oklahoma, on a Heiden clay soil. The seed should be planted similar to soybeans, at 1 to 1 1/2 inches deep. Notify Me. WhatsApp. Seed Treatment for Growing Cowpeas. seed rates for sole cropping: Page 3 Bushy types: 30-50 kg/ha (120,000 plants/ha) Spreading types: 12-15 kg/ha (60,000 plants/ha) Planting time: Varies with places, cowpea can be planted any time from about end of November until mid January. Drill cowpeas into moist soil at 1-2 inches deep at a seeding rate of 30 lbs per acre (use higher rates in cooler, drier conditions). 25-30 lbs. 15-25 lbs. Talk To An Expert : (618) 922 7446; Cover Crop Rollers & Seeds. Iron and Clay Cowpeas. The cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) is an annual herbaceous legume from the genus Vigna.Due to its tolerance for sandy soil and low rainfall, it is an important crop in the semiarid regions across Africa and Asia. Red Ripper Cowpeas are a warm-season legume used as an added ingred... Out of stock 13. A plant density of 300,000 to 350,000 plants per acre or seven to eight plants per square foot is recommended. Ft.) Seeding Rate (1 Acre) Alfalfa: Spring & Summer: 1/4 – 1/2″ 1/2 lbs. 40 - 49 lbs. CHART 7: Cowpea seed spacing Cowpeas are planted by direct seeding. Cowpeas also can be seeded with other tall annual crops such as pearl millet. Excellent for quail, dove & deer. This same approach should also be taken if using a no-till planting methods. Seeding Rates; Carbon Nitrogen Ratio; Crop Selector Tool; Digital Materials; Shipping; Contact; Get a Quote. In addition, choose the right variety. Name. Seeds per lb. $2.36 / lb. Drilled Seeding Rate (lbs/acre) 30 - 90 Use . The optimum temperature for growth and development is around 30 °C. Clover, White: Spring & Summer: 1/4 – 1/2″ 1/4 lb. Always select high-quality, disease free seed. Red Ripper Cow Peas. If you had saved some seeds from a past cultivation, you can use them instead. The following factors are important to consider when planting: • Plant a maximum of 3 seeds in each hole. Seeding rate was 54 pounds per acre. EL Type Inoculant (Garden Combo) EL Type inoculant is recommended for Alyce Clover, American Joint V... $11.99 6 oz. At Advance Cover Crops, Our Focus Is To Provide Resources, Tools, And Advice To Enhance No-Till Farming Operations. inoculant There are a wide range of seeding rates reported. Of course, consult your herbicide dealer and/or agronomist for the best options for your region. Clover, Sweet: Spring & Summer: 1/4 – 1/2″ 1/2 lb. Season June – July (Rainfed), February – March (irrigated) PKM 1: Seed rate 20 kg of seeds/ha is required. Adjustments to combine settings and possibly sieve sizes should be made of the Cowpea seed. Beans should not be grown in the same spot more than once every four years, and can be mutually beneficial with corn, strawberries and cucumber. 20 - 29 lbs. CLIMATIC REQUIREMENTS Temperature Cowpeas grow best during summer. Harvesting at the boot stage of the oats results in higher protein content and improved digestibility. Seeding Rate: 40-60 lbs/A (70-90 in northern areas or cooler, drier soils) Seeding Depth: 1 1/2” - 2 1/4” deep Iron Clay Cowpeas are a vining summer annual legume, and the beans it produces are also known as black-eyed peas. They can be planted in the spring for a summer annual or in late summer for a fall attraction plot. Most dry, edible bean herbicide programs will work for peas (i.e. Cowpea is a heat-loving and drought-tolerant crop. Home Advance Cover Crops – Cover Crops – Legumes – Iron and Clay Cowpeas. • After the seedlings emerge, thin to leave only 2 strong plants. The cost of seed, including freight and inoculation, is estimated at $0.76/lb. Early seeding will result in the best crop. … 5. Fertilisation Fertiliser application in cowpea production depends on anticipated yield and soil fertility. No caption available +1 ft. Known as the most heat-adapted legume with excellent drought tolerance, which can largely be attributed to it's stout tap root. Seeds can be drilled at a rate of 30 to 50 lbs./acre or broadcast at a rate of 50 to 75 lbs./acre. Avoid planting beans near onion or fennel. $1.05 / lb. Cowpea needs rainfall of between 250 – 750mm/year, sandy to heavy loam soils of about 4.2-5.0pH making it ideal for Region I. 20 to 25 kilogram of seed is required for harvesting pure grain and vegetable, while for fodder and green manure a seed rate of 35 to 40 kilogram of seed is required. 5-15 lbs. Varieties Co 2, VBN 2, Pusa Komal, PKM 1 and Arka Garima are commonly cultivated. View Cover Crop Seeding Rate Chart To Select The Right Crop For Your Operations. Less than 800mm rainfall per year. Plant to the rate of 60 lb. Legume: Warm Season. 1.5 Seed rate required in growing Cowpeas: 1.6 Selection of seeds for growing Cowpeas: 1.7 Manures and Fertilizers of Cowpea: 1.8 Methods of Sowing for Cowpea: 1.9 Weed Control in Cowpea Crop. Cowpea seeds must be treated with Rhizobium bacterial culture 600 grams before sowing. Cowpeas: Spring & Summer: 1 – 1/2″ 2 lbs. In this study, we planted seed on double lines to a bed at an average rate of about 40 pounds per acre. Call +618 922 7446. / acre can be used on row planting. $1.57 / lb. A high seeding rate and a thick stand is your best bet for season-long weed control. Customer Service Is Our Priority. spp. Planting Iron & Clay Cowpeas. Field pea varieties will range from 1,600 to 5,000 seeds per pound. Fabaceae. Timing of harvest is usually determined by the developmental stage of the oats or other small grain, which normally makes up most of the tonnage. It has a long taproot and its growth habit is similar to soybeans. Bulk Discount Pricing. Harvest is very similar to soybean harvest with a few exceptions. Facebook. Seeding Recommendations: Plant 1 inch inch deep at 80 lbs per acre in a pure stand. per 1000 sq. When the pods of Cowpea mature completely they become very long, some will touch the ground or be close to it, this … • Spacing should be at 50cm between rows and 20cm between plants at a depth of 1cm. Minimum Germination Temp: Emergence Time: Drill: 30 – 60 lbs. Seeding rate ranges from 25 to 30 kg of good and viable seeds per hectare in experimental stations. $2.10 / lb. A and till lightly to cover seed. Iron and Clay Cowpeas . The method of propagation, land preparation, planting and seed rate are summarised for farmers who would be interested in growing cowpea as revenue-earning cash crop. 449-3518) for a complete list of seed sources and recommended varieties. Harvest timing of oat/pea forage also has a large impact on yield and quality. Drilling at 6-7 inch spacing will have the fastest ground cover and works best for a shorter growing season. Cowpeas can also be planted in 15 to 30 inch rows. Planting Methods: Cowpeas should be broadcast into a well prepared seed bed and lightly disced or dragged to cover approximately 1” deep. The seeding rate will depend on the size of the seed. Out of Stock. 80-120 effective growing days. ARS Fact Sheet, Managing Cover Crops Profitably Broadcast Seeding Rate (lbs/acre) 80 - 100 Not a preferred method unless timely moisture is available for stand establishment.
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New Zealand Cervena venison has a subtle, delicate flavor, superb tenderness, and excellent nutritional qualities that are established early-on in the animal’s native environment.
Our venison is 100% naturally raised on the pastures of New Zealand using modern and environmentally-sustainable farming methods. Prairie Harvest’s trusted suppliers select exceptional animals according to certain age criteria to produce tenderness and savory flavor profiles. Product quality is carefully monitored at every stage – from the farming and transport of deer, at the processing plant, to the final export delivery.
|18038||Cervena Venison Stew Meat||Frozen||2 lb. pkg.|
|18028||Cervena Venison Boneless Shortloin||Frozen||1.2-2.5 lb.avg.|
|18038||Cervena Venison Osso Buco||Frozen||12-16 oz. each/4 per pkg.|
|18038||Cervena Venison Denver Leg Filet||Frozen||1.5-2 lb. avg.|
|18017||Cervena Venison 8-Rib Rack||Frozen, Frenched||1.9-2.5 lb. each/1 per pkg.|
|18040||Cervena Venison Tenderloin||Frozen||12-18 oz. each avg./2 per pkg.|


The spectacular topography of a multi-river valley intersected by several finger ridges leading up to the mountains created the perfect setting for 18 fantastic holes. San Buenas Golf Resort is the latest creation of Dan Lavis, a Canadian golf course architect.
In July of 2007 the initial routing plan was completed by Dan. The initial layout was confirmed and the location of 224 specimen indigenous trees were positioned by GPS coordinates. Dan was provided with this GPS data and re-routed several holes to ensure the preservation of these great natural resources and take advantage of the mature trees which add to the playability and beauty of a golf course.
Paspalum is native of Australia. It is a warm season perennial grass. The benefits of Paspalum are:
- Tolerance to high saline (salt) levels. This turf can even be sprayed with salt water.
- Low fertilizer requirements.
- Thrives in moist climates. Paspalum tolerates wet conditions well.
- Minimal dew collection. Paspalum exudes a natural “waxy” coating minimizing dew and raindrop collection thus creating quicker drainage. Add the fast-draining local sand and gravel soil under the turf, and playability will be great immediately after heavy rains.
We broke ground in April 2009, and opened the first 9 holes in 2010, combining links, tropical forest and an astonishing mountain view. The existing 9 holes are Par 37, over 3700 yards long from the back tees, and affordable from the blue, white or red tees. The grass we use is Paspalum, a salt water resisting turf that is ideal for this climate and conditions. The greens are big and fast, with challenging slopes and always well protected by strategically placed bunkers. The fairways are rather wide, but with deep rough, and water hazards longing or crossing.
San Buenas Golf Resort offers everything for an enjoyable round of golf, like carts, pull carts, rental clubs, also for left handed, both men and women.
Our philosophy is simple, we might not always be able to control lie of the greens; we certainly can’t predict the weather any more than the meteorologists can, but we can control our service to you.
It’s not all about golf. It’s the total experience that you have when you come through the door. Our goal is to be the Friendliest Course in Costa Rica!
Other courses might have nicer greens (though we haven’t seen them) or fancier clubhouses (probably without Wi-Fi), but no one will treat you as well as we do or provide you with a better value.
Welcome to the club. We hope you are as glad to be a part of our family as we are to have you in ours.


Eastern Ontario Local Food Conference 2016
Updated: 3 years ago - Created: November 15th, 2016
Date: November 23rd, 2016
Our local food systems are being constantly challenged by climate change, shifting trade landscapes, and social trends. At the same time, local food systems help to create resilience. They create environmental resilience by supporting diverse production and attracting more farmers into the field. They create economic resilience through business opportunities all along the value chain. They create social resilience by drawing communities together through food. This year’s conference will explore what we can do today to maintain and enhance the resilience of our local food system through uncertain times ahead, as well as the strong role that local food can play in buffering these challenges.
Register Here: http://www.eastontlocalfood.com/registration/


Great lawn and landscaping information pertaining to Midland, MI!
Most of us have spent a Saturday afternoon drenched in sweat, with a nose full of dust, pushing or riding a mower across the lawn. There’s something very satisfying about a great looking yard, but looks are not the only reason why your lawn in Midland, MI needs routine mowing.
Regular mowing serves many purposes, including tidy looks, maintaining grass health, eliminating pests, and clearing debris.
The most obvious benefit of routine mowing is a tidy looking yard. Even the most pristine homes will look unkempt if the grass is overgrown. A proper mowing job cuts every blade to the same length, creating a blanket-like appearance of thick, green grass. After a proper mow, the grass will be easier to walk on and more fun for children at play.
If you’ve ever seen a neglected field with tall grass, you know how random the growth becomes. Weeds take root and begin to dominate with the result being an uneven, tangled mess.
Without regular mowing, it’s impossible to maintain healthy, green grass. Professional crews know to follow the 1/3 rule, which states that grass should only be cut short enough to leave at least 1/3 of the blade intact. It’s important to leave enough surface area for photosynthesis to take place or the grass will suffer.
With all blades cut to a reasonable height, nutrients are more evenly distributed throughout ...
Just complete the form below to get a pricing quote.


"GAVRISH" Scientific-informative journal for greenhouse industry
Periodicity 6 issues per year
Circulation 1000-2000 copy
Establisher & Publisher
Scientific-research Institute of Greenhouse vegetable production (NIIOZG) ltd.
Editor in chief
S.F. Gavrish, doctor of Science (Agriculture), professor
Founder and Publisher:
“Scientific Research Institute of the Protected Ground Vegetable Growing” (NIIOZG) LLC
Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation
Sergey F. Gavrish
Doctor of Sciences (Agriculture), Director of the Scientific Research Institute of the Protected Ground Vegetable Growing
R.A. Gish – Doctor of Sciences (Agriculture), Professor, Head of the Vegetable Growing Department of Kuban State Agrarian University
Zh.P. Danailov – Doctor of Sciences (Agriculture), Professor, Institute of Plant Physiology and Genetics of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (Sofia)
P.I. Kiriy – Candidate of Agricultural Sciences, Chief Agriculturist of Public Joint-Stock Company (PAO) “Kombinat Teplichny”, Kiev, Ukraine
N.A. Kolpakov – Doctor of Sciences (Agriculture), acting Head of Altai State Agrarian University, Head of the Protected Gardening Department
V.G. Korol – Doctor of Sciences (Agriculture), Head of Varietal Technologies Division, Scientific Research Institute of the Protected Ground Vegetable Growing
R.D. Nurmetov – Doctor of Sciences (Agriculture), Professor, Deputy Director of the All-Russia Scientific Research Institute of Vegetable Growing, Head of Protected Ground Division
V.A. Pavlyushin – Doctor of Sciences (Biology), Academician of Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Director of State Research Institution All-Russia Institute of Plant Protection (GNU VIZR), Saint-Petersburg
A.V. Sitnikov - Candidate of Agricultural Sciences, Director of the State Unitarian Agricultural Enterprise (GUSP) “Vysokovsky”, Kostroma
Rules of articles review
- Receipt of the article by the editorial board, registration in the queue.
- Preliminary examination by the Head and Science Editor for compliance with remit of the journal, criteria: relevance, scientific novelty and other formal indicators. If the article meets the requirements of the journal and may be published it is submitted to the reviewer – the subject matter expert, Doctor or Candidate of Sciences, working on the subject of the article and having published articles in this area. The article may be returned to the author for revision to make additions and corrections in accordance with the comments of the Editor before being submitted for review.
- In the assessment of an article the reviewer follows the plan attached to this Procedure (Rules?).
- In some cases an article may be submitted repeatedly for reviewing to another subject matter expert. The work of a reviewer is paid.
- The reviewer provides the editorial board with a positive or negative review of the article not later than in 14 days; the editorial board introduces the results of the review to the author, without disclosing the name of the reviewer.
- The editorial board offers the author to revise the article according to the reviewer comments, then the Science and Literary Editor starts to work with the article.
- Cultivars and hybrids
- Trials results
- Greenhouse technologies
- Agrochemical service
- Plant protection
- Construction and equipment
- Bees and Bumblebees in greenhouses
- Conservatory floriculture
- Plant breeding and seed production
- and others
The order of manuscript scientific publications review,
received in redaction of scientific informational journal for specialists of protected ground «Gavrish»
- Articles, received in redaction, are directed by scientific editor to Doctor or Candidate of Sciences, possessing the closest scientific specialization to the topic of publication.
- Without review are published in journal: articles of RAAS members, journal’s editorial board members, and also articles, accompanied with written submission of RAAS members and journal’s editorial board members.
- For author(s) of article reviewer is always incognito.
- In exceptional cases is practiced double-blind peer review of the article.
- Terms of review in each case determines scientific editor in consideration of conditions creation for operational article publication.
- Order of authors inform about results of review.
After reception of affirmative review secretary of redaction informs authors about admission of article for publication with indication of it’s prospective term. The copy of review will be addressed to author with the number of journal, in which the article is published.
Upon reception of negative review the copy of review is addressed to author with proposal to refine article in accordance with the comments of reviewer or to refute (partially or entirely) with arguments.
Articles modified (reworked) by author are repeatedly directed for review.
Decision of publication expediency after repeated review makes the Head editor.
Refusal of publication.
Are not allowed to publication:
1) articles, not designed in accordance with accepted rules for authors and articles, whose authors did not performed the recommended with redaction technical revision of material;
2) articles, whose authors do not respond to the constructive comments of reviewer with their’s implementation or refutation.
7. Upon admission in redaction’s edition corresponding interpellation of review’s copy are directed to Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation.
8. Reviews are kept in publishing house and in redaction not less than 5 years.
Readership — Chiefs and specialists of Greenhouse farms in Russia and CIS countries
Subscription: in post office according to the Catalog “Press of Russia” and in the desk.
Desk address: 127287 2-ya Hutorskaya str. 11, Moscow, Russia
Tel.: +7 (499) 760-80-30
Fax: +7 (499) 760-84-75
If you want to share your company news with the entire horticulture industry, please send us a press release or contact our editorial staff. We will publish your news free of charge.


Ponza Prima Med ALF project is closely connected to the Third edition of the annual Ponza Prima-Med 2021 initiative. The ALF project focuses on sharing best practices on sustainability in the Mediterranean area, and beyond. At a beautiful Ponza Island venue, international Egyptian (Partners for Transparency) and Palestinian (Jerusalem Center for Women) partners will join the Italian Network for the Euro-Mediterranean Dialogue RIDE – APS in presenting and sharing the best practices for sustainable development in the agri-food sector.
More about the project
The project’s aim is to locate, describe, and share best practices in the fields of circular economy, community capacity building, and community need-assessment.
The selected best practices represent different cultural backgrounds and traditions from the Mediterranean area, coming together to achieve a clearer vision for the future, respecting peoples and the environment. The three partners will share the best practices, described on our website through videos and reports, with their respective community through local events as well.
Experts on sustainability lead working groups with associated experts coming from an array of relevant backgrounds. The working groups include representatives from municipalities, civil society organizations, local groups, as well as universities. The heterogeneity of the groups contributes to ensure the presence of as many viewpoints as possible.
Starting from local examples, traditions, and innovation, the working groups collectively create materials to share knowledge in the Mediterranean area as examples of social, economic, and environmental sustainability replicable beyond the region.
Co-founded by the EU
The project won funding through a call for proposals from the Anna Lindh Foundation.
“This Call for Proposals aims at enhancing EuroMed citizens’ intercultural knowledge, skills, and networking, through a cross-border cooperation that involves two or more organizations from different cultural background(s) or geographical scope”.
The working groups produced, through their meetings, a selection of best practices to be applied on a local community. One selected best practice for each partner was then described in a video. Italy (RIDE-APS) chose Community Composting, Egypt (PfT) chose Rural Flourish, for more efficient irrigation, and Palestine (JCW) described Agroecology, combining drip irrigation and natural fertilization of soil. You can find the video below.
These three best practices have also been analyzed in the descriptive papers.


The Agricultural Marketing Service of the USDA is proposing the use of blockchain technology to help trace the organic product supply chain. They suggest that DLT could play an essential role in making the supply chain of organic products more traceable.
USDA interested in blockchains
An August 5 report from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) noted that electronic tracking systems like blockchain could play a key role in adding traceability to the supply chain of its organic products.
The report states,
“DLT can provide secure, verifiable, transparent, and near-instantaneous tracking at the item level in complex supply chains. Critically, DLT can also protect confidential business information and trade secret information by automatically restricting sensitive information to authorized entities.”
The agency also acknowledged that leveraging an emerging technology like blockchain will demand additional development and time before an adequate system can be established in the organic … Read more


Good Shepherd Center
4649 Sunnyside Ave. N.
Seattle, WA 98103
10:00 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013
Have you been thinking about raising bees in your backyard? Honeybees are an asset to the backyard gardener because they pollinate fruit trees, berries, vegetables and other garden plants. And of course, their honey is a delicious and valuable product you can harvest at home and share with your family and friends. Winter is the perfect time to prepare for starting hives in the spring. This lecture-style introductory course will cover the fundamentals of beekeeping, including equipment, parts of the hive, apiary location and codes, feeding and treating bees,and seasonal management. This class will be instructed by expert beekeeper Corky Luster from Ballard Bee Company.
25 - 54 USD


Plants are essential for life on earth because all animals are reliant on plants for food (directly or indirectly). Most plants reproduce via seeds which are basically baby plants. As you read about seeds please remember that evolutionists propose that seeds are ultimately the product of mindless mutations.
A seed is formed when a female flower is fertilized with the pollen from a male flower. Without fertilization there would be no seed. Pollen is transferred by various means including wind and water but mostly via pollinators like bees, butterflies, birds and bats. Plants attract pollinators via bright colors, scent and nectar which is a sugary liquid which pollinators adore! When the pollinator is consuming the nectar the pollen will stick to it’s body and then be carried to other flowers.
How did plants arrive at two separate genders (at the same time) each with its own physiology?
Seeds are dispersed in an incredible amount of different and ingenious ways. In the following excellent video you will see many different types of seed dispersal systems including gliders, helicopters, explosive seed pods, jet propulsion, water pressure, floating, sticking and the list goes on.
The narrator says ‘men have tried to produce a fixed wing glider as good as this but have failed’.
How could a mindless process like evolution design such incredible and ingenious mechanisms?
Seeds wait to germinate until three needs are met: water, correct temperature, and a good location (such as in soil). During its early stages of growth, the seedling relies upon the food supplies stored with it in the seed until it is large enough for its own leaves to begin making food through photosynthesis. The seedling’s roots push down into the soil to anchor the new plant and to absorb water and minerals from the soil. And its stem with new leaves pushes up toward the light.
How does the seedling know to wait until the conditions are right for it to germinate?
Luckily the seed is packed with food for the young plant before it can produce it’s own food. Could evolution produce this?
Somehow the seed knows to grow upwards. Could evolution produce this?
The design in seeds is obvious for everyone to see. A mindless process like evolution simply could not produce a seed which is programmed to wait for the right conditions for germination or a seed that somehow knows to grow upwards. This is programming of the highest order.. who is the programmer?


America’s producers know agriculture is a complicated business, but success usually boils down to minimizing crop loss and boosting crop yield. MPI can help you do just that by cutting costs, reducing risk, and providing crop data previously only available at extremely high prices. We do this by mapping crops quickly; using aerial stress identification; identifying crop threats faster with NDVI & VARI; and providing spot spraying as needed. Just tell us when and where to show up and we will get it done – days, nights, or weekends. MPI will tailor our support to your needs – from one time support to long term contracts, so call us now and receive a quote in less than 24 hours!


The Cobblestone Ridge landscaping consists of four areas: (1) a zeric bed with rock mulch at the center of the turnaround on Saddle Court, and (2) a grass park and zeric bed on the east side of Saddle Court, (3) a zeric bed with rock mulch at the intersection of Rana Road and Saddle Court, (4) a zeric bed with rock mulch located at the intersection of Rana Road and Butte Court. All the zeric beds have drip irrigation and fabric weed barrier underlying the rock mulch. The word “zeric” is used here to indicate plantings with lower water requirements. Following is a more detailed description of these areas, planting materials, irrigation, and maintenance issues. A maintenance calendar is provided at the end of this document to facilitate the scheduling of required maintenance. More general information regarding irrigation water is also provided.
Description: This bed consists of Cottonwood (volunteer), Russian Sage, crabapples, roses, Apache Plume, buddleia, Rabbitbrush, spreading junipers, Cotoneaster, Golden Rain Tree, Forsythia . . .
Irrigation: The irrigation valve and filter is located on the southeast side of the bed. The computer controlling water to this area is on private property at 414 Saddle Court. The bed includes two drip zones, schedule to water for 1 hour, 1 time a week. Note that over-watering of zeric beds is more likely to kill these plantings than under-watering. There have been several instances where an unknown person has shut off the computer or closed the valves controlling watering for this bed, so monitor both of these regularly.
Maintenance: The bed regularly requires pulling of weeds to remove annual cheat grass, rabbitbrush seedlings, and other perennial weeds. Bind weed can be controlled with bind weed mites purchased from the Tri-River Extension office. It is best to cut back the Russian Sage’s and buddleia’s to 3 and 6 inches, respectively, each spring as the plants bloom best off first-year growth and reduce crowding of the crown. At a minimum, pruning of these plants is recommended every 2-3 years. The crabapples require pruning to remove water suckers within the tree and at the base of the plant. Pruning can be performed in February or after they have finished flowering. Crown gall has been observed in all of these trees and it is anticipated to shorten their life. The roses require an application of fertilizer and aphid control product. Dcon, or a similar product, sprinkled around the base of the junipers in the fall helps control vole (Meadow Mouse) damage. The junipers also require pruning when they creep into the sidewalk.
Description: The park is planted with Kentucky Bluegrass and includes several ornamental plum trees and ash trees. The zeric bed contains buddleia, crabapples, Russian Sage, Korean Lilacs, roses, and rabbitbrush. Several volunteer Cottonwood seedlings are growing at the back of the park. Hardscape includes a concrete walk and mail boxes.
Irrigation: The irrigation valves are located in the zeric bed near the mail boxes. The computer is located on private property at 414 Saddle Court. The computer is programmed to water ½ hour, twice a week. Note that over-watering of zeric beds is more likely to kill these plantings than under-watering.
Maintenance: Maple Leaf Landscaping & Maintenance has been contracted to apply fertilizer, pest, and weed control to the lawn area and mow the park weekly. They also maintain the irrigation system. The zeric bed regularly requires pulling of weeds to remove annual cheat grass, volunteer Rabbitbrush, and other perennial weeds. It is best to cut back the Russian Sage’s and Buddleia’s to 3 and 6 inches, respectively, each spring as the plants bloom best off first-year growth and reduce crowding of the crown. At a minimum, pruning of these plants is recommended every 2-3 years. The crabapples and plums require pruning to remove water sprouts from within the tree and at the base.
Description: This bed consists of Russian Sage, Rabbitbrush, Pinyon Pine, Mountain Mahogany, Yucca, Nepeta, and Columbine . . . The sign for the Cobblestone Ridges development and a couple of large transformers are also located in this bed. A 2-ft unimproved strip of land, now owned by Mike Stubbs, lies between the bed and the adjacent house.
Irrigation: The valve box for the scrubber values is located in the unimproved strip (not HOA property). The computer controlling irrigation in this zone is located at the mail boxes on Rana Road. An additional cut-off valve is located on private property at 407 Saddle Court. A multi-purpose easement provides the legal right for this valve box to be on the property. Only one zone of the five? The computer is programmed to water 30 minutes, twice a week. Note that over-watering of zeric beds is more likely to kill these plantings than under-watering.
Maintenance: The bed regularly requires pulling of weeds to remove annual cheat grass, rabbitbrush seedlings, and other perennial weeds. Weed control in the unimproved strip is the responsibility of the City of Grand Junction; typically a phone call to the city is required when the weeds get too high. The Mountain Mahogany can be pruned into a hedge; however, this conflicts with the natural look of the bed. The Rabbitbrush may require selective pruning as it covers the sign.
The Pinyon trees in this bed have shown signs of Ips beetle. Dead/dying areas of the trees have been pruned and removed. Insecticides used to prevent Ips include either permethrin or carbaryl (Sevin) as the active ingredient and need to be applied when temperatures hit 55-60°F. Two applications are recommended in early spring and summer. There are many products currently on the market containing these active ingredients. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the proper rate for bark beetle treatment. Bark beetle applications at the labeled rate should provide at least three months control of Ips beetles.
When a preventively-sprayed tree later dies of beetle attack, it is usually for one of the following reasons: 1) the tree was sprayed after it was attacked; 2) the spray was applied at too diluted a rate; 3) the entire bark surface of the susceptible part of the tree was not sprayed; or 4) the material wore off and was no longer effective.
Note: Concentrations of insecticides used to control bark beetles are often considerably greater than those used for insects on foliage. To avoid needle burning, try to limit the application to the bark, particularly when using liquid (emulsifiable concentrate) formulations that have increased risk of causing plant injuries.
Due to the current ips beetle infestation in Colorado, should these trees die, it is not recommended the bed be re-planted with Pinyon Pine. Austrian Pine may be another good choice.
Description: This bed consists of Russian Sage, Apache Plume, Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susans), Pinyon Pine, . . . A sidewalk runs at the back of the bed and an additional 2- to 3-ft strip of unimproved land lies adjacent to the walk which is the responsibility of the Cobblestone Ridge homeowners.
Irrigation: The irrigation valves and computer controlling water to this area are located in the unimproved strip. Only one zone of the five? Available on the computer is programmed for this bed. The computer is programmed to water ½ hour, twice a week. Note that over-watering of zeric beds is more likely to kill these plantings than under-watering.
Maintenance: The bed regularly requires pulling of weeds to remove annual cheat grass and other perennial weeds. Weeds in the unimproved strip are controlled by weekly mowing during the summer. The Rudbeckia is cut back to the ground each spring to keep the bed looking neat. It is best to cut back the Russian Sage’s to 3 inches each spring as the plants bloom best off first-year growth and reduce crowding of the crown. At a minimum, pruning of these plants is recommended every 2-3 years.
Ridges Irrigation, controlled by the City of Grand Junction, is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the irrigation system in the Ridges development area and the Redlands Mesa 18 hole golf course with pressurized irrigation water. The City of Grand Junction performs the billing at a rate of $12.00/month for single family units. The HOA annual assessment only covers irrigation for the common areas; homeowners are responsible for irrigation fees for their property.
Irrigation water for the Ridges is targeted to be turned on April 1st and turned off November 1st each year. In the event of a water break of a main irrigation line, contact a board member, or if not available, Ron Key, City of Grand Junction, at 244-1572. Homeowners are responsible for repair of line breaks to their personal irrigation system; the HOA is responsible for irrigation repairs in the common areas and HOA-owned irrigation systems on private property, unless the break was caused by the homeowner. The City has stated they are happy to help homeowners determine the source of the break, if needed.


- 100% Organic Cotton
- Boyfriend Fit
- Farm to Yarn Series
- Crew Neck
Farm to Yarn Series - Volcom followed more than 20 tons of certified organic cotton from seed to sample in order to deliver you traceable Farm to Yarn products.
In partnership with the purpose driven company Cotton Connect, the Volcom crew drove deep into their supply chain and helped support a Farmer Business Training School in Maharashtra and a Gender Training Program empowering the roles of women in Madhya Pradesh, India. These efforts will allow farmers and their families to flourish by supporting their shift and continued commitment to organic farming methods.
Organic Cotton - Grown without petroleum-based fertilizers and pesticides, organic cotton is healthier choice for the Earth, the people working in the fields and for you the consumer.
When compared to conventional cotton, organic cotton per 1,000kg of fiber used in apparel results in:
46% less CO² equivalent emissions (which are significant contributors to global warming)
70% less SO² (Sulfur Dioxide) equivalent emissions; a driver of soil acidification and thus, acid rain.
26% less PO4³ (Phosphate) equivalent; a measure of eutrophication potential (the potential for the creation of aquatic dead-zones)
62% less primary energy demand (PED), measured in MJ, from non-renewable sources like petroleum and natural gas that depend on fossil resources.
The consumption of up to 91% less non-rain water (blue water) while typically requiring less irrigation.


Fruit farmers in the United States have long feared the arrival of harmful citrus tristeza virus to their fields. But now, this devastating pathogen could be their best hope as they battle a much worse disease that is laying waste to citrus crops across the south of the country. The agricultural company Southern Gardens Citrus in Clewiston, Florida, applied to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) in February for permission to use an engineered version of the citrus tristeza virus (CTV) to attack the bacterium behind citrus greening. This disease has slashed US orange production in half over the past decade, and threatens to destroy the US$3.3-billion industry entirely. The required public comment period on the application ended last week, and the USDA will now assess the possible environmental effects of the engineered virus. Field trials of engineered CTV are already under way. If the request is approved, it would be the first time this approach has been used commercially. It could also provide an opportunity to sidestep the regulations and public stigma attached to genetically engineered crops.
To read more, click CRISPR to fight citrus disease.


Looking at Things from a Different Perspective29 Oct 2013
I often read that as a programmer you often have to approach problems from a different perspective in order to find the most elegant solution. Well I was made to look a right idiot the other day when I was arguing a new feature was going to increase the scope of the project; only to find out it wouldn’t. Worst of all it was a designer that came up with the solution!
The game we are working on has many complex systems built from components. In the game components control the generation of resources, the trading and transporting of resources and the consumption of resources. One of the main system loops involves a farm growing crops over a period of time and employees are dispatched to fetch these resources periodically. Each farm is a field in which the crops are grown and people collect the crops from the farm. Effectively the crops are a single resource.
The designers wanted to add a system in which the player could grow and harvest trees instead of crops.
Me: “Brilliant; we already have a system for that. We will just create a new farm type that grows tree crops. Pop on a producer controller and a fetch controller - job’s a good ‘un”.
Designer: “Yeah, yeah something like that. Except that trees can grow anywhere across the map and employees must visit each tree, in turn, to obtain the wood, and once the wood is obtained the tree takes time to regenerate, and the trees aren’t really owned by the farm because employees can gather from any tree. But other than that it’s just like a farm”
Me: “So…nothing like a farm. This will require a whole separate system in which field and farms are separated, in which employees work their way through every crop in a field. Each crop must have its own state to manage individual regrowth. Is it really worth all the extra time?”
Designer: “Why not just make each tree a farm?”
Me: “Excuse me a minute… stabs pen through eye”


NEWS BY CATEGORYAll News Latest Disease Updates Cattle News Equine News Pig News Poultry News Sheep News
Forecasters have predicted that temperatures will increase to the season average from the weekend of 13th and 14th April 2013, so experts advise that preventative action against blowfly strike must be considered even after the unseasonal weather.FULL ARTICLE
A major new campaign involving the sheep industry, 'Farming Against Wormer Resistance' (FAWR), has been launched in the UK.FULL ARTICLE
Sheep farmers are being warned to be on their guard against Nematodirus this month, because changing weather patterns could produce a sudden surge in worm numbers.FULL ARTICLE
The Lamb Survey is now available to capture what affect the poor weather and disease threat are having on the 2012/13 lamb crop.FULL ARTICLE
Don’t forget blowfly strike, sheep farmers warned
Forecasters have predicted that temperatures will increase to the season average from the weekend of 13th and 14th April 2013, so experts advise that preventative action against blowfly strike must be considered even after the unseasonal weather.
Due to extremely poor weather in 2012 followed by a long, cold winter, the list of problems for sheep farmers has been increasing – additional feed and fuel bills, Schmallenberg and cash flow issues. Now farmers are dealing with the effects of perished livestock from the recent snow and cold weather.
Richard Wall, professor of Zoology at Bristol University and author of a number of published research studies into livestock parasites, has warned sheep farmers not to put blowfly prevention measures off.
Wall explains: “People talk about climate warming but the main issue farmers need to deal with is climate variation. In 2012 we witnessed a very early spring whereas this year it’s extremely late. As a result, getting the timing right for treatment of ewes and lambs against blowfly strike can be extremely difficult - due to the unpredictability of the weather. What we do know, however, is that when the weather warms up so does the incidence of blowfly strike. Recent research shows that a 3°C increase in average seasonal temperature would be expected to approximately double the frequency of strike in lambs and lead to four times more strike in ewes1.”
Wall adds: “Forecasters have predicted that temperatures will increase to around 12°C from this weekend. As soon as the temperature rise above 9°C, blowfly larvae that have overwintered in the soil start to develop and eventually pupate, so the start of the strike season will not be far behind. Farmers, must therefore start to plan their preventative measures, because once the adult flies are on the wing blowfly strike happens extremely quickly. The larvae can mature in as little as 2 to 3 days after the eggs are deposited in the fleece of a susceptible sheep. If an infestation is missed the reality is that a sheep can die from repeated strikes within 1 – 2 weeks.”
Fiona Anderson, vet at Novartis Animal comments: “Blowfly strike occurs on over 80 per cent of sheep farms2. If untreated it can severely affect the welfare of infested sheep, and may result in death. Prevention is always best because adult flies can lay so many eggs on a flock and farmers do not have the time to check their sheep. Blowfly strike can be easily prevented through the use of products which contain insect growth regulators (IGRs). These prevent the development of the damaging second and third stage maggots which are responsible for causing fly strike and stock damage.”
Katherine Openshaw, Ectoparasiticides Category Manager at Novartis Animal Health, says: “According to the research elevated temperatures are likely to bring about increased levels of blowfly strike which can potentially have a devastating impact on flocks. We understand that farmers are already stretched in so many ways and having to check their animals twice a day for strike is an additional pressure. We have developed a campaign aimed at helping farmers prevent the occurrence of blowfly strike. ‘Prepare, Predict, Prevent’ offers simple, yet effective advice to avert an outbreak.”
Protecting the future of flocks
CLiK® and CLiKZiN® are the only IGR products available with Fleecebind™ technology. The FleeceBindTM formulation spreads around the fleece and onto new wool growth and then binds strongly to the lanolin in the wool. The unique patented technology provides practical cover, consistent protection, water resistance and full fleece coverage.
CLiK® and CLiKZiN® with FleeceBind™ technology offer farmers flexible blowfly prevention products whatever the production schedule. CLiK® gives the longest duration of cover at 16 weeks, which minimises labour requirements for farmers and CLiKZiN® offers farmers greater flexibility when marketing lambs with a 7-day short meat withhold.
1. R Wall, LS Ellse Climate change and livestock parasites: integrated management of blowfly strike in a warmer environment Global Change Biology, 17, (pp. 1770 – 1777), 2011
2. Bisdorff B, Milnes A, Rall R (2006) Prevalence and regional distribution of scab, lice and blowfly in sheep in Great Britain. The Veterinary Record, 158, 749-752
CLiK® Pour On suspension for sheep contains 5% (w/v) dicyclanil. CLiKZiN® Pour-On suspension for sheep contains 1.25% (w/v) dicyclanil. CLiK® and CLiKZiN® are registered trademarks of Novartis AG, Basel, Switzerland. FleeceBind™ is a trademark of Novartis AG, Basel, Switzerland. Advice on the use of these or alternative medicines must be sought from the medicine prescriber. Use medicines responsibly (ww.noah.co.uk/responsible). Legal category: POM-VPS in UK. LM in ROI.


I am a huge fan of slow food. If you haven't heard, the movement called "Slow Food" is a non-profit, eco-gastronomic member-supported organization that was founded in 1989 to counteract fast food and fast life, the disappearance of local food traditions and people’s dwindling interest in the food they eat, where it comes from, how it tastes and how our food choices affect the rest of the world.
In part, slow food is an awakening to the pleasures that food produced locally with traditional farming techniques can offer. There is an incredible range of diversity and flavour in the heritage of our food production, but it's being lost with the transition to large-scale farming. I prefer to enjoy the dozens of different varieties of tomatoes, picked fresh, each with different and intense flavours (in season) over the few varieties of tomatoes grown for their unique characteristic ability to be transported all over the world rather than for their taste. We have sacrificed a lot for the convenience of having any food in any season and especially we are sacrificing greatly for the production of "cheap" industrial food.
So with that in mind, I enjoy making functional dinner ware and I especially enjoy a slow food meal served on hand-crafted pottery. No two pieces of hand-crafted pottery are ever the same. And this is a beautiful thing. It is real life. It is beauty in the imperfect, beauty in diversity.
So while even the most industrial pottery and ceramic production hasn't become as disconnected from its roots as standard food production has, there is something quite fitting and maybe even more satisfying about eating a slow food meal on a hand-crafted plate or bowl, if you can.


Just a quick look through the tip site directory will show you how popular it is with keen gardeners looking for wood chips for allotments. In fact, this group probably makes up for about 50% of all the listings in the directory.
Wood chips are suitable for a variety of uses around your allotments, including weed suppressants around the beds, creating wood chip pathways, or even leaving to break down until such time as they become suitable to use as a soil conditioner.
Suppressing Weeds in Allotments
Due to how wood chips decompose and suck in nitrogen during the process, this makes them ideal for suppressing weeds and grasses, which struggle due to the lack of nutrients they require. It will always pay to weed an area first if possible prior to putting down the wood chips, as some more resilient weeds may still survive if they are suitably established already.
Wood Chips for Allotment Pathways
Wood chips can make an ideal surface for pathways in allotments, especially when they are available for free! Be aware though, on wet sites they will need renewing every couple of years. Hopefully, if you have signed up to the directory you will have them in plentiful supply anyway!
Wood Chips As A Soil Improver/Conditioner
When acquiring wood chips for allotments it’s likely they will be freshly chipped unless of course you are buying them in already composted(at a cost obviously). If you have the space on your site to store them, once broken down they can be used as a soil conditioner by adding humus, the organic component of soil, formed by the decomposition of leaves and other plant material by soil micro-organisms.
If you are looking for free wood chips for use on your allotment you can create a listing for free and get generous quantities delivered by a tree surgeon working in your area. Simply click on the ‘add new tip site’ button over at the wood chip tip site directory.


Eco Innovate is an OPIM ran initiative that incorporates the central principles of the program with a healthy dose of eco-mindedness. Eco Innovate seeks to further the development of ecologically sustainable technology while educating on the importance of respecting the environment and adopting environmentally friendly development practices and technologies. The Eco-Innovate suite contains FarmBot, a zero-environmental-impact farming robot, a set of cutting edge hydroponic crop nurseries as well as grow2give a plant donation program that aims to educate about sustainability while providing a service to the community. Explore the goals of Eco Innovate.
FarmBot is an autonomous open-source computer numerical control (CNC) farming robot that prioritizes sustainability and optimizes modern farming techniques. Using computer numerical control, FarmBot can accurately and repeatedly conduct experiments with no human input and therefore, very little error. We can write sequences, plan regimens and events to collect data 24/7 in addition to monitoring the system remotely. This allows us to plan as many plants, crops, inputs, and operations as needed.
With the right technology, a mass of microgreens and seeds can be grown all at once.


AllHome Corporation of VistaMall owned by the Villar Family has turned-over several personal protective equipment (PPEs) to the health workers of Butuan Medical Center (BMC) in Butuan City. This is their way of helping the frontliners who continue to perform their duties and functions amid the crisis on COVID-19.
The Plant, Plant, Plant Program is an initiative of the DA to increase farm productivity and ensure food sufficiency during the COVID-19 emergency. In Caraga region, rice consumption average of 118.14 kilograms per person annually. Surigao del Norte posted the highest per capita consumption of rice at 121.07 kilograms per person annually. The least consumption is registered in the Province of Dinagat Islands at 114.61 kilograms. The pressure in the rice industry to produce more is a vital action amidst the challenging time. DA-Caraga is again calling on the public to patronize other alternative staple food such as white corn, sweet potato, banana (saba), and cassava rather than relying solely on rice. This is to take part in the advocacy to be rice responsible consumers. (DA-Caraga)
The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga boosts up its commitment to provide adequate support to food production. This is to ensure that there will be available and affordable food for every Filipino family. The harvest season has now come for the Caraga region, it is expected to produce 315,947 metric tons or an equivalent of 134% rice sufficiency by the end of the first semester of the year based on the data of the Department of Agriculture -Caraga Rice Program through the consolidated planting report of the Local Government Units. "We expect no rice shortage during the duration of the localized community quarantine in the region. On top of the department's budget for this year, we are expecting a supplemental fund under the Plant, Plant, Plant Program or Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat (ALPAS) Laban sa COVID-19 Program," OIC-Regional Technical Director for Operations Rebecca R. Atega said. (DA-Caraga)


June Field Day Report - Honey Extraction
It was really nice to be able to show everyone our club hives for the first time at the Louisville Nature Center. They are doing very well and we were able to pull some honey from them to show how to extract in beautifully capped frames.
We took the frames inside and decapped them using four different tools: honey fork scraping tool, a honey roller, a decapping knife, and a decapping scraper. The consensus was that the knife was the worst at it, the honey fork worked really well but took off a lot of beeswax, and the honey roller and scraper worked the best, puncturing holes in the frames to release the honey, but not eliminating too much beeswax which could be returned to the hives.
We then showed everyone how to use the club extractor and gave anyone who wanted a try a hand at turning the crank, it was a nice demonstration.
The Kentucky Certified Honey Program Manager then talked about the KCHP program and how to get your honey certified as local honey. This program differs than the Kentucky Proud program, which only requires that you bottle in Kentucky, the honey doesn’t have to be FROM Kentucky. KCHP actually is a way to show consumers that it is LOCAL honey, so look for the Kentucky Certified Honey stickers on bottle when you are purchasing honey!!! It’s the best way to know you are getting it locally other than directly knowing the beekeeper who produces it.


Precision - Spraying - Irrigation
Measuring wind conditions on the field helps to optimize your agriculture operation . Whether you are involved in precision agriculture, spraying or irrigation applications, knowing and analyzing wind data is required to maximize efficiency and quality during farming activities.
The Ultra Low Power wired range from Calypso Instruments provides a perfect solution for those who want to measure wind for agricultural application. Our wind sensors deliver accurate wind speed and direction data allowing the user to connect it to a datalogger and display or to send information to the cloud. Its robustness and improved rain performance design make it a great device to withstand all weather conditions.
Gather, process and analyze wind data for
improved resources management.
Avoid unnecessary expenses and
possible risks when spraying.
Optimize efficiency by controlling the
Precision agriculture is closely related to weather conditions. Choosing the best time for producing, planting or harvesting, among other farming activities, depends on current weather conditions and forecast. Wind speed and direction are some of the main weather variables to monitor.
Monitoring real-time and accurate wind data affecting crops is critical for precision agriculture. Measuring and tracking wind conditions will ensure a better management of the possible risks.
Spraying is expensive and implies environmental awareness which requires accurate chemical management. Wind conditions (and humidity) directly affect spraying activities and can lead to an inefficient use of pesticides. Monitoring wind speed and direction prevents unnecessary expenses and helps to maintain a safe environment on farms.
How much and when to irrigate is a crucial decision for any farmer. Evapotranspiration and the crop coefficient factor determine the optimal quantity of water a crop demands. Wind speed and direction are key factors in determining evapotranspiration and therefore, irrigation flows and timing (how much and when to irrigate).
Uniform irrigation is heavily linked to efficient crop management. Wind is again a relevant variable due to its direct effect on sprinkler efficiency since it can alture the sprinkler distribution pattern leading to water being applied unevenly.
We are here to help you with your project!.
Whether you are an OEM, a farmer or the owner of a weather station, don't miss the chance to test our products. We are open to modify a firmware, hardware and software to fit your needs.


A group of cotton farmers won’t be allowed to proceed with a lawsuit alleging Helena Chemical Company’s negligent aerial application of Sendero damaged their crops after the state’s high court pointed out numerous evidentiary problems in a 28-page opinion issued Friday.
The Texas Supreme Court determined 8-0 the farmers should take nothing on their claims. Justice Evan Young did not participate in the decision. The farmers, led by Robert Cox, were seeking unspecified damages for what they alleged was a reduced harvest in 111 West Texas cotton fields caused by the herbicide.
The case asked the court to determine whether Cox and nine other farmers presented enough evidence to proceed with their lawsuit that a trial court tossed on a no-evidence summary judgment motion. An intermediate appellate court partially revived the farmers’ suit, and Helena took the fight to the state’s high court in January 2021.
Justice Jimmy Blacklock, writing for the court, held that because the farmers are seeking damages for a reduced yield, it’s not enough to present evidence that the leaves were wilted and yellowed or that the plants were gnarled, which would support the theory of herbicide drift.
To survive Helena’s bid for summary judgement, the farmers were required instead to show that the alleged negligent application of Sendero “caused their plants to yield less cotton at harvest,” he wrote.
“The plaintiffs suggest that, apart from the expert testimony on which they rely, the lay opinions of the farmers themselves about the source of their crop failure can provide evidence of causation sufficient to survive summary judgment,” the court wrote. “In the context of this case, we disagree. … Determining whether a particular application of aerial herbicide substantially contributed to the failure of crops miles away requires knowledge and analysis of scientific matters beyond the competence of laymen.”
The court also held that the farmers only offered “inconclusive or speculative” testimony about aerial-drift pattens and failed to rule out two plausible alternative causes of the damage: weather and other herbicides.
“We do not suggest that precision of proof is required in such a case. Nor do we suggest a rigid requirement that such cases must always be proved with scientific modelling of the aerial with any other precise category of evidence,” the court held. “But it defies reason to suggest that Helena’s aerial application of Sendero landed in roughly equal quantities on all 111 fields scattered across hundreds of square miles of Mitchell County. Some scientific attempt to model where the Sendero probably drifted, in what amounts, and why, could at least have provided rational estimates of how much of Helena’s Sendero, if any, reached these scattered fields.”
Robert Soza of Jackson Walker, who represents Helena, told The Lawbook the Texas Supreme Court’s analysis in the opinion ” tracked almost exactly how we argued the case in the briefing and how we argued at oral arguments.” The court’s decision is important to more than just the parties in this case, he said, because it offers guidance to farmers on what evidence will be required to get their case before a jury in the future.
“What this case does is it allows both the farmers and the applicators to see some standards for how you go out and investigate your claims and how you go out and collect evidence for your claim,” he said. “If a farmer can meet these standards… it’s likely they’re going to get their claims resolved without getting in front of the jury.”
Don Burns of Burns & McCabe, who represents the farmers, told The Lawbook he’ll be filing a motion for rehearing because he doesn’t believe all the evidence in the record was given appropriate consideration.
“We have the longstanding rule that enables farmers to be protected against the sort of trespass by chemical that was observed and reported here,” he said. “The law in the state of Texas has always been that a farmer does not have to account with precision after a crop is damaged because that would require a crystal ball that no one owns.”
Burns said the court’s ruling was “surprising” given the “uniform reports of damage” from each plaintiff farmer in the case and reports from the TDA showing damage consistent with herbicide damage over thousands of acres of fields “in the timeframe that left little or no room for doubt of its origins.”
In July 2015, according to court records, Helena aerially applied more than 3,300 gallons of Sendero to target mesquite trees on 15,000 acres of the Spade Ranch, requiring pilots to make more than 600 flights to apply the herbicide. The applications took place in Mitchell County, situated between Abilene and Big Spring along Interstate 20 in West Texas.
The cotton farmers noticed the crop damage between seven and 10 days after the Spade Ranch application. Those signs prompted the farmers — who had witnessed the pilots spraying the Spade Ranch — to file a complaint with Texas Department of Agriculture, whose investigator came out and looked for alternative sources but found none.
The TDA investigator traced the damage to Helena’s application, and testing of some fields showed exposure to an active ingredient in Sendero that is also used in other herbicides.
The cotton farmers brought suit in 2015 alleging that the herbicide was applied negligently during adverse conditions and that the strong winds carried it from the intended target to their crops, sometimes more than 20 miles away.
Helena has argued that there’s insufficient evidence linking its application of herbicide to the crop damage, that the farmers failed to rule out other possible causes and that to survive summary judgment the farmers must test each plaintiff’s fields.
The case came to the Texas Supreme Court when Helena filed its petition for review Jan. 29, 2021, challenging an October 2020 ruling from the Eleventh Court of Appeals in Eastland that revived the suit.
A three-justice panel of that court reversed Mitchell County District Judge Al Walvoord’s May 2018 ruling rendering a take-nothing judgment against the cotton farmers. But the panel agreed with the trial court that the farmers could not proceed with their claims for mental anguish and punitive damages against Helena because they failed to show that Helena or its pilots “willfully and deliberately caused Sendero to drift onto appellants’ properties.”
The Eleventh Court of Appeals also agreed with the farmers that the trial court wrongly struck the opinions and testimony from six of their experts, holding that while they couldn’t specifically trace the drift of herbicide from the Spade Ranch to the cotton fields, “they provided a reliable scientific basis for their opinions that appellants’ cotton crops were damaged by a large-scale aerial application of clopyralid to the south of appellants’ fields.”
Clopyralid is an ingredient in Sendero and other herbicides.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association threw their support behind opposite parties in the suit.
The Chamber argued that siding with the cotton farmers would threaten the entirety of the Texas economy by forcing businesses of all sorts to raise prices and lower wages in the face of “arbitrary and unpredictable liability.” Meanwhile, TWGGA argued that a ruling in favor of Helena would immunize negligent herbicide applicators and imperil the state’s $13 billion wine industry.
TWGGA told the court that its members — which includes wineries and wine and grape growers — are sounding alarms about the “significant damage that grapevines suffer as a result of herbicide spray drift.”
“In fact, both segments testified before the Texas House of Representatives that herbicide spray drift has emerged as the single greatest threat to the growth — and even the sustenance — of the industry,” the group said. “When spray drift occurs due to negligent aerial application, courts must apply the appropriate causation standard.”
Helena is also represented by Robert L. Soza, Jennifer Caughey, Danica L. Milios, Stephen A. Calhoun and Amanda N. Crouch of Jackson Walker.
The farmers are also represented by Cody McCabe of Burns & McCabe.
The case number is 20-0881.


Hildebrand Fruit Farms - Our locally grown fruit journey.
Grandma and Grandpa Hildebrand purchased the farm in 1927. Adolph was a German, displaced by war, and living in modern-day Ukraine when he emigrated to the United States in 1912. He settled in St. Joseph, MI where he met Alma. They worked in a factory until the factory dust started causing respiratory problems. The doctor told Grandpa, "Adolph, you need some fresh air." Grandma grew up on a fruit farm in Watervliet and taught Grandpa how to grow "a little bit of everything" – strawberries, raspberries, currants, black raspberries, grapes, apples, peaches, apricots. Grandpa loved to visit with people and they sold most of what they grew at the South Bend Farmers Market.
The Next Generation
Ernie was the 7th of Grandma and Grandpa's eight (8) children. Delores grew up on a farm in nearby Baroda and worked at the equipment dealership and hardware in town. They married in 1959 and bought the farm from Grandma and Grandpa. Together they expanded the farm, transitioned from "a little bit of everything" to primarily apples, grapes, cherries and Michigan peaches. Mom and Dad raised 3 kids and helped each one of them get started on life's endeavors.
Mike is the youngest of Ernie and Delores' three children. He and Kim were married in 2005 and took over management of the farm in 2015. They have continued to expand, specialize and update the orchards and vineyards. In 2019, in order to meet new food safety requirements, they purchased a packing and storage facility which will enhance the farm's product offerings, packing capabilities and controlled-atmosphere storage of Michigan's finest apples. One of their goals is to see their three kids continue the family business someday. Connect with Mike on LinkedIn.
What is important to us?
Faith Family Farm
Fresh Locally Grown Fruit
When you can do all three at the same time and place, it is a special situation. Our goal in life is not to build our own kingdom, but to participate in God's kingdom and play the role He has given us. We believe in giving back to our community, in serving others, in putting in hard work to produce the best product and in being good, decent and honest with our employees and our customers. See what is happening at the farm.
God has been faithful to these generations because of their faithfulness to Him.


Last week’s post prepared you to be the perfect farmers market customer . This week we’ve got some info on one of our favorite market items and the best No Grain Granola topping: fresh berries! The best part about berries (besides how great they taste) is that they have a low glycemic index. Here’s a quick rundown of when berries are available:
Strawberries are in season in the early spring and late summer, depending on the variety, so look for them at your local market anytime from now through July.
Blackberries are in season May through July, so check the market now.
Blueberries and raspberries are both in season June through August.
Less common but still tasty, huckleberries are in season August through September.
If you’re thinking about making preserves with berries from a local grower, ask about a discount if you buy in bulk. And if you do choose to make jams or jellies, you don’t need to add refined sugars. Here’s an article with some tips on the topic.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy berries?


Today I’d like to touch on caring for your Crape Myrtle.
Pruning a Crape Myrtle is quite fun and with the right info can be very rewarding.
WHEN SHOULD I PRUNE MY CRAPE MYRTLE?
The primary question I get on Crape Myrtles is, when to prune. The answer to this is simple, anytime.
That being said, Crape Myrtles do bloom on new growth, with this in mind, if you are looking for maximum flower production and longevity on this years bloom, you will want to prune before spring growth.
HOW DO I PRUNE MY CRAPE MYRTLE?
As far as which cuts to make, I like to step back and assess the over-all shape of the tree, and look for opportunities to prune out limbs that detract from the look of the tree.
On the interior of the canopy, look for any dead, crossing, or rubbing limbs to remove, as this will aid in the health of the tree, as dead wood, and tight intersections lend to invasive insects and pathogens.
On older, more established Crape Myrtles that have not been regularly cared for, you may find some crossing and rubbing branches that are simply too large to remove, either due to their size or placement in the tree’s canopy. This is unfortunate, but a good motivator to address other smaller issues in the canopy while still small enough to do so without harming the tree.
One more point on pruning Crape Myrtles, when healthy, this species tends to over produce interior growth, and as such will need to be periodically thinned ( about once per year ).
My rule of thumb on thinning is, you should be able to easily view through the lower canopy, and the upper canopy should provide mottled shade to the ground below.


The cut flowers Industry in France
As in Southern France most people only speak of Mimosa this term is used here instead of Acacia.
The Mimosa plantations greatly contribute to the beauty of the landscape. They are situated on the spurs of the Esterel mountains. Between the rows of Mimosa trees, often rows of Eucalyptus are planted to serve as a fire barrier. The seasonal production is subject to climatic challenges like frost, heavy rains, too hot temperatures. The cultures on steep hills make the work difficult and require a lot of manual labour during the season.
Warm winters and a favourable sun have allowed that this beautiful plant could thrive in the Tanneron area. The Mimosas in this area are hybrids of Acacia dealbata: Mirandole (60%), Astier (10%) and Gaulois (30%), flowering in this sequence between December and February. The Mimosa of four seasons (Acacia retinoides = Mimosa floribunda) is not planted much any more: it has too much need of water and manual care. To extend the harvesting periods from November to March the growers have extended their range of varieties and they also have found out how to force blooming in the right moment.
Cultivated trees are mainly hybrids of Acacia dealbata with A. baileyana. Mimosas Mirandole, Tournaire, Le Gaulois and President Doumergue are cultivars that multiply only by grafting. Mimosas rustica and Bon Acceuil are hybrids of A. decurrens and A. baileyana. Mimosa floribunda is a synonym of Acacia retinoides, also called the Mimosa of the Four Seasons. It has various variations like Glauca, Lisette or Imperialis.
These taxa have greener leaves than the wild A.dealbata, which harmonizes better with the yellow flower
Harvest is from December to February. It is all very small family business with appr. 200 ha cultivated land.
Approximately 80 % of acacia plantations are cared for by growers over 50 years old. The number of plantations has dropped from 200 in 1989 to 162 in 2002. In the same period the planted area has dropped from 228 ha to 204 ha. The production was biggest in the department Alpes Maritimes (10..800.000 stalks ) followed by Var (6.500.000) and minor quantities in Pyrenees Orientales and other departments. A total of 18.633.260 stalks ( equivalent to appr. 600 tons) produced in 2002/2003 had a value of appr. 3- 4,0 Mio Euros.
Two communities are responsible for 60% of the cultivated surface in Alpes Maritimes. This preference can be explained with the acid soils of the Tanneron mountains, which the Mimosa is better adapted to.
The retail sales price is fluctuating heavily between 4 and 8 Euro per kg depending on the month and the year. The main season brings between 5,50 and 6,50 Euro/kg.
Mimosa cultures from Italy are starting to compete, but until now they pose no big problems for sales.
Certain producers have joined the cooperative “Europe Mimosa”. Others unite themselves behind a brand “Azur Mimosa”. The flowers are mainly sold to Northern Europe (Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Norway) or exported to the United States, Canada and Japan. The Mimosa is a “ fleur d`appel “ on the Nice market. The wholesale trade handles 98% of production, thereof 51 % by exporters and wholesalers. The rest is commercialized on the wholesale market (MIN), by the cooperative or directly by export. Only
1% of the cut flowers are sold directly by the producer.
The commercialization of the Mimosa is supported by the forcing technique.
Some interesting data on the economy of growing acacia are given in Bushfoods magazine: http://www.hotkey.net.au/~bushfood/acacias.htm
The major enemies of the acacia in the region are
a) frost, with temperatures going below -12 degr C, killing trees
c) land development
The farmers supplement their business by growing different Eucalyptus species - sold also as a component for cut flower bouquets. The Eucalyptus helps as a fire barrier.
Much of this information has been taken from AGRESTE a 2-page statistical service of the Ministery of Agriculture, March 2005, ISBN 2-11-091011-9
status of this page: 27.11.05


Content Management System, HTML5/CSS3, WordPress
The Food Vet site has been built with a showcase featured slideshow on the splash page as well as three widgetized boxes. The site includes a newsletter that allows users to sign up and receive news and notices from Food Vet. The membership area allows Farmers with an id username and password to access the restricted content on the site. ****This site is not completed yet******
FoodVet is dedicated to finding and creating the most profitable and sustainable solutions for local farmers and the food supply.


Feijoa And Date Spiced Chutney
My feijoa trees are now 3 years old and this is the first year they have produced fruit, and man have they produced plenty.
INGREDIENTS2 kgs of feijoas 2 cups of dates 1/2 cup coconut sugar 3 onions finely diced 1 thumb of ginger grated 2 tablespoons of mixed spice 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar 3/4 cup kombucha or extra apple cider vinegar 2 lemons zest and juice 3 kaffir lime leaves 3 bay leaves 1 cup water
Must be all that horse poop, great for growing trees! Over the weekend I had to make something from all the fruit because we simply couldn’t keep up and I wanted to make sure I made the most of them while they were in season. Everything on this property is young and the soil was clay, so its really exciting to know that the soil is now coming to life as well as the plants on it. Its a really small section we live on, but I am trying to plant as many fruit and vegetables I can. So far we have got 4 feijoa trees, 4 plum trees, 13 olive trees, 2 lemon trees, 2 mandarin trees, 1 lime tree, 6 grape vines. I just can’t wait till it is all producing amazing fruit.
Next mission is to learn how to pickle olives and see what other producing plants I can squeeze in.
With all these feijoas I decided to make feijoa chutney. This is really simple to make and left the house smelling incredible. Have been having a little on my bootcamp power seed bread with some avocado. Devine!
All the ingredients in this recipe are clean, gluten free and full of nutrients. Making this a wonderful chutney to add to your pantry. Full of flavour and will last a few months if you don’t eat it before then. Great to give away as a gift also.
Scoop the insides out of the feijoas and dice into small peices
Place in a large pot with all other ingredients
Bring to a boil, turn down and then simmer for 2 hours on a very low heat.
Allow to cool, mash and stir it all together using a potato masher, then store in sterilized jars.


When we think about protein, we often conjure images of chicken, beef, fish, eggs, beans, nuts and seeds – typical healthy staples of a western diet. However, travel 3,000 miles east and you’ll find crickets, mealworms, beetles and even moths on the table. Although a staple of many, in the west insects are becoming the new ‘eco protein’ due to their high amino acid content and sustainability compared to traditional meat products.
Formally described as entomophagy, consuming insects for food is more common than we may realise. According to the latest research, up to 80% of the global population deliberately consume insects as a source of nutrition and protein – and with good reason. Insects are a complete source of protein (having a complete amino acid profile) and contain vitamins such as iron, zinc and vitamin B12. The fats from insects are also approximately 70% polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) – these types of fats you may recognise as omega-3 and omega-6. These PUFAs support bones and joints, sleep, mental health and heart health.
Insects also have a low-carbon footprint in comparison to other animal products such as beef or chicken. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) predicts that the global population will rise to over 9 billion by 2050, and with our current environmental challenges, it will be imperative that we source sustainable protein sources to feed our growing world.
The FAO states that “crickets need six times less feed than cattle, four times less than sheep, and twice less than pigs and broiler chickens to produce the same amount of protein”. Sounds like insects are a good idea.
Still not convinced that sprinkling mealworms on your morning porridge is for you? Us neither. Not to worry, there are many insect products that don’t turn the tummy. We’ve tried and sourced cricket flour to bake into bread and even chocolate-flavoured cricket protein bars – certainly worth trying and a nutrient-dense addition to the diet (they taste good too).
We spoke about insects at CUBO this year and if you saw us, we hope you got a chance to try the insect protein bars.
Don’t forget Russell Partnership Consulting can help with your nutritional strategy: www.russellpartnership.com


LANDSCAPE DESIGNER AND HOST OF HGTV’S CRITICAL LISTING, GREEN FORCE, ROOM TO GROW AND HOME TO WIN (2016)
As the co-host of HGTV’s Critical Listing and star of HGTV Canada’s new series, Home to Win, Carson Arthur is a landscape designer focused on environmentally friendly design, and teaches homeowners how to raise the value of their homes through outdoor renovations.He’s the author of the sold out book Garden Designs for Outdoor Living and the spokesperson for Canadian Tire’s latest initiative – Canvas, a line of outdoor furniture and accessories. He‘s also the international ambassador for Save the Children, and shares his expertise in growing food to help end the cycle of poverty for children all over the world.
TV Gardening Shows…on the Endangered List
Has gardening officially left television for good or will the new generation of eco-homesteaders help to revive one of Canada’s most loved hobbies? Carson gives us sneak peaks at what is yet to come!
Top 5 Places to Renovate Outdoors
Kitchens and Bathrooms have always been the best spot to spend your renovations dollars - until now. Find out why improving the outside of your home is creating bigger returns for you and the environment!
Owner, Wild Green Garden Consulting
Claudia Bolli shares her passion for growing food and creating healthy, edible landscapes through workshops, permaculture design, and greening projects with schools. Her education includes a Diploma in Biological Sciences, a Permaculture Design Certificate, Organic Master Gardener and Master Naturalist training.
Creating Wellness and Connection in the Garden
How to use features plants and activities to create well-being.
The no guff gardener
Farmer’s daughter, army brat and university graduate in Horticulture, Donna Balzer is the no guff gardener. She co-hosted the award winning, internationally broadcast, “Bugs & Blooms” on HGTV, answers Alberta-wide garden questions on CBC radio and is a regular columnist for the Calgary Herald. Canadian best selling No Guff Vegetable Gardening is her most recent book and is based on her love for growing food. gardenguru.net
Click here for a copy of Donna's Book:
Strategies for No Guff Gardening: Change your world, one cabbage at a time!
Owner, Earthworm Landscaping
Life so much easier when you have a great plan for your garden! In just a few fabulous hours with Adele Goodwin, experienced and award winning designer, you will be inspired and empowered to pull together an amazing landscape to enhance your home and lifestyle. For a surprisingly reasonable fee you can approach your outdoor projects with creativity and confidence.
Presentation Topic: Daring Deck Design
The best way to increase the living space of your home is to create an outdoor space! One of Edmonton's most creative landscape designers will open your eyes to the possibilities and pitfalls of building this structure in your garden. Step outside to more privacy, more functionality, more comfort, and more fresh looks.
Manager Greenland Garden Centre
As a busy mom, manager for Greenland Garden Centre and 630 Ched Garden Show Host, Tina Burback knows how valuable fuss-free gardening is. Endless hours in her veggie plot (and too much kale to speak of), have helped this horticulturist harvest the best advice for families wanting to grown their own fresh food.
Seed Check Tecnologies & Greenland Garden Centre
Though he spends his days as a seed analyst for Seed Check Technologies, Morgan moonlights at Greenland Garden Centre as a tree and shrub expert, and co-host of the 630 CHED garden show. Gardeners love his down to earth advice and humble approach.
Presentation Topic: Reap What you Sow - Successfully Growing Your Own Groceries
With good reason, growing your own produce has become one of the strongest trends in gardening. By planting and harvesting edibles, you can eliminate pesticides, save money and spend valuable time outdoors with family. Edible gardening experts Morgan Webb and Tina Burback will share tips and tricks for grocery gardening along with the most productive fruit and vegetable varieties for our area, fragrant herbs for cooking, kid friendly choices and so much more.
Heather de Kok
Owner, Heather de kok floral design
Heather has been in the floral industry for over 20 years. Her family started Grower Direct which propelled her to open her own store as well as her international design house, Heather de Kok Floral Design Inc. Heather has garnered attention from around the world and received numerous awards for her work. In 2015, she designed flowers for a White House State Gala that was hosted for the President of China. Heather affirms her positivity saying “I can’t believe that every day I wake up and am ready to get to work long before my store even opens.”
Presentation Topic: Flowers and Feelings
How do flowers impact our day to day life, at work and at home? Do they have an impact on us that we don’t even realize is happening? Join Heather de Kok as she discusses the amazing impact flowers have on all us.
Calgary's Cottage Gardener
Janet Melrose is Calgary’s Cottage Gardener, a growing micro-business specializing in garden consulting, coaching, education and Horticultural Therapy programs. After a career in Calgary’s corporate world, Janet’s lifelong enthusiasm for gardening led her to complete the Prairie Horticultural Certificate and Home Farm Horticultural Therapy Certificate through Olds College. Janet has a passion for sharing her knowledge for horticulture, contributing to the community through workshops and media outlets, as well as appearing on TV and radio.
Square Foot Gardening
Co-Owner, Greenland Garden Centre
Deborah Sirman is co-owner of Greenland Garden Centre in Sherwood Park, Alberta. Deborah has grown up in the horticulture industry, studied through the University of Guelph and is passionate about gardening. One of the main hosts of the 630 CHED Garden Show, Deborah always enjoys sharing her practical, time efficient approach to gardening.
Presentation Topic: Stuff We Love
Deb Sirman of Greenland Garden Centre thinks gardening is at its best when made easier and enjoyable. Deb will reveal the plants and products that her staff and CHED Garden Show hosts would not be without, plus some new items for 2016 that are a must to try.
Owner, Salisbury Greenhouse
As the owner of Salisbury Greenhouse in Sherwood Park, Rob loves sharing his passion for container gardening! He’s the author of 3 best selling gardening books, including Edible Container Gardening for Canada. He’s a firm believer that edible plants can be as gorgeous as bedding plants, and that we shouldn’t hide our vegetables in the backyard anymore. He lives in Sherwood Park with his beautiful wife Meg and young son Aidan.
Presentation Topic: Organic Pest Control
Owner, KZ Permaculture
Kenton Zerbin is an inspirational speaker, teacher & consultant who empowers others to repair degraded landscapes, grow food and build community. A teacher by degree, Kenton's passion is facilitating a quality education as a professionally certified permaculture teacher. He has designed multiple properties, taught in three countries and been a guest speaker for gardening groups, education conferences and universities alike.
Presentation Topic: Stop Watering Your Garden! Permaculture Tricks to Take the Work Out
Learn how to take the work out of your garden using these tricks and techniques to reduce, or even eliminate, your watering. Through intelligent design and proven techniques, we can conserve water, harvest water, and put water to work multiple times.


It’s been about a decade since we took the plunge and took on the lease of this little slice of paradise we call Wakaepa Farm — where the upper reaches of the Selwyn River flow right down to the bottom of our land. Evan & Maureen Frew have farmed the land for ages, and going into business with them has been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. Since the day we first stepped on the land, all the way up until now, we’ve grown to host 1100 Red Deer, 450 Velvet Stags, 2000 Periendale Ewes, and 100 Hereford and Angus Cows that graze on the fruits of Central Canterbury. Not to mention, we also share the farm with the local bees from Coalgate Honey, so there are plenty of hives that play a big part in keeping our crops healthy.
Nestled in the foothills, all 1200 hectares of Wakaepa run behind Whitecliffs — a little village of about 800 people living in the rural South Island climate. Our hill breeding property runs through here, while our flat land area is about a 15 minute drive along to Hororata. The latter is situated on the Central Plains Ltd irrigation scheme, which means we’re also able to collect the excess water from the Rakaia River. A landscape of picturesque rolling hills, we reckon the view doesn’t get much better than that.
There are plenty of places to get good meat, but the lack of local produce in Central Canterbury is what puts Wakaepa Farm in a prime position to cater for our community. We’re also big on sustainability and managing our carbon footprint — and so we should be. With a myriad of crop from kale to swede, plantain, chicory and everything in between, there’s always an abundance of produce available for our stock. All of our animals are farmed in a natural environment where they are sheltered from the hills and bushland, and are also kept in small mobs.
From the breeding stage to the final packaged product, every step is 100% controlled by us, and we’re pretty proud of that. We do as much of the work as possible ourselves, and then rely on our local businesses to support us with the finishing touches. Once our animals are ready, they’re put on a truck from the farm, straight to Ashburton Meat Processers, and then delivered to Blair and the team at Darfield Village Meats before being sent straight to your door. While still young, we’ve got a whole lot of growth to come. Join us for the journey.


Have you always wanted to learn how to grow your own herbs or create your own raised bed? Then join us for Homegrown! Homegrown is a free gardening series at the Kingsport Farmers Market presented by Keep Kingsport Beautiful.
The Homegrown series will teach participants the skills needed to help their gardens flourish. No experience in gardening is required to participate in the series. All classes will be taught at the Kingsport Farmers Market, 308 Clinchfield St.
Homegrown dates and times:
- May 12 – Gardening 101: 9:00 a.m.
- May 16 – Container & Straw Bale Gardening: 12:00 p.m.
- June 9 – Container & Raised Bed Gardening: 10:30 a.m.
- July 21 – Herb Gardening: 10:30 a.m.
- August 11 – Winter Gardening: 9:00 a.m.
- September 15th – Composting 9:00 a.m.
For more information on the Kingsport Farmers Market, or to sign up for our monthly newsletter, please visit kingsportfarmersmarket.org.


For this update we are improving the designs of yields to make it easier for new users to add yields to their farm on fieldmargin.
What do you think? Is there anything we have missed or that is confusing?
Very happy to talk through it on the phone too if that's easier for you.
We are also going to develop our ability to integrate and upload yield data. This data could be from excel or an upload from machinery that is used during harvest. Is yield recording on harvest equipment something you do at the moment and if so what do you use? If you can send an example file we can share this with the tech team to help with development.
Update to yield designs
As part of this update we are:
Allowing you to record yield as you make a field job
Making it possible to add all of your outputs in one go when you set up your first Harvest Job.
Adding a drop down menu for selecting an output.
The aability to set a yield as you create a field job.
Allowing you to add a total yield as an alternative to yield / ha.
Adding a Set up Yield table view on web.
Adding an Operator field view on mobile. This means when you select a field on the field job list you will be taken directly to screen where you can add the yield.


The King's Roast - India Estate Bean (Single-Origin)
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Unit price/ per
This coffee is not for the weak. It's designed for Royalty. This exceptional limited-run single origin bean is well balanced with chocolate and toffee overtones with a subtle citrus overtone.
This specific bean is directly from the Pearl Mountain Estate in India. They have been producing world class coffee since the 1920s. The founder, Shivappaiy Patre, bought 300 acres on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats mountains. The same family manages the estate today. The hills in which this coffee is grown are called the Bababudan range and they are home to the finest mountain grown Indian Arabica coffee. The Patre family hand picks the coffee cherries and they are sorted prior to hand pulping and fermentation process that lasts between 42 and 72 hours. The coffee is then hand-washed in water from clear mountain streams.
Just like you, this coffee is hand picked and top of class. It is truly "...A Cup Above the Rest!"


At the beginning of July we welcomed two very handsome male lambs to help us in keeping the grass down. They are a cross between Frieslands and Portlands. They have very friendly natures and can be seen from The Old Dairy especially if called to enjoy their favourite variety of sheep nuts. Along with our sheep we have five very productive hens who are laying well in the longer sunny days we are now enjoying.
Being a beekeeper and managing four hives there is never a dull moment. At the start of spring and summer the bees really struggled with the wet weather and not being able to fly. However with this beautiful hot and dry spell they are finally bringing in the nectar. Hopefully we will get some honey this year!