Lawn grubs feed on grass roots. They are predominantly found feeding on cool-season grasses such as Kentucky Bluegrass, Rye and Fescues.There are several methods you can use to eliminate them from your lawn: biological control, botanical pesticides, insecticidal soaps, synthetic chemical control As some municipalities across Canada ban pesticides for lawns, homeowners are looking for organic alternatives to fight grubs that kill grass. European chafers or june beetles, commonly known as white grubs, eat grass roots, producing large, yellow patches that prevent a lawn from growing. Grub Worm Pesticide. Grub worm stock photo image 54664950, learn about grub worms grub worm identification hulett pest control, 5 signs of lawn grubs, beneficial nematodes san antonio nursery, carpet beetles pest kill images carpet beetles pest kill images fleas using salt besides, grub worm Get Rid of Grubs from your lawns. Grubs are the larva of beetles and they are white with dark rear end and red head.Ways to Control the Grub Infestation. Control Grubs by Watering. Water the lawn thoroughly so that it will soak almost six to eight inches of soil. Pesticides. Apply imidacloprid to your lawn to kill young grubs, though its not generally effective against larger grubs.Both pesticides stay in the soil for an extended period of time, and so they can be applied in advance to lawns with a history of grub problems. Grub ControlThe Best Pesticide for Grub ControlWhen to Treat Lawn for Grubs in the Michigan? Найдено по ссылке: How to Treat Your Lawn For Grubs. The best treatment for lawn grubs is to use organic predatory nematodes, which are a type of worm that survives in the wild and will eventually kill the grubs.Apply the pesticide at dusk, when sunlight will cause the least amount of damage and the soil temperature is between 15-30C.
When using There are usually more than one species of beetle larva (white grubs) that infest lawns depending upon where you live. Milky spore is a naturally occurring bacteria that will control (though not completely) Japanese beetle. Consider renovating heavily grub-damaged Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass lawns with tall fescue, which is generally more tolerant of grubsResponsible Pesticide Use. When used correctly, modern turf insecticides pose relatively little hazard and can help prevent serious grub damage. Lawn grubs, often called white grubs, are the immature form of different scarab beetles, such as Japanese beetles, June bugs (beetles) or theWatering moves the pesticide down toward soil and also encourages moisture-loving grubs to move upward. Keep an eye on nearby lawns. In lawns, white grub feeding shows thin, dry-looking patches of grass. These areas are often invaded by broadleaf weeds such as plantains and dandelions.If physical and biological control methods arent doing the job, you might have to use a chemical pesticide. Check the label to find one for Choosing an actual product to control lawn grubs can be confusing because of the large number of contact and sys-temic compounds sold.
The pesticide recommendations in this UI publication do not substitute for instructions on the label. Pesticide laws and labels change frequently and may have How Natural Predators Kill Lawn Grubs. Biological predators, like birds, raccoons, moles and more, are an option when it comes to grub control for lawns.How to Kill Lawn Grubs on an Organic Lawn. As gardeners become increasingly concerned about using traditional chemical-based pesticides White grubs cause widespread damage to lawns by feeding on grass roots, causing it to turn yellow, then brown and die. 2.87 lbs.PESTICIDE DISPOSAL AND CONTAINER HANDLING: Nonrefillable container. DO NOT reuse or refill this container. If empty: Place in trash or offer for recycling if available. How to Avoid Lawn Grubs? Although lawn grubs lay eggs randomly, they have certain preferences.We have no more grubs, squash bugs, or tomato hornworms. It is almost unbelievablebut true. We never use pesticides of any kind and havent for 18 years. Kills Grubs and lawn damaging pests Apply anytime Spring through late Summer Kills both surface and soil insects Protects your lawn from top to bottom.Food utensils such as spoons or measuring cups must not be used for food purposes after use in measuring pesticides. Grubs in lawn. Grubs (Coleoptera) can be found when the grass killed by their feeding is pulled back.Animals digging up the lawn for the grubs or large numbers of adult beetles being attracted to lights at night may also signal a problem. To reduce pesticide applications, apply grub control products in the summer not.This is called Integrated Pest Management or IPM. PREVENTION The best way to save a grub-infested lawn is to properly irrigate. Not Patchy (throughout lawn). Brown chinch patch bugs. Are problems occurring during wet. or dry conditions? GRUBS or TAKE ALL PATCH.Listing of a specific product trade name does not constitute an endorsement of its use. Many other pesticides and pesticide products, other than What are Lawn Grubs (often called White Grubs)? A classic lawn grub or white grub is a whitish C-shaped larva of a beetle (such as June beetles) that are about inch in length.Neem Oil a botanical pesticide that repels against beetles and lawn grubs. More facts. Grubs in lawns do damage by cutting off grass plant roots.Why you shouldnt reach for the pesticide. There are two distinctly different types of grub killers available. One type kills the grubs soon after hatching and another kills older grubs. Decide on a pesticide to use. The best pesticide for an already infested lawn will be designed to kill both the grubs and their eggs. This information will either be advertised with the pesticide or in the instructions for using it. In this episode, John shares the methods he would us to eliminate grubs from his garden without the use of chemical pesticides.How To Treat For Lawn Grubs - Продолжительность: 5:41 nmsuaces 90 457 просмотров. pesticide for grubs. From: Internet Comment Copy link September 2. [Summary]Japanese Beetles Control, White Grubs, Beetles, Lawn Grub Japanese Beetle Control of Japanese Beetles and White Grubs The Japanese beetle adult and its grub damage lawns as well as certain desirable plants. Controls lawn grub, lawn beetle and lawn armyworm in the home garden. Other information. Status. Source: Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). The pesticide is scattered on the lawn and the grubs, when theyThe key to controlling grub worms in your lawn is to kill lawn grubs and then prevent lawn grubs. Many people make the mistake of not doing both. White grub control options may vary from province to province, in accordance with pesticide regulations, so it is important to contact your local Nutri-Lawn office to learn more about the control products available in your area. Grub Treatment for Lawns in Utah. Avoid grabbing the first pesticide you see at your local gardening or home improvement store. Unfortunately, these harsh chemicals often do more harm to your lawn than good, and they may not completely eradicate your grub problem. Late summer and early fall white grub damage becomes visible. Approximate 1sq. ft. area. Lawns having numerous white grubs soon will show signs of injury.The threshold for lawn damage is 5 — 6 grubs per sq. ft. which means that if you have more than 5 grubs in a square foot area, youll see Top grub worm pesticide - 28 images - grubs worms and how to get rid on pinterest, insect control pinnacle tree shrub care, grub worm stock photo image of earth woodworm pest, how to get rid of chinch bug aphid and grub ornamental, june landscape update winkler s lawn care landscape. White grubs can be serious lawn pests. Knowing when to control them saves you time and money. Lawn grubs - Japanese beetle larvae are notorious for destroying lawns, grub worms create brown patches you can easily pull out.Now there are several pesticides on the market to kill grub in lawn and grass. - Imidacloprid is the active ingredient used in the grub killing pesticide named "Merit" (Merit and Bayer are trademarks of Bayer CropScience).Public statements from lawn pesticide applicators indicated that they mainly apply imidacloprid. Bird, mole, or skunk damage in the lawn can also signal a large population of grubs. Be forewarned: treating for grubs rarely controls mole populations.Although state law does not regulate the use of pesticides and fertilizers on lawns and landscapes that drain into shallow (dug) wells on private Both products are in Lowes and Home Depot stores and both are effective insecticides that control grubs in lawns.It is during this feeding period when grubs will ingest the chemicals designed to kill them such as a pesticide. Solutions: Promote healthy roots in your lawn by mowing high and watering effectively. Only treat when more than 5-10 grubs per square foot are found.Listing of a specific product trade name does not constitute an endorsement of its use. Many other pesticides and pesticide products, other than Grub worms, also called lawn grubs, are white worm-like pests that live in the soil. They are the larval form of the adult Japanese beetle, sometimes called the June beetle.There are several treatments for grub worms, including pesticides like Neem oil that can be sprayed on to the lawn to kill them. The best prevention is close monitoring of the lawn and landscape as summer progresses. If an area of grass seems to be lightening or browning, check for grubs (as noted above). A pesticide labeled for grub control applied to the area at this time can kill the grubs to prevent their growth and breeding. Two Methods:Treating Grubs Naturally Treating Grubs With Synthetic Pesticides Community QA.When grubs are growing, they eat grass roots, and this can lead to dead grass and brown patches on your lawn. To get rid of grubs, its important to determine what kind of grub youre dealing with The most fundamental aspects of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) involve the reduction of pesticide use to the lowest possible level, andIf some level of tolerance for grub damage exists and/or there is no record of previous grub damage, preventive control may not be warranted or necessary. Grub Control for Lawns. Brown, dead patches of grass are tell-tale signs of lawn grubs. These pests live a few inches underground and feed on your turfsThese grubs die and spread more spores, killing off other grubs.
Neem oil is a natural pesticide, mixed with water and applied to the lawn. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site. 9 Responses to Lawn Grub Worms and How to Prevent or Get Rid of Them.Pesticides, Weeds, your Lawn and our Environment | Life and Lawns Says: December 27th, 2007 at 3:01 am. Its time for our annual discussion about lawn grubs. Want to put fear into the heart of a lawn connoisseur?Several pesticides are available for grub control. Diazinon has been the home gardeners standby for many years. Diazinon is long lasting and effective, but it can commonly take 3 Grub damage may appear in home lawns from mid-September to November or from March to early May. However, for low-maintenance lawns, even if the turf is not killed fromIf applied in early spring, the pesticide may move through the soil or partially degrade by the time the grubs hatch in late July. Search for Best Grub Treatment Lawn. Look Up Quick Answers Now! netfind.com has been visited by 1M users in the past month.www.greendaily.com/Grubs On Lawns. For All Things Gardening! Expert know-how and Products for a Beautiful Garden. Liquid milky spore may be used in place of pesticides to kill grubs. Milky spore is a bacterial disease that kills grubs, but it will not be wholly affective against high grub populations. Bacteria is a living organism, and will repeat a cycle of life and death in your lawn once it has been introduced. Searles Lawn Grub Killer is a granular product that is easy to apply. For most effective control, application should be made late in the afternoon.Application of pesticides is best carried out at the first sign of activity in September/October. John from shares with you a viewers problem he is having in his garden Grubs aka white grubs or larvae from certain species of beetles can infect you ground and eat your plants. In this episode, John shares the methods he would us to eliminate grubs from his garden without the use of chemical When choosing insecticides for lawn grubs, its important to consider the various types. For fall treatment, Dylox is the most effective and fast acting available.Neem oil is a botanical pesticide containing insecticidal properties.


On Friday, as part of our bi-weekly NDA meetings, the Apopka AmeriCorps crew went gleaning.
Gleaning from the verb ‘glean’ means: 1. to gather or collect (something) in a gradual way, 2. to search (something) carefully, 3. to gather grain or other material that is left after the main crop has been gathered.
We were tasked with picking corn alongside other volunteer groups at the Long and Scott Farm between Zellwood and Mount Dora, Fla. This leftover corn was the crop deemed unsuccessful or not worthy of being sold, so it was left in the field to either waste or be picked by volunteers. Our corn, which we picked over 5 tons supposedly, went to Second Harvest Food Bank.
Originally, I was apprehensive about our planned team-building activity. It was going to be hot and dirty and hard. Obviously, I was missing the point – as that WAS the point.
The majority of those that the Hope CommUnity Center, our host site, serves are families who are either descendants of migrant workers or have members currently working in the fields.
Other than tourism, Florida is primarily an agricultural state. Citrus, vegetables such as cucumbers and tomatoes, strawberries, sugar cane and ferns are all major crops that grow in Florida’s sandy, but warm climate. As we are beginning to learn, agriculture is a dangerous profession. In fact, it was listed as one of the most dangerous as recently as this August by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Yet most of someone’s daily meals are all thanks to a farm worker.
Our gleaning experience was simple. and fun. It was a grand adventure, reminicsent of Luke Bryan and country living. We piled into a pick-up truck, was driven out to two small fields and canvassed the rows selecting the remaining small, wimpy ears of corn while also sampling field-fresh corn our selves. It was an enjoyable experience, as it was still morning and was overcast – and we were outside for less than three hours.
Corn isn’t a hard crop to pick; though the picker is stooped you merely have to bend to reach the ear and pluck it – it isn’t like tomatos which are picked along the ground, or oranges which are retrevied from tree tops.
We sang Pocahontas and Uncle Kracker and Instagrammed photos of ourselves, but I couldn’t imagine having to feed my family off of wages earned from baking in the hot Florida sun in a sea of corn, picking crops all day long.
If you had lunch today, thank a farm worker.


Harvesting apple and pears in fruit orchards
We are seeking seasonal workers for harvesting apples and pears in our fruit orchards based in the district of Mladá Boleslav in Lítkovice, district of Semily in Žernov, district Kolín in Choťovice and district Jičín in Podkost. Workers harvest fruit in groups of 6-8 people either using movable harvesting platform or manually into a harvesting bins. This seasonal job is based on the agreement to complete a job between the applicant and the employer, and will last 1-3 months starting at the turn of August and September.
What we offer:
Those interested in this job can apply to this job.
If you are interested in our advertised seasonal job please send your structured CV/resume with the filled out questionnaire (available for download on our site. The documents above are required for registration.
Rules for harvesting:
Fruits with a diameter larger than the minimal standardized size (for storage) are harvested into one large box in such a way that the fruit is not damaged or pounded. Any smaller or non-standard shaped fruits are harvested into another large box.


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Fruit Trees and Potager
The garden has a number of mature apple trees, which look wonderful covered in blossom in the spring, and provide perfect support for two rampant rambling roses - 'Paul's Himalayan Musk' and 'Frances E Lester'. The roses cause domestic friction, when it looks as if they are smothering the trees ..but we do have an excess of apples and surely could never have too much rose?
Our 'Bramley's Seedling', the definitive English "cooker", is extremely productive. The first 'Bramley's Seedling' grew from pips planted in a garden in Nottinghamshire in 1809. We have another cooker, 'Bedfordshire Foundling', which probably originated in Bedfordshire in around 1800. The large angular yellow cookers look as if they have been designed for packing, they are so cuboidal. We also have several 'King of the Pippins', another old cultivar but this one originating in France, which produces a small cider apple.
Mr B has added to the apple collection so now we have some excellent eaters all grown on dwarfing root stocks: 'James Grieve' (large, very early and does not keep but great to eat fresh off the tree), 'Sunset' (sweet and crunchy, rather like a Cox, but apparently easier to grow), 'Egremont Russet' (a characteristic nutty flavour) and 'Sturmer Pippin' (an excellent keeper, getting softer and sweeter with time).
The garden, which surely must have been part of an orchard once, also has a number of old greengage trees. I suspect I am guilty of hastening the end of one of these with the very exuberant rambler rose, 'Bobbie James'. I had to put in a large wooden trellis for the rose when the tree finally succumbed- not an ideal solution as the rose is far too vigorous and has to be restricted by a radical prune after flowering each year- a task calling for full protective clothing.
We were inspired by Rosemary Verey's superb potager at Barnsley House near Cirencester to make our own ornamental vegetable patch, but on a very small scale. Box balls and a bay tree provide evergreen structure and the 'Sunset' apple tree, underplanted with the decorative but sterile strawberry plants, Fragaria vesca 'Variegata', is a centre-piece. Mr B grows small quantities of potatoes, leeks, leaf beet (perpetual spinach), rocket, spinach, lettuce and rather fine garlic. My Mum's rhubarb (an old variety from our home in Northern Ireland) does very well and is always ready early in the year. I grow a number herbs including chives, sage, thyme, marjoram, fennel, chervil, rosemary, winter savoury and, of course, parsley.


The TERMINAL - The Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal is a 6.7 hectare facility that provides channels for the agricultural and non-agricultural products and services of Nueva Vizcaya and its adjoining provinces. The terminal is managed by the Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal, Incorporated, a private corporation duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under registry number A200118894 on December 19, 2001.
Our VISION - A farmer-led trading system providing world-class services governed by dynamic and committed members for an improved economy of its members.
Our MISSION - To engage in trading, processing and marketing of agricultural and non-agricultural products and services of Nueva Vizcaya and adjoining provinces to help producers get the best prices for their products.
Our OBJECTIVE - To assist producers from Nueva Vizcaya and adjoining provinces improve their productivity and profitability by offering reasonably priced facilities where they can engage in trading, processing, storing and marketing of agricultural and non-agricultural products and services.
The KLABS21 Project: A Web Based Trading System Of Fruits And Vegetables (nvkrops.com) came to a reality with the help of our partners; the Department of Science and Technology – Region 2 (DOST-R2) headed by the Regional Director Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Provincial Director for Nueva Vizcaya Engr. Jonathan R. Nuestro, Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) headed by their University President Dr. Andres Z. Taguiam and eTulud Delivery Services as our logistics partner.
This website aims to empower our local farmers and to promote and advertise the Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal Inc. (NVAT) as a leading trading center for fruits and vegetables by extending the scope and the number of clienteles and traders through the website, to speed up the flow of marketing from producers to consumers; deliver fresher fruits and vegetables to consumers, and provide real-time tracking of products during delivery and to provide secured and reliable transaction between traders and customers.


Visitors can discover Hawaii's rich agricultural history at this 60-acre working plantation in Waikapu. The plantation features 14 of Hawaii's most important fruit and flower crops, such as coconuts, papaya, macadamia nuts, coffee, mango and guava. Visit the Maui Tropical Plantation if you want to learn about Hawaii farming and sample some fresh-picked tasty treats.
There are plenty of activities here to keep you and your family busy. Take the fully-narrated tropical express tram tour, a 40-minute tour that takes visitors through the plantation grounds and features a coconut husking demonstration.
The Mill House Restaurant is the ideal venue for exclusive events. Please visit www.mtpmaui.com for menus and information. You'll also find a country store featuring tropical treats, such as papaya seed dressing, macadamia nut brittle and specialty Hawaiian coffee.
The Maui Tropical Plantation is available for special events, including weddings and family reunions. The elaborately landscaped surroundings bursting with flowers and fruit trees makes for a beautiful and romantic setting for any special event.
Tram ride tour prices: Adults $16, Children (ages 3-12) $6
Tram Tour departs daily at 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm and 4 pm.
Maui Tropical Plantation Overview
60-acre working plantation featuring 14 of Hawaii's most important fruit and flower crops
Plantation offers a narrated tram tour through the grounds
Restaurant located on site
Plantation is available for special event bookings


Grain of wheat analysis
Novel wheat lines with altered flour compositions can be used to decipher the roles of specific gluten proteins in flour quality grain proteins from transgenic wheat lines in which genes encoding the omega-5 gliadins were silenced by rna interference (rnai) were analyzed by quantitative 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-de). Free a grain of wheat papers, essays, analysis of the play, paper wheat - not all plays are character-driven, in fact a great many are not so if the characters . During the summer of 2015, alltech tested the north american wheat crop and found an average of 32 mycotoxins per sample mold and the mycotoxin it produces represent a serious economic threat to wheat growers and flour producers molds are spread throughout the crop as grain mixes in storage . Wheat flour, whole-grain nutrition facts and analysis per serving.
Plot summary a grain of wheat is a novel that tells kenya's struggle for independence the novel puts together two related halls of kenya's history. Read grain of wheat analysis free essay and over 88,000 other research documents grain of wheat analysis angry more so, because he couldn't get back at karanja as he was the new chief with immense powers he. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for a grain of wheat at amazoncom read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. Analysis sign in / join now the price of wheat is bucking the trend in the grain markets these days, and that is likely to continue given the lower production coming from russia and the .
A grain of wheat by ngugi wa thiong’o is a novel that illustrates the people of kenya and each of their personal journeys as they all struggled for independence through the use of a few characters a grain of wheat by ngugi wa thiong’o specifically for you. A grain of wheat summary & study guide includes detailed chapter summaries and analysis, quotes, character descriptions, themes, and more. Supersummary, a modern alternative to sparknotes and cliffsnotes, offers high-quality study guides for challenging works of literature this 30-page guide for “a grain of wheat” by ngugi wa thiong’o includes detailed chapter summaries and analysis covering 14 chapters as well as several more in-depth sections of expert-written literary analysis. A grain of wheat by ngũgĩ wa thiong'o - chapter 1 summary and analysis.
Wheat quality analysis the protein fraction in wheat is crucial to the development of the gluten structure of dough and how to protein development in the grain. A grain of wheat major character analysis mugo he betrays kihika, is violently beaten by john thompson, hears the confessions of gikonyo and mumbi, intervenes in the savage beating of kihika’s girlfriend, and forms a strange, spiritual connection with the old woman whose “deaf and dumb” son was killed during the emergency. A grain of wheat homework help questions please summarize the novel a grain of wheat by ngugi wa thiong'o kenyan novelist ngũgĩ wa thiong'o published his novel a grain of wheat in 1967 while . 24image analysis using cips 241special features of cips for morphometric analysis of wheat grains 2411 detection of individual grains in the input image cips uses the labeling algorithm to get the total number of regions in a given image by merging of the connected pixels. These challenges with the wheat crop, have made some farmers opt to harvest the wheat for hay instead of grain in hopes of being able to gather more value from the crop the timing of haying however is critical to the feed value of the wheat hay.
Grain of wheat analysis
The most commonly used method for particle size analysis of wheat flour in the grain industry is a sieve shaker following either the asabe or aacc standard. A grain of wheat 1 a grain of wheat -ngugi wa thiong’o 2 • maumau emergency in a grain of wheat (1967) presented for the first time an african perspective on the kenyan armed revolt against british colonial rule during the 1950s • a grain. The year of 1950’s and mau mau emergency in “a grain of wheat” (1987) presented for first time from an african perspectives that fight was against british colonialism and also in other countries. Although, the mentioned reviewers evaluates the primary ideas present in a grain of wheat, none of them puts a spotlight on the method and how the stories are conveyed i believe that this novel is a complex story it cannot be molded in a definite form.
- Father jim martin has kindly shared his homily for this sunday with the readers of the good word enjoy unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies it remains just a grain of wheat but if .
- A grain of wheat is a novel by kenyan novelist ngũgĩ wa thiong'o first published as part of the influential heinemann african writers series.
- Find great deals on ebay for grain of wheat bulbs in miscellaneous toy model railroads and trains shop with confidence.
Application note 11002-0609a-201309 instalab® 700 whole grain wheat analysis (hrww) /1 instalab® 700 whole grain wheat analysis (hrww) introduction the instalab® 700 (il700) is a self-contained optical reflectance instrument, designed to quickly and accurately. A grain of wheat is the third and best known novel written by ngugi wa thiong'o from kenya it weaves several stories together during the state of emergency in kenya's struggle for independence (1952–1959), focusing on the quiet mugo, whose life is ruled by a dark secret. Wheat methods and tests used to measure quality canadian grain commission wheat methods and tests as of september 2016 all semolina analysis and pasta .


What We Ate
A weblog of culinary experiences
July 29, 2005
Trouble With Tomatoes
Our three tomato plants, which seemed so reluctant to grow two months ago, have since exploded into enormous, many-armed, climbing monsters. The wooden stakes we had been using to prop them up are now clearly inadequate - they're sagging and drooping under the weight of all these green limbs. The plants are threatening to burst out of the plastic planter that seemed much too large at the time we first planted them, and have entirely overtaken one side of our roof. Tons of green tomatoes have erupted all over this monstrosity, and a few have actually ripened enough for us to eat.
We've got a standard cherry tomato plant that we bought at the Home Depot garden center, as well as two heirloom varieties from the Union Square Greenmarket. One of the heirlooms produces small oval tomatoes, a bit smaller than golf balls, and the other produces enormous creased and bulging franken-matoes. The oval heirlooms are delicious, with a robust meaty flavor, and slightly tough skin. The large heirlooms are also wonderful, although we've only been able to harvest one edible one so far. The reason for this is that both heirloom varieties suffer from cracking, and the full-sized tomatoes in particular seem to split open long before they are ripe. The small oval tomatoes seem to be more or less self-mending, such that we can leave them on the vine until they ripen, at which point many of them have healed brown scars spiraling around them. But the larger heirlooms seem to be splitting wide open while they're still half-green, and rotting from the open parts. That's how we lost our first big tomato, which we lay to rest on the compost heap. I picked the second big tomato yesterday - it looked about half-ripe and the bottom had cracked open, but it had not yet begun to go bad. When I cut it open, it was not fully red inside, but the flavor was surprisingly sweet and full. I ended up chopping it up and adding the tomato flesh to the stuffed squash we had for dinner last night. If anybody has any ideas on how to solve the splitting problem, I'm all ears.
The second issue with our tomato plants arose in the form of a well-camouflaged hornworm that had apparently been snacking on our cherry tomato plant. I'm surprised we even noticed it, as its color and shape blended in so well.
At first I thought it was interesting-looking and somewhat cute, but as soon as Carl took a paper towel and tried to pull the worm from the stalk of the plant, I got a little nauseous. He's a squishy fat fellow, about three inches long, and was not at all interested in giving up his perch. When Carl finally wrestled him off, the worm started wriggling around like crazy, which prompted the now thoroughly grossed-out Carl to toss the worm over onto our neighbor's roof. Perhaps not the smartest move, but it was late at night and we were a bit creeped out. The next morning, lo and behold, he had climbed back and was in his usual spot. This time, we were wiser. Carl took a wooden stake and stabbed him through the middle. He started oozing electric-green goo, and began making unhappy clicking noises. We held him underwater, and finally he stopped clicking and went limp. Then we flushed him down the toilet. The whole experience was quite revolting.


If we’re to really think about it, it’s not surprising that some farming practices are prevailing even in the 21st century. We still plan our crops along with the seasons to generate more successful yields. Many of us still plant and harvest fields by hand. But it’s not surprising either that technology has also transformed our farming practices. Through it, we’re able to do more by relying on machines and other forms of tech. We see and understand the value of technology in our agriculture industry.
This is why digital agriculture was launched and has been on the rise. It’s designed to help the farmers with their crops, distribution, and revenue through the power of digital technology. Researchers, designers, and engineers are developing properly managed website hosting and mobile apps to support the farmers.
A Brief Overview on Digital Agriculture
Unlike many industries, digital and agriculture aren’t two things that we would usually put together. They just seem so different. One is very much in the center of technology is normally associated with mobile apps and the internet. The other is very much rooted in manual labor that prevailed long before advanced technology ever existed. But with digital agriculture, science, technology, and agriculture intersect. They even, in a way, influence each other.
Bruno Basso, a professor of natural science at Michigan State University, said that digital agriculture isn’t as new as we think it is. In fact, it’s been around for about 20 years now, with the use of GPS trackers in farming tractors in the 1990s. So what makes digital agriculture different now? What makes it the defining path for the future of farming? The answer lies in the trends that influence the agriculture industry today.
Trends in Digital Agriculture
What makes digital agriculture crucial today is the changing climate. Farmers are forced to adapt to the increasing temperatures that make it difficult to grow certain types of crops. They also have to deal with intermittent weather patterns. Tomorrow, they might face heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding without having the chance to properly prepare themselves. And, most of all, they have to deal with water scarcity, which has been a growing issue in many parts of the world for decades now.
But with digital agriculture, they can combat these issues in a much manageable manner.
For one, robotics has been breaking ground in some farms. Machines are able to conduct scheduled feeding, milking, egg collection, and even cleaning on their own. Farmers would only have to control and schedule these activities through the robot’s software,
Another trend in digital agriculture is satellite imagery. Through this technology, farmers are able to gather data on soil property and moisture. This information can guide them as they irrigate, plant, apply fertilizers, and even manage pests.
Lastly, digital agriculture is helping farmers with their marketing and distribution to interested customers. They just need to set up a website and/or mobile app to launch their presence online. From these software, they can set up their products for sale. They can appeal to and engage with customers. This eliminates the middlemen in the distribution of fresh produce and other farming goods.
This is a significant win for both the farmers and customers because the middlemen often intervene with various aspects of the supply chain. They’re the ones who jack up the prices of the goods. They control the demand on the farmers’ output. And they get to have some control over which customers get to access these farming goods.
Digital Agriculture in the Time of COVID-19
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, people have become more reliant on digital technology. Even for their everyday chores such as grocery shopping, they turn to online shopping. This is why it’s become crucial for the agriculture industry to embrace digital agriculture.
By transitioning to digital agriculture, farmers get to ensure that their goods will be able to reach the customers in need. This leads to many benefits. One is that it can transform the rural communities that rely on agriculture for their income. Another is that it ensures that the supply chain won’t get disrupted and ensures food security for everyone around the world.
Farming is one of the first things that we think of when we think about the businesses that humans developed thousands of years ago. When humans started developing tools from stone, wood, and metal, many of such tools were used for farming. Today, the same principle stands. We create tools and advancements of technology to help us with farming. They’re the key to maintaining food security and making sure that people are always well-fed.


The grapes must be perfectly healthy.
The date of harvest is determined by monitoring the evolution of sugar and phenolic ripeness.
The 8 varieties of grapes are managed and vinified separately and individually, splitting them into further different lots in the case a grape variety comes from different units/micro-zones. Even the vinification of red wines does not follow any table or schedule or standard wine-making method: the choices are taken first tasting from time to time the grapes brought to the cellar during the harvest and then tasting the wine during maceration, in order to enhance its best varietal features according to the annual climate.
The grapes are destemmed and crushed differently.
The pre-fermentative maceration, more or less prolonged, and in the absence of alcohol, enhances the varietal character and spares time to start of a small fermentation with the must in a separate bowl to be added then to the crushed grapes in the tank. The alcoholic fermentation lasts for about 20 days, the contact with the skins may be more or less prolonged according to the extraction of polyphenols aimed. The mingling and aeration of the mass will vary depending on the variety of grape and on the idea of wine we aim, the moment of racking is determined by taste.
At the end of maceration, the 10 different basic wines are decanted to separate the coarse deposit. The 4 basic wines that will make the local red wine named Campiani (Barbera, Marzemino, Schiava gentile and Incrocio Terzi N°1- a crossing between Barbera and Cabernet Franc) refine in stainless steel vats, they are kept separated until the end of malolactic fermentation and then assembled before the bottling. The other 6 basic wines (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Nebbiolo) refine in oak barrels and are tasted at the end of malolactic fermentation in order to decide the assembling for the red wine named Farfallesco or for mono variety wine.
The wines do not undergo any kind of stabilization, no bentonites nor filtrations are used. Time is our only stabilizer for the wine during its stay in the tank or barrel. When the wines are stable, they are bottled and stored horizontally, from a minimum of 3 years to 10 years or more before they hit the shelves.
Sulfur dioxide, used to preserve the wine, is added only on the musts (to limit bacterial growth and promote the multiplication of yeasts suited to the alcoholic fermentation) and at the end of malolactic fermentation (to prevent bacterial spoilage and stink). Before we put on the market the wines, we control the amount of total sulfur dioxide ( currently under 35mg/l - legal limit is 160mg/l), the presence of any trace of pesticides, chemical and toxic substances ( so far we have never found any trace at all ).


Winter is a strange time of the year when it comes to plants – you don’t water them as much, they don’t grow as much… but you still have to get them ready for the wonders of spring!
This is why we LOVE Brisbane-based @honeysplantclimbers! The perfect (and surprisingly affordable!) way to keep your plants in tip-top shape, while adding a touch of pizazz to each pot!
Now to decide between the glitter-filled climbers or the chic clear ones?!


There are a lot of legends and myths about the discovery of the coffee berry. The first reliable evidences come from Ethiopia. The plant was successively taken to Arabia and grown in territories today called Yemen. A Yemeni legend says that one of the Chehodef monastery monks, having heard from a shepherd called Kaldi that his goats and camels used to be awake also at night after eating some particular berries, prepared a beverage out of those same berries in order to stay up late and be able to pray longer. Coffee got to Europe through the Venetian trade . At first the Catholics were very much against it and called it “the devil’s beverge”, but they were soon contradicted by the Pope who, on the contrary, appreciated coffee very much and approved of its consumption. Places where coffee was served started to spread all over Europe, and soon they became the meeting points of men of culture. In the 18th century the French planted their first berries in Martinica and after that the coffee crops reached Central and Southern America. Coffee spread so widely that it became the official beverage in the United States, in response to the heavy taxes imposed by the English on tea. The espresso history began in 1882 in France and it spread quickly to Italy, where it developed more intensively. Today coffee represents a huge industry which hires more than 20 million people in the world and its investments are second to the petroleum industry only. With its over 400 billion cups consumed every year, coffee represents the most famous beverage in the world. Only in Brazil the people working in the coffee fields are over 5 millions, and they take care of over 3 billions plants. Taking a steaming cup of coffee to one’s lips has become one of the most common actions among people from almost the whole planet.
HISTORICAL SIGN - In the first part of 1700s, Brazil started to produce coffee. It cheated some plants and a seeds handful of Guiana, to where he was sent to suppress an insurrection. In 1756, the first ships unloaded the Brazilian coffee in Portogallo, giving life to the great tradition of the old continent export.
The production process was mainly left to slavers at the service of the Spanish and Portoguese till 1888, when Brazil abolished slavery.
Neverthless, man power is today is essential for the production of coffee.
THE HARVEST - In the main part of the areas in which the Arabicas grow, ripe berries must have been picked by hand, put down in baskets and, depending on their weight, the picker’s salary varies at the end of the day. The ripe berries fall down on the soil, after that they are racked, deprived of scorias and picked up. Recently mechanical harvest systems have been developing, in specific and favourable conditions only: the plantations must be level and plants far from each other in order to allow machineries passage.
THE MARKET - Coffee trade is economically important for its huge consumption worldwide. It is one of the main products in world trade and its investments are second to the petroleum industry only. Its cultivation, production, trade, transportation and marketing hire million of people all over the world. Coffee represents an important resource for a lot of developing and not developed countries. Its quotations are daily estimated by New York Stock Exchange (Coffee, Sugar&Cocoa Exchange) for the Arabicas and London Exchange (LIFEE) for the Robustas. Coffee quotations depends on different complex and extremely variable factors. Temperatures in production areas, rainwater abundance and scarcity, spread of parasitic diseases, production problems, geopolitical conditions, economic speculations and much more condition its negotiation worth.
Coffea Arabica, coming from Etiopia and giving origin to Arabic coffee beans, represents about ¾ of global production and is considered the best coffee variety in the world. The Arabica is a delicate plant, growing on high altitude only, it has green and sparkling leaves and can be 12 metres tall. It is the best on a quality level: the higher is the altitude, the riper is the fruit and the richer in aromatic compounds is the beverage. Its delicate branches blossom at an altitude of 800-1200 metres, where only the equatorial areas offer the weather conditions for an healthy and luxuriant growth of the shrubs. The ideal temperature is 20° degrees. All the prestigious cru are Arabica’s and come from Eastern Africa and Southern America. The caffeina contents is lower than the Robusta’s, but the Arabicas are pleasantly aromatic, full-bodied, strong flavoured, agreeably sour, depending on their origins and preparation moods (more or less spicy, sour, cocoa flavoured). Depending on the production areas and the varities grown, the Arabicas have different names as Brazil, Milds, Typica, Maragogype (appreciated for the big beans), Moka and Bourbon (very common in Brazil). The most prestigious Moka grows mainly in Arabia, whose beans are rather small with an intense aromatic smell. The distinctive colour is mountain-green and the shape is flattened and extended. At the end of 1800s the cultivation of the other species began to spread because a lot of diseases damaged and destroyed the Coffea Arabica in different areas. Since then other varieties have been chosen and selected in order to be put on the market with success.
The Coffea Canephora, commonly called Coffea Robusta, is a strong and resistant shrub that can reach an height of 50 metres, suffers from not many diseases, stands insects and heat, grows at low altitude (200-800 metres) with great yield. Its branches grow like an umbrella, down to ground. During the year the blossoming is incessant. It was discovered in 1898 in Congo and nowadays represents about ¼ of global production: its fruits (drupe), generally smaller than Arabica’s, have rounded seeeds with a central straight groove, rich in caffeine, even if, after being roasted, are little scented. This variety, you can find in level plane too, has had a great success in trade, because, in addition to production’s wealth and system lower price, it stands diseases, remains healthy in poor conditions too. The Robusta fruits produce a mediocre coffee, little aromatic, very strong (bitter and woody) but more full bodied, with a higher caffeine content than the Arabica’s. Some varities, obtained by Canephora crosses, are very common in Indonesia, Uganda, Western Africa. Furthermore, the Arabusta, cross between the two Coffeas, Arabica and Robusta, was born.
Coming from Liberia’s woods and Ivory Coast, is a beautiful, strong, luxuriant, long live plant with much greater fruits and seeds than Arabica’s, more resistant to parasites attack. It is a plant requering high tempratures and abundant water. For its features, the Coffea Iberica has been chosen as a graft in order to obtain new varieties you find in Ivory Coast and Madagascar. From its beans, though lower on a quality level, you can produce a scented and pleasant coffee, till some time ago, its flavour was more appreciated in the Scandinavian countries.


As the federal government renews tests to determine how much glyphosate is in America’s foods, Connecticut environmental groups, organic farmers and a U.S. senator say it’s time to limit the use of, or ban, the popular herbicide. Glyphosate, the active ingredient in the world’s top-selling weed killer, Roundup, is a suspected carcinogen that’s used in agriculture, on golf courses, ballfields and other public venues, and for lawn care, experts said. It can be found in more than 750 products sold in the U.S., reports the National Pesticide Information Center. Health concerns have been raised about Roundup for decades, concerns consistently disputed by its manufacturer, Monsanto. Earlier this year, a group of environmental health scientists called for the federal government to reassess whether glyphosate is a cancer risk.


SCS Global Services Certifies Gostwyck Partners’ Sustainable Land Stewardship and Humane Animal Husbandry
Leading third-party certifier SCS Global Services (SCS) announced today that Gostwyck Partners’ sheep farm, located in Gostwyck, NSW, Australia, has achieved certification under the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). This historic farm, operating since 1834, has demonstrated that it meets all of the animal welfare and land management requirements of the RWS.
“We have been raising high-quality sheep on this land for 181 years, and are proud that our practices have been independently verified,” said Gostwyck director, Philip Attard. “SCS conducted a thorough, professional audit of our operation, providing full transparency into our practices, and assuring our customers that we stand behind our sustainability commitment. This certification is a testament to the fact that our superior quality Merino starts with happy, well-cared for sheep.”
SCS conducted a comprehensive review of Gostwyck’s farming operations, examining the company’s efforts to safeguard the well-being of its sheep through management, nutrition, infrastructure and health, and behavior and handling. SCS also verified the company’s land stewardship practices, such as its understanding and strategy to mitigate damage, improve soil health, ensure the biodiversity of the land, and minimize fertilizer and pesticide use on its land.
“The Responsible Wool Standard provides a very important opportunity for wool farmers in Australia and New Zealand to have their sustainability practices independently corroborated,” said Nick Capobianco, SCS Director for Australia and New Zealand. “RWS certification will increase international demand for wool from down under.” Gostwyck is certified under the “Farm Scope” of the RWS standard, he explained.
“We are pleased to certify this landmark farm,” said Nicole Muñoz, SCS Managing Director. “As a certifier of sustainability practices in agriculture for over three decades, we are excited to be able to verify the efforts of wool farmers and the wool supply chain to comply with internationally recognized benchmarks.”
SCS provides third-party certification under a variety of internationally sustainable agriculture labels, including SCS Sustainably Grown, Veriflora®, Better Cotton Initiative, Fair Trade USA, the Equitable Farm Initiative’s “Responsibly Grown / Farmworker Assured”, the Roundtable for Sustainable Biomaterials, and more. In addition, it provides independent auditing oversight for the sustainability supply chain programs of several international consumer brands. Its worldwide network of auditors perform assessments for large, medium, and small farms, as well as farm groups.
Nicole Munoz | Managing Director, SCS Global Services
Read the full press release here.


The Community Nurseries Network was formed in July 2009 as part of the community response to environmental issues surrounding Lakes Albert, Alexandrina and the Coorong & Murray Mouth. Development funding was made available from (DEH) now DEWNR to set up new nurseries as well as upgrade existing nurseries to facilitate the need for infrastructure to grow for the project.
In the first year of propagation (2009/2010) there were 8 nurseries who grew 130 000 plants of approximately 30 different species. In 2010/2011 10 nurseries grew 221 842 plants and the species diversity increased to approximately 100. In the third season we have grown 337 126 plants and the species diversity has increased to 130.
Nurseries are located at Milang, Meningie, Murray Bridge, Raukkan, Clayton Bay, Finniss, Goolwa and Hindmarsh Island. The increase in plant numbers and species is an indication of how knowledge and skills have developed since the project commenced.
The nursery network continues to meet on a monthly basis which provides a good forum for sharing knowledge and experiences and working collaboratively has been a major element of the network’s success.
For more information on the Community Nurseries Network please visit the website at www.communitynurseries.com.au


Once established in the ground, olive trees are drought tolerant.
In a pot, in full sun, olive trees need daily watering September to May. In Winter, approximately every 3 days is sufficient.
Best time to prune is Spring to promote growth.
Harvesting & Picking Olives
Olive trees start fruiting, depending on variety, from four to five years old. The fruits are ready for harvesting from Autumn to early Winter. Freshly picked olives are bitter to taste and have to be pickled in brine before preserved for eating.
For black olives wait until they past the olive green stage and turn purply black but are still firm. Green olives can be picked earlier. Both can be pickled.
Your olive tree will grow best in full sun, or a minimum of 6 hours of sun per day for your tree to be at its full potential. Any less than 6 hours, the tree will drop leaves. The less sun it gets, the more leaves it will drop.
The olive is very tolerant of windy positions, although young trees may require staking until they are established.
Basic brine Recipe:
100grams of salt to 1L of cooled, boiled water.
The olives need to be fully submerged in clean jars for 3 months.
Suggested additives – lemons, oregano, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and white wine vinegar.
IMPORTANT: We strongly recommend spraying your olive tree with FLYING Insect Spray every 14 days to prevent the Lace Bug attacking it.
TOXICITY OF OTHER PLANTS
Fiddle Leaf Figs
Dermatitis is identified in plants under Class 4 toxicity. Lip and mouth irritation will be present if the plant is ingested and it can cause skin irritation and rash if you have come in contact with the sap.
Peace Lily is a potential hazard to your pooch. If chewed or ingested, it can cause significant irritation of the mouth leading to drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. As such, it belongs on any list of toxic plants for dogs.
Bird of ParadiseThis plant is toxic to your dogs, cats, horses and more so if you believe your dog ingested a part of it, contact your veterinarian immediately.


Soil, Splendid Soil!
Sunday 7 May, 10am to 3pm, at North Freo Social Farm
Do you want to learn what plants really eat? And how to help them get it? Fall passionately in love with good soil as you work through the key characteristics of the stuff, followed by practical principles for repairing, building and maintaining your own bit of earth. You will never see the ground in the same way again...
Your presenter, Annie Raser-Rowland is a graduate of horticulture and permaculture certificates, general natural world info-junkie, plant nerd. Growing her own food was her original motivation for all this learning, and continues to strike her as a small and elegant magic - a passion for healthy soil, and for wild foods (from weeds to bush foods) has followed. She has spent three months working on the environmental systems of an 'ecovillage' in Tanzania, done permaculture design work with Very Edible Gardens, and worked for many years at CERES bush foods and permaculture nursery.
This workshop includes morning tea, please bring your own lunch.
When: Sunday 7 May, 10am to 3pm
Where: North Fremantle Social Farm, Thompson Rd, North Fremantle (next to the Community Hall)
Cost: $40 for members (please enter code NFSFMEMBER for your discount), $80 non-members. New social members always welcome, become a member here!
Bring: Lunch. Please also bring a smallish clean jar (like a jam jar), and a minimum of 1 soil sample (1/2 a cup) from your garden. Compost and trouble area samples welcome.


Composting, wilding and trying something new
Let me tell you about my recent brainwave - a creative, free, and wildlife friendly solution to the huge quantities of dead plants and prunings I've had to clear this winter and spring. It may not be a perfect solution, but it is a fun experiment - so yay!
So what do you do with all the prunings and dead plants that get tidied up in the garden at this time of year? Compost? Give to the council for recycling? Pile in a heap and forget about them? I like to compost as much as possible, but sometimes the incoming barrow-loads are just too massive for me to chop up to compost properly, so I've been going for the 'pile it up in a corner and forget about it' option - that corner being the edge of a big overgrown chunk of garden that we call the 'wilderness'.
An Brief Intro to The Wilderness
The wilderness is an overgrown area that has had a wild ride over the past few years (see my earlier blog post about it here). It's full of pioneer plants and trees - the strong and resilient ones we ironically call 'weeds' - nettles, thistles, brambles, docks, teasels, willows, buddleia...Here's what it tends to look like in the spring and summer...
Trouble is, it's getting harder and harder to even get in there as the nettles and brambles increasingly take over. Only through the winter, when it's a graveyard of plant skeletons, do we get to enter. So here we have this wild and increasingly inaccessible bit of the garden, now with the addition of an enormous, also impenetrable and unusable, 'dumping heap' of dead plant matter.
One answer would be to get a landscaping plan for this area and develop it into 'proper garden'. But we have too much other stuff on the go at the moment, and we also like the idea of having a 'mini wilding project' of sorts, for now anyway.
So, how to deal with the two problems of an overly wild and inaccessible area, and having more plant material than I can process through the compost?
Here's my idea. I have used all the dead plant stuff to create edges to wood chip paths through the wilderness. Low, long piles running along the edges of the pathways, that serve multiple purposes:
A repository of compost material (dry, carbon-rich material that I can leave here to compost slowly, and possibly use some in the compost bins if I have too much wet/green material through the summer and need to balance with some dry 'browns'). Arranged like this I can access it and see what I've got much better than in the big heap.
Demarkation of the pathways
Suppressing weeds at the edges for my paths
Lots of habitat for insects and small mammals - I see them as mini 'dead-hedges'
A fun maze of paths that winds around and through the wilderness
A way of pushing the wild back a bit, but still letting the plants do what they want - the brambles will still be there, but now we'll be able to get to them and keep them in check with regular snips with secateurs.
I am really pleased with how many wins I get from this really easy idea! I hope it'll prove to be effective. I also think that by opening it up a bit we have created a greater diversity of habitats, and are allowing in more light, and so consequently might attract a greater diversity of animal and plant species. Watch this wilderness space!


This publication provides an overview of the impacts of the El Niño phenomenon on agriculture and food security in 2015-2016. Current consequences at global, regional and country level are highlighted (including data on crop production; livestock production; number of food insecure people) as well as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) actions and funding requirements.
Some of the measures undertaken by the FAO for resilience building include:
- establishing community-based early warning systems;
- rehabilitating water catchments to increase water storage capacity;
- distributing improved seeds and conducting animal disease surveillance;
- providing technical support to the Ministry of Agriculture in conducting field monitoring;
- promoting good practices and technologies;
- improving the resilience of agroecosystems through training.
Download it here.
- Food and Agricultural Organization


The staff at Stop Smoking Now Aids think hemp is one of the most useful and beneficial plants on earth. It serves multitudes of purposes from textiles to the most powerful holistic medicines. For thousands of years, humans have enjoyed the benefits of the hemp plant for various uses.
Now, hemp has been declared illegal in most countries of the world. Is hemp really what we think? Kindly read on as we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hemp-the wonder plant.
Hemp-The History of American’s Wonder Crop
Before the use of hemp became illegal in the United States, it was a massive source of income for the nation. It is one of the oldest plants cultivated by civilization.
Hemp from the cannabis sativa plant family was grown for oil, food, fiber, e.t.c. Hemp was already being planted by Native Americans who resided in the new world.
This was a time when pioneers who went to explore the sea for greener pastures arrived. Fibers from hemp are strong and durable. They used the crop to produce cloth, thread, cottage, and paper.
The year 1632 was the first American colonial year when hemp was first put to use. The Virginia Assembly made it compulsory for all farmers to plant hemp. Not long after Connecticut and Massachusetts also passed the same mandate into law.
In the 17th and 18th century, farmers planted hemp all through the year of the American colonies. The government started exporting the hemp for industrial uses to England. The English government began to use it for shoes, clothing, maps, books, sails, and tents. The culture of the domesticated crop was so beneficial and useful to the colonist’s even our first president “George Washington” grew the cannabis sativa plants on his farm.
For more than 200 years, industrial hemp was a legal product that manufacturers even paid federal income taxes.
As time goes on, the relationship between American and British colonies went down. They started using them for products that benefit naval forces and ground troops. The hemp industry was booming and widely used in America before the April 14th law of controlled substances “The Marihuana Tax Act 1937” declared it as an Illegal drug!
Shortly after this substances act was passed the people started the hemp prohibition, being the plant was so beneficial and so many uses both industrial farmers and consumers were in an up roar over this law. So we need to ask the question? If this amazing plant that serves so many beneficial purposes and contains no psychoactive compounds what so ever, become illegal?
We get into a full explanation as to why it was and still is to this day in our new education article “Why Is The Worlds Most Beneficial Plant Illegal?”
They are different from each other in function, application, and cultivation. Marijuana strains and hemp varieties serve different purposes. The cannabis plant is popular for its use in medicinal health and recreational purpose. Hemp products can serve other purposes which marijuana can never do. So, what differentiates the two?
AppearanceThe shape of marijuana is a little broad-leafed. The sativa plant species resembles a short fat bush from afar. On the other hand, the leaves of hemp are skinnier and more concentrated at the top. Hemp has a few leaves or branches beneath the top part of it. Hemp is taller and skinnier.
Chemical MakeupOne of their noticeable differences is in the chemical composition or cannabinoid. And this revolves round tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The thc content is the chemical that produces the psychological effect of marijuana. A typical batch of marijuana is somewhere between 5-20 percent THC.
Some high quality of marijuana strains can have up to 5-20% content of THC. This high quality will let your body lose its psychoactive effects, In short, “high.” This threshold is regulated in countries that legalized hemp. Hemp also contains a high cannabidiol (CBD) content that acts as the THC’s antagonist. This makes the minimal amount of THC useless.
Cultivation EnvironmentThe environment to growing hemp and medical marijuana is different. Hemp plants are grown close to each other and in large multi-acre plots. Hemp can survive in most climatic conditions, and its growth cycle lasts 108-120 days.
Marijuana survives better in a warm and humid atmosphere. Unlike hemp, It has a growth cycle of 60-90 days.
The first step is to plant and harvest the hemp plant that contains a high level of CBD. We can extract CBD oil from hemp that is low in THC and high in CBD.
Extraction ProcessOnce the producer harvest the hemp, next is the extraction process. Here we’ll need an extraction solvent to separate and collect the CBD oil from the seeds and stalk of hemp.
The best practice that producers’ use is called the supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) process. This process uses the CO2 as a solvent. Supercritical Co2 is regarded as “Medical Grade CO2” and safe by the FDA.
To extract the seed oil, the solvent is forced through the hemp material. This, in turn, pulls out the CBD, oils, lipid, and other vital compounds. We then remove the oil from the final products.
These oils are naturally high in CBD. CBD oil extracted from hemp and 100% legal under the federal United States law and can be found in trusted major markets.
Hemp is by far one of the most beneficial plants on this planet. It serves a multitude of purposes. For thousands of years, humans have enjoyed parts of the hemp plant for more then just medication, for example… food, paper, textile, fabric, and even fuel oil.
Here are some of the non medical uses of the hemp plant:
Food and Nutrition Hemp seed oil and hemp seeds are delicious and nutritious. The seed is an excellent source of the mineral, protein, and the dietary fiber. The hemp protein contains all the necessary fatty acid and amino acids that the body needs for survival.
This nutrient aids a proper function of specific systems in the body. They include the skin, brain, heart and the metabolism of the body. Hemp also functions well for animals. Veterinarians recommend cbd for owners of pets and livestock to include it in their diet.
Body Care Hemp contains a high amount of beneficial oils and natural emollient properties. With these qualities, hemp became a common ingredient in skin and cosmetics products.
It is better than the toxic chemicals found in petroleum-based cosmetics and lotions.
Paper We can use hemp for making paper products and plastics. This proves to be an excellent resource due to the fact that it regenerates back in a few months. Unlike trees that take up to 30 years before harvest. Rope, Fabric, and Textiles
Hemp is as well useful in different fabric types. Though similar to cotton, it is more durable. Hemp can also be used to make rugs and other forms of textiles. It is a traditional rope making fiber because it is flexible, durable and can resist water damage.
Fuel Years ago, Americans used hemp to make lamp oil. The idea got phased out in early America around the 1870s when petroleum came out. Today people use hemp oil to create biofuels as a replacement for gasoline for the diesel engine. Hemp oil can as well be used as a flexible alternative in building materials.


Bao-Med Hair, Skin & Nails Beauty Supplement
Baobab food supplement.
- 100% vegan.
- For stronger hair, skin & nails.
- Main ingredient: baobab fruit powder (superfood derived from the baobab fruit from South Africa).
- Baobab fruit powder is rich in Vitamin C, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, antioxidants and dietary fibers.
- Enriched with Biotin, Zinc and Folic Acid.
- Biotin contributes to the maintenance of healthy skin, hair and nails.
- Zinc contributes to the normal formation of proteins, growth and renewal of tissue, the metabolism and the proper functioning of the immune system.
- Folic Acid (vitamin B11) is necessary for the growth and proper functioning of the body and the production of white and red blood cells.
Bao-Med International BV works closely together with the Baobab Foundation. This is a non-profit organization in South Africa that promotes and supports the conservation of baobab trees and is involved in improving the lives of communities who live among these trees. Through direct cooperation, we make an economic contribution to the local population.
Natural, organic product from the African baobab tree.
Harvesting baobab fruit for our Bao-Med products is a sustainable process. The harvesters only collect the fruit that has fallen from the tree onto the ground, leaving the tree intact. Bao-Med International BV believes in conservation through education. We work closely with the harvesters of baobab fruit and make sure that we educate them about the sustainability of baobabs and their products to the local and international markets. In this way Bao-Med can ensure a sustainable harvest, allowing baobab trees to produce fruit for hundreds of years.
Contains no animal ingredients and is not tested on animals.
Amount per serving
% Daily value
Baobab Fruit Powder (Adansonia Digitata)
Other ingredients: HPMC-Vegan capsule
*= Daily value not established.


Parboiled rice, also known as converted rice, is a type of rice that undergoes a unique processing technique before milling. This process includes soaking, steaming, and drying the rice grains, which leads to some of the nutrients from the bran being absorbed into the grain itself.
Originating from ancient India and later adopted in various parts of Asia and Africa, this method was initially developed to increase rice’s nutritional value and shelf-life.
Unlike regular white rice, parboiled rice boasts a higher nutritional profile. This is due to its processing, which allows the rice to retain more vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins and iron.
Moreover, parboiled rice has a lower glycemic index compared to white rice, making it a healthier choice for individuals managing blood sugar levels. The processing also affects its texture, resulting in firmer and less sticky grains after cooking.
Comparison with Other Rice Types:
When comparing parboiled rice to white and brown rice, several differences stand out:
- Nutrition: Parboiled rice is closer to brown rice in terms of nutritional value but has a lower fiber content.
- Cooking Time: Parboiled rice takes a bit longer than white rice but generally cooks faster than brown rice.
- Taste and Usage: It has a slightly nuttier flavor than white rice and is versatile in various cuisines, often used in dishes where separate, firmer grains are preferred.
Characteristics of Parboiled Rice:
These are the characteristics:
The taste of parboiled rice is distinctively nuttier and more earthy compared to white rice. This unique flavor profile makes it a favored ingredient in many cultural dishes, offering a more robust backdrop for spices and seasonings.
Parboiled rice has a pale yellow or amber color, different from the pure white of regular rice. This coloration results from the parboiling process, where nutrients from the bran are infused into the grain.
Once cooked, parboiled rice exhibits a firmer, less sticky texture than white rice. This characteristic makes it ideal for dishes that require the rice grains to remain separate and intact, such as pilafs, salads, and certain rice-based desserts.
Types of Parboiled Rice:
These are the types of Parboiled rice:
- Extra Long Grain Parboiled Rice:
This variety is known for its long, slender grains that expand in length when cooked. It’s particularly well-suited for dishes like biryani or fried rice, where separate grains are desired.
- Medium Grain Parboiled Rice:
Medium-grain parboiled rice has a slightly more tender texture compared to the long-grain variety. It’s versatile and can be used in various recipes, from creamy risottos to sweet rice puddings.
- Specialty Medium Grain Rice:
Specialty medium grain rice varieties, such as Arborio or Valencia, are also available in parboiled forms. These are often used in specific dishes like risotto or paella, where their ability to absorb flavors and maintain a firm texture is prized.
Cooking Parboiled Rice:
Here we discuss the traditional method of cooking parboiled rice:
Step-by-Step Traditional Cooking Method:
- Rinsing: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the rice to remove excess starch.
- Boiling Water: In a pot, bring water to a boil. Use about 2 cups of water for every cup of rice.
- Adding Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the boiling water.
- Simmering: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let the rice cook for about 20-25 minutes.
- Resting: Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the grains to firm up.
- Fluffing: Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Alternative Boil and Drain Method:
This method involves cooking the rice in a large amount of water and then draining off the excess. It’s similar to cooking pasta and is excellent for achieving fluffy, separate grains.
Detailed Stovetop Cooking Instructions:
Follow the traditional method steps, ensuring consistent heat and avoiding frequent checking, which can release steam and affect the cooking process.
Cooking in an Instant Pot:
- Rinse Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Water Ratio: Use a 1:1 rice-to-water ratio for the Instant Pot.
- Cooking Time: Cook on high pressure for about 8 minutes, followed by a natural release of 10 minutes.
- Fluff and Serve: Fluff with a fork and serve.
Steps for Parboiling Basmati Rice:
- Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice until the water is clear.
- Boiling Water: Boil water in a large pot.
- Parboil: Add the rice and cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Drain: Drain the rice and use it as required in your recipe.
Expert Cooking Advice:
- Consistent Heat: Maintain a steady simmer to ensure even cooking.
- Rice Quality: Choose high-quality rice for the best results.
- Water Ratio: Adjust the water ratio slightly depending on the desired texture.
Additional Cooking Information:
Essential Equipment and Ingredients for Cooking Parboiled Rice:
- Pots and Pans: A medium-sized pot with a tight-fitting lid is essential for the stovetop method. For Instant Pot recipes, obviously, an Instant Pot is required.
- Measuring Tools: Accurate measuring cups and spoons are crucial for maintaining the right water-to-rice ratio.
- Strainer or Colander: A fine-mesh strainer is helpful for rinsing the rice.
- Spatula or Fork: For fluffing the rice after cooking.
- Basic Ingredients: High-quality parboiled rice, water, and salt. Additional ingredients can include herbs, spices, or broths for added flavor.
Substitutions and Variations:
Alternative Ingredients and Cooking Variations:
- Rice Varieties: While this article focuses on parboiled rice, the same methods can often be adapted to other rice types, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: For dietary restrictions, ensure all added ingredients, like broths are compliant.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with garlic, onions, herbs, or even a splash of wine for aromatic rice dishes.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Best Practices for Storing and Reheating Cooked Rice:
- Cooling and Storing: Spread the cooked rice on a tray to cool quickly, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Reheat only the amount needed using a microwave or stovetop, adding a bit of water to prevent drying out.
- Accompaniments: Pair with proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu and a side of vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Presentation Tips: Serve rice molded in a cup shape or alongside the main dish for aesthetic appeal.
The Nutritional Profile of Parboiled Rice:
- Calorie Content: A moderate calorie content, making it a suitable staple for a balanced diet.
- Fiber and Protein: Although lower in fiber than brown rice, it offers a decent amount of protein.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in B vitamins, particularly thiamine and niacin, and minerals like iron and potassium.
Health Benefits of Parboiled Rice:
Exploring the Health Advantages of Parboiled Rice:
- Digestive Health: Easier to digest compared to other rice types, making it suitable for sensitive stomachs.
- Blood Sugar Management: The lower glycemic index helps manage blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for diabetics.
- Weight Management: The firm texture and nutritional content can aid in feeling fuller longer, supporting weight management efforts.
As we conclude our comprehensive exploration of parboiled rice, it’s evident that this versatile grain is more than just a culinary staple. Parboiled rice bridges the gap between nutrition and convenience, offering a healthier alternative to white rice while maintaining a delightful taste and texture suitable for many dishes.
From its nutritional benefits, which support digestive health and blood sugar management, to its versatility in both traditional and modern cuisines, parboiled rice stands out as a remarkable ingredient.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the nutritional difference between parboiled rice and white rice?
Parboiled rice is nutritionally superior to white rice. The parboiling process drives some of the B vitamins and minerals from the bran into the grain, resulting in higher levels of nutrients like thiamine, niacin, and iron.
Parboiled rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice, making it a better choice for blood sugar management.
2. Can you cook parboiled rice in a rice cooker?
Yes, parboiled rice can be cooked in a rice cooker. Use the same water-to-rice ratio recommended for white rice, typically 2:1, and adjust according to your rice cooker’s guidelines or personal texture preference.
3. Is parboiled rice gluten-free?
Parboiled rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. However, always check packaging for potential cross-contamination warnings if gluten is a concern.
4. How long does cooked parboiled rice last in the refrigerator?
Cooked parboiled rice can be stored in the refrigerator for 5 days. Ensure it’s cooled quickly and stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
5. Can parboiled rice be used for sushi?
While parboiled rice can be used for sushi, it’s not ideal. Sushi typically requires a specific type of rice (short-grain sushi rice) that is stickier and holds together better. Parboiled rice is firmer and less sticky, which might not yield the best results for traditional sushi.
6. How do you ensure parboiled rice doesn’t become mushy?
To prevent mushiness, rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Be mindful of the water-to-rice ratio (generally 2:1) and avoid overcooking. Let the rice sit for a few minutes after cooking before fluffing it with a fork.
7. Is parboiled rice suitable for a diabetic diet?
Parboiled rice can be a suitable option for a diabetic diet due to its lower glycemic index compared to white rice. It causes a slower rise in blood glucose levels. However, portion control and overall meal composition should still be considered.
8. Can I use parboiled rice for fried rice?
Yes, parboiled rice is excellent for fried rice. Its firmer texture and less sticky quality when cooked make it ideal for stir-frying, as the grains remain separate.
9. What is the difference between parboiled rice and brown rice?
Brown rice is a whole grain with the bran and germ intact, offering more fiber and a nuttier flavor. Parboiled rice, while still more nutritious than white rice, has been partially precooked in its husk, which changes its texture and helps incorporate some nutrients from the bran into the grain.
10. How should parboiled rice be stored before cooking?
Uncooked parboiled rice should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. An airtight container is ideal for maintaining quality and preventing infestation or spoilage.


For second consecutive year March was colder than February in the region.
It's only the fourth time that’s happened since 1895.
The movements of the jet stream are responsible for the switch in the usual weather pattern.
New Jersey state climatologist Dave Robinson says the March chill has kept trees and plants from blooming and that may be welcome news for people with allergies.
"But I've seen it in the past where things are delayed until the end of the second week of April and then everything bursts out at once."
New Jersey Farm Bureau president Ryke Suydam says it's too soon for farmers to plant because the soil is still too cold.
"The backyard gardener should consider the same thing. You might get burned by a frost. You're not going to gain anything by trying to plant so early."
All the snow and rain in recent weeks filled reservoirs and eased concerns about a potential drought.


Carnations are broadly classified into four groups namely
(i) Border and Picotee (ii) Chabaud or Marguerite (iii) Malmaison (iv) Perpetual flowering.
Harvesting of Carnation flowers depend on the size of bud and growth of petals. Standard Carnations are harvested when they are half open and the first petal lays horizontally or at paint brush stage. Spray types are harvested when at least two flowers have opened and remaining buds are showing colour.
Care needs to be taken of Carnations in various aspects - irrigation, fertilization and other areas.
a) Irrigation : Rooted cuttings should be watered immediately after planting. Spraying of water through misting has been found to be more effective than the surface watering for early establishment of the cuttings. After three weeks of planting, drip irrigation has to be adopted . Frequency of watering depends on the weather conditions and the soil type. Stagnation of water should be avoided to minimize the incidence of diseases.
Climate and soil: Carnations perform best in relatively cool climate. It is a long day plant requires approximately 21.5 K lux sunshine for at least 8 hours a day. Temperature is a major factor that influences the growth and flowering, colour, grade and the quality of cut flowers.
Carnation flowers are among the top ten cut flowers worldwide. Flowers of Carnation are valued for its keeping quality, wide array of colours and forms and ability to rehyderate after long transportation. These qualities form the basis of many floral arrangements and mixed bouquets.


- Common Name: Calendula
- Scientific Name: Calendula officinalis
- Family: Asteraceae
- Part Used: Flower
- Taste/Smell: Slightly bitter, Salty
Calendula is a wonderful flower that is easy to grow and helps spread happiness, cheer, and sunshine throughout the year. Calendula officinalis is an annual plant native to southern Europe that grows best in full sun to part shade. It can be grown as a cover crop during the growing season, as a pollinator attractor, food, or medicine.
How to Grow
Seed propagation – sow outdoors 1–2 weeks before the last spring frost or start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. If starting indoors, keep temperature between 55–60 F; avoiding warm temperatures will produce a stronger plant that is easily transplanted outdoors. Light will inhibit germination, so cover seeds completely with soil. Germination generally takes 10–14 days. Plants will grow 1–2 feet tall and spread 1–1.5 feet. Blooming late spring to mid-fall. Calendula is a prolific seed producer and will easily self seed in your garden. Harvest or dead head spent flowers to keep flower production high. Pinching back early to mid season will produce a bushy plant. Calendula will tolerate mild frost and will produce flowers into the fall. A mid summer planting will extend harvest season into the mid to late fall.
Harvest and Medicinal Use
For culinary use, harvest flowers on the first day fully open. The petals can be snipped off and used fresh in salads and decoratively on desserts or as a garnish. Petals may also be used as a yellow pigment addition to rice or pasta dishes. The leaves are slightly spicy and may be used to flavor soups, salads or as a garnish.
For medicinal use, it is best to harvest the flower buds just before they open or on the first day they are fully open. Extractions can be done with either fresh or dried flowers. If you are choosing to dry your flowers for later use, start the drying process as close to harvest as possible. Here in the Pacific Northwest it is best to use a dehydrator at a low temperature (below 110 F). Store fully dried flowers in an airtight container in a dark area for up to 1 year.
Medicinally, Calendula has many uses including as an antiseptic, anti- inflammatory, lymphagogue, choleretic, demulcent, andvulnerary. Topically, the oil is great to help heal the skin after sunburns, small cuts, scrapes, or abrasions. (Make sure you seek the appropriate medical care!) The active compounds in the flowers are the resins, flavonoids, triterpenoids and polysaccharides. These different components are best extracted in different ways. The resins are best extracted in a high alcohol, oil, or as a fresh juice. The triterpenoids will be found in all types of extracts. The flavonoids will be extracted in water, fresh juice, or in low alcohol.
Calendula can help us to connect to our essential nature so that we can better shine into the world. Its orange, sun-like flowers taken internally will help to instill courage and strength of will. Calendula will strengthen the solar plexus giving the heart a solid foundation to rest upon. Calendula will also help us to shine light into our dark places and give us the courage to heal them.


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Van Tri Golf Estate
Van Tri Golf Estate
Kim No Commune
Dong Anh District
Name of contact for environmental and social issues:
Mr. Rich Blackie, General Manager
- Opened in April 2007.
- 18 holes, par 72, 7208-5308 yards.
- Seashore Paspalum fairways and rough, Seaisle 2000 greens and bunker banks.
- Undulating parkland style course with many water ways, it is built in a marshy area and the golf course has enhanced the original ecosystem.
- Course designer: Peter Rousseau.
- Water in play on 17 holes, very extensive and unique bunkering with undulating greens Aquatic driving range.
- Full service clubhouse.
- Golf academy with club-fitting center.
- Van Tri was voted, by Vietnam Golf magazine:
- Best Designed Course (2008 and 2009)
- Most Eco-Friendly Course (2009)
- Best Service (2007)
- The original site was mostly (around 85%) unused bog, with very few, largely-unproductive, paddy fields . The few farmers who used the site were legally and fairly compensated for their land and most now work for the golf club.
- The original site was used to supply mud for building and was largely bereft of wildlife. We now have a large variety of birds and a big frog, snake and dragonfly population (indicator species) which all attest to the quality of the water in our lake system.
- Established a no-spray buffer zone adjacent to any marsh water. Our water samples have shown that our internal lake water is of better quality than the adjacent public marsh, which has agricultural chemicals flowing directly into it.
- ISO14001 certified (2009), the only golf club in Vietnam to be so recognized.
- Very limited water use, in 2009 we reduced water usage by 50% compared to 2008. Watering is only done when absolutely necessary; most water is done by hand directly onto dry spots.
- Modern irrigation system: Rainbird with fertigation options and 180 & 360 heads to control where the water goes and limit quantity needed.
- Irrigation water comes from the irrigation lakes on the course. Well water is used for the clubhouse.
- Course was constructed with natural buffer zones along all water ways to reduce run off and provide habitat for wildlife.
- Organic chemicals where possible.
- Spot spray and hand weed.
- Cap the catch basins when spraying. This allows the soil and plants take up all the nutrients and chemicals; the soil and plants act as filtration system, with nothing going directly into the water supply.
- Dramatic increase in biodiversity due to more environmentally-responsible management. A biodiversity survey is on-going. Also, the course prohibits hunting, helping to ensure a healthy wildlife population.
- Dramatic increase in fish population, of sufficient quantity and quality that the local trade union is periodically allowed to trawl in the course’s lakes, with the catch sold to earn income for local charities.
Creating and maintaining good relationships with the village/communes around our club:
- Employ some 500 staff, most of whom come from local villages.
- Large contributor to local charities.
- Work with local people’s committee to clean up waste areas. The club paid to remove a dump site used by the local village just outside the club grounds.
- Upkeep of ancient burial sites located in nearby communities.
"To be the most environmentally responsible golf course in Vietnam."


In light of this week’s Time magazine article calling biofuels a scam, I think it’s well past time to bring up that which has been touted as a savior for the automobile lifestyle.
The basic idea is this: the carbon dioxide released by oil that we get out of the ground contributes to climate change. When we grow crops like soybeans, rapeseed, and corn, we get a source of oil to burn as the plants ‘fix’ carbon dioxide from the air. The biomass that we can’t convert to oil offsets the carbon dioxide released in the agricultural process, so at the end of the growing season we’ve both generated fuel and captured some of our previous carbon dioxide emissions – and the more efficient our crop, the more we capture.
As a result of this idea, several subsidies are now available to biofuel producers in the US and other countries, and a growing number of local governments have mandated that their fleets be partially fueled by biofuels. King County Metro is one example – our buses are fueled in part by biodiesel. These subsidies to producers are intended to help switch US fuel consumers to locally produced fuels, rather than foreign oil.
Here’s where the problems begin. For starters, most of that subsidized fuel isn’t staying in the US, because the producers can make more money in foreign markets. That’s bad for us, because it means our tax dollars aren’t helping at home. On top of that, our biggest biofuel subsidies go to corn-based ethanol, and it’s becoming more and more clear that corn is one of the least efficient ways to produce biofuels. In fact, there’s some disagreement as to whether corn ethanol production even nets us as as much energy as it takes to produce.
Some of the other biofuel crops fare better in that regard. It’s been generally accepted that some of today’s biofuel crops are energy positive, such as soybean biodiesel. Unfortunately, it looks like biofuel proponents (including, in the past, myself) have been missing a key part of the puzzle. As biofuels become more widespread and more profitable, as the original niche market for used frying oil has become a worldwide industry, land is becoming an issue.
Now, every time demand for biofuels increases, it results in rainforest in the Amazon being burned down for oil crops. This is what that looks like from above – please do look. As the New York Times recently reported, two new peer-reviewed studies published in the journal Science show that clearing this land emits hundreds of times more carbon dioxide than biofuels grown there can recapture. In fact, even when growing much more efficient switchgrass rather than corn, using existing US cropland has similar results. The soybean growers groups that funded the study responded to these findings by suspending their grants to the University of Minnesota, the institution conducting the research.
It gets worse. The price of food is increasing – in part because food crops now must compete directly with fuel crops for land and fresh water. The United Nations World Food Programme estimated a few years ago that the number of undernourished people today, some 850 million, could be reduced to 400 million by mid-century. They now estimate that this number will go up to 1.2 billion. This is not to say that biofuels are the only problem – Increased demand caused by prosperity in China and India could account for some of the price increases in basic crops, as well as investors shifting their money from stocks to commodities – but a problem they are.
In addition, the loss of biodiversity caused by dramatically adding new farmland for growing fuel is devastating. We bring new diseases to the modern world by pressuring rainforest fauna into urban environments, and we seriously damage the ability of these ecosystems to adapt to hardships like disease and drought.
There could be a light at the end of the tunnel. It’s possible that algae-based, so called third-generation biofuels could dramatically reduce arable land use, using closed loop systems for water. Switchgrass-based biodiesel can use otherwise unfarmable land, but like used fryer oil, that’s a niche production market that largely serves to promote the biofuel industry.
Diesel Jettas aren’t going to solve our transportation energy problem. Personally, of course, I think the best real solution we have right now is to build electric rail transit so that we get a head start on adapting our community layout to a greener future. I hope this helps provide food (or fuel) for thought.


Why build a rammed earth wall for a greenhouse? The main reason is to store heat and increase the growing season. The thickness of the rammed earth wall allows for solar energy to be absorbed and released slowly, this helps to increase the temperature at night as the heat is slowly released. During the spring and fall when the weather is cooler but the sun is still shining, it will raise the greenhouse temperature and help to increase the growing season. As you can see from the layering and pieces of marble, granite and slate we can use our creativity to create art as well!
The Finished Wall.
Rammed earth layers.


Milk doesn't just appear in your refrigerator, nor apples on your kitchen counter. Before we eat, many people must work very hard planting grain, catching fish, tending animals, and filling crates. In this book, vibrantly illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Mary Azarian, readers find out what must happen before food can get to our table to nourish our bodies and spirits.
"Before We Eat puts a face on farming, letting kids know that their food didn't magically appear in the supermarket, but came to them through the work of real people - a good beginning look at where our food comes from!" - Amy Cotler, author of The Locavore Way and The Farm to School Cookbook
"Before We Eat is a gentle, lovely introduction to good, nutritious, locally grown food and the people who make sure it's there for us. We can all give thanks for that, and for this book." - Anupama Joshi, Executive Director and Co-Founder, National Farm to School Network
"A warm celebration of small farms and the idea that it takes a village to feed a child." - Kirkus
"A wonderful discussion starter." - School Library Journal
"The perfect picture book to tell the story of how our food gets from the farm to our dinner table." - The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
Before We Eat, Second Edition, includes additional information about gardening, including "Plant a Garden with Your Kids" and "Make a Seed Tape" from the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project and a list of resources that will provide more information about gardening as a learning experience.
Growing Good Kids Excellence in Children's Literature Award
Moonbeam Children's Book Award
First Edition ISBN 978-0-88448-352-6
Second Edition ISBN 978-0-88448-652-7
Before We Eat is also available as a board book!