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The Nature Effect
You could say it was a bad week. But we were rested and had just spent a week by the water in a tropical forest so we were carrying the positive vibes with us as disasters struck. We actually laughed as each new crisis piled on.
Do you want to be less grumpy? Take your dog for a hike in the woods. Go camping. Hang out near water or sit under an evergreen tree. The nature effect will win you over, change your attitude and make you smile even if your house is falling apart around you. What is the nature effect and why do we care? It is the way a forest heals and changes us. It is the value of meditation but its as simple as a stroll in the woods with your dog. Here are the three books I just finished reading about the nature effect of forest bathing.
Make Your Own Biochar
So the simple answer is yes. You can make your own biochar. The more complicated question is HOW will you do it without harming the environment? Make sure to research this topic fully before digging in and doing more harm than good to the soil and environment you are trying to rescue. Making your own biochar is a case of literally jumping from the pan into the fire if it is not done correctly.
Growing Coffee From Seed
After my trip to Mexico I accidentally bring home a few seeds in my pocket. I plant them December 4, 2019 and they are just germinated on February 4, 2020. I can grow my own coffee in the house, wait for it to bloom and brew a few beans for friends! In the jungle the organically-grown plants prefer shade so maybe they’ll work in a window in my home? I am newly home and enthusiastically excited about raising a crop of coffee in my northern windowsill.
Are You Still Eating From Your Garden?
This month we held an apple champagne and pumpkin pie party but of course we lied. It wasn’t real Champagne. By law, as Helpful Husband pointed out, Champagne has to come from a very narrow region of France. Our “champagne” came from apples in our back yard.
Growing Cantaloupe on the Prairies and West Coast
“We were amazed at our success with melons and the unbelievably good taste and juice running down our arms as we ate! I still dream about them!” In spring 2019 Margo asked about growing cantaloupe in her prairie garden near Calgary and she ended up trying all kinds and loving her results. Growing melons in cool areas of Canada is no easy task and gardeners know it is best to try the fastest growing types available. Here is a compilation of varieties to try in case you are thinking of growing Cantaloupes in 2020. (And if you are not thinking of growing them then why not?)
Help Needed: Woofer-Like Gardeners Wanted in 2020
Back by Popular Demand! Professional Horticulturist Donna Balzer is seeking volunteers (“Woofer”- style) to help with her organic zone 7 edible garden on Vancouver Island. This large plot offers learning opportunities for a Horticulture student or graduate of a Permaculture Program.
