Garden time is coming

[Jimi]

Hey Jimi

You can create your healthy garden lifestyle no matter what climate you live in and no matter what time of year it is. It’s all about getting creative and maximizing your unique growing conditions!

But unfortunately, many of us get caught up in the limitations of gardening (like growing season, growing zone, etc) that we can’t see all the opportunities for abundance we have all around us.

That’s why we’re hosting a free gardening abundance Masterclass

>>> Click here to access the Masterclass

Master Garden Trainer and GYOV Founder Stacey Murphy shares some of her best garden secrets in this special Masterclass. It’s called Three scientifically proven strategies for an abundant vegetable and herb garden any time of year (in any climate, indoors or outdoors!)

When you watch, you’ll discover:

How to create gardening habits that really stick
Why killing more plants is a sign of success
What plants really want from you (it’s not as much as you think!)
Why “growing seasons” are a myth that holds gardners back
How your “growing zone” can lead you astray (and what to look for instead)
Stacey’s proven system for making your garden better and better all year long
How you can get started growing the garden of your dreams NOW

After this Masterclass, you’ll be empowered to integrate even more gardening, fresh food, health, and vitality into your daily life immediately.

It’s how our students can transform ANY place into a wildly successful vegetable and herb garden in weeks… no matter what time of year it is.

And you can too!




See you there

Grow Your Own Vegetables Team

P.S. Don’t wait to register for this awesome event! It’s 100% FREE and you can put Stacey's strategies to work in your garden immediately.

>>> Register for the Masterclass today!

 

[Jimi]

7 Reasons Why Every Gardener Should Consider Growing Heirloom Seeds​

7 Reasons Why Every Gardener Should Consider Growing Heirloom Seeds

Remember that example about your relative’s treasured jewelry? Heirloom seeds are similar to family heirlooms in that they get their start by being passed down through multiple generations. By definition, heirloom seeds must be open-pollinated, meaning that the plant’s flowers are pollinated via...

seedsnsuch.com

 

[SnapDragon NY]

A few more veggies from my garden- it has been in the 80's to near 90F all this week- yikes hot here for this time of year. Still have a few more tomatoes,eggplants and peppers that should be ready to pick next week.

 

[gopher_byrd]

Harvested some jalapeno and Fresno peppers yesterday. I washed and chopped them up to be fermented for hot sauce. I got two quart jars filled to ferment. Now I wait...



This is after one day of fermenting. The cloudiness is normal.

 

[CaFF]

Harvested some jalapeno and Fresno peppers yesterday. I washed and chopped them up to be fermented for hot sauce. I got two quart jars filled to ferment. Now I wait...

View attachment 209275

This is after one day of fermenting. The cloudiness is normal.

View attachment 209276

I'm so jealous....beautiful man...

 

[Jimi]

Hey Jimi!

This week we want to highlight one of the most popular fall greens: spinach!

Spinach loves cool weather, and can last well into the winter in most growing zones. It’s just one of many greens we plant during the fall, and we’re picking from multiple successions.

Most of the questions about spinach revolve around three topics: planting times, spacing, and varieties. Let’s take a quick look at all three!

When should you plant spinach?​

So, instead of planting spinach all at once, we plant in successions throughout the fall. Spinach doesn’t germinate well throughout the summer, because the soil temperature is too high. But once the soil temp starts getting below 75° F, that’s when you can start seeding your spinach beds.

Rather than seeding all of your beds at once, plant a new bed each week to extend the harvest and keep your harvest more manageable. In fact, you can keep planting successions late into the fall, to germinate overwinter spinach that will be harvested in the spring.

What spacing should you use?​

Your spacing varies widely depending on when you plan to harvest your spinach and what you want from your spinach. For example, we’ll typically plant five rows per bed with 9-inch spacing. This is an intermediate spacing, and allows us to grow large leaves for bunching, and small leaves for baby spinach by just varying the spacing in row.



But that spacing may not apply to you at all! For example, if you harvest early and pick baby spinach, you won’t need to space out your rows nearly as much. It all depends on the spinach variety and how early/late you plan to pick. Rows as close as 2” are good for baby spinach, and up to 18” apart for large bunches are also good depending on your context.

Which varieties are best?​

There are a lot of different spinach varieties, and the variety that is best for your farm really depends on your soil and growing zone. What matters more is that you plant different varieties in the summer and fall. If you are growing summer spinach, don’t just keep planting that same variety throughout the fall! Make sure you choose a variety that is suited for the seasonal temperatures.

Personally, a couple of the popular fall varieties we’ve planted are Space and Kolibri. Space is a pretty solid choice for most areas, but it’s fun to explore other varieties too. For example, flamingo is more upright and good for bunching, and lizard is great for the heat. Spinach varieties develop rapidly and are consgtantly changing, so its good to be trying a few new ones each year.





Have a great Friday,



Michael



P.S. Want to join a community of like-minded farmers who are going through the same struggles you are? Click here to learn about our small farm community!

 

[Jimi]

I'm so jealous....beautiful man...

I am too, I pickled some peppers this year but didn't firment them first still delicious though

 

[Jimi]

​

It’s the first week of October, and there are a lot of exciting events happening this month. Best of all, they’re all FREE! From learning about plant-based diets and how to be a plant coach to discovering ways your garden can help reduce and relieve chronic diseases, this issue includes it all. Also, Grow Your Own Vegetables is hosting an informative masterclass on three easy and effective strategies to increase your garden’s abundance any of the year…in any climate…indoors or outdoors! Want to learn how to gather seeds without them scattering? Dear Arti has you covered. Curious how Grow Your Own Vegetables began? This week’s highlighted blog shares the “Aha!” moment that started it all! Be sure to check out the calendar of upcoming events. It’s a great place to find activities and information to continue to grow and expand your gardening knowledge throughout the year. Find all this and more in this week’s newsletter! ​ ​

​ ​

We hope you are enjoying this new weekly format of the Home Gardener’s newsletter. We would love to hear your thoughts about the new design as well as anything that you might like to see added. Reply to this email message to let us know! Thank you for joining us on this garden journey. Together, we'll nurture the beauty of your garden and the well-being of your body and mind. Happy gardening! Grow Your Own Vegetables Team ​ ​

If there is a topic that you would like to see in future newsletters, please let us know by replying to this email. This newsletter is for YOU and your gardening success!​

 

[Jimi]

Here's my pick of the day Oct 4



We had 6 bowls of beans but as always I gave away one bowl, I was blessed with a wonderful bean harvest so only right to share
Bowl of Brussel sprouts, bowl of hot peppers, and 3 Delicata squash, aka sweet tader squash, if you never had a Delicata squash you owe it to yourself to try one.

 

[Jimi]

This Masterclass—Three Scientifically Proven Strategies for an Abundant Vegetable and Herb Garden—is only available until tomorrow night.

These three strategies work for any time of year…in any climate…indoors or outdoors!

If you are…

Winding down your gardening season
Reflecting on successes
Considering changes for the next season
Approaching your most productive gardening season
Wanting to optimize your harvest
Looking for methods to extend your gardening season
Relishing freshly-harvested foods year-round
Seeking to enhance your gardening skills
Desiring a deeper understanding of ways to improve your results

…then this Masterclass is for you!



We came across a wonderful quote the other day and just had to share it with you!

“If I had an hour to solve a problem and my life depended on the solution, I would spend the first 55 minutes determining the proper question to ask… for once I know the proper question, I could solve the problem in less than 5 minutes.” - Albert Einstein

But what does that have to do with gardening??

Successful growers have a curious mindset and know how to ask the right questions!

That’s why we’re hosting a special Masterclass this week–so you can start asking the questions that will actually help you solve your garden problems.

>>> Sign up for the Masterclass and start asking great garden questions today <<<

Stacey Murphy, Master Garden Trainer and GYOV Founder, hosts this special hour-long event called Three Scientifically Proven Strategies for an Abundant Vegetable and Herb Garden.

When you watch, you’ll discover…

How to create gardening habits that really stick
Why killing more plants is a sign of success
What plants really want from you (it’s not as much as you think!)
Why “growing seasons” are a myth that holds gardners back
How your “growing zone” can lead you astray (and what to look for instead)
Stacey’s proven system for making your garden better and better all year long
How you can get started growing the garden of your dreams NOW

Asking the right questions is the first step in creating a garden plan that really works for you: your space, your climate, your budget, and your time. Once you have that kind of garden plan, everything starts falling into place.

Feel un-beet-able in the garden!

Grow Your Own Vegetables Team

P.S. Don’t wait! You only have a little longer to watch this FREE life-changing Masterclass. Your garden will be so glad you did!

 

[Jimi]

Some ideas for all the wonderful veggies you grew

Soupe au Pistou Recipe​ ​

Use basil to make pistou, a French sauce similar to Italian pesto, for this Soupe au Pistou Recipe.​

Read More​

And here's this wonderful French dish

		Traditional Ratatouille Recipe​ ​ Follow this Traditional Ratatouille Recipe or improvise with whatever vegetables you have around the kitchen.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

More goodies for the cold weather comin up

Chicken Soup Recipe for Cold and Cough with Medicinal Mushrooms​ ​ This chicken soup recipe for cold and cough contains proven, immune-boosting medicinal mushrooms, such as maitake and reishi, and astragalus root.​ Read More >​

Italian Vegetable Soup Recipe With Winter Herbs​ ​ Warm up on a cold day with this hearty Italian Vegetable Soup Recipe With Winter Herbs.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

Jimi, It's that time of year again, harvest time!!! Our resident herbal farmer, Matt Springer, has just dropped off his harvest of oat tops that were harvested in the milky stage. We love Matt, and we are so happy to support him and his family, who live on a little herbal farm nestled in the North Fork Valley of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. Matt is certified organic and goes above and beyond to ensure that his herbs are free of toxins, full of nutrients, and harvested with love. This challenge is to take an herbal infusion of oats every day for two weeks. What to expect: Sleep deeper, wake up refreshed, and boost your libido with this powerful herbal medicine. We are also throwing in a sample of our Equisetum Hymale to boost the milky oats' medicinal properties and take your experience to the next level. Why do milky oats have this powerful effect? The entire plant is rich in minerals and trace nutrients, such as silica, magnesium, phosphorus, chromium, iron, calcium, alkaloids, protein, the vitamin B complex, and vitamins A and C. That means that drinking infusions daily—as you will in the 14-Day Milky Oats Challenge—is an excellent way to incorporate vitamins and bioavailable minerals into your diet. During seasonal transitions, especially into winter, our bodies need a little extra love to keep them healthy and happy. Enjoying a warm cup of milky oat tea in the evening can give your body the support you need to stay healthy and happy during this time of transition. JOIN THE MILKY OATS CHALLENGE TODAY​ ​

​

HOW TO MAKE AN HERBAL INFUSION Herbal infusions! Sounds fancy, right? Well, not really. Herbal infusions are probably the most common form of herbal medicine-making. Just about everyone has enjoyed a nice hot cup of tea. This article demystifies herbal infusions and teaches you how to make hot infusions, cold infusions, and herbal decoctions. So much of understanding a discipline is simply learning and using the language. Herbal medicine can sometimes feel intimidating if you don't know the language. Let us teach you the language, you'll feel empowered and educated as you sip your delicious morning herbal infusion! LEARN MORE​ ​

MILKY OATS BENEFITS Still not convinced you're ready to dive into our Milky Oat Challenge? Check out this blog post and delve a little deeper into the benefits of Milky Oats. By the end of your reading, we think you'll see why this challenge is just what your body is asking for! READ MORE​

 

[Jimi]

3 Ways to Simplify Storing and Preserving the Harvest
Take a moment to reminisce with us... Do you recall those cherished memories of snapping peas on the back porch or joining a friend or family member in the kitchen, preparing jars for canning? Preserving food isn't just about stocking your pantry to enjoy yourself year-round; it's also a wonderful opportunity to create new family memories together!

DOWNLOAD THE FREE GUIDE HERE

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

How to Test Soil pH (And How to Make Soil More Acidic For Healthy Crops)​

Remember your high school chemistry class? The chapter about pH and litmus testing? Bet you didn’t think you’d ever have to dig that knowledge up again, but pH actually plays a really big role in soil and plant health.
What exactly does pH have to do with gardening? The pH levels in the soil affect plants in two distinct ways: nutrient availability and the presence of soil microorganisms. If soil pH is off, plants will struggle to absorb nutrients (no matter how much fertilizer you add) and the soil itself won’t be able to support a healthy ecosystem of microorganisms and beneficial bacteria.
Soil pH isn’t something that should be overlooked, and should be checked each year when you send a soil sample off to a lab for testing. Fortunately, testing soil pH is even easier than testing soil composition and is just as simple to adjust once you have your results.

Understanding soil pH​

What is soil pH?​

You learned it in school—the pH scale measures the acidity of any substance. (In case you need a refresher: the scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 signifying a neutral pH, greater than 7 is alkaline, and less than 7 is acidic.)

How does soil pH affect plant growth?​

Soil pH directly correlates with which nutrients are water-soluble and available for plant absorption.

Nutrient availability​

In an article titled Acidifying Soil published by Oregon State Extension, author Kerry Locke writes that “Nutrients such as zinc, manganese, phosphorus, and iron are less soluble in water when soil pH is above 7.5. Thus, they are less available to plants in higher pH soil even if they are plentiful in the soil.”
Some nutrients are only water-soluble in acidic conditions, and other nutrients absorb better in alkaline conditions. Which nutrients are needed by certain plants determines which soil pH those plants need to thrive.

Presence of microorganisms​

Not only does soil pH affect nutrient absorption levels, but it affects which microorganisms can live in the soil. The more microorganisms and beneficial bacteria inhabit the soil, the more nutritious the soil and the healthier plants growing in it will be.

What’s an ideal soil pH?​

Soil pH is important because acidity impacts how plants grow. Most flowers, vegetables, and herbs prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil between 6.0 and 7.0, although some perennial plants thrive in alkaline soils (geranium, lavender, and asparagus, to name a few).
A quick Google search will reveal what soil pH specific plants prefer—and our Soil Tester will also tell you!

How to use a Soil Tester​

Analyzing soil pH at home has never been easier than with our Soil Tester. Here’s how to use the Soil Tester in three simple steps.

1. Simply pop an AA battery in the Soil Tester and set the switch to the “pH Analysis” position.
2. Next, stick the prongs down into the soil to be tested.
3. Wait one minute and the Soil Tester will reveal your results.

Once you have the results, reference the included pamphlet with 350 plants and their ideal pH requirements to determine which way you need to adjust the soil.
It’s good practice to test multiple locations in the same garden bed and take the average before adjusting the soil. If you have raised beds, test the soil pH in each bed, as it could vary from bed to bed.

Analyzing soil composition​

Once you’ve tested your soil pH, you can also analyze soil composition. To test soil fertilizer levels, simply clean the prongs and reset the tester by moving the switch to the “Fertilizer Analysis” setting. Insert the prongs into the soil and wait one minute before reading the results.
Although the Soil Tester is the only tool you need to analyze and adjust soil pH, you can get a detailed assessment of your garden soil from a university research lab if you prefer.

Sending off a soil sample​

Call or visit your local Agricultural Extension office to pick up a box and a mailing address of where to send your soil sample. To take a soil sample, locate a few different areas in your garden that you want to test.
At each location, dig into the soil at least six inches and transfer the dirt into a plastic bag (don’t let any grass fall into the bag if you can help it) ensuring no grass or topsoil is included. Repeat the process at the next location, labeling each bag to correspond with the correct area. Finally, package the samples and send them off to the appropriate address.

Testing soil pH at the right time​

While you can technically test your soil at any time, fall is the best time of year to analyze soil pH since you’ll have plenty of time to adjust soil pH and composition for the next growing season. Some soil amendments (including lime) take between three and six months to go into effect, so a spring test may not actually bring the results in time for the growing summer season.
However, consistency is arguably more important than perfect timing. Whatever time of year you test your soil pH, test it again around the same time the following year. If you miss the date by a few weeks or months, don’t fret—it’s still worth testing your soil whenever you can get to it.
Soil testing and adjusting don’t bring immediate results—but the results of keeping an eye on your soil and giving it what it needs definitely pay off over time. Soil that has been monitored and amended with nutritive additives will be able to grow far more plants over time than soil that isn’t regularly tested and maintained.

 

[Jimi]

Part 2 of above article

Adjusting soil pH with amendments​

The best way to adjust soil pH (in either direction) is by adding acidic or alkaline soil amendments.

It’s as simple as this: if your soil is too acidic, add something more alkaline to raise the pH. If your soil is too alkaline, add something acidic to lower soil pH.

Acidic soil amendments​

Add acidic substances to the soil to lower pH (and increase organic matter in the soil).

• Compost

The exact pH level of compost varies depending on the contents of the compost and how it was made, but most compost is only slightly acidic. Even though compost won’t move the pH needle drastically, it’s still worth applying to your garden, since compost adds organic matter and improves soil drainage and composition.

If you can find a good source of organic compost, pile it on in a layer about an inch thick. use a broadfork or tiller to turn the compost back into the soil, and watch the soil come back to life.

• Peat moss

One of the more acidic soil amendments, Sphagnum peat moss has a pH between 3.0 to 4.5, so a little goes a long way when lowering soil pH. Peat moss adds aeration to compacted soils and its fine texture makes it an excellent seed-starting medium.

Unfortunately, the mining rate at which peat moss is mined from Canadian bogs raises some environmental concerns, and coco coir might be a more sustainable alternative.

• Sulfur

It’s recommended to add no more than three ounces of sulfur for each square foot of garden. Of the two different types of sulfur, ferrous sulfate is rich in iron, while aluminum sulfate is a faster-acting soil acidifier. To avoid damaging the soil, always mix sulfur with compost to dilute the presence of heavy metals.

Alkaline soil amendments​

These alkaline soil amendments help raise pH levels, making the soil less acidic.

• Lime

Limestone is the most common alkalizing soil amendment since it’s easy to find and apply over large fields. Limestone amendments to soil come in two forms—calcitic or dolomitic. Dolomitic lime has higher magnesium content, but both types provide calcium and raise soil pH.

Soil experts recommend adding about 40 pounds of lime per 1000 square feet to raise soil pH by one numeral. The only downside of using lime is that it can take a year or more to see results.

• Wood ash

Another great option for raising soil pH, wood ash works much faster than lime and is just as easy to find. In addition to alkalizing soil, wood ash contains many other micronutrients: calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and copper.

• Baking soda

This common kitchen cabinet staple has a pH of 8.0, so you can use baking soda to make your garden soil more alkaline. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda per one gallon of water and pour the solution into a garden sprayer. Spray the mixture over your garden bed, soaking the soil thoroughly.

Baking soda isn’t an ideal soil amendment for a large garden but can be used in a pinch to raise soil pH levels over small areas.

The common saying, “too much of a good thing is bad,” is true with soil pH, too. Even though plants prefer slightly acidic soil, soil that is overly acidic may actually stunt plant growth by limiting nutrient availability and decreasing the presence of beneficial microbes.

Soil that is too alkaline has a similar effect, so err on the side of caution when amending soil. And always, always wear gloves, safety glasses, and a facemask when handling chemicals!

Soil pH plays a critical role in soil and plant health—fortunately, monitoring it is an easy process.

All you need to test soil pH is this Soil Tester and time. Autumn is the best time to analyze and adjust soil pH so order yours today and get your soil tested ASAP!

 

[Jimi]

Why Leaves Change Color in Fall​ ​

Learn about chlorophyll and photosynthesis in this captivating look at why leaves change color in fall.​

Read More​

 

[Jimi]

The Benefits of Mulching in Fall​ ​ Retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and protect plants from extreme temperatures with fall mulching.​ Read More >​

Make Leaf Compost for Vegetable Garden and Chicken Run Mulch​ ​ Autumn leaves on your property create a quick leaf compost for vegetable garden and can be used as chicken run mulch.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

Turn Fall Leaves into Nutrient-Rich Compost​ ​ Using fallen leaves in mulch or in your compost can benefit your landscape and garden. Learn composting tips and all about composting leaves.​ Read More >​

Use Dry Leaves as Chicken Coop Bedding​ ​ Using dry leaves as chicken coop bedding gives you a natural, FREE chicken bedding option to last through fall and into winter.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

This is one of my last picks, havin patchy frost so figured I'd pick off most of the garden, well whats left of it anyway


Sweet peppers, left the smaller ones to see if they get any bigger.
Couple blows of maters, when I am sure a frost will hit it I'll pick off the rest of the green ones and let them ripen up in the house (usually by Thanksgivin and that makes a good addition to the holiday meal.
A bowl of hot peppers, can never get enough of them.
Another bowl of sprouts, gonna be all of them cause I wrestled the 2 remainin plants outta the ground, oh and there's some small broccoli pieces at the bottom of the sprout bowl
And 2 bowls of green beans, the cold has slowed them up.
I didn't get to get my last egg plants yet got to late on me last night and the frost missed us so I'll get those yet and some of my Okra that didn't get hit by yesterday mornin frost
But there's always next year

I hate to see it go but am so thankful for what we did get out of it

 

[Bliss Doubt]

​

​ ​ ​ Turn Fall Leaves into Nutrient-Rich Compost​ Using fallen leaves in mulch or in your compost can benefit your landscape and garden. Learn composting tips and all about composting leaves.​ Read More >​

​

​ ​ ​ Use Dry Leaves as Chicken Coop Bedding​ Using dry leaves as chicken coop bedding gives you a natural, FREE chicken bedding option to last through fall and into winter.​ Read More >​

I will never understand why people waste their leaves by blowing them away with gasoline powered blowers (usually into the street and into the storm drains), since I've been around long enough to know how rich they make the garden soil, how green and soft they make the grass. It's just one of those travesties.

 

[Jimi]

75 Medicinal Plants and Their Uses​ ​ Doctors have begun to recognize medicinal plants and their uses. When used correctly, herbal remedies can be a safer and less expensive alternative to pharmaceuticals.​ Read More >​

The Healing Powers of Fresh Horseradish​ ​ Fresh horseradish has been used medicinally for centuries to reduce inflammation, clear congestion, boost the immune system and more.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

Homemade Herbal Medicines and Their Uses with Pictures​ ​

Simple and safe, proven herbal medicines and their uses with pictures for everything from scrapes to infections will help you heal naturally on a shoestring budget.​

Read More​

 

[Jimi]

How To Make Herbal Tinctures and Tea​ ​ Learn how to make herbal tinctures and how to make an herbal infusion to sip your way to better health and enter a soothed state-of-mind.​ Read More >​

Fire Cider: Benefits and History of Medicinal Vinegars​ ​ Learn the history and benefits of fire cider and other medicinal vinegars, then make your own homemade fire cider to fortify you through cold and flu season.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

Jimi, Congratulations! You've been gardening all summer and have a bounty of fresh veggies ready to harvest and preserve! Before you roll up your sleeves to begin the arduous task of preserving, check out this free webinar from our friends at Grow Your Own Vegetables. They've put together a free class to give you some tips on simplifying the process. In addition to learning how to simplify preserving and storing your harvest, you'll also learn a counter-intuitive strategy to save you 40% on your grocery bill every year, how to think like a restaurant owner and become a flavor ninja who can create delicious meals using vegetables from your garden, and a trick to stocking your pantry with healthy essentials in just a few hours. Click here to watch this informative webinar FREE! Are You Afraid of the Pressure Canner? They can be intimidating for a first-timer. But you can conquer your fear by being armed with knowledge! Click here to read this comprehensive article that promises to ease your fears. The Power of Canning Have you ever heard of canning garlic? It is a fantastic way to preserve the harvest. Delve into this forum thread and learn more about how to can garlic! Click here to join the conversation. Have a wonderful week! The Grow Network Team

 

[gopher_byrd]

More peppers harvested and my fall garden is starting to grow.

The peppers:


The raised bed starting to show some growth.

 

[gopher_byrd]

This week’s newsletter is all about planning, goph! This is the perfect time of the year to begin the prep work for your next growing season. This newsletter includes tips about testing and preparing your soil, maximizing your garden space, and planning your crops. As an added bonus, this week’s cartoon even offers an interesting “tip” on how to encourage your partner’s help! Oh, and this week’s “From the GYOV Garden” shares a great recipe to use some of those veggie goodies that you recently harvested. Find all this and more in this week’s newsletter! ​ We are a month into the new newsletter format and would LOVE to hear your thoughts. Are there sections that you love? Other sections that you would like to see added? Are you finding it a useful weekly resource? Please let us know by responding to this email. Thank you for joining us on this garden journey. Together, we'll nurture the beauty of your garden and the well-being of your body and mind. Happy Gardening! Grow Your Own Vegetables Team ​ ​ If there is a topic that you would like to see in future newsletters, please let us know by replying to this email. This newsletter is for YOU and your gardening success!​ ​ ​

 

[gopher_byrd]

This was an interesting experiment for growing tomatoes. Using different things to amend the soil produced surprising results.

 

[Bliss Doubt]

This was an interesting experiment for growing tomatoes. Using different things to amend the soil produced surprising results.

Gawd, that gave me a headache. What a lot of waste. Why not just have a healthy compost heap or area? People see tomato seedlings crop up in the compost all the time, then just transplant them.

I remember reading about how native Americans used fish as fertilizer, but this is disputed now. I would imagine they used fish heads and bones, and wouldn't waste whole edible fish. Whatever fresh matter is used though, it has to be composted first to heat it up and break it down, making the nutrients available.

 

[Jimi]

Garlic: A Plant to Love​ ​

Plant garlic in the autumn when the nights are crisp and the days are shorter for a successful garlic harvest the following year.​

Read More​

 

[Jimi]

Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe​ ​ Although often discarded, garlic scapes can be used in a variety of tasty recipes like this Garlic Scape Pesto recipe.​ Read More >​

Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls with Video​ ​ These hearty cheese-stuffed garlic bread rolls can go with any weeknight meal or more elaborate holiday feasts. Stuff cheese cubes into homemade buttermilk biscuit dough and sprinkle with a blend of Parmesan, garlic, oregano, parsley and salt before baking.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

How to Make Garlic Powder​ ​ Create a spice rack staple using excess garlic by learning how to make garlic powder.​ Read More >​

Garlic Cheese Recipe With Chives​ ​ Serve this Garlic Cheese recipe with crackers or as as part of a cheese tray at your next get-together.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

Hi, Jimi!

Thank you for joining us recently for the Masterclass: Three scientifically proven strategies for an abundant vegetable and herb garden any time of year (in any climate, indoors or outdoors!)

Because of your interest in this, we also wanted to share with you the award-winning film The Need To GROW from our friends at Food Revolution Network.

You may not be aware, but industrial agriculture has become one of the most destructive forces on the planet and is destroying our soil.

As a result…

Our soil has been eroded of vital nutrients
Our soil has been contaminated with pesticides
Our food AND our bodies have also been contaminated
Our water supply has been reduced

Luckily, a few brave innovators are fighting for change!

You can access this limited-time global screening event for FREE to learn about the damage that has resulted from decades of irresponsible practices of industrial agriculture as well as the steps that can be taken in the right direction towards repairing the damage.




Narrated and produced by activist and actress Rosario Dawson (as seen in Men in Black II, Rent, and in Disney’s upcoming Haunted Mansion), this film will warm your heart and inspire you with possibilities.

This film provides information that not only helps and benefits commercial farmers but all our wonderful Grow Your Own Vegetables home gardeners as well!

You will learn about…

break-through technology to regenerate soil
how it regenerates soil in days instead of the 400 years it would take nature by itself
a new growing method that supercharges vegetables in nutrients
how this method can work just about anywhere—even in a parking lot

You will also hear the truly inspiring story of a child activist who refused to take “no” for an answer.

The importance of soil quality in food production often goes overlooked. However, without healthy soil, there is no food.

The Need To GROW film sheds new light on this critical subject that we cannot afford to ignore. It is important that as many people as possible see it.

Watch the trailer and get free access to stream The Need To GROW

If you haven’t seen this amazing film, you are in for a very healthy treat.

If you have seen it before, then you know how special it is! This is your chance to watch it again and join in spreading the word.

The Need To GROW is a family-friendly film. It’s a great opportunity to plan a viewing gathering with your family, your friends, your community, or all of the above to learn together and be motivated to take steps in the right direction towards a solution!

There’s no thyme like the present to get involved!

The Grow Your Own Vegetables Team

P.S. This critically acclaimed film rocked the independent film circuits when it came out, winning over a dozen awards. It’s only available to watch for a limited time. For the next few days, you can stream it for FREE.

Watch The Need To GROW now!

 

[Jimi]

Hi Jimi,

So you’ve got some wasted space in the garden. No big deal, right?

Wrong!

It’s NOT good for your soil to leave it exposed like that.

Plus, that means less fresh food! Every space you leave empty in your garden decreases the return on your garden investment.

That’s why Garden Trainer Crystal Meserole created the Maximize Your Garden Space eGuide. Get the six strategies to maximize your harvests so you can get tons of fresh food on your plate for just pennies.



Inside, you’ll learn six tricks farmers and expert growers use to get more food:

Double up on your rows without overcrowding plants
Plant tomatoes to increase your overall harvest while increasing your grow space
Harvest your root crops to get higher yields
Break the rules of spacing in a way that fills your garden…and your harvest basket!
Bend the rules of gardening to grow longer into the season

Learn the 6 Tricks to Maximize Your Garden Space

You’ll rediscover gardening in a whole new light!

These tricks make your harvesting process easier, keep your plants healthier, and give you more for all your garden efforts

To Less Work & More Harvest!

Grow Your Own Vegetables Team

 

[Jimi]

Putting the Garden to Bed: A Step-By-Step Guide to Winterizing Your Vegetable Garden​

Putting the Garden to Bed: A Step-By-Step Guide to Winterizing Your Vegetable Garden

It might not seem like it, but putting the garden to bed in autumn is just as crucial as prepping the soil for spring planting. Cold temperatures and the heavy precipitation that the winter season brings can do a number on the soil, which is why it’s vital to “put the garden to bed” this time of...

seedsnsuch.com

 

[Jimi]

		Growing and Planting Leeks​ ​ Learn about growing leeks from seed starting indoors to transplanting outside and harvesting through winter to enjoy in soups or stews.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

		Cold Hardy Plants: Grow Edible Fresh Greens Year-Round​ ​ Don’t give up on your garden during the winter by using cold-hardy plants and these season-extending gardening techniques.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

Bringing Plants Indoors for Winter: 4 Essential Tips for Indoor Plant Design​ ​

Bring your plants indoors this winter to add greenery into your home and continue to care for your favorite plants. Here are a few indoor plant design tips.​

Read More​

 

[Jimi]

​

Since our next newsletter will be in November, we want to wish everyone a safe and fun Happy Halloween! Anyone dressing up as a fruit or vegetable this year? If so, we would love to see! Please share it in the Facebook group HERE or tag us on Instagram @growyourownvegetablesofficial. Also, be sure to check out our somewhat Halloween-themed cartoon for the week. Even gardeners can have some ghoulish fun! The focus this week is all about planning and preparation—planning your crops and preparing your soil. It’s never too early to start both! In the words of Dale Carnegie, “An hour of planning can save you 10 hours of doing.” The benefit of planning and preparation is maximizing your garden and its harvest…and we all want those plentiful harvests, right? Check out the “bountiful” amount of information about planning and preparation among the various sections in this week’s newsletter. Find all this and more in this week’s newsletter! ​ ​

​ ​

Thank you for joining us on this garden journey. Together, we'll nurture the beauty of your garden and the well-being of your body and mind. Happy Gardening! Grow Your Own Vegetables Team ​ ​

If there is a topic that you would like to see in future newsletters, please let us know by replying to this email. This newsletter is for YOU and your gardening success!​

 

[2WhiteWolves]

Part 2 of above article

Adjusting soil pH with amendments​

The best way to adjust soil pH (in either direction) is by adding acidic or alkaline soil amendments.

It’s as simple as this: if your soil is too acidic, add something more alkaline to raise the pH. If your soil is too alkaline, add something acidic to lower soil pH.

Acidic soil amendments​

Add acidic substances to the soil to lower pH (and increase organic matter in the soil).

• Compost

The exact pH level of compost varies depending on the contents of the compost and how it was made, but most compost is only slightly acidic. Even though compost won’t move the pH needle drastically, it’s still worth applying to your garden, since compost adds organic matter and improves soil drainage and composition.

If you can find a good source of organic compost, pile it on in a layer about an inch thick. use a broadfork or tiller to turn the compost back into the soil, and watch the soil come back to life.

• Peat moss

One of the more acidic soil amendments, Sphagnum peat moss has a pH between 3.0 to 4.5, so a little goes a long way when lowering soil pH. Peat moss adds aeration to compacted soils and its fine texture makes it an excellent seed-starting medium.

Unfortunately, the mining rate at which peat moss is mined from Canadian bogs raises some environmental concerns, and coco coir might be a more sustainable alternative.

• Sulfur

It’s recommended to add no more than three ounces of sulfur for each square foot of garden. Of the two different types of sulfur, ferrous sulfate is rich in iron, while aluminum sulfate is a faster-acting soil acidifier. To avoid damaging the soil, always mix sulfur with compost to dilute the presence of heavy metals.

Alkaline soil amendments​

These alkaline soil amendments help raise pH levels, making the soil less acidic.

• Lime

Limestone is the most common alkalizing soil amendment since it’s easy to find and apply over large fields. Limestone amendments to soil come in two forms—calcitic or dolomitic. Dolomitic lime has higher magnesium content, but both types provide calcium and raise soil pH.

Soil experts recommend adding about 40 pounds of lime per 1000 square feet to raise soil pH by one numeral. The only downside of using lime is that it can take a year or more to see results.

• Wood ash

Another great option for raising soil pH, wood ash works much faster than lime and is just as easy to find. In addition to alkalizing soil, wood ash contains many other micronutrients: calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and copper.

• Baking soda

This common kitchen cabinet staple has a pH of 8.0, so you can use baking soda to make your garden soil more alkaline. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda per one gallon of water and pour the solution into a garden sprayer. Spray the mixture over your garden bed, soaking the soil thoroughly.

Baking soda isn’t an ideal soil amendment for a large garden but can be used in a pinch to raise soil pH levels over small areas.

The common saying, “too much of a good thing is bad,” is true with soil pH, too. Even though plants prefer slightly acidic soil, soil that is overly acidic may actually stunt plant growth by limiting nutrient availability and decreasing the presence of beneficial microbes.

Soil that is too alkaline has a similar effect, so err on the side of caution when amending soil. And always, always wear gloves, safety glasses, and a facemask when handling chemicals!

Soil pH plays a critical role in soil and plant health—fortunately, monitoring it is an easy process.

All you need to test soil pH is this Soil Tester and time. Autumn is the best time to analyze and adjust soil pH so order yours today and get your soil tested ASAP!

Baking Soda.....it surprises me how useful it is !
Also, helps keeping the oder away from the stinky kitties toilet !

 

[Jimi]

Baking Soda.....it surprises me how useful it is !
Also, helps keeping the oder away from the stinky kitties toilet !

It's amazing stuff, does so many things, even medicinally. I drink it every day to balance my body's ph to an alkaline state

 

[2WhiteWolves]

It's amazing stuff, does so many things, even medicinally. I drink it every day to balance my body's ph to an alkaline state

How much do you put in a 8 ounce glass of water or whatever, possible a cup of tea ? Been meaning to look it up, just haven't yet. Now I don't need to ....thanks to you, Jimi

 

[Jimi]

Are you puttin it in your tea? if so use about 1/4 teaspoon. if just usin it in plain water use a full tablespoon full. You are very welcome It does help balance the daily acids you consume, body PH is more important than people think.

 

[2WhiteWolves]

Are you puttin it in your tea? if so use about 1/4 teaspoon. if just usin it in plain water use a full tablespoon full. You are very welcome It does help balance the daily acids you consume, body PH is more important than people think.

Lol, nope. Haven't used any in tea. Probably more than likely use it in water
Thank you, Jimi needed a hug

 

[Jimi]

Lol, nope. Haven't used any in tea. Probably more than likely use it in water
Thank you, Jimi needed a hug

It boosts your metabolism usin it in tea, especially green tea

 

[Jimi]

As you probably already know, Jimi, the fruits and vegetables that you grow in your gardens are rich sources of natural fiber. However, do you know how that fiber benefits your brain?

Recent studies have discovered that increased fiber intake reduces anxiety and depression levels—naturally!

Find out about these studies and more during the upcoming limited-time screening of The Natural Solution, a brand new masterclass that shows you the power of natural remedies and the REAL reason behind our health problems.

Sign Up for the Free Masterclass HERE



The Natural Solution brings together Nutritionist Sarah Otto along with 26+ world-renowned experts to share with viewers:

Which herb is known as the “Natural SSRI”
What one of the most common mineral deficiencies is
What happens when you address this deficiency
Why neurodegenerative conditions are striking earlier
How you can protect your brain easily—and from home

Jimi, this masterclass is a game-changer so be sure to reserve your spot before the event begins on November 6th!



Ready to learn more about the natural fiber in the foods you grow and discover the transformative power from eating them?

Turnip to learn how to thrive from natural solutions!

Grow Your Own Vegetables Team


PS—When you sign up for The Natural Solution free viewing, you’ll also receive three fantastic guides:

“The Best Natural Remedies for Inflammation”
“The Best Natural Remedies for Autoimmune Disease”
“The Best Natural Remedies for Gut Health”

These resources offer additional insights and practical tips that you can do from home…starting today.

RSVP for The Natural Solution and Get Your Free Guides HERE

 

[Jimi]

How to Grow a Potato Tower and other Potato-Growing Methods​ ​

Try 3 different methods for growing potatoes, including how to grow a potato tower, plus curing and storage tips.​

Read More​

 

[Jimi]

Parsnips as a Staple Crop​ ​ Though less popular than potatoes, carrots and turnips, parsnips are a fantastic storage vegetable. Learn the ins and outs of growing your own.​ Read More >​

Selecting, Trimming and Curing Garlic for Replanting​ ​ Learn about the process for curing garlic and preparing for replanting. It's a three to six week process well worth the wait.​ Read More >​

 

[Jimi]

​

​ ​ ​ Cool-Season Vegetables: Rutabaga, Turnips and Kohlrabi​ Grow cool-season vegetables like turnips, rutabaga, and kohlrabi to get the most out of your garden throughout the year.​ Read More >​

​

​ ​ ​ How to Grow Horseradish From Store-Bought Roots​ Late fall is a good time for learning how to grow horseradish from store-bought roots or nursery crowns.​ Read More >​ We harvested a big load of horseradish about 5 years ago, it about takes your breath away to grind it, but worth it, and takes forever for the smell to go away, but I love the stuff and it's easy to grow.