Garden time is coming

[SteveS45]

Hey @Jimi Since Spring has sprung I wanted to get an early start. De-thatched and put Crabgrass Preventer on the lawns. Waited 2 weeks and Seeded but then the rains came and my seed has not sprouted? Now the cold Temperatures are back and it is 42°F I wonder if I wasted the seed?

Started my Basil, Cucumbers and Tomato Seeds in potting Soil but inside in the warmth. Only doing 3 kinds of Tomatoes this year.

 

[Jimi]

Hey @Jimi Since Spring has sprung I wanted to get an early start. De-thatched and put Crabgrass Preventer on the lawns. Waited 2 weeks and Seeded but then the rains came and my seed has not sprouted? Now the cold Temperatures are back and it is 42°F I wonder if I wasted the seed?

Started my Basil, Cucumbers and Tomato Seeds in potting Soil but inside in the warmth. Only doing 3 kinds of Tomatoes this year.

I am no authority but I will say Yes there is still a good chance that your grass seed will still germinate, grass is a very hardy plant'

Hey that's great, wishes for a bumper year for you my friend.
I love a bumper year that way you can give family/friends and neighbors

 

[Jimi]

 

[SteveS45]

I am no authority but I will say Yes there is still a good chance that your grass seed will still germinate, grass is a very hardy plant'

Hey that's great, wishes for a bumper year for you my friend.
I love a bumper year that way you can give family/friends and neighbors

Last year wasn't a good year, not too many big Harvests. My Herb Garden got trashed by Cats and Squirrels and the Tomatoes gave me lot of plants but not much fruit. That is why I am only doing 3 strains this year~!

 

[Jimi]

Last year wasn't a good year, not too many big Harvests. My Herb Garden got trashed by Cats and Squirrels and the Tomatoes gave me lot of plants but not much fruit. That is why I am only doing 3 strains this year~!

Hope it goes well my friend. I always plant carrots in the soil below tomatoes, they are a companion crop and help the maters do better and they are cheap and eat well.

 

[SteveS45]

I was also thinking that when I over seed before the Winter the Seeds go into the ground by Freezing and Thawing so they should eventually come up. Going to have to wait to cut though.

 

[SteveS45]

Hope it goes well my friend. I always plant carrots in the soil below tomatoes, they are a companion crop and help the maters do better and they are cheap and eat well.

I never heard that and last year I planted a ton of Radishes but they didn't grow well either. Giant plants but no radishes on the bottom~!

 

[Jimi]

I never heard that and last year I planted a ton of Radishes but they didn't grow well either. Giant plants but no radishes on the bottom~!

Were they too close together?

 

[Jimi]

Maybe we should call in a Master Gardener Hey @gopher_byrd what all could cause Steve's radishes to all have small bulbs?

 

[gopher_byrd]

Radishes need loose soil and shouldn't be planted too close. Thin to 2-3 inches so the leaves have room to get the energy needed to produce the root. Don't over fertilize with nitrogen, you want the root not the leaves (they are edible and tasty though). Make sure they get at least 6 hours of sun, preferably in the morning. If it gets too hot they'll bolt to flowering and not growing bulbs.

 

[Jimi]

Thank you Goph my friend

 

[Jimi]

Pair your zone number with your region's last frost date to build a reliable planting schedule.

Once you have that key information, count backward to know when to start seeds indoors or transplant them outside.

But you already knew that. Right?

April Gardening by Zone: What to Start Now
Zone 3 (6–8 Weeks Until Last Frost | Frost: Mid-May to Early June)
Still chilly, but April is the perfect time to start seeds indoors for cruciferous veggies (like cabbage and collards), nightshades (like tomatoes and peppers), and cucurbits (melons, pumpkins, cucumbers). You can also begin hardy flowers and cool-season crops like spinach and endives. Late April may allow for directly sowing hardy crops like Swiss chard, horseradish, and onions using row covers.

Zone 4 (4–6 Weeks Until Last Frost | Frost: Mid-April to Late May)
Get your indoor starts going now for brassicas, lettuce, cucurbits, and even strawberries from seed. Outdoors, you can begin sowing frost-tolerant crops like spinach, radishes, and endive. April brings hope—and hard-earned sunshine—for Zone 4 growers.

Zone 5 (2–5 Weeks Until Last Frost | Frost: Mid-April to Late May)
This month is a transition from indoor starts to prepping for transplanting. Begin cucurbits, herbs like basil, and any last-minute leafy greens inside. Outdoors, start cool-season root veggies like carrots and parsnips, plant early flowers, and cover crops.

Zone 6 (1–3 Weeks Until Last Frost | Frost: April to Mid-May)
Start hardening off your seedlings and keep up with indoor starts for cucurbits, leafy greens, and herbs. Outdoors, you can begin planting peas, spring onions, root veggies like rutabaga, and hardy herbs. Watch for nighttime frosts, but April is full of progress.

Zone 7 (0–3 Weeks Until Last Frost | Frost: Mid-March to April)
Most indoor starts can now be transplanted outdoors. April is a great time to direct sow legumes, leafy greens, and root crops. Save space in your garden by interplanting fast growers with slow-maturing crops. Watch for the rare late frost and cover plants if needed.

Zone 8 (First Fall Frost in 28–32 Weeks | Fall Frost: Nov–Dec)
Frost risk is gone, so get planting! Direct sow beans, sweet corn, cucurbits, and warm-season herbs. If you haven't already, finish planting greens and cool-season crops before it gets too hot. Consider succession planting to keep your harvests steady.

Zone 9 (First Fall Frost in 30–34 Weeks | Fall Frost: Nov–Dec)
By April, you're well into your growing season. Transplant seedlings you started earlier and continue direct sowing crops like beans, peas, sweet potatoes, and lettuce. You may even be harvesting early greens now. Indoor growing is mostly optional unless for microgreens.

Zone 10 (No Frost Expected | Tropical/Mild Winter)
Zone 10 is all about heat planning now. Direct sow spring veggies like beets, spinach, and radishes. Transplant tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers if you haven't yet. Keep an eye on temperatures—cool-weather crops need to be planted early before summer heat arrives.

Local Knowledge is GOLD
Finally, remember that local knowledge is gold—contact your state's cooperative extension for personalized tips and planting advice.

April is a garden-building month; a little preparation now sets the stage for a productive, healthy harvest season.

Whether this is your first time using seed trays or your twentieth year growing tomatoes, April is an exciting time for us gardeners!

If you want more about cleaning and feeding your soil, click here to learn more.

 

[Jimi]

​

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[gopher_byrd]

For annual plants (most veggies) the first and last frost dates are all you care about. I live in zone 9A, but I still have a chance of frost until the first week of April and even now some nights are in the low 40s. I still get frost in March when some folks are saying plant everything. Tomatoes and peppers do best when nights are mostly in the 50s.

The hardiness zones are for perennials and how cold it gets in the winter not when. You don't want to plant a tree or bush designed for zone 9 in zone 5 for instance. And a lot of times you don't want to plant a tree or bush that expects cold winters in zone 9 or 10. Some need to have enough cold hours to thrive like some fruit trees. You don't see a lot of apples where I live in zone 9A/B (I'm on the border).

 

[Jimi]

Prepper Tip: Keeping insects and rodents out of my stored supplies

	Forwarded this email? Subscribe here for more Watch now​ Prepper Tip: Keeping insects and rodents out of my stored supplies​ Also known as 'Smoking the Bus"​ Marjory Wildcraft Apr 14 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The School Bus Storage Barn​ I’ve got this old school bus packed with my essentials—milk crates), nest boxes, an angle grinder, fencing, shovels, hoses, PVC bits, you get the idea. It’s not fancy, and it doesn’t even drive, so I hire a tow truck to move it when I move. It’s been a storage lifesaver for keeping my stuff together, especially here in Puerto Rico where getting supplies can be tricky. Having my gear close makes me feel ready for whatever’s coming. Keeping Pests Away​ Storage means dealing with critters—rodents, insects, the works. I’ve got two simple tricks to keep my bus pest-free. Trick 1: My Cat Crew​ First up, I let cats hang out in the bus. Meet Michu, one of my furry helpers! Their scent alone scares off rodents. I make sure cats wander through regularly, and it’s like a natural “keep out” sign for pests. Plus, it cuts down on the cost of cat food when they score mice or rats. Trick 2: A Little Smoke Goes a Long Way​ My other trick is smoking the bus with a smudge stick every couple of months. It’s not some woo-woo ritual—smoke just freaks out insects and animals. They think danger and bolt. I learned this building a debris hut in Texas, a cozy shelter of sticks and leaves. Second time I used it, I smoked it out first, and you could hear bugs scrambling to escape. Once, a snake even slithered past me to get out—talk about a wild moment! Why This Works for Me​ These tricks—cats and smoke—are inexpensive, easy, and keep my stuff safe. Whether it’s a mouse nest or a wasp colony, I’m not worried about surprises when I open my boxes. It’s perfect for preppers like me who are on the move or waiting for that forever homestead. Wrapping It Up​ So, that’s my school bus hack for storing prepper gear! It’s practical, mobile, and with my cat-and-smoke combo, pest-free. If you’re juggling supplies like me, give it a try. Got your own storage tips? Let me know—I’m all ears! Catch you later, ​

 

[Jimi]

Nutritional Compounds Can Improve Happiness

Dr. Russell Blaylock, M.D., writes:

Research is finding that there are a number of simple ways to improve your outlook on life. For instance, a good diet is crucial because a poor diet leaves a person drained of energy, including mental acuity and mood. A diet that includes a lot of sugars, high-glycemic carbohydrates, omega-6 oils, excitotoxic food additives, and highly processed foods will have a powerfully negative impact on your emotions.

I’ve written before that the makeup of a person’s gut bacteria (if abnormal) can have a powerful negative impact on behavior and mental function. Taking probiotics and prebiotics regularly can play a big part in improving your mental well-being.

Special: Doctors Offer New Hope for Immune Health, Stable Mood, and Overall Well-Being

I suggest taking a balanced probiotic that contains around 50 billion CFUs of multiple strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria at least once a week. In addition, at least once a day you should take a prebiotic (which is food for probiotics), preferably galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS).

The prebiotic encourages growth of beneficial bacteria in your colon. This has been shown to reduce abdominal bloating, improve mental health, and prevent a number of diseases.

Taken daily, the compound N-butyrate not only improves gut function, it also helps heal leaky gut problems and reduces the risk of colon cancer.

 

[Jimi]

Seed Chat & Irrigation Class​

Tuesday, Apr 15 – Tuesday, Apr 22
View schedule

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You're invited to join the Urban Farm's Garden & Seed Chats and Drip Tape event, featuring talks on seeds and self-sufficiency with Bill McDorman and permaculture elements with Don Titmus, and a class on drip tape irrigation with Greg Peterson.

Note​

• Attend the Garden Chat 'Seeds create independence, self-sufficiency and better food.'
• Register for the Garden Chat 'Permaculture Elements.' here
• Join the Introduction to Drip Tape Irrigation class. here
• Attend the Garden Chat 'Permaculture Elements.'
• Register for the Garden Chat 'Seeds create independence, self-sufficiency and better food.' here

 

[Jimi]

[VIDEO] Container Gardening: Sweet Potatoes
Growing sweet potato greens in window boxes is a great way to get a bunch of almost perpetual greens. Marjory's primary focus was to produce sweet potato vines for the greens. They grow so easily and have prolific foliage. She was pleasantly surprised when she discovered tubers in there too! She was not expecting to find full-grown sweet potatoes.
Click here to watch the video and learn how to grow your own sweet potato greens (and maybe even tubers!)

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

Jimi, When I asked the community if they would be interested in learning more about microgreens, the answer was a resounding YES! Not only is it perfect for small spaces, microgreens are jam-packed with nutrition, and they taste great! I have created an in-depth 4-part blog series on growing, storing, harvesting, and troubleshooting microgreens (links below.) Full Blog Post Series: https://thegrownetwork.com/microgreens-for-beginners/ https://thegrownetwork.com/harvesting-and-storing-microgreens/ https://thegrownetwork.com/troubleshooting-common-microgreen-growing-problems/ https://thegrownetwork.com/microgreens-varieties/ For those of you who prefer TLDR (too long; didn't read), here is a quick summary of the articles: Microgreens are nutrient-dense, fast-growing greens that can be cultivated indoors with minimal space and effort. Microgreens are young vegetable greens harvested just after the first true leaves develop. They offer intense flavors and higher concentrations of vitamins and antioxidants compared to their mature counterparts. They are ideal for small spaces and can be grown year-round on windowsills or countertops with minimal effort. Basic Setup: Containers: Shallow trays with drainage holes (I like to stack this tray with holes on this tray with no holes) Growing Medium: (You can use a standard OMNI Certified Seed Starting Mix like this one, Expanding Coconut Coir, or a Growing Mat like this one. I prefer growing in soil. But it's just a personal preference) Light: A sunny, south-facing windowsill or an inexpensive grow light, like this one, will work just fine.) Seeds: I'd recommend choosing something you know you like the full-grown version of and starting there. ( You can also purchase a starter collection like this fun colorful assortment or the Basic Dozen). The first time I grew Microgreens, I started with the Basic Dozen to get a taste of a variety of microgreens. The packages are large and the seeds go a long way. You could also invest in a complete starter kit like this one. Step-by-step: Fill trays with moist growing medium and moisten. Evenly scatter seeds and gently press them into the surface Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and place in a dark area to maintain humidity until germination Once sprouted, remove the cover and provide ample light Water as needed to keep the medium moist but not soggy (bottom watering is preferred, hence the double tray system recommended above) Harvest, enjoy, and start again! Top 5 Microgreens for Beginners​ If you're not sure what seeds to buy, start with these five easy-to-grow varieties: Radish Spicy flavor; ready for harvest in 6–10 days Broccoli Mild taste; rich in vitamins C, K, and E; ready for harvest in 8–12 days Sunflower Nutty flavor; crunchy texture; ready for harvest in 12–14 days Pea Shoots Sweet taste; ready for harvest in 10–14 days Mustard Zesty kick; ready for harvest in 6–10 days These varieties are forgiving and provide quick, flavorful results. Harvesting & Storing Tips​ When to Harvest Microgreens: Harvest when microgreens are 1–3 inches tall and have developed their first true leaves. This stage offers peak flavor and nutrition. How to Harvest: Use clean scissors to cut just above the soil line Avoid cutting into the soil to prevent contamination Harvest when the greens are stored in the refrigerator to extend shelf life Compost or discard growing medium. Clean trays and start again! Storage: Gently pat dry if needed and place in an airtight container lined with a paper towel Store in the refrigerator at 35–40°F Consume within 5–7 days for optimal freshness Troubleshooting Common Issues​ Mold or Fungus: Cause: Excess moisture and poor air circulation Solution: Ensure proper ventilation, water from the bottom, and remove humidity covers after germination Leggy or Pale Microgreens: Cause: Insufficient light Solution: Provide adequate lighting immediately after germination; use grow lights if necessary Overcrowding: Cause: Dense seeding leads to poor airflow Solution: Sow seeds evenly and avoid over-seeing Read the detailed Blog Post Series:​ https://thegrownetwork.com/microgreens-for-beginners/ https://thegrownetwork.com/harvesting-and-storing-microgreens/ https://thegrownetwork.com/troubleshooting-common-microgreen-growing-problems/ https://thegrownetwork.com/microgreens-varieties/ Feel free to reply to this e-mail with any additional questions you may have! Also, if you're interested in me filming the whole process, I'd be happy to do so. Just reply and let me know.

 

[Jimi]

	​ ​ Forwarded this email? Subscribe here for more Watch now​ My Favorite Garden Tool Mini Stash House​ ​ How many tools have I lost in my life? No, don't answer that...​ Marjory Wildcraft Apr 16 ​ I love using this mailbox as a mini garden tool stash place. It keeps every thing dry, is super convenient to place in the garden (or by the rabbitry or chicken coop), and holds most of the little things I always seem to need. This was filmed a few years ago, with awesome shots and editing by Anthony. The great thing about backyard food production is we’ve been doing it for at least 10,000 years… and it hasn’t changed that much. So the video is still perfectly valid.

 

[Jimi]

Growing Food in Apartments: How To Grow Micro Greens:​ It's easy to do and loaded with nutrition and vitality​ Marjory Wildcraft and Ruth Reyes Apr 17 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ This is a guest post from Ruth Reyes of The Grow Network. Like Ruth, people have been asking me for solutions for those living in apartments and condos. Yes! you can do a lot. This is the first of many posts I’ll be bringing you. When I asked the community if they would be interested in learning more about microgreens, the answer was a resounding YES! Not only is it perfect for small spaces, microgreens are jam-packed with nutrition, and they taste great! I have created an in-depth 4-part blog series on growing, storing, harvesting, and troubleshooting microgreens (links below.) Full Blog Post Series: https://thegrownetwork.com/microgreens-for-beginners/ https://thegrownetwork.com/harvesting-and-storing-microgreens/ https://thegrownetwork.com/troubleshooting-common-microgreen-growing-problems/ https://thegrownetwork.com/microgreens-varieties/ For those of you who prefer TLDR (too long; didn't read), here is a quick summary of the articles: Microgreens are nutrient-dense, fast-growing greens that can be cultivated indoors with minimal space and effort. Microgreens are young vegetable greens harvested just after the first true leaves develop. They offer intense flavors and higher concentrations of vitamins and antioxidants compared to their mature counterparts. They are ideal for small spaces and can be grown year-round on windowsills or countertops with minimal effort.​

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

Pests that Garlic repels

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

As Spring blooms into full swing, we have recently been thinking about soil.

Soil texture plays a pivotal role in plant health and overall garden success.

It refers to the proportion of three mineral components: sand, silt, and clay.

These particles influence soil behavior, including water retention, drainage, and nutrient availability.

• Sand: These are the largest soil particles, measuring between 0.05 to 2 mm. Sandy soils are gritty to the touch and facilitate excellent drainage due to larger pore spaces. However, they tend to retain fewer nutrients, challenging plant growth.
• Silt: Medium-sized particles ranging from 0.002 to 0.05 mm give silt a smooth, flour-like texture. Silt soils hold moisture better than sandy soils and are more fertile but prone to erosion and compaction.
• Clay: The smallest particles, less than 0.002 mm in size, make up clay soils. These soils are sticky when wet and can retain significant amounts of water and nutrients. However, they often suffer from poor drainage and aeration, leading to potential root health issues.

Identifying and Amending Soil Texture

Understanding your garden's soil texture is crucial for effective management.

A simple method to determine soil texture is the "feel test."

By moistening a small amount of soil and rubbing it between your fingers, you can assess its texture:

• Sandy soil: Feels gritty and falls apart easily.
• Silty soil: Feels smooth and holds together better but can be easily compacted.
• Clay soil: Feels sticky and can be molded into shapes.

Once you've identified your soil type, you can amend it to improve its structure:

• For sandy soils: Incorporate organic matter like compost to enhance nutrient retention and moisture-holding capacity.
• For silty soils: Add organic matter to improve structure and reduce erosion risk.
• For clay soils: Introduce organic matter and coarse sand to improve drainage and aeration.

Addressing Common Soil Problems

Beyond texture, several common soil issues can impact plant health:

• Compaction: Often found in clay-heavy soils, compaction reduces pore space, hindering root growth and water infiltration. Regularly aerating the soil and adding organic matter can alleviate this problem.
• Poor Drainage: Soils with high clay content may drain slowly, leading to waterlogged conditions. Raised beds and incorporating coarse organic materials can improve drainage.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Sandy soils may lack essential nutrients due to leaching. Regular application of organic fertilizers and compost can replenish nutrient levels.

Understanding and managing soil texture and its associated challenges can create a more hospitable environment for your plants, leading to a healthier and more productive garden.

Reply to this e-mail and let us know if you have any questions about soil texture.

Click here to learn more about soil and compost.

 

[Jimi]

[IN CASE YOU MISSED IT] April Planting Guide by Zone
Growing your own food is more important than ever in times of rising grocery prices, unpredictable supply chains, and increasing food insecurity. Today's challenges echo past historical challenges, from trade disruptions and tariffs to erratic weather and inflation. In this April Gardening Guide, we'll share what you should do to prepare your garden to GROW!
Click here to read more.


[ARTICLE] Top 5 Best Microgreen Varieties for Beginners
While you can experiment with dozens of microgreen types, some are easier and more foolproof for beginners. Generally, fast-growing, vigorous seeds that don't have special requirements are ideal to start with. Here are a few tried-and-true microgreens homesteaders love and what to expect from each variety. Click here to read the full article.


[VIDEO] Free Fertilizer
In this video, Marjory is in a food forest with Stephanie Syson of the Caribbean Agroforestry Institute. Stephanie has perfected the art of creating fertilizer for free. Her favorite method? She uses quick-growing "weed trees" she can chop down regularly. This adds a lot of free compost, mulch, and vibrancy to her food forest.
Check this out and get inspired.

 

[Jimi]

[FREE FROM TGN] The Organic Growers Toolkit
Learn all about organic matter, soil texture, soil testing, fertilizers, mycorrhizal, and water management in this 8-part series.
Click here to learn more.


Warmly,
The Grow Network Team


[MARJORY'S MEMES]

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

[Urban Grower’s Guide] Planting for bees
We need to talk about bees.

Whether or not keeping bees is on your radar, there’s one thing everyone can do for a better ecosystem: planting crops that attract and support pollinators.

In this issue of the Grower's Guide, check out these articles on bees and pollinators:

• Pollinator Gardening tips
• 12 Reasons NOT to be Afraid of Honeybees

By the way, if you are interested in learning how to raise your own urban livestock such as chickens & goats, our Signature Online Course Urban Animals is on special for a few more days! Click here to learn more and enroll.

 

[Jimi]

 

[Jimi]

This Thursday I’ll be going live to teach on adding medicinal herbs to any garden!

Because, while we love the comforts of modern medicine, that doesn’t mean we ignore the power of nature’s medicine. With so many herbs containing natural medicinal properties, It’s easy to start curating your own live apothecary at home.

Interested in learning more? I’m going live on Thursday at 8pm EST to talk all about our favorite medicinal herbs and just how easy the are to grow.

Register for free!​

You’ll learn about…​

9 key medicinal herbs

how to grow them

their medicinal properties

and easy ways to use them



This is a free event for anybody who wants to learn more about easy-to-grow plants with natural healing properties, and how you can use them. Join us live and bring your questions for a Q&A at the end.

Register for free!​

 

[Jimi]

Soil composition is fundamental to plant health and successful gardening.

It consists of both solid materials and pore spaces, each playing a critical role in supporting plant growth.

Pore Space: The Unsung Hero

Approximately 50% of soil volume comprises pore spaces, the gaps between solid particles.

These spaces are essential for moving air, water, and roots.

A balanced soil structure typically contains about 25% air and 25% water within these pore spaces, facilitating proper root respiration, nutrient transport, and overall plant vitality.

Solid Components: Minerals and Organic Matter

The remaining 50% of soil is composed of solid materials, including minerals and organic matter:

• Minerals: Derived from weathered rocks, minerals provide essential nutrients to plants. The three primary mineral particles are sand, silt, and clay, each contributing to soil texture and influencing water retention and drainage.
• Organic Matter: Decomposed plant and animal material enriches the soil with nutrients and enhances its structure. Organic matter improves water retention in sandy soils and drainage in clayey soils, promoting a balanced environment for plant roots.

Achieving Optimal Soil Composition

The ideal soil for most plants is loam, a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay combined with ample organic matter.

Loamy soil offers excellent drainage, nutrient availability, and workability.

To improve your soil composition:

• Assess Soil Texture: To understand your soil's current state, determine the proportions of sand, silt, and clay.
• Incorporate Organic Matter: Regularly add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance nutrient content and improve soil structure.
• Avoid Compaction: Minimize foot traffic and heavy machinery use on garden beds to maintain healthy pore spaces for air and water movement.

Understanding and managing soil composition can create a more favorable environment for your plants, leading to a healthier and more productive garden.

Click here to learn more about compost and soil.


[ARTICLE] Beginner's Guide to Growing Microgreens
Have you ever considered growing fresh, nutritious food inside? If the answer is yes, then microgreens might be your perfect crop.
This guide explores how small-space homesteaders – even those in apartments or condos – can easily grow a bounty of microgreens indoors. From understanding what microgreens are and their health benefits to setting up your growing area, planting, harvesting, and troubleshooting, this guide will walk you through the entire process beginner-friendly.
Let's turn that sunny corner of your home into a mini indoor farm!
Click here to read this comprehensive guide.

 

[Jimi]

[VIDEO] Container Composting
Have you ever started a project, and that project spiraled into another? Marjory will be getting baby ducks soon and wanted to start growing worms for treats. But, to grow worms, she needed some half-composted compost. As you know, worm compost is magic. Since she only has a small patio area to work with, she's making compost in containers!
Click here to watch a short video of her gathering materials and setting up the project.


[IN CASE YOU MISSED IT] Opium Lettuce - Nature's Natural Pain Relief
Wild lettuce has been used as a medicine forever. The cultivation of lettuce by humans dates back to 10,829 BC. That means the wild varieties such as Lactuca serriola (prickly lettuce) were likely known and used by humans long before this. Wild lettuce is sometimes called "opium lettuce." While it is a potent painkiller, don't worry! This opium alternative doesn't have the same drawbacks associated with other illegal drugs. Nor is it nearly as powerful.
Click here to download the 38-page eBook about wild lettuce; no e-mail address is required.

 

[Jimi]

 

[SteveS45]

So my Grass Seed is finally coming up slowly and my Seedlings are doing well in the window~! Woo Hoo~!

Yesterday I took all the Hanging Baskets in the backyard and the 2 planters on the Front Porch into the backyard and emptied them out. Put the roots and dirt in my compost barrels and refilled them with potting soil. Starting the flowers this year from Seed~!

 

[Bliss Doubt]

Native bee populations can bounce back.

Native bee populations can bounce back after honey bees move out | Penn State University

Managed honey bees have the potential to affect native bee populations when they are introduced to a new area, but a study led by researchers at Penn State suggests that, under certain conditions, the native bees can bounce back if the apiaries are moved away.

www.psu.edu

 

[Jimi]

Jimi, Soil amendments are materials added to soil to improve its physical properties and fertility, leading to healthier plants and more abundant harvests. Here are some common soil amendments and their benefits: Compost: Often called "black gold," compost is decomposed organic matter rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. It enhances soil structure, drainage, and fertility. Applying a 2-3 inch layer of compost to your garden beds and mixing it into the topsoil can significantly improve soil quality. Manure: Composted animal manure, such as cow, horse, or chicken manure, adds organic matter and essential nutrients to the soil. Using well-aged manure is important to avoid burning plants and introducing pathogens. Incorporating a few inches into the soil before planting can boost fertility. Coconut Coir: A sustainable alternative to peat moss, coconut coir improves water retention and soil structure without depleting natural resources. It's beneficial for enhancing sandy soils and is widely available in garden centers. Perlite and Vermiculite: These inorganic amendments improve aeration and moisture retention. Perlite helps prevent soil compaction, while vermiculite aids in water retention, making them ideal for potting mixes. Gypsum: This mineral amendment improves soil structure in clay soils and adds calcium without altering soil pH. It's beneficial for breaking up compacted soils and enhancing root penetration. Green Manure: Involves growing specific plants, like clover or vetch, and then tilling them into the soil to add organic matter and nutrients. This practice enhances soil fertility and structure over time. Incorporating these amendments based on your soil's needs can lead to a more productive and healthy garden. Ruth just purchased a Reencle. She will keep you posted on how it works. Click here if you are also interested in "renting" an indoor food composter. You can compost all your kitchen scraps in less than 24 hours, right inside your own kitchen!!! How cool is that? [ARTICLE] How to Harvest and Store Microgreens Harvest day is an exciting moment—just days after planting, you have a tray bursting with mini-vegetables ready to eat. Proper harvesting and handling will ensure the best flavor and shelf life. Click here to read the full article. [VIDEO] Prepper Tip: Keep Insects and Rodents out of Stored Supplies Marjory has one of the coolest storage sheds of all time, an old school bus packed with her essentials—tools, fencing, shovels, hoses, PVC, etc. It's not fancy and doesn't drive, but it's been a lifesaver for safely storing her stuff, especially in Puerto Rico, where obtaining supplies can be tricky. Having her gear close makes me feel ready for whatever's coming. Storage means dealing with critters—rodents, insects, etc. Click here to watch this short video where she shares two simple tricks to keep her bus pest-free.

 

[Jimi]

The Miraculous Healing Power of DMSO: Nature's Forgotten Cure for Cancer, Pain, and Regeneration

Over 60 percent of Americans are hooked on pharmaceutical drugs: These are the most commonly prescribed drugs and their most pervasive side effects

 

[Jimi]

Dr. Suzanne Humphries exposes historical vaccine myths: Polio decline preceded vaccines, sanitation was key

Radiation from CT scans tied to 5 percent of cancer cases, experts urge caution

 

[Jimi]

Flu shot bombshell: This year's jab actually increases your risk of getting sick

Got adulterated milk? Synthetic "milk" products contain shocking ingredients you won't believe

 

[Jimi]

The Healing Power of Prayer By Tricia Cooney Bresnahan Numerous research studies and anecdotal stories have shown the power that prayer can have in our lives and for our health. Dr. Chauncey Crandall, world-renowned cardiologist and director of preventive medicine at the Palm Beach Cardiovascular Clinic in Florida, has observed the power that prayer can have on health firsthand. Editor’s Note: Celebrated Cardiologist Details His Encounters With Death — and Offers Proof of an Afterlife “When I was at Yale University and I rounded on the wards of the hospital, I found something that just really amazed me,” Crandall tells Newsmax’s “Newsline.” “The people that were being prayed for seemed to get well faster than those that weren’t,” he observed. Crandall explains that one reason prayer can be so powerful is because it can help relieve depression, anxiety and fear. These emotions can contribute to heart disease, says Crandall, editor of the popular newsletter Dr. Crandall's Heart Health Report. Special: Top Cardiologist Reveals Secret for a Healthy Heart A recent review of 32 studies, published in the International Journal of Depression and Anxiety, came to the same conclusion. In nearly every one of the studies, religion in general, and religious training, spirituality, faith, prayer and a religious community were associated with reduced anxiety. The effects were observed in healthy adults and those with cancer, cardiovascular disease or other illnesses. And another study performed over 20 years ago on 1,000 cardiac patients in a hospital in Kansas City found that those who were prayed for daily for four weeks (without them knowing it) fared better, with fewer complications, such as pneumonia, chest pains, infections or death, than those who were not prayed for. Editor’s Note: 4 Signs Your Heart Is Quietly Failing “I have prayed for patients that have been told that they are going to die, that they are not going to live. And we've prayed over them and they're alive today,” says Crandall. Crandall emphasizes that prayer works. We just need to call on God and he will show up. Special: God’s Biblical Blueprint for Healing “He wants to have a relationship with you. He loves you,” says Crandall.

 

[Jimi]

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[Jimi]