Unchecked Growth Can Lead to Real Problems Hardy kiwi vines are admired for their lush foliage, shade, and delicious fruit—but their vigor can become a liability if planted too close to buildings. My Issai cultivar is proof. In just one season, a few vines stretched over 3 meters (10 feet).…
At a local nursery, I came across a grafted Salix integra—commonly known as flamingo willow—for its eye-catching pink-tinged foliage. While it’s often grown as a decorative shrub, I saw something far more functional in this small tree: the beginning of a broader, multi-functional plan rooted in using willow in permaculture…
In the diverse world of berry cultivation, Haskap berries, scientifically known as Lonicera caerulea, emerge as a unique and intriguing species. Also commonly referred to as honeyberries or blue honeysuckle, these berries have piqued the interest of gardeners, horticulturists, and food enthusiasts alike. Beyond their rich flavor and nutritional value,…
In the realm of hardy fruit-bearing shrubs, the Haskap (Lonicera caerulea), also known as blue honeysuckle or honeyberry, stands out for its robustness and the sweet, tangy berries it produces. These deciduous plants have garnered attention not only for their delicious fruit but also for their resilience in cold climates.…
In the verdant heart of the Amazon rainforest lies a soil as rich in history as it is in nutrients: Amazonian Dark Earth (ADE), also known globally as Terra Preta. This dark, fertile earth, often referred to as 'black gold' by those who understand its value, is a legacy from…
Imagine turning that forgotten corner of your backyard or the newly acquired plot of land into a flourishing garden. Hugelkultur, a centuries-old agricultural technique, offers just that possibility. Whether you're a homesteader, a homeowner looking to use unused land, or simply someone interested in sustainable gardening, Let's delve into how…
Hugelkultur, a permaculture technique with roots in traditional European agriculture, is a method of creating fertile and efficient garden beds. Essentially, it involves piling up logs, branches, leaves, grass clippings, straw, cardboard, and other compostable biomass, then covering them with soil. Over time, the wood decomposes, releasing nutrients and creating…
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) has long been a staple in gardens, valued for its versatility in traditional medicine and organic gardening. This perennial herb, known for its deep roots and broad, fuzzy leaves, has numerous variants, among which Bocking 14 Comfrey is particularly notable. Developed in the 1950s by Lawrence D.…
Comfrey, scientifically known as Symphytum officinale, is a perennial herb renowned for its versatility in gardens. Also known as knitbone or boneset, this plant has a long history in both cultivation and herbal medicine. Classification Kingdom: Plantae Order: Boraginales Family: Boraginaceae Genus: Symphytum Species: S. officinale Origin and Distribution Originally…
Birdwatching and feeding wildlife have long been activities that bring joy to many, offering a simple yet profound connection with nature. For those who engage in this practice, the convenience of store-bought bird food is often the go-to option. However, as we become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of…
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