http://borntofarm.com Country Living and Gardening Skills for a Healthier Life Mon, 20 May 2013 14:29:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 Grow it, Cook it, Eat it, Enjoy it! The Farmcast Podcast Network no The Farmcast Podcast Network steve@borntofarm.com steve@borntofarm.com (The Farmcast Podcast Network) Copyright © Born To Farm 2011 Country Living and Gardening Skills for a Healthier Life http://borntofarm.com/wp-content/plugins/powerpress/rss_default.jpg http://borntofarm.com TV-G New Braunfels, Texas Weekly http://borntofarm.com/gyg-096-composting-made-simple/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-096-composting-made-simple/#comments Mon, 20 May 2013 14:29:42 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1991 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-096-composting-made-simple/feed/ 0 composting Before I get started on Composting, here is a video that explains the balance needed for hot composting, and does it very well. - Compost if one of the most important ingredients to add to your vegetable garden. It adds nutrient back to the soil, Before I get started on Composting, here is a video that explains the balance needed for hot composting, and does it very well. Compost if one of the most important ingredients to add to your vegetable garden. It adds nutrient back to the soil, and can reduce garbage otherwise sent to the landfill. But to many it's a complicated process with "browns", "greens", ratios, hot compost, cold compost etc. I hope to help you clear the subject a bit so you can get started making your own compost. Successful composting needs 4 things: 1.Greens 2.Browns 3.Air 4.Water “Green” or “Brown” does not refer to the color. Refers to the Carbon:Nitrogen Ratio. Those highest in Nitrogen are called “Greens”. Higher in Carbon called Browns. Greens •Grass Clippings •Vegetable trimmings •Animal Manures ( well composted) •Tea Bags, coffee grounds •Old Flower Bouquets Browns •Straw •sawdust •wood shavings •branches Start Keeping Kitchen Scraps, Lawn Trimmings for your compost pile.  You can find compost pails with odor filters online, or if you prefer, keep a big box store 5 gal bucket with lid outside your kitchen door, emptying it to your pile when possible.  I have found it is best to keep your pile as near to your garden as possible as you will have a lot to add to the pile from the garden throughout the season. Bowl on the counter or bucket on the porch Types of composting Hot Compost Balance the browns ( carbon materials) to the Greens ( Nitrogen material to get roughly a 30:1 mixture When starting out in sometimes help to have a “recipe” of sorts for fast hot compost. Example Compost recipe: 3 parts fresh grass clippings 1 part kitchen scraps 1 part damp straw Prepare the materials: cut chunky materials like melon rinds into roughly 1” chunks for faster decomposition. Manage the moisture. keep a hose nearby to keep the pile moist Be sure to frequently turn the mixture with a garden fork or pitchfork. Check internal temp with a compost thermometer, adding water or a nitrogen booster like grass clippings or high protein meal like Soybean or cottonseed meal.  These are inexpensive and organic. Finish and Cure When no longer warm, it should be ready to use. Cold Compost Can sometimes be better than hot compost as it doesn’t kill of some of the beneficial organisms that are so important to our soil. Slow but less labor intensive - a year or more Build in Some Balance Plan for passive aeration Build a healthy heap Patient, not absent Turn when mood strikes Types of Compost Piles For an excellent tutorial on composting including the different types of bins, download the free Composting Book at - http://centrecountyrecycles.org/Pdf%20Files/composr.pdf   Types of Compost bins/Piles to consider: Piles Wire Bins Commercial Tumblers Traditional 3 Bin Systen     Steve no 34:50 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-095-drip-irrigation-its-easy/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-095-drip-irrigation-its-easy/#comments Sat, 27 Apr 2013 04:14:41 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1978 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-095-drip-irrigation-its-easy/feed/ 2 drip irrigation,low tunnels,Season Extension In an earlier Episode, I spoke about how effective and easy it was to extend your growing season with a hoophouse like Elliot Coleman wrote about in his books. - Listener Rev John Watton did me one better and shared some photos of his success in Newfo... In an earlier Episode, I spoke about how effective and easy it was to extend your growing season with a hoophouse like Elliot Coleman wrote about in his books. Listener Rev John Watton did me one better and shared some photos of his success in Newfoundland, Canada.  That's Zone 4, Folks.  These photos were taken on April 12th, 2013.  As you can see there is snow and cold outside, yet inside his hoophouse he is enjoying Bok Choy, Lettuce, and Spinach.  Way to Go Rev Watton! Although many of you are still struggling with cold, snow, and flooding, soon it will be time to get your outdoor garden ready and that should mean a way to water ( irrigate it). I am a big fan/believer in drip irrigation for a couple of reasons: Cost Conservation Healthier for the plants ( less diseases past around) Although much of the materiel and tools needed can be found at the local big box stores, I prefer to use http://www.Dripworks.com.  They are not the cheapest, but they always have what I need and many new innovations the other stores don't bother with.     Steve no 34:59 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-094-easy-ways-to-garden/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-094-easy-ways-to-garden/#comments Tue, 09 Apr 2013 18:18:40 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1970 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-094-easy-ways-to-garden/feed/ 10 This week I decided to discuss 3 Easy ways to Garden for Vegetables.  While I concede the third is open for disagreement, I still consider it easier than many other methods, especially fr beginners. Container Gardening This week I decided to discuss 3 Easy ways to Garden for Vegetables.  While I concede the third is open for disagreement, I still consider it easier than many other methods, especially fr beginners. Container Gardening Straw-Bale Gardening as taught by Joel Karsten Raised Bed Gardening Joel Karsten ( who has been a guest on this show ) has a new book on Straw Bale Gardening and  is full of information, suggestions, and best of all - photographs.   The link to the book is on the right side of this page.  I highly recommend it. I am trying it out myself this year in addition to my raised beds.  I like doing my own tests. The Fruit trees are beginning to show signs of fruit even in the first year planted here ( from 5 gallon buckets ) so am really excited for this season. Steve no 43:39 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-093-growing-fruit-trees-and-spriong-garden-protection/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-093-growing-fruit-trees-and-spriong-garden-protection/#comments Fri, 22 Mar 2013 23:27:49 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1965 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-093-growing-fruit-trees-and-spriong-garden-protection/feed/ 0 Many vegetable gardeners don't seem to think much about growing their own fruit trees in addition to their vegetables. Many times they think their climate is wrong, it's too muh work, etc. But nothing could be further from the truth. - Many vegetable gardeners don't seem to think much about growing their own fruit trees in addition to their vegetables. Many times they think their climate is wrong, it's too muh work, etc. But nothing could be further from the truth. This week I quickly go over the basics of how to get started with your own backyard fruit orchard and how easy it is. Spring Garden Protection We also talk about using row covers to protect your early plants from pests like cabbage worms, vine borers, etc. But the can also be used to simply keep the bed warmer, and with the use of plastic instead, can be made into a mini-greenhouse, much like John Watton from Newfoundland has done. In Johns case, he did have a small unheated greenhouse, and he created a little low tunnel inside it and has an early start on Spring crops with no heat. If John can pull it off in Newfoundland, imagine what you can do in your location.   Recommended Fruit Books Grow Fruit Naturally by Lee Reich ( my main reference) Fruit Trees in Small Places by Colby Eirman Rhw Home Orchard by the University of California ( Focus is on California but it still has a lot of goof info).   Steve no 38:14 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-092-weedless-gardening/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-092-weedless-gardening/#comments Sun, 10 Mar 2013 20:12:27 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1958 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-092-weedless-gardening/feed/ 5 Several Years ago, I was able to locate an out of print book by Ruth Stout. In it, an 80+ year old woman told of her garden successes with nothing but Hay as a mulch. Later, University scholars and scientists descended on her place and scratched their ... Several Years ago, I was able to locate an out of print book by Ruth Stout. In it, an 80+ year old woman told of her garden successes with nothing but Hay as a mulch. Later, University scholars and scientists descended on her place and scratched their heads in amazement at what she was doing. I tried her methods as described and found them rather amazing myself. And very effective. Later, a more recent author, Lee Reich, wrote a book called "Weedless Gardening". While his methods seemed more traditional, and a slightly less entertaining reading, nevertheless, they both proved that you can spend a minimum amount of time in your garden fighting weeds with the same common sense approach - Lots of mulch & Comppost, with Drip irrigation ( in Lee's case). I love both of these books. Here on the farm, the fruit trees are in bloom, daffodils are out, and I have been busy planting out the Spring Garden. This year I am trying Texas Sweet onions and planted nearly 90 of them! Why so many? I bought an inexpensive bundle of plants and I still didn't get them all planted. I'll store over the winter, trade with some neighbors, and market at the local Farmers Market. Next is the Watermelon! Steve Steve no 31:13 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-091-starting-a-new-organic-vegetable-garden/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-091-starting-a-new-organic-vegetable-garden/#comments Thu, 28 Feb 2013 19:58:52 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1953 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-091-starting-a-new-organic-vegetable-garden/feed/ 1 r,Raised beds,Starting a New Garden As I was reminded this past week, we have a lot of new listeners who are new gardeners and are hungry for more information. As a result, I am talking a bit more about " Back to the Basics" in the podcast. More notes soon.... As I was reminded this past week, we have a lot of new listeners who are new gardeners and are hungry for more information. As a result, I am talking a bit more about " Back to the Basics" in the podcast. More notes soon.... Steve no 33:37 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-090-garden-journals-planning-tools-and-why-you-need-them/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-090-garden-journals-planning-tools-and-why-you-need-them/#comments Thu, 14 Feb 2013 18:56:17 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1942 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-090-garden-journals-planning-tools-and-why-you-need-them/feed/ 5 It's been an interesting week so far. I am still planning out the Spring Garden preparing the plots by leveling and in many cases “de-rocking” them. I have a couple of raised bed frames a neighbor donated, and I am building up new ones. - It's been an interesting week so far. I am still planning out the Spring Garden preparing the plots by leveling and in many cases “de-rocking” them. I have a couple of raised bed frames a neighbor donated, and I am building up new ones. Finding a good source of bulk soil is next on the list and so far, I really haven't found anything I like. The New Shop/Garage base was finally  inspected and passed so I can have the concrete base poured now. I will be glad to finally get this over with. I need better storage for my tractor, garden tools, and a place to fix things.   The main Focus this week is on tools for planning and how they can help you improve your organic garden journal activities.   Notebook Journal The old standby. The main way to keep a garden journal is also the cheapest – a simple 3 Ring Binder. This is one you should set up no matter which of these tools you might choose since you can print them out an add them to the notebook, along with Erica's useful Tracking sheets.   Smartgardener.com Is a free service that helps you plan your garden online. While it is free, they do try and market “add-ons” to make the job simpler. While I liked what they offered, I dis have some problems getting the templates rotated, and set up the way I wanted   GrowVeg.com This is my favorite online Planning site and it seems to improve more and more each year. With a huge database of plants, it helps not only size the number of plants you can fit in a given area, but with a color code, will show you what can and cannot be planted with each other.  Click on the GrowVeg link on the Right side if you want more information.   NWEdible.Com My newest find is the Garden Planner from Erica Strauss at NWEdible.com. While I am usually skeptical about online “e-books”, this one at $16 is worth far more than it's price. Erica has put a lot of time into this planner with charts, forms, templates, and all sorts of pages you can use or choose not to. Erica also has a page where she gives many useful forms away for free. Please take a look at it before deciding.   Favor To Ask I am looking at bringing out either a series of Gardening E-Books, or DVD's, or both. I ask you if they were on something you were interested in, which format would you prefer? Deadly Compost Finally there is a extremely important article on compost issues I speak about from Mother Earth News. Please read it and keep it in mind as you look for compost. Read the Article Here Steve no 29:26 http://borntofarm.com/garden-planning-tools/ http://borntofarm.com/garden-planning-tools/#comments Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:14:36 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1930 http://borntofarm.com/garden-planning-tools/feed/ 0 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-089-remember-rotation-in-your-garden-plans/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-089-remember-rotation-in-your-garden-plans/#comments Thu, 07 Feb 2013 18:25:20 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1922 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-089-remember-rotation-in-your-garden-plans/feed/ 12 crop rotation,garden planning Well, after many months of moving, projects, setbacks, and just plain having a “sour” attitude, I think I'm back! I got my “fever” back so we should hopefully be back on a more predictable schedule. - Part of what helped me get motivated once again we... Well, after many months of moving, projects, setbacks, and just plain having a “sour” attitude, I think I'm back! I got my “fever” back so we should hopefully be back on a more predictable schedule. Part of what helped me get motivated once again were all the very kind emails I received after mentioning I was thinking of closing down the show. I heard from many of you, most recently: Kathy O’Keefe – Perth, Australia Tim Ratliff in Memphis Tennessee Stephen Graves in Kentucky Too many more to mention I want to deeply thank all of you who posted or emailed me directly. As a result, ( and partially a new years resolution, I have given myself a schedule I will be aiming at. My current plans are to post at least one new Blog post per week, posted on Mondays, and I want to produce one new podcast each week on Wednesday, with a Thursday release, just like this one. There may be missed deadlines, but I will publish a podcast every other week as a minimum. I have new listeners sighing up every week, so I will be covering a lot of the basics, as I look at “Growing Your Grub” as aimed at the beginner to intermediate gardener. Heavens knows a lot of people know far more than I. I just share what I have learned and what has worked for me.   Clyde's Garden Planner In this episode, I describe a tool that has become a “must have” for me, and it's very inexpensive. It is Clyde's Garden Planner, and it works just as well for Fall Scheduling as it does for Spring.   We were mentioned on Sustainablog.org this past month, and I wanted to thank to folks over there for mentioning us with a link It's an interesting website on all aspects of green living, sustainability, and much more. Give them a look at http://www.sustainablog.org   Vertical Vegetable Gardening by Christine McLaughlin I recently read a new garden book from Chris McLaughlin on “Vertical Vegetable Gardening”. This book is full of great tips and ideas on small space gardening but she goes much much farther. Topics like Composting, Soil Building, and many more topics every gardener should know that will apply to conventional gardening as well.   They're at it Again Mark Bittman in the NY Times posted a very interesting article about how the city of Orlando Florida is threatening a homeowner with massive fines if he doesn't remove/reduce his front yard food garden. Seems they want all to grow grass and not food. Mr Bittman ( Food Columnist and cookbook author) makes many good points during his discussion of this controversy. http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/01/29/lawns-into-gardens/   DIY Soil Blockers If you would like to save some money and start making your own soil blocks, here's a simple plan on making your own: http://borntofarm.com/how-to-make-a-soil-plug-tool/           Recent Activities on the Farm   Experimenting with DIY Solar Panels Switched to Propane for Heat – Heatpumps don't work that well in all areas. Garage/Garden Shed – I'm building a Garage/Shop where I can start my plants, dry vegetables, and keep all my tools. I have a new Tractor! With all this land, I needed something to help move compost, soil, and general maintenance, I now have a new Mahindra Max sub compact tractor. I have already tried it for leveling the ground, and removing some of the many rocks that live here.   Rotate among the 7 Vegetable groups Onions, garlic: Carrots, parsnips, parsley, dill, fennel, coriander: Broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, radishes, turnips: Cucumbers, gourds, melons, squash, pumpkins, watermelons: Beans, peas, clovers, vetches: Wheat, Rye, oats, Corn: Eggplant, peppers, potatoes, tomatoes               Steve no 35:26 http://borntofarm.com/gophers-ate-my-homework/ http://borntofarm.com/gophers-ate-my-homework/#comments Mon, 04 Feb 2013 21:37:05 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1909 http://borntofarm.com/gophers-ate-my-homework/feed/ 0 http://borntofarm.com/lose-the-winter-gardening-blues/ http://borntofarm.com/lose-the-winter-gardening-blues/#comments Sun, 27 Jan 2013 17:56:31 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1903 http://borntofarm.com/lose-the-winter-gardening-blues/feed/ 1 http://borntofarm.com/what-is-your-ideal-country-property/ http://borntofarm.com/what-is-your-ideal-country-property/#comments Mon, 21 Jan 2013 17:03:59 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1896 http://borntofarm.com/what-is-your-ideal-country-property/feed/ 1 http://borntofarm.com/gardening-2013/ http://borntofarm.com/gardening-2013/#comments Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:36:01 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1893 http://borntofarm.com/gardening-2013/feed/ 8 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-088-10-gifts-for-gardeners/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-088-10-gifts-for-gardeners/#comments Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:38:11 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1889 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-088-10-gifts-for-gardeners/feed/ 10 With the move from Texas to Northern California, starting up a new 5 acre Farm/Garden, episodes have been pretty scarce lately. - I didn't realize how much work it was going to be setting up a new operation, With the move from Texas to Northern California, starting up a new 5 acre Farm/Garden, episodes have been pretty scarce lately. I didn't realize how much work it was going to be setting up a new operation, and forgot that as I get older I am slowing down quite a bit. Because of this, and some other issues, I am thinking of bringing the show to a close. I haven't decided for certain yet but I wanted to let all of you faithful listeners know right away what I am anguishing about. I want to provide top quality shows to you but I am afraid the past few have not me my own standards. It's been two years worth of shows already. Meanwhile, with Christmas approaching, and the seed starting season right around the corner, I wanted to leave you with a list of suggestions for gifts for gardeners ( and a few for preparedness) Steve no 30:59 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-087-grow-your-own-organic-garlic/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-087-grow-your-own-organic-garlic/#comments Tue, 30 Oct 2012 19:22:21 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1879 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-087-grow-your-own-organic-garlic/feed/ 5 Must watch Video - Farmageddon. In this episode I discuss the two types of garlic and how easy they are to grow. Whether you choose Hardneck or Softneck, homegrown Garlic adds a nice touch to almost any meal. Prop 37 Must watch Video - Farmageddon. In this episode I discuss the two types of garlic and how easy they are to grow. Whether you choose Hardneck or Softneck, homegrown Garlic adds a nice touch to almost any meal. Prop 37 Prop 37 ( Label GMO Food) is being fought with millions of dollars funneled by the big Food companies.  All we want is to know.  No tax, no bans, no surcharges - just let us know whats in our food  No matter what state you are in, the outcome of this legislation has the potential to impact you and your family. Aquaponics or Hydroponics what are they? This week I want to talk a little about each and share a video link where you can see it put into practice.     The Year-Round Vegetable Gardener by Nikki Jabbour This book on year round vegetable gardening is my new must read book.  Next to Elliot Colemans excellent book on the same subject, this book helps any gardener get started and improve their gardens production all year round.  The author lives near Halifax, Nova Scotia so she knows about cold weather growing. Now that Fall is upon us with Winter soon to come, what better activity than to read and learn about techniques to help us grow all year round.     Steve no 39:14 http://borntofarm.com/get-your-garlic-on/ http://borntofarm.com/get-your-garlic-on/#comments Tue, 23 Oct 2012 02:54:37 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1872 http://borntofarm.com/get-your-garlic-on/feed/ 0 http://borntofarm.com/its-never-too-late/ http://borntofarm.com/its-never-too-late/#comments Thu, 18 Oct 2012 15:58:04 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1868 http://borntofarm.com/its-never-too-late/feed/ 2 http://borntofarm.com/taking-a-break/ http://borntofarm.com/taking-a-break/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2012 22:54:02 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1864 http://borntofarm.com/taking-a-break/feed/ 0 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-086-fall-garden-prep-part-2-know-your-gmo/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-086-fall-garden-prep-part-2-know-your-gmo/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 21:34:11 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1850 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-086-fall-garden-prep-part-2-know-your-gmo/feed/ 7 Genetic Roulette Please see this Movie! - Movie Web Site - GMO's are becoming such an important topic and political hot potato you need to keep aware. Fall Garden Prep Part 2 Wrap up your harvest Take out any diseased plants, cut up stalks, Genetic Roulette Please see this Movie! Movie Web Site GMO's are becoming such an important topic and political hot potato you need to keep aware. Fall Garden Prep Part 2 Wrap up your harvest Take out any diseased plants, cut up stalks, plant residue, etc leave in the garden Add Compost Add Mulch Take a soil test and add any organic amendments you might need Drain water from any irrigation you may have, take in items that may freeze Clean out an scrub any pots, terra cotta etc and store indoors so not to break it . Map out plant locations and plan your rotation for next year. Important On The Farm Back in Texas this week due to wife’s surgery - all is well and will travel back to the farm in California later in the week.  Thanks for all the prayers and wishes. One of the things I was so looking forward to was being able to return to growing my food directly in the ground, and not need to bring soil in to fill raised beds. As I have mentioned in the past, I was surprised to find out clay like ( rock hard) the soil was here ( all was green when we looked at it), and the large number of rocks and gophers.   Not sure which are worse. Knowing what goes into and on my food is too important to me.  Not growing isn’t even an option. I have decided to return to raised beds and have been building and designing where the best location will be.  In the meantime, I have been building bed frames and will lay them out only after I get the main lines for irrigation brought in. Trenching for the lines isn’t easy in this hard soil, but I am also going to try a couple of new techniques too. I am bringing a 1/2 inch pvc into each bed, so I can individually control pressure and timing.  Delivery from My well is limited so I need to closely monitor my demands. My new neighbors tell me that all digging, trenching, etc is usually done in the Winter of Spring after the ground has been softened by the Winter Rains. In addition to the benefit of more quickly getting soil, the beds will provide gopher protection, warm up sooner in the spring, and provide some much needed drainage in this area of heavy clay. Meanwhile, I will be busy amending the soil to improve it and eventually be able to better use it. This Fall I plan to plant a cover crop of legumes or soil builder mix fro growOrganic.com and mow it in the spring.  If possible I will dig it into the soil, but if it’s too hard I may need to use a tiller to get the process started.  ( I know, I k now....)  but it’s 5 acres! Throughout next spring and summer I will be spreading a lot of horse manure provided by all the neighbors over the area too. After re-reading portions from John Jeavons book I am also thinking of a couple of beds of plantings ( undecided) to be grown just for compost. How to Grow More Vegetables, Eighth Edition:   Steve no 36:24 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-085-planning-for-drought-and-trouble-on-the-farm/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-085-planning-for-drought-and-trouble-on-the-farm/#comments Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:38:14 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1842 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-085-planning-for-drought-and-trouble-on-the-farm/feed/ 9 Over this past month, I experienced some well problems on the new farm. Well, more than just a little, we ran out for a while. - Not being experienced with wells, I called in an expert who found that my well is a low producer, Over this past month, I experienced some well problems on the new farm. Well, more than just a little, we ran out for a while. Not being experienced with wells, I called in an expert who found that my well is a low producer, something the original inspection failed to point out.   In the process of adding a 2500 Gallon Storage tank and secondary pump,  I thought I would talk about the importance of water and preparing for drought conditions.   Rain Barrels -   The answer for Free Water -  In this episode I spend some time talking about rain barrels, and how easy they are to set up. Big Box store rain barrels are expensive, but with a little hunting online, you can find several sources at a lower cost of 55 Gallon Food Grade barrels, which is all they are. Rain Barrel installation and planning Info Master Gardeners even have a Rainwater Harvesting Specialist Course Rain Barrels Divert water from storm drain systems and thus reduce pollutants and the velocity of water entering local rivers and streams; Store high quality water for gardens; Direct overflow water away from building foundations to more desired locations; Reduce water and sewer bills, as well as electrical bills from sump pump usage.   Drip Irrigation            Very important tool in water conservation            Better for plants too            Use Fall and Winter season to plan next years configuration   Mulch & Compost Material             Mulch helps hold in moisture, and prevent evaporation             Compost holds even more moisture, under the mulch     Plans for a Inexpensive Hoophouse I forgot to include in the last episode.  This online article is well dewscribed with lots of photos. Take a look. $50 Hoophouse Plans       Steve no 39:49 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-084-hoop-houses-low-tunnels-greenhouses-what-are-they/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-084-hoop-houses-low-tunnels-greenhouses-what-are-they/#comments Sun, 26 Aug 2012 15:36:16 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1835 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-084-hoop-houses-low-tunnels-greenhouses-what-are-they/feed/ 4 This episode runs a little longer than usual, and after  putting it together, I noticed I spent more time just talking about whats been happening around here, and discussing two very interesting emails I received from listeners. - This episode runs a little longer than usual, and after  putting it together, I noticed I spent more time just talking about whats been happening around here, and discussing two very interesting emails I received from listeners. First there was the article on how Gardening is helping the developmentally Disabled which was exciting to me.  The fact that something as simple as gardening can not only help our health, but also many other unexpe3cted side benefits, I do get interested.  Please read the article yourself at Gardening Helps developmentally Disabled http://www.chron.com/life/article/Gardening-provides-job-skills-behavioral-3778286.php   Listener Email Kimberly Stevens of the UK, emailed talking about moving to raised beds, as her soil there is very much like mine - Clay and rocks .  And, judging from her photos, whatever she is doing is working.  Good going, Kimberly. We then hear from Sarah who provides us with several tips on everything from Cat Control to Using the FoodSaver with Moist items like sauces, etc. I used the technique this past week to seal some Syruped Nectarines I made from my tree this year.   Give it a try if you use a food Saver and let us know what you think.   Hoop Houses, Low Tunnels, and Greenhouses (Extending the Season) Greenhouse Basics We all love our home grown fruits and vegetables.  We know how they were cared for, we know there are no pesticides on them, and in general taste much better than anything you can find in the store. But if they are so great, why do we only have them in the Summer? What if you could grow many of these same vegetables earlier in the Spring, Later in the Fall, or even all year round? Well, brace yourself.  Most likely you can! I’m talking about the different ways you can extend your growing season, either by letting you start earlier, or letting you grow later in the season, even after frosts hit your area. Low Tunnels and Hoop Houses The cheapest and easiest is what is called a low tunnel.  This is simply a small frame placed over your growing area, either a row or even a raised bed.  Most times, people use curved  sections of PVC plastic irrigation pipe bent in a curve to form the ribs whish are held in place by a short section of steel  re-bar driven into the ground along each side of the garden row or raised bed. Once this frame is in place you can cover it with a form of Fabric which will hold the temperature inside as much as 5 degrees warmer than the outside air.  Once temperatures drop even more, you can cover the same frame with plastic sheeting, which can protect many vegetables all winter long. Some gardeners, even place a larger frame over the first frame, and keep fabric over the smaller frame, and plastic over the larger frame.  This creates an area of insulated air between the two structures and provides even more protection. Well known garden Writer Elliot Coleman has written about using structures like this and growing produce like lettuces, spinach, broccoli, etc all winter long.  He lives in Maine, with some of the harshest winters here in the States. If you want an even larger area that you can even stand up in with the same amount of protection, you can look into what is called a “Hoop House”. These are the same in concept as the Low Tunnels, but are built with a much larger frame, peaking at the top of the hoop around 7 ft or so.  The primary difference is  they are generally attached to a wood frame at the ground, and use a larger diameter PVC pipe or fencing pipe.  Kits are available, but you can easily find inexpensive pipe benders that allow you to bend steel electrical conduit or the heavier duty Steel Fence top railing bars to form the hoops. There are all sorts of building accessories for Hoop Houses including wheels, rollers, and tracks to help you move the completed house to new locations on your property.  Fans, thermostatically controlled windows, Steve no 50:04 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-083-fall-garden-preparation/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-083-fall-garden-preparation/#comments Mon, 13 Aug 2012 03:05:23 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1826 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-083-fall-garden-preparation/feed/ 4 cleanup,Fall gardening,Preparation This week I decided it was getting time to talk about preparing your Fall Garden.  Even if you don't plan on growing anything ( but you should) there are certain things you should do in the Fall to make your garden better prepared for Spring Planting n... This week I decided it was getting time to talk about preparing your Fall Garden.  Even if you don't plan on growing anything ( but you should) there are certain things you should do in the Fall to make your garden better prepared for Spring Planting next year. Dead Leaves The more the better, pile them on!  You can collect from your own yard, or with caution even collect from the neighbors as they rake them up and put in plastic bags on the curb for the city.  Ask permission, but most folks don't mind. Old  Straw Watch out for seeds in hay.  Straw is much cleaner and better for the garden as it has none of the seeds that come with hay. Compost from Grass, Kitchen and Garden Clippings Here's one of the reasons you composted all summer long.  Spread it out across the garden to take advantage of all those nutrients as it decays over the winter. Worm Castings Worm "Poo" from Vermicomposting is wonderful stuff.  If you don't keep your own worms, look in your local garden center before they prep their shelves for winter. Pine Needles While pine needles can be terrific, be careful with how much you use.  They can be a little acidic.  If you get too manyh, you can offset it a little by adding some agricultural lime. Cottonseed Meal A great way to add Nitrogen and some other nutrients. Egg Shells These add calcium which is needed by vegetables Manures Horse, cow, chicken or rabbit, no more than a inch or two, and be sure it has composted down a bit and is dry.  Try raising your own rabbits or chickens for your own supply. Green Manures Green manure is simply some just plants which grow well during the off season and dig down deeply with their roots, then are turned under in spring to breakdown before planting. This type of composting creates organic material in the soil, does deep digging for you, and can even add nitrogen if you use bean type (legume) plants. Red Clover and Annual Rye grass will grow in the winter months and when turned under, will release nitrogen as it breaks down. Fall Gardening Many of the cool weather crops you raised in the Spring, can be raised for another cool season in the Fall.  Bush Beans, Snap Peas, carrots, and many others can be grown late in the year and with the use of a cold frame, can even be grown through the winter in cold areas, much like Elliot Coleman does in Maine. If you need help planning when to plant, remember to pick up one of Clydes Planners that will tell you when to plant, how to plant, and when to expect the harvest.  Works well for both Spring and Fall Planting.  Just click on the logo on the right side of the Page and you will be taken to his website.   Keep it Growing!   Steve no http://borntofarm.com/now-the-real-work-begins/ http://borntofarm.com/now-the-real-work-begins/#comments Tue, 07 Aug 2012 21:46:48 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1817 http://borntofarm.com/now-the-real-work-begins/feed/ 0 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-082-preserving-your-harvest-basics/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-082-preserving-your-harvest-basics/#comments Sun, 29 Jul 2012 22:05:34 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1811 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-082-preserving-your-harvest-basics/feed/ 5 canning,diary,preservation Hello again! - It has been a while since publishing a podcast, ( mostly due to being on the road on multiple cross country trailer hauls of personal belongings). - Many of you emailed and posted your concerns on facebook.  For that I am so grateful, Hello again! It has been a while since publishing a podcast, ( mostly due to being on the road on multiple cross country trailer hauls of personal belongings). Many of you emailed and posted your concerns on facebook.  For that I am so grateful, and cannot wrap my head around how gracious all of you are. I especially want to thank the following listeners who emailed at a time I really needed some encouragement – and it worked. Amba Coltman John Watton Missouri Damon Cager Clabaugh There are many more of you who contacted me and I just wanted to thank you again. I have also been busy prepping the new “farm” out here in Calif  Gosh, there is a lot to do!             Soil amending             Digging             Rocks             Clay             Raised Beds             Collecting Horse Manure for compost – remember “Manure Safari’s?”   Hot Weather Gardening Many of us here in the States have been experiencing above normal temps for extended amounts of time.  Couple that with drought, and our gardens all take a beating. This week I talk a little about an interesting newspaper article of tips for your garden in hot weather, and I also talk a bit about how to take care of yourself while gardening in hot temps, something I learned well living in South Texas. http://www.chanvillager.com/news/gardening-caring-for-plants-in-a-heat-wave/article_22f992fc-cef1-594c-b387-3b2091279dbf.html   There is a growing trend in removing lawns too.  Whether its for traditional landscaping or ( in my mind) a better solution is edible landscaping.  Here is the link I mentioned in the podcast from the Sacramento Bee about how one man now only uses 12% of the water is lawn used to need. Removing Lawns http://www.sacbee.com/2012/07/21/4637931/many-sacramento-gardeners-are.html   Preserving the Harvest Well, the canning season is upon us!   Everything from tomatoes, to zuchini seems to be coming to harvest time. I was reminded of that recently when my sister-in-law invited me to a joint canning session.  She had an over abundance of plums so we decided to make some plum jam. Neither of us had made a jam before so we thought it would be a good experience.  We simply followed the basic recipe provided with the pectin ( used to thicken certain preserved foods) and it worked perfectly. One thing I did learn though was the importance of a "rolling boil".  A rolling boil is when the mixture is boiling so well that when you stir it, the mixture continues to boil and not slow down.  I did not have this boiling enough or long enough one year when I made strawberry jam.  It wasn't thick enough for a jam, so we ended up using it as an ice cream topping. Lesson Learned.   3 Main Methods for Preserving Canning Freezing Dehydrating I almost believe a vacuum pack sealer could go in here too as it extends the life of whatever you package with it.  Everything I put in the freezer is vacuumed with my Food Saver first. I heartily recommend one.   Till next episode.... Steve     Steve no 36:20 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-081-organic-insecticides-what-are-they/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-081-organic-insecticides-what-are-they/#comments Sat, 30 Jun 2012 17:39:46 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1803 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-081-organic-insecticides-what-are-they/feed/ 4 insecticide,organic insecticide This past week was very interesting.  Scientists at UC Davis came to the same conclusion we all knew -that commercially grown vegetables ( specifically tomatoes) taste better when grown at home or at least the old way. Seems in the rush for uniform size, This past week was very interesting.  Scientists at UC Davis came to the same conclusion we all knew -that commercially grown vegetables ( specifically tomatoes) taste better when grown at home or at least the old way. Seems in the rush for uniform size, shelf life and easy shipping they lost something- flavor. You can read the article here. This weeks episode is mainly about the 5 main ingredients found in "organic" pesticides and what you need to know about them.  The 5 top ones discussed are: Pyrethrum Neem Oil BT-Bacillus thuringiensis Diatomaceous Earth ( DE) Insecticidal Soap  Now while the last two are not normally ingredients, but stand alone products, they are recommended frequently enough I felt they were worth discussing. In the episode, I talk about a receipe for making your own Insecticidal Soap.  You can find that at Proplants.com, or click here Drip Irrigation If you're considering a drip system, take a look at the 1/4 soaker hoses with built in emitters.  As pointed out by a listener, they seldom clog, and really work well. Next week I want to talk about where these compounds might be used. Steve no 29:14 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-080-how-to-set-up-a-simple-drip-irrigation-system/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-080-how-to-set-up-a-simple-drip-irrigation-system/#comments Wed, 20 Jun 2012 01:17:08 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1798 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-080-how-to-set-up-a-simple-drip-irrigation-system/feed/ 0 On the road again this week, so the sound will be quite different in this weeks podcast but I wanted to get an episode out as close to schedule as I could. - This week we have a book recommendation from listener  Janell Patterson who wrote on the blog... On the road again this week, so the sound will be quite different in this weeks podcast but I wanted to get an episode out as close to schedule as I could. This week we have a book recommendation from listener  Janell Patterson who wrote on the blog: "Great podcast on Saving Seeds. I want  to recommend a book to you by the co-founder of the Seeds Savers Exchange. Gathering: Memoir of a Seed Saver This is her memoir on how Seed Savers Exchange came to be.  I saw her at the Mother Earth New Fair and she gave a very inspirational compelling talk." Thanks, Janell for the personal recommendation.   Its now an important time to have a better irigation system in place for your garden too.  Once i tried drip irrigation, I wondered what took so long. My favorite supplier is Dripworks Irigation at   DripWorks.com One of the coolest things they have is "Sure0Loc" connectors for the distribution line.  Unlike the ones you normally find in the stores, these allow you to easly re-configure and change your design layout without cutting your distribution line.  I love them and dripworks has them.         Steve no 30:09 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-079-how-to-save-seeds-and-why/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-079-how-to-save-seeds-and-why/#comments Sun, 10 Jun 2012 06:00:45 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1793 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-079-how-to-save-seeds-and-why/feed/ 2 Contrary to what I say on the podcast, I am still having issues with my breath being picked up by the microphone.  I am still working on it, so please bear with me as I try and track down what happened and get it fixed. Seed Saving Contrary to what I say on the podcast, I am still having issues with my breath being picked up by the microphone.  I am still working on it, so please bear with me as I try and track down what happened and get it fixed. Seed Saving At the request of a listener who pointed out I have talked a lot about seed saving but never got into the specifics, I wanted to cover seed saving this week. While it may seen a bit early in the growing season, I actually believe its the right time.  Why?  Because part of seed saving is determining which plants are your best for saving and only you can determine whats "best" for your purposes. First of all there are two excellent web sites for help. First there is  SeedSave.Org with lots of variety specific seed saving instructions,  and secondly, there is my favorite, the Seedsavers.org organization. Dry plants like Beans and peas use what I call the "Dry Process", while plants like Tomatoes, Melons, etc use a "wet process".  This week I'll describe them both. I also feel its a good time to think about mulching your garden for a couple of reasons.  Water Conservation, and Keeping the plants cool as the temps get warmer. Book Review:  Fruit trees in Small Places Those of you who have followed me for a while know how I love fruit trees and more specifically, citrus trees like Mandarins and lemons. I recently read an excellent book not only of raising fruit trees, but also about raising them in small spaces, proving you don't need a multi-acre farm to raise your own fruit.  "Fruit Colby Elerman is a recommended book if you are interested in producing your own fruit in your back yard. Not only does Colby discuss most of the varieties of Fruit you might run into, but he also talks at length about planning,  designing the orchard,   Steve no 38:37 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-078-amending-soil-for-an-organic-garden/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-078-amending-soil-for-an-organic-garden/#comments Sun, 03 Jun 2012 03:49:06 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1785 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-078-amending-soil-for-an-organic-garden/feed/ 0 After two weeks of packing and driving, I am back with more Growing Your Grub. - This week I talk a little about my drive across the country from Texas to California, pulling a 12 foot trailer through 100+ degree heat. After two weeks of packing and driving, I am back with more Growing Your Grub. This week I talk a little about my drive across the country from Texas to California, pulling a 12 foot trailer through 100+ degree heat.  You can read even more in the blog entry at "Amending the Soil" Once I arrived the the new property which I have named the “OroButte Farm” I got a closer look at the soil I have to work with. When we bought the property last Winter, we knew the soil had lots of rocks to clear. What I failed to notice was the high clay contact of the soil, making it rock hard during the dry period of summer. As we ( Scott is here with me) broke ground, we quickly discovered how hard it is and need to use pick axes to break ground, and a home made Soil Sieve to filter out the rocks. But due to the dryness of the soil, filtering results in one huge red cloud of dust. Thankfully, Scott has been doing most of the extreme dirty work. We immediately knew we need so serious soil amending, so this week I will share what I discovered about amending Clay and other soils. Two of the best slices of information I found on the subject were from the University of Colorado, and P. Allen Smith. If you are interested in amending your soil to correct any potential flaws, these links are a good starting point.   http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/garden/07235.html http://www.pallensmith.com/articles/amending-garden-soil   And here is Scott's Facebook Page if you want his side of the "story"  Growing Dinner Steve no 35:28 http://borntofarm.com/amending-the-soil/ http://borntofarm.com/amending-the-soil/#comments Thu, 31 May 2012 04:50:55 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1779 http://borntofarm.com/amending-the-soil/feed/ 4 http://borntofarm.com/starting-over-with-an-organic-garden/ http://borntofarm.com/starting-over-with-an-organic-garden/#comments Fri, 25 May 2012 16:58:30 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1776 http://borntofarm.com/starting-over-with-an-organic-garden/feed/ 5 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-077-get-your-pitchfork-on/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-077-get-your-pitchfork-on/#comments Fri, 11 May 2012 18:00:33 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1771 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-077-get-your-pitchfork-on/feed/ 3 Get your pitchfork on,Interviews,Kristy Athens Recently a listener pointed me to a short video on Youtube where author Kristy Athens was talking about her new book, “Get Your Pitchfork On!”. - While the book discusses many aspects of Homesteading and Rural Living, Recently a listener pointed me to a short video on Youtube where author Kristy Athens was talking about her new book, “Get Your Pitchfork On!”. While the book discusses many aspects of Homesteading and Rural Living, it did have a substantial section on natural gardening and I thought you might like to hear from her. As a result of the listener's suggestion, and after a review of the book I contacted the author who was happy to come on the show and visit with us. While the subject may be a bit broader than the simple home gardening we normally cover, she has lessons that can benefit all of us, no matter where we garden. As Kristy says, not everyone is willing to give up everything when they move to the country. ( Internet, any one?) I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed talking with Kristy. PS: This shows the importance of listener feedback and suggestions for authors you would like to hear from. If I can get them to come on the show, it does make for some interesting discussions. Steve no 42:48 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-076-are-you-being-greenwashed/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-076-are-you-being-greenwashed/#comments Sun, 06 May 2012 19:01:14 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1766 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-076-are-you-being-greenwashed/feed/ 2 This week is fun. - Are You Being GreenWashed? - So many products today brag about being green, but are they really?   Let's discuss that along with some alternatives. -   - A great new project is looking for donations. This week is fun. Are You Being GreenWashed? So many products today brag about being green, but are they really?   Let's discuss that along with some alternatives.   A great new project is looking for donations.  2 Young men from Nebraska have traveled the country talking with Urban Farmers and want to make a movie from it.   They are using Kickstarter.com in an effort to try and raise money for their project. Take a look at the Movie trailer at: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/growincities/growing-cities-a-film-about-urban-farming-in-ameri   Ever heard of "SPIN" Farming or SPIN Gardening?   The organization "SPIN" (Small Plot Intensive Methods) is promoting and helpting people across the US garden or small farm organically and sustainably.  They have an interesting Website with information, books, and help finding land in case you are in an apartment or just plain have no place for a garden. Check them out at:   http://spinfarming.com/whatsSpin/   One of the easiest DIY projects you can do is Composting.  Not only is it easy,  but you get a lot of bang for the buck too. In this episode, we will discuss the basics of how to compost and why you should consider it. Steve no http://borntofarm.com/pacl-006-homestead-security/ http://borntofarm.com/pacl-006-homestead-security/#comments Wed, 02 May 2012 23:38:35 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1758 http://borntofarm.com/pacl-006-homestead-security/feed/ 3 Thank for coming back for another episode.  I do apologize for the past interruptions, but things ar moving now so I will have more to share each week. - The Meatrix – Interesting twist on the “Matrix” as you watch the cow "Moopheous "shows you the il... Thank for coming back for another episode.  I do apologize for the past interruptions, but things ar moving now so I will have more to share each week. The Meatrix – Interesting twist on the “Matrix” as you watch the cow "Moopheous "shows you the illusions about factory farming and reality.   Free, and worth a watch  Take a look at http://www.themeatrix.com Another worthwihile movie to see on the subject of Troubles for Small Farms and Fresh food is "Farmageddon".  While it has been seen in some areas as free showings, the site now says it is available for purchase through iTunes, Netflix, Amazon and others.  While I have not yet seen it personally, it does look interesting and I plan on purchasing a copy.  Their website is at: http:\\farmageddonmovie.com   This past week I learned a lesson about country security. Thankfully, I did follow the advice of my brother-in-law who lives in the same area we are moving to.  That advice was that one of the first things I needed to take care of was the installation of a remotely monitored alarm for the home and all outbuildings, especially the pump house. Apparently, remote areas like these are targets for thieves who like to steal pumps and whatever other items they think might be worth something from remote pump houses. I tell exactly what happened in the podcast. Finally, I'll make some security suggestions that are not often mentioned in the books. Security Solutions for the Country Yard Lights and Motion Sensor Floods Alarm Security Dogs Just some suggestions about ideas I have come up with so you won't be a victim too.   Steve no http://borntofarm.com/gyg-075-best-heirloom-watermelon-varieties/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-075-best-heirloom-watermelon-varieties/#comments Sun, 29 Apr 2012 06:00:55 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1750 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-075-best-heirloom-watermelon-varieties/feed/ 3 This past week, I missed the normal scheduled show release.  I wasn't sure anyone would miss a single show episode. Boy, was I wrong!  I want to thank everyone who took time to email me expressing concern that something was wrong since there was no sh... This past week, I missed the normal scheduled show release.  I wasn't sure anyone would miss a single show episode. Boy, was I wrong!  I want to thank everyone who took time to email me expressing concern that something was wrong since there was no show. Actually, I will come clean.  I took some time off from talking about how to garden, while my wife and I traveled to Corpus Christi Texas to celebrate my birthday, and retirement from my day job. While there, I spent nearly a day onboard the USS Lexington, a WW II era Aircraft Carrier, touring several of the decks, including the flight deck and the hanger deck. It was an exciting step back in history for me, seeing how they lived and worked aboard this floating city on the sea of 33,000 Tons!   Same as a 19 Story building 3 football fields on Flight deck 14 Basketball courts 33,000 Ton City at sea with its own post office, hospital, barbershop and dental clinic Overnight campout for Scouts   Back To Gardening For this weeks episode, I decided to talk about my favorite varieties of Heirloom watermelons, and why they are my favorite.  ·         Blacktail Mountain Small, 12-18 lbs, deep scarlet flesh. ·         Golden Midget ·         Moon & Stars – Medium Size Yellow Fleshed. 18-24 lbs ·         Orangegeglo –Large – Orange Flesh 24-32 lbs ·         Petite Yellow-Small Round Icebox sized ~5 lbs ·         Sweet Siberian ·         Georgia Rattlesnake – Large 25-30lbs   As a result of several emails this week, I wanted to talk a little about basic soil improvement and how you can easily improve your soil enough to have a good first year garden and beyond.. Your garden needs three things: Sun, water, and Soil. You can't add sunlight, you can't make it rain, but you can improve your soil. Unlike dirt, soil is full of fungi- mycorrrhizal fungi – several varieties 1.    Structure and texture – physical properties 2.    pH level ( acidic or alkaline 3.    Nutrients 4.    Organic matter If just starting your garden, need to work in one or more of these factors. Goal is a pH just slightly below normal – around 6.5 - 6 Adding compost and well rotted manure yields wholesale improvement to your soil on all 4 points. Turn over the soil, sift out weed roots and rhizomes, add a few inches of manure and/or compost – could have a decent experience in your first year. Add more next year and it will improve even more. Natural Mulch – Mulching with Hay or Straw, and then turning it under  after the garden is done or after each crop is as good as “Green Manure” Turn mulch and all over in either the Spring or Fall.  Green Manure is a crop that grows quickly, usually an annual that adds a lot of nitrogen fixing to the soil.  They are turned under before the crops are planted.  They add beneficial microbes and nutrients to your soil Clover, Hairy vetch, field peas, mustard, many others, mainly legumes.  Mixtures available at Johnnyseeds.com Mail Bag Thomas writes in from Illinois, asking if it's ok to use commercial plant starts instead of seeds.  I respond with my opinion. Alex writes in asking about the best way to prep his soil in his new community garden plot.  I talk a little about methods and recommend using a stirrup hoe since his weeds are still small.   Steve no http://borntofarm.com/pacl-005-why-do-i-want-to-simplify/ http://borntofarm.com/pacl-005-why-do-i-want-to-simplify/#comments Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:45:21 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1744 http://borntofarm.com/pacl-005-why-do-i-want-to-simplify/feed/ 2 homesteading,PACL,reasons,why move Why do so many people want to downsize and simplify these days? - While I can't answer for everyone else, I wanted to share my reasons, and see how they compare to yours, whether you are in a suburban lot wanting to move or are already there, Why do so many people want to downsize and simplify these days? While I can't answer for everyone else, I wanted to share my reasons, and see how they compare to yours, whether you are in a suburban lot wanting to move or are already there, most of the benefits will be the same.     Steve no 46:29 http://borntofarm.com/lifes-little-surprises/ http://borntofarm.com/lifes-little-surprises/#comments Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:37:32 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1738 http://borntofarm.com/lifes-little-surprises/feed/ 4 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-074-diy-garden-accessories/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-074-diy-garden-accessories/#comments Sun, 15 Apr 2012 16:34:21 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1729 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-074-diy-garden-accessories/feed/ 6 homemade tools I recently received a new copy of one of the many Garden Supply Catalogs in the mail.  While looking through it, I saw a couple of innovative Ideas I wanted to try, but was appalled at the price. As I paged through the issue I began to see how so many... I recently received a new copy of one of the many Garden Supply Catalogs in the mail.  While looking through it, I saw a couple of innovative Ideas I wanted to try, but was appalled at the price. As I paged through the issue I began to see how so many first time gardeners can get the impression that gardening can be expensive. So this week I will go through a short list of just a few of the items I found and talk about how you can easily create these same items with only a little  “do it yourself” even if not handy with tools. While all these gadgets are nice, there is no need to purchase unless you want to and have the resources.   I would rather put my funds into new seed varieties and garden books. Let me know what you think. Tomato Cages Pea Panels Cucumber trellis Self Watering “Aqua Corner” Raised Beds Raised bed Cover and frame Rasberry Bed Seed Startign Racks Rain Barrel-$100 or $18? http://www.arizonabarrels.com/55_gallon_closed_top_blue_plastic_barrels_drums.html “Critter Guard” Fencing Garden Mailbox –  for Storage Tags: diy,+garden+tools, Steve no 36:32 http://borntofarm.com/water-why-worry/ http://borntofarm.com/water-why-worry/#comments Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:14:58 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1724 http://borntofarm.com/water-why-worry/feed/ 2 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-073-tomato-basics/ http://borntofarm.com/gyg-073-tomato-basics/#comments Sun, 08 Apr 2012 07:00:53 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1709 http://borntofarm.com/gyg-073-tomato-basics/feed/ 2 Gardening,organic.,Tips,tomatoes,vegetables Recent Organic News: This week I learned that citizens of Vermont are close to getting a Bill passed to require Labeling of GMO products, including those using GMO's in their production. - However, even though the large majority of the citizens want ... Recent Organic News: This week I learned that citizens of Vermont are close to getting a Bill passed to require Labeling of GMO products, including those using GMO's in their production. However, even though the large majority of the citizens want it, and most of the committeemen are in favor, it appears to be stalled in committee and will not be brought to the floor for a vote. Why? Monsanto has threatened to sue if the labeling requirement is passed. Read the Details here: http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_25180.cfm Tomato Basics Discussed this Week: Hybrids vs Open Pollinated & Heirlooms Determinate Indeterminate Stakes Cages  - Gardeners Supply Tomato Ladders – nice but pricey Trellis Planting My Gardening Library A while back I found a book called "What's Wrong with My Plant?" by David Deardorff & Kathryn Wadsworth.  While it was an excellent book, it covered a lot of ground and I was primarily interested in Vegetable plants. Recently, Timber Press released their new book called "What's Wrong with My Vegetable Garden?" by the same authors. While the first half of the book is mostly tips on how to raise various garden vegetables, the second half alone is well worth the price. In the second half, They discuss symptoms, Diagnosis, and Solutions for most garden vegetable plants, complete with photos.  I wish the photos were larger, but they are big enough to help you identify a particular problem.  The section is divided by plant type, so you can home in on the problems for your particular plant and not spend time hunting for problems with asparagus when what you are looking for is a problem for your Sweet Potatoes. Steve no 35:37 http://borntofarm.com/california-here-i-come/ http://borntofarm.com/california-here-i-come/#comments Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:24:56 +0000 Steve http://borntofarm.com/?p=1699 http://borntofarm.com/california-here-i-come/feed/ 5