WaterPulse mats are ideally suited for Retailers and Growers
WaterPulse provides custom-sized mats to sit on retail tables and trays. Our system injects water directly into the mats, and virtually eliminates the need for retail store associates to hand water plants in stores.
Our Mass Flow mats are available in 4′ and 5′ widths, and can be cut to any length needed. Connected to a water source and timer, these mats provide the most efficient irrigation system to grow your crop.


Transform your yard into aN oasis with ROAR
Our premium selection of bark mulch will breathe new life into your landscape, creating an enchanting ambiance that will leave your neighbors in awe.
Sold by the cubic yard. All Products are subject to Mass State Sales Tax. Pricing subject to change without notice.
Dark Walnut MIXTURE
Elevate Your Landscape with Our Premium Bark Mulch:
Enhance Beauty, Suppress Weeds, and Nurture Healthy Plants!
- Enhanced Beauty: Premium bark mulch adds a touch of elegance to your landscape, providing a clean and polished look that instantly elevates the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.
- Erosion Control: Premium bark mulch helps prevent soil erosion by acting as a protective layer that shields the soil from the impact of heavy rain and wind. This prevents loss of topsoil and preserves the integrity of your landscape, ensuring the longevity and stability of your plants and garden beds.
- Moisture Retention: By acting as a protective layer, premium bark mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, reducing water evaporation and promoting healthier plant growth. This feature is especially beneficial during hot and dry seasons.
- Temperature Regulation: Premium bark mulch acts as an insulator, regulating soil temperature by keeping it cooler during hot summer months and warmer during colder seasons. This stable environment provides optimal conditions for root development and overall plant health.
- Nutrient Enrichment: As premium bark mulch decomposes over time, it gradually releases valuable nutrients into the soil. This natural fertilization process enriches the soil, providing essential nourishment to plants and promoting their vitality and growth.
- Weed Suppression: The dense composition of premium bark mulch forms a natural barrier against weeds, effectively suppressing their growth and reducing the need for constant weeding and maintenance.


CocoRoselle Organic Coconut sugar is low GI; much lower GI (35) than white sugar, brown sugar, molasses, maple syrup and honey. Coconut Sugar can be used as an alternative to other sugars. Great for baking, using in tea or coffee, or mixing with coconut oil to create an incredible body scrub. It contains important minerals such as copper, iron, magnesium, zinc and potassium and vitamins C and B1 (thiamine).
Coconut Sugar is also known as coco sugar, coconut palm sugar, coco sap sugar or coconut blossom sugar. It is a palm sugar produced from the sap of the flower bud stem of the coconut palm. It has a mild caramel flavor, unlike any other natural sweetener. Compared to natural cane sugar, the sweetness is somewhat less pronounced and the flavour is more floral.
100% organic coconut sugar.
Made from evaporated wild harvested, fresh organically grown coconut blossom sap.
Free from artificial ingredients, preservatives, additives and extenders.
Natural coconut sugars’ colour may vary depending on harvest season.


The fertilizer market belongs to the core competencies at Beiselen for more than 100 years. Due to this vast experience, an in-depth understanding of market needs, and our longstanding relationships with suppliers, our customers benefit from high reliability, comprehensive expert advice, professional handling and a high product quality.
In addition to nitrogenous fertilizers, our products range from P and PK fertilizers, all potash products, as well as limestone from various production sites.
Our renowned, predominantly West European, fertilizer suppliers continuously develop their products in close cooperation with the official bodies. This ensures that our fertilizer product portfolio always meets the latest technical and environmental requirements. In order to offer you the widest range of products possible, we complement our range with products obtained from Central and Southeast Europe, the Baltic States, the CIS and the Middle East.
Our sales network, which covers entire Germany, in addition to a high availability of stock, guarantees our customers the best possible service at an individual and regional level. You can find an overview of all our storage and handling locations here.


What is it?
A farm manager overseas farm operation including livestock managment, crop cultivation, fruit and vegetable production and other agricultural enterprises.
What will I do?
Being a farm manager includes tasks such as preparing annual forecasts, budgets and other business plans. You would also monitor and maintain records of things like production, operating costs, inputs and market changes. Depending on the type of farm, you would be looking after animals, plants or both and preparing them for market. You would also be involved in the marketing and sale of your product. The farm manager also supervises other farm staff, ensures buildings and equipment are maintained and undertakes activities to ensure good environmental management.
Is it right for me?
If you like working outdoors, working with animals and plants, can work independently and have skills in planning, problem solving, technology use, communication, mechanics and organisation - then yes!
How do I get there?
There are many pathways to a job on a farm - you can do a traineeship, study agriculture at university or go straight into a job.


WELCOME TO POYNTON FRUIT FARM
We are a family run pick your own fruit farm in Poynton, Cheshire.
Level punnet (approx 1kg) level basket (approx 2.5kg)
See what recent fruit pickers have had to say about our beautiful fruit farm!
”Came for our first visit today and had a fabulous time. We will certainly be back next season to pick some more delicious fruit and eat some gorgeous ice cream.JENNIFER MCINTYRE
”Visited the fruit farm today and had a great afternoon. The fruit was lovely, the ice cream was delicious and the staff were really friendly. We will visit again next season!TRACEY HOBSON
”We took our 3 year old girls to the farm today, staff are absolutely brilliant and so friendly, our girls loved it so much can't wait to come back!AMY LEEANN TAIT
”Lovely farm, friendly staff, great for family fruit picking and their ice cream is del-icious, should be much more than 5 stars.NICOLA AMBER
”Love this place, staff are really friendly and the fruit is amazing. You must try their home made icecream!CAT MELLOR


Recently, CCTV news channel focused on Shanghai's efforts to promote the automation and intellectualization of vegetable production, and made a special report on efforts of Qingpu District's Chonggu Town to improve the mechanized production and intellectualization of green leafy vegetables.
In the vegetable planting base in Chonggu Town's Xinfeng Village, more than ten varieties of green leafy vegetables are mainly planted in the greenhouse all-year round. Daily management and protection rely on automatic agricultural machinery, such as automatic dosing machine, automatic ridging machine, automatic seeder and automatic harvester.
In the past, a greenhouse needed 10 people, but now it only needs one to two people, which not only reduces the planting cost, but also increases production and income. In the past, the average annual income of farmers was about 60,000 yuan (US$8,880) to 80,000 yuan, but now it has increased to 100,000 yuan to 120,000 yuan.
Shanghai has established 27 agricultural machinery vegetable planting demonstration bases. By the end of last year, the planting area was more than 9,600 mu, and the average mechanization rate had reached 64 percent.


Sen. Rubio Explains Why He Didn't Support the Farm Bill
U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, released a statement Tuesday after voting against the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (the 2018 Farm Bill):
“The farm bill released late last night fails to do what is necessary to protect farmers, working families, and taxpayers," Rubio said. "The conference committee had an opportunity to take the best provisions from both the Senate and House farm bills, but instead it appears to have combined the worst elements into legislation that I simply cannot support.
"When I voted for the Senate Farm Bill, it was to advance the legislative process, with the goal being a five-year farm bill that would give Florida farmers much-needed confidence following the devastation of Hurricane Irma and the prospects of an uncertain trade future. The conferees failed to meet that standard.”
Comments are now closed.


Passion Fruit Jelly Drink
Guava Jelly Drink
Organic Strawberry Juice Konjac
Organic Passion Fruit Juice Konjac
Organic Mulberry Juice Konjac
Mulberry & Litchi & Rose Jam
Organic Mulberry & Strawberry Jam
Organic Mulberry Jam
陳稼莊 有機農業的先行者 Since 1989
The owner of the Chen Jiah Juang Orchard, Chen Kun-sheng, graduated from the Animal Husbandry Department of the Agricultural College, Chung Hsing University, used to be a straightforward and industrious peasant boy, born in Ditougang Village, Yanshui Township, Tainan County. Although he was away from home when he pursued studies, and engaged in animal husbandry-related careers after graduation. Until an unexpected chance came upon him that made him determined to return from the city to the countryside of his hometown to buy a piece of farmland and switched careers into Agriculture, and founded “Chen Jiah Juang Orchard” in 1989, due to his childhood memory of the natural farming experience with his father in the fields which affected him deeply.
Being concerned about the ecological environment and opposed to toxic substances, Chen Kun-sheng keeps his passion for respecting life and cherishing the land. He has made up mind not to use pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and herbicides starting from his first land’s farming when he aspired to become a farmer, and he held the principle “natural farming without pesticides”, which set forth the founding value of Chen Jiah Juang Orchard.


When the seasons start to change and winter turns to spring, we always start by spring cleaning inside our houses. But it’s also important to make sure your lawn and yard are well taken care of, too, which is why we offer spring cleanup services.
Spring is truly the best time of year to schedule a cleanup with Landscape 360. We specialize in lawn care, landscaping, and hardscaping, so your yard looks its best after the snow melts.
We can start you off right with a thorough spring cleanup to ready your yard for summertime. Not only will your yard be cleaner, but it will save you from future hassles that occur when your yard isn’t up to par. We can help aerate and elevate the dead grass to help with new growth below.
We start with the removal of any trash or debris leftover on your lawn.
- Dog Feces
- Bigger Twigs
Next, we will begin to rake up your lawn, gathering the smaller fragments from your yard. This will ensure that you avoid snow mould, a fungal disease that occurs when dead plant life gets wet and begins to decay.
Afterwards, we will unearth old perennial stalks and prepare flower beds for planting and fertilizing them.
- Work In Compost
- Weed Removal & Dead Growth
- Prune Shrubs


Jennifer Glasgow | ROSETTA Top - Denim
Made in a sweet denim blend of organic cotton and hemp, the Rosetta can be worn as a top on its own or a little jacket. With the waist ties and buttons up the front, Rosetta is ready for everything. A very versatile item for fall and all the season.
- 55% Hemp / 45% Organic Cotton. OEKO-TEX 100.
- Available in Denim,
- Sizes XS – XXL.
- Harissa is 5’7” and wears size XL
- Shelby is 5’8” and wears size XS
- Made in Montreal
Key Measurements & Wash Instructions
Key Measurements based on XS.
- Shoulder to sleeve hem 21.5"
- Shoulder seam to hemline 16.5"
Wash instructions – machine wash in cold water with similar colours / hang to dry.
Eco Benefits of Hemp and Hemp Blends
Hemp is a wonderfully durable and long lasting textile that was first woven over 10,000 years ago. It is very breathable and has UV resistance and anti-microbial characteristics. It resembles linen and is usually mixed with other fibres to soften and give it draping characteristics. It is an excellent crop for farmers too! Needing far less water than cotton, almost no chemicals and much higher yields on less land, hemp has once again found its place in the textile landscape. In addition it blocks out weeds as it grows and can improve soil quality.
Eco Benefits of Organic Cotton
From the seed preparation which is natural and untreated with pesticides, to soil conservation and harvesting, the farming of organic cotton ensures the land and the people working it, are healthier and happier. Conventional cotton is one of the most chemically insensitive as classified by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Organic cotton is not exposed to the fibre weakening chemicals that conventional cotton endures therefore it should outlast a regular cotton item.


One of the most visible signs of harvest approaching is when the red grape varieties begin to develop their color, in a process called veraison. The term in French means “the onset of ripening,” and everywhere in the world where grapes are grown it is accompanied by excitement and a buzz of activity.
Table grapes at veraison.
Veraison actually started about a month ago in the Finger Lakes. Each varietal marches to its beat of its own drum, with the unknown table grapes shown above from last weekend well on there way, while Cabernet Sauvignon right across the street is less farther along. Concords in my yard just have a few berries per cluster showing signs of pink.
Cabernet Sauvignon at veraison.
From the time berries form until veraison, energy goes into cell division. At veraison, changes occur in the cells so that energy goes into sugar development. At the same time, malic acid degrades, leaving tartaric acid as the dominant acid component. For Chardonnay and red wines, it is often desired to convert tartaric acid back to malic by malolactic fermentation, but more about that when we actually get there.
One of many tools to scare away birds.
Unfortunately, birds and deer also know something is up, in part visually and also due to changes in the aromas in the vineyard. Growers have a number of tricks at their disposal, such as these modern versions of scarecrows, propane powered cannons, and netting.
Based on data collected by Cornell, the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets has notified wineries that they may purchase out of state grapes due to this year’s winter damage. State law allows this on a per-varietal basis when the loss for the varietal is 40% or more. The affected grapes are:
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Gamay Noir
- La Crescent
- Pinot Gris
- Pinot Noir
Several of these are surprising, for instance Frontenac and La Crescent that are supposedly winter hardy down to minus 33 degrees. A spot check of weather recorded up north (Watertown) and out west towards Buffalo, where wineries producing with these grapes are situated, did not uncover anything near that. It would be interesting to know more about the affected wineries and their fruit sources.
Although I have come to believe that decks tend to be stacked against grape suppliers as opposed to purchasers, New York does have a rigorous process for granting waivers. A winery seeking to use out of state fruit must list 3 growers from which it tried to purchase, and the amounts must be in line with what it has purchased in the past. Further, if the wine is less than 75% New York grapes, it cannot carry a New York or regional appellation. The benefit to the winery is that it can at least continue to participate in the wine market. Alas, all the grower has to fall back on is crop insurance.
Yet another weather system in moving into the Finger Lakes the next two days with the potential to drop another 1 to 3 inches of rain. According to the Cornell University Northeast Regional Climate Center (NRCC), the temperature hasn’t been far off from the long term averages, but the summer has been decidedly wet, with flooding experienced in Ithaca, Penn Yan, and other areas in the Finger Lakes.
|*through August 11
More troubling has been severe storms we have experienced, including several bouts of hail and one spate of tornadoes.
Hail on a deck near Ithaca, courtesy Finger Lakes Weather and Sharon Heller.
While no farmer ever wants to see hail, this type of precipitation is particularly tough on grapes. The photo below is probably of a native American varietal, as indicated by the loose clusters. Vinifera tends to be more tightly clustered, and a puncture in the skin of a grape on the outside of the cluster allows juice to stream inside where, with nowhere to go, it produces rot. The juice from compromised clusters is decidedly, in the words of Alton Brown, “not good eats,” and they must be discarded or the grapes sorted before pressing – an arduous and expensive process for which there is little time during harvest.
Hail damaged grapes, courtesy Finger Lakes Grape Program.
At this point in the season, the grapes have all the water they need. Some stretches of sunshine and low humidity would be most helpful.
Posted in Growing


In order to establish the fact that Millets really are the future crop of the country, a couple of things must be looked at. This article, therefore, arrives at the answer to the heading by exploring Millets through a number of different headers-
- What makes Millets special?
- Worldwide production & availability
- Nutritional information
- Health benefits of using millets
- The business angle
- The way forward
By exploring these topics in a somewhat detailed manner, it would be easier to support the fact that Millets truly are the crops of the future.
Millet is the term given to a collective group of small-seeded grass (Poaceae, which is the scientific term for grass) that primarily grows in developing countries like India, Niger, Mali and Nigeria. Being one of the earliest cultivated crops, millets was primarily considered to be a major ingredient in bird seeds, but it is interesting to note that millets have been used in making beer, flatbreads, porridges and other fermented beverages for many years now.
Some of the most popularly cultivated millets and their scientific names are listed down below-
- Finger millet (Eleusine coracana)
- Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum)
- Foxtail millet (Setaria italica)
- Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense)
The genus Echinochloa contains the Indian and Japanese barnyard millets. There are several other variants of millets, but these listed are the most popular. Millets are divided into two broad categories- major and minor. While the major brand contains the most popular millets like pearl, foxtail, finger (Ragi in India) and Proso (White millet); the minor branch contains the unpopular ones like barnyard, little, Guinea, fonio, Kodo to name a few. It is heartening to note that Millets has been positively accepted in almost all parts of the world, especially the developed countries and many are now adding millets in their day to day diet because of its advantages.
What makes millets special?
One of the best qualities of the crop is its extremely high tolerance for droughts. To highlight how little water is needed for rearing these plants, it is insightful to notice that whereas to grow one kilogram of rice, almost 5000 litres of water is required, the same quantity of millets requires only 250 to 300 litres at maximum. Millets are widely referred to as the climate-smart crop as it has the potential to combat the ongoing global climate crisis. In addition, millets grow well in the absence of pesticide and insecticide, and in the hands of the trained farmer, they require little to no input labour.
After harvesting, the remaining stalks can be used for animal fodder, and millets themselves are used as bird feeds as well. In fact, in developed nations such as the United States and the United Kingdom, millets were primarily used as bird feed before their miracle qualities caught the public eye. In recent years, a trend towards organic farming and alternatives to the already well-established grains have made millets as a favourite go-to grain for many. Millets can also be used as the raw material for biofuels. There are several studies that have been conducted on the same.
Worldwide production & availability
India currently leads the world in Millet production followed by the African countries of Nigeria and Niger. China is also present in the list as one of the leading producers, although it lags much behind India in this aspect. The figures shown here are for the year 2107. In India, as of 2018, the crop is grown in 21 states, and the states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Kerala and Jharkhand give high importance to the growth of millets.
The image below compares the nutritional content of different kinds of Millet to Rice, Wheat and Quinoa, which are other crops widely consumed throughout the world. Raw Millet is composed of roughly 73% carbohydrates, 9% water, 11% protein and 4% fat, thereby making them low fat but high carb alternatives. Millets are rich in phenols, especially catechins and ferulic acid which act as antioxidants. Millets are also gluten-free, making them an ideal source of food for those inflicted by the celiac disease or for those who choose to eat gluten-free.
Health benefits of using millets
With increasing obesity and stress in the upcoming population, millets serve as a cancelling factor for many of the diseases that develop because of obesity and stress. These claims are made only after years of testing with multiple test subjects within which the improvements were noticed.
- Healthy heart: Being a good source of Magnesium, millets help keep the heart beating strong. Magnesium-rich foods help reduce the effects of asthma, and the frequency of migraine attacks.
- Lowering the risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Another reason to have millets is their uncanny ability to reduce the risk of diabetes which can again be attributed to the high concentration of magnesium present in the grains.
- Gallstone prevention: Consumption of fibre rich foods have shown to reduce the chances of gallbladder stones forming within the individual. It is speculated that fibre-rich foods pass through the intestines rapidly and also reduces the bile secretion, thereby decreasing the chances of stone formation.
- Breast Cancer shield: Fibres are shown to reduce the instances of breast cancer among women who are pre-menopausal.
The Business Angle
A strong business plan is extremely important for the success of a product. So, it is highly essential that a stakeholder analysis should be done keeping in mind, Millets. The potential stakeholders in India with respect to Millets would be-
- The farmers
- The Governments (both Central and State)
- Entrepreneurs (preferably in the organic product area)
- Suppliers and Distributors
- Retailers and Wholesalers
- The customers (People who buy might be different from the end-user, the consumer)
- The consumers (People who cook and eat the Millets)
- Workers employed across the value chain
It has to be kept in mind that for Millets, the competitor would be wheat, rice and other widely available and used grain crops.
High power, high interest: These would be the farmers, as they have maximum involvement with maize. The customer, end consumer and Government belong in this category.
High power, low interest: Retailers, Suppliers, Wholesalers and Distributors who keep stock of competitor to Millets would belong in this category.
Low power, high interest: Entrepreneurs would belong in this category as when they are setting up a business; entrepreneurs don’t have much control over the external factors.
Low power, low interest: This would comprise of the workers that are employed across the value chain. These workers, while taking up the role of customer or consumer, automatically gets shifted to the high power-high interest segment.
The image below gives the readers a brief idea of the marketing efficiencies of various marketing channels associated with the Pearl Millets.
The Way Forward
It goes without saying that government impetus is extremely important in making Millet the star crop of the country. Several marketing campaigns that focus on the importance of millets have to be designed and circulated amongst the masses by the government in addition to Millet based initiatives. Odisha government has taken a number of steps in this regard, and the images below show the initiatives taken by the government towards the same.
A robust public distribution system of not only Millets but also other essential grains will ensure that Millets are helpful in satiating the hunger of the poor. In addition, farmers need to be incentivized properly regarding the production of Millets as a whole and a strategic team need to be deployed by the government that makes use of barren, low-quality lands to produce millets while useful well-nourished lands can be used for the production of other crops.
If India can successfully leverage the growing preference for Millets, both in the country and worldwide, improve its Yield per Hectare of Millets by commercializing it, incentivizing production amongst farmers and improving distribution using the PDS, then Millets will definitely be one of India’s top exports bringing in much-needed revenue from outside.


Aeroponics, a cutting-edge cultivation technique, has garnered significant attention in recent years due to its ability to maximize plant growth by providing optimal levels of oxygen to the roots. This innovative method suspends plant roots in an air-rich environment while periodically misting them with a nutrient-rich solution. In this scientific essay, we delve into the crucial role of root oxygenation in aeroponics, supported by empirical evidence and scholarly research.
Understanding the Importance of Oxygen
Oxygen, an essential element for plant respiration, plays a pivotal role in several critical physiological processes. In traditional soil-based cultivation, oxygen is often abundant in the root zone. However, in soilless systems like hydroponics and aeroponics, ensuring an adequate oxygen supply becomes paramount due to the absence of soil.
The primary functions of oxygen in plants include:
Cellular Respiration: Oxygen is essential for energy production through cellular respiration. During this process, plants convert stored sugars into energy, driving various metabolic activities crucial for growth and development.
Root Respiration: Roots require oxygen to respire and produce energy. In an oxygen-deficient environment, root respiration decreases, negatively impacting nutrient uptake and overall plant health.
Microbial Activity: Beneficial microbes in the root zone also rely on oxygen to carry out essential nutrient transformations and protect plants from pathogenic organisms.
Oxygen in Aeroponics: The Key to Success
Aeroponic systems excel at providing an oxygen-rich environment for plant roots. In these systems, roots are suspended in air, allowing for maximum exposure to oxygen. This elevated oxygen availability offers several advantages:
1. Enhanced Nutrient Uptake
Research conducted by Zhou et al. (2018) on lettuce cultivation in aeroponics revealed that plants exhibited improved nutrient uptake efficiency compared to traditional soil-based systems. The study attributed this enhancement to the abundance of oxygen surrounding the roots, which facilitated nutrient absorption.
Scientific Source: Zhou, Y., Xin, C., Shen, C., & Song, W. (2018). Nutrient uptake and growth of lettuce as influenced by root-zone temperature in aeroponic production. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9, 1517.
2. Rapid Growth and Development
Aeroponically grown plants often exhibit accelerated growth rates and increased biomass. The ample oxygen supply supports robust root development, which, in turn, promotes nutrient absorption and overall plant vitality.
3. Disease Suppression
A well-oxygenated root zone discourages the proliferation of anaerobic pathogens that thrive in low-oxygen environments. As a result, aeroponically grown plants are less susceptible to root diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
4. Efficient Resource Utilization
The enhanced oxygenation in aeroponics optimizes the efficiency of resource utilization. Plants can extract nutrients more effectively, reducing wastage and the environmental impact associated with excessive nutrient runoff.
Oxygen Dynamics in Aeroponics
Understanding the dynamics of oxygen in aeroponics is crucial for optimizing the growth of cultivated crops. Several factors influence the availability and utilization of oxygen in these systems:
1. Oxygen Saturation Levels
Aeroponic systems typically maintain oxygen saturation levels in the root zone ranging from 20% to 30%. This range ensures an abundant oxygen supply for roots to carry out respiration efficiently.
2. Oxygen Delivery Method
The misting system in aeroponics serves a dual purpose—delivering nutrients and oxygen. High-pressure misting nozzles create fine droplets that envelop the roots, allowing for effective oxygen transfer.
3. Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and airflow impact oxygen availability. Growers can fine-tune these factors to optimize oxygen levels based on crop requirements.
Root Oxygenation in Practice
Practical implications arise from the scientific understanding of root oxygenation in aeroponics. Growers and researchers can implement strategies to maximize the benefits of this cultivation method:
1. Monitoring and Control
Continuous monitoring of oxygen levels in the root zone is essential. Oxygen sensors can provide real-time data, allowing growers to make timely adjustments to environmental conditions or misting intervals.
2. Root Health Assessment
Regular assessment of root health is crucial. Healthy, oxygenated roots appear white or light tan, while dark or brown roots may indicate oxygen deficiency or disease. Prompt corrective actions can prevent further damage.
3. Environmental Optimization
Fine-tuning environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and misting intervals can help maintain optimal oxygen levels. Growers should tailor these parameters to the specific needs of their crops.
4. Oxygenation Backup Systems
To ensure uninterrupted oxygen supply, backup systems, such as redundant air pumps or oxygen generators, can be employed. These systems act as fail-safes in case of primary oxygenation system failures.
Future Perspectives: Advancing Root Oxygenation
The importance of root oxygenation in aeroponics extends beyond current practices. Ongoing research explores innovative methods to further enhance oxygen availability to plant roots. Some of the promising areas of development include:
1. Advanced Mist Systems
Research is underway to develop misting systems that not only deliver nutrients efficiently but also optimize oxygen transfer. Innovations in nozzle design and mist generation techniques hold the potential to elevate root oxygenation.
2. Genetic Modification
Genetic modification of crops to enhance their oxygen uptake capabilities is a fascinating avenue. Researchers are exploring genetic traits that promote the development of more efficient root systems for improved respiration.
3. Artificial Intelligence Integration
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into aeroponic systems allows for dynamic control of environmental variables based on real-time data. AI-driven systems can ensure precise oxygen management, further enhancing crop performance.
Root oxygenation stands as a cornerstone of success in aeroponic cultivation. The ability to provide plants with an abundant oxygen supply is a defining feature of this innovative growing method. Scientific research has underscored the critical role of oxygen in nutrient uptake, disease prevention, and overall plant health.
As aeroponics continues to evolve, the optimization of root oxygenation remains a focal point for growers, researchers, and agricultural innovators. The practical implementation of monitoring, control, and environmental adjustments, coupled with ongoing advancements in misting technology and genetic research, promises to push the boundaries of what can be achieved in this revolutionary cultivation method.
The future of agriculture lies in our ability to harness the full potential of root oxygenation, paving the way for sustainable, high-yield crop production in an ever-changing world.
- Zhou, Y., Xin, C., Shen, C., & Song, W. (2018). Nutrient uptake and growth of lettuce as influenced by root-zone temperature in aeroponic production. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9, 1517.


Time is running short! The countdown begins for the last successful planting in our fall season for Chicago.
Contrary to what the “Big-Box” garden centers would like to have you believe. Planting your tree in the spring when it is in full bloom is not a sound practice from a horticultural stand point. Trees, like humans, need their rest. By planting in the fall when the sap is down in the tree you are not disturbing its annual growth cycle.
Fall planting allows the roots to become established through the winter, especially the tender new feeders. This process is necessary for beautiful spring blooms and summer leaves.
Fall planting is especially recommended for “balled” and “burlapped” trees that have been dug up from nursery fields. Keep in mind that even “blooming” or “leafed out” trees experience some shock during a spring time planting.
Regardless of how careful you are, the root of the tree to be planted can still be disturbed in a container grown tree; additionally, the tender blooms and the new leaf growth can be damaged in transport. This is why I always recommend covering your tree with a horticultural tarp while in transit.
Additionally, fall allows for ample time to correct soil instabilities, time to let soil modifiers do their stuff, time to prepare for the expansion and contraction from freezing and thawing that will loosen
well-worked clay soils. And there’s plenty of free organic matter at hand.
The advantages of fall plantings become very clear. You eliminate very hot days, days that can quickly dehydrate any plant life – especially trees. One of the key secrets to success in any planting is WATER, WATER, WATER! This not only promotes new root growth, it also provides protection from hard freezes. Thorough watering before an extreme cold spell is as important as a thorough watering before a summer dry spell.
Be cautious however, not to plant in very wet soil as this can also be very harmful to the root system. I do not plant on a rainy day, or a day that has followed a big storm because when you work wet soil, especially in Chicago, you are only compacting the soil which needs to drain properly and provide nutrients to the root system.
Prior to planting your tree or shrub, I always create a 30/30/30 mix of sand, top soil, and “pine fines” or compost to feed the roots of my plant. Chicago has very “silty” soil, which is soil that is heavily laden with clay. To break up the clay and promote proper drainage among other things in your soil, I strongly my recommend 30/30/30 practice.
Mulching at the base of the newly planted fall tree is also very important because it retains moisture in the soil and keeps weeds to a minimum. I recommend using two to four inches of any sterilized organic material. Black forest mulch is an ideal choice. There are several good options available, I prefer this one.
Now that I have explained the advantages of fall plantings, pick out trees and shrubs that best suit you style and needs, and enjoy the beautiful display of color while you are preparing for the winter ahead.


For the last month I've been asking Mother Nature to grace us with a beautiful day for our garden harvest party evening. That day came yesterday, and we couldn't have had a more lovely evening to sit outside and visit with friends. I was so thankful for the sunshine and even more thankful for the cool temps. Though I was happy Mother Nature spread her arms wide and did her magic, I was somewhat sad that so many of my friends and family didn't join us. And as we sat there, eating and talking, I listened to several say, "I can't stay long. I have to do _____________." Unfortunately, the ripple effect took place and as soon as one person left, others followed suit. It was almost a fast-food event.
What happened to slowing down, truly slowing down and enjoying just being? Why is there a need to overlap activities, making it impossible to relax and give one's full attention to just the one event?
I did enjoy all the work leading up to the garden harvest party--the painted chairs and the table we made from the pallets, the jams and relish, and the gardens themselves. Having the garden harvest party allowed me to be creative and productive. And seeing someone walking past the house look over, see all the color, and smile as they continue on their way makes me smile.
Now, with the garden harvest party over and having to return to work just a week away, I'm going to slow down even more to soak up the last remnants of what has been one of the best summers I've ever had.


The Terra Soil Conference marks the conclusion of the collaborative research project between Geological Survey Ireland and Teagasc. Initiated in 2018, the Terra Soil project aims to derive agronomic and environmental indicators from Tellus soil sample data. The final conference will serve as the platform for the official release of new datasets, maps, reports, and scientific papers produced during this period.
Dr. Karen Daly from Teagasc and Dr. Jim Hodgson from Geological Survey Ireland will kick off the event with an overview of Terra Soil, the official data release, and future plans. Following this, Niall Ryan from DAFM will give a talk on policy, particularly focusing on the data needed for EU soil monitoring law. Dr. Rebecca Hall and Dr. Felipe Bachion de Santa from Teagasc, who will overview the main results from Terra Soil. After which, Dr. Olaf Schmidt from UCD will present on the link between soil geochemistry and biodiversity. The event will conclude with a panel discussion on the value of soil data, chaired by Ray Scanlon from Geological Survey Ireland.
All data produced by Terra Soil will be available for free on the Geological Survey Ireland website. For more information about Terra Soil, click here.
If you are interested in attending please email firstname.lastname@example.org.


Winnipeg, MB., April 22, 2021. A new partnership between the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum (CAFM) and Glacier FarmMedia will bring critical awareness to an issue that affects us all – soil health and sustainability.
“Healthy soil is essential to our food security, climate, health, and the overall quality of life for all Canadians,” says Kerry-Leigh Burchill, Director General at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum. “Through this exciting partnership with Glacier FarmMedia, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is committed to fostering a greater appreciation and understanding of this finite resource, and the importance of soil stewardship in contemporary agriculture.”
The Museum – one of three under Ingenium – Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation – offers visitors of all ages the unique opportunity to interact with a working farm in the heart of the nation’s capital, alongside immersive exhibitions, educational programming, and skills demonstrations to support food literacy. Like Glacier FarmMedia, raising awareness about soil health and connecting audiences with sustainable solutions and best practices is a priority for the Museum.
“The Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum and Glacier FarmMedia are aligned in our vision to promote and protect soil health,” says Lynda Tityk, Executive Vice-President, Glacier FarmMedia. “Soil is facing critical issues that impact everyone. Awareness and outreach is timely, critical, and paves the way for all Canadians to work together, which will be vital to protect this resource.”
The Museum will be working with the agriculture industry and soil experts to share the latest soil science and reinforce the essential link between healthy soils and food production. Through on-site and digital programming, their important message about soil sustainability will be shared across farming sectors and with their national audience of over 1 million people.
As a media partner, Glacier FarmMedia will help to launch and promote the initiative which will kick-off with the launch of the Soil Superheroes exhibition. The exhibition provides visitors with an underground perspective on the importance of soil science and conservation through imaginative characters that demonstrate how soil provides humans with food and medicine, cleans the water we drink, and protects our climate. The exhibition will launch at the museum in 2021 before touring from coast to coast with a discovery cart filled with educational resources. The format is designed to spark conversations and curiosity in a broad spectrum of venues with the intention of serving urban centres, remote communities, science centres, libraries or other public venues.
For more information:
Director of Corporate Communication, Glacier FarmMedia
Ingenium – Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation
About Glacier FarmMedia
Glacier FarmMedia, is the agricultural division of Glacier Media Inc., an information communications company focused on the provision of primary and essential information and related services through print, electronic and online media. The Glacier FarmMedia family includes: Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, the Farm Forum Event, Advancing Women Conferences, The Western Producer, Grainews, Country Guide, Manitoba Co-operator, Canadian Cattlemen, Alberta Farmer Express, Farmtario, Le Bulletin des Agriculteurs, Ag Dealer, Global Auction Guide and Farmzilla. For more information, visit farmmedia.com.
About the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Ingenium – Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation oversees three museums, one of which is the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum. The museum offers hands-on food literacy demonstrations and immersive exhibitions on a working farm in the heart of our nation’s capital. It showcases milestones in Canadian agriculture which inform and inspire the future of food security and sustainable agriculture. It also highlights the relationship between agricultural science and technology and Canadians’ everyday lives. Visitors to the national site have a unique opportunity to experience hands-on demonstrations, participate in seasonal programs and to see diverse breeds of farm animals as well as technology. Virtual visitors and national audiences are able to access learning modules, experiments, recipes and online programs that feature key issues of our time.


Second year Master of Science in Biodiversity Informatics student at the Malawi University of Science and Technology.
Research Topic: Loss of Agrobiodiversity of Underutilised Root and Tuber Crops in Malawi: A study on Livingstone Potato (Plectranthus esculentus)
The Livingstone potato is one of the earliest African crops to be domesticated, and has now become a rarity after a long history of cultivation throughout the African continent and it is regarded as a lost crop and as such, has been classified among the neglected and underutilised crop species (NUCS) (Kujeke et al., 2019). Countries known to grow this crop include Malawi, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Nigeria and South Africa. Some of the districts in Malawi where the Livingstone potato is grown as a garden crop are Dedza, Ntcheu and Neno. The loss of the Livingstone potato coupled with the insufficient knowledge of the crop poses a significant problem to researchers and agronomists attempting to revive the crop.
In my research, I am conducting a descriptive-exploratory study that aims to establish agronomical patterns of the Livingstone potato among Malawian farmers as well as establish why it is underproduced.
Sample Districts: Ntcheu and Dedza


U-Pick at Chileno Valley Ranch
Enjoy a day of family apple picking in our orchard with varieties such as Orin, Pinova, Candy Crisp, and Jonagold. We are open for u-pick on Sundays only, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, during September and October unless otherwise noted.
Our 2023 U-Pick season is winding down!
Chileno Valley Ranch will offer one more U-Pick for the 2023 Season
Sunday November 5th from 9 am to 1 pm. We will close promptly at 1 pm.
There will be no reservations required for this last U-Pick.
Join our email list (in the lower right corner of this page) or like our Facebook page to be informed about the season.
Entry time slots are available every hour, to help spread guests throughout the day, which creates a better experience for everyone. Admission is $10 per family and must be pre-booked online. Each family must have their own reservation.
2023 Prices: Apples $2/lb. We often have other wonderful items for sale from our farm or our neighbors, such as free-range eggs, honey, and baked goods. All items subject to availability.
Payment: cash, local checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
To register for a U-Pick time slot click here. ** Registration is closed for 2023 — See you next season! **
Our opening and closing dates vary from year to year depending on the climate, crop size, etc. Occasionally, we don’t open on a particular Sunday in-season because there aren’t enough ripe apples. Be sure to check this site and confirm that we are open before you come.
No dogs and no smoking, please.
If you don’t receive emails about U-Pick, please join our email newsletter below.
We had a great time picking apples and meeting the animals on the farm. They offer a variety of organic apples and asian pears, as well as a few vegetables, eggs and grass-fed beef. – Alexandra


LEGAL INFORMATION | Contact us for more information
All orders and sales are subject to the AgriGold Terms and Conditions of Sale, which include but are not limited to the Limitation of Warranty & Remedy and Agronomic Zone and Planting Year. All Terms and Conditions of Sale are subject to change from time to time without prior notice. For the most up to date Terms and Conditions of Sale, see the Producers website at www.agrigold.com.
Monsanto Company is a member of Excellence Through Stewardship® (ETS). Monsanto products are commercialized in accordance with ETS Product Launch Stewardship Guidance, and in compliance with Monsanto’s Policy for Commercialization of Biotechnology-Derived Plant Products in Commodity Crops. Certain products have been approved for import into key export markets with functioning regulatory systems. Any crop or material produced from this product can only be exported to, or used, processed or sold in countries where all necessary regulatory approvals have been granted. It is a violation of national and international law to move material containing biotech traits across boundaries into nations where import is not permitted. Growers should talk to their grain handler or product purchaser to confirm their buying position for this product. Growers should refer to http://www.biotradestatus.com/ for any updated information on import country approvals. Excellence Through Stewardship® is a registered trademark of Biotechnology Industry Organization.
B.t. products may not yet be registered in all states. Check with your Monsanto representative for the registration status in your state.
IMPORTANT IRM INFORMATION: RIB Complete® corn blend products do not require the planting of a structured refuge except in the Cotton-Growing Area where corn earworm is a significant pest. SmartStax® RIB Complete® corn blend is not allowed to be sold for planting in the Cotton-Growing Area. See the IRM/Grower Guide for additional information. Always read and follow IRM requirements.
DroughtGard® Hybrids with RIB Complete® corn blend the refuge seed may not always contain DroughtGard® Hybrids trait.
ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW DIRECTIONS FOR USE ON PESTICIDE LABELING. IT IS A VIOLATION OF FEDERAL AND STATE LAW to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its labeling. NOT ALL formulations of dicamba or glyphosate are approved for in-crop use with Roundup Ready 2 Xtend® soybeans. ONLY USE FORMULATIONS THAT ARE SPECIFICALLY LABELED FOR SUCH USES AND APPROVED FOR SUCH USE IN THE STATE OF APPLICATION. XTENDIMAX® HERBICIDE WITH VAPORGRIP® TECHNOLOGY AND IN CROP USES MAY NOT BE APPROVED IN ALL STATES. Contact the U.S. EPA and your state pesticide regulatory agency with any questions about the approval status of dicamba herbicide products for in-crop use with Roundup Ready 2 Xtend® soybeans.
Roundup Ready 2 Xtend® soybeans contains genes that confer tolerance to glyphosate and dicamba. Glyphosate will kill crops that are not tolerant to glyphosate. Dicamba will kill crops that are not tolerant to dicamba. Contact your Monsanto dealer or refer to Monsanto’s Technology Use Guide for recommended weed control programs.
ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW DIRECTIONS FOR USE ON PESTICIDE LABELING. Products with NemaStrike™ Technology are not registered in all states. The distribution, sale, or use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. Check with your local Monsanto dealer or representative for the product registration status in your state.
Consult bag tags for E-Z Refuge product herbicide options; only those labeled GT/LL may be sprayed with glufosinate.
Seed products with the LibertyLink® (LL) trait are resistant to the herbicide glufosinate ammonium, an alternative to glyphosate in corn, and combine high-yielding genetics with the powerful, non-selective, postemergent weed control of Liberty® herbicide for optimum yield and excellent weed control.
Agrisure® Technology incorporated into these seeds is commercialized under license from Syngenta Seeds, Inc. Herculex® Technology incorporated into these seeds is commercialized under license from Dow AgroSciences LLC.
AgReliant Genetics® and Design, Advantage Acre® and Design, AgriShield®, and AgriGold® and Design are registered trademarks of AgReliant Genetics, LLC. Agrisure®, Agrisure Artesian®, Artesian™, Agrisure Duracade®, Agrisure Viptera® and E-Z Refuge® are trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. Acceleron®, DroughtGard®, Genuity®, NemaStrike™, RIB Complete and Design®, RIB Complete®, Roundup Ready 2 Technology and Design®, Roundup Ready 2 Xtend®, Roundup Ready 2 Yield®, Roundup Ready®, Roundup®, SmartStax and Design®, SmartStax®, VaporGrip®, and XtendiMax®, VT Double PRO® and VT Triple PRO® are trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC. LibertyLink® and the Water Droplet Design® are registered trademarks of Bayer. Herculex® is a registered trademark of Dow AgroSciences LLC. Respect the Refuge and Corn Design® and Respect the Refuge® are registered trademarks of National Corn Growers Association. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
© AgReliant Genetics, LLC.
SEED PIRACY STATEMENT: Seed containing a patented trait can only be used to plant a single commercial crop from which seed cannot be saved and replanted. Examples of seed containing a patented trait include but are not limited to Genuity® Roundup Ready 2 Yield® soybeans, and Roundup Ready 2 Xtend® soybeans. Additional information and limitations on the use of these products are provided in the Monsanto Technology Stewardship Agreement, the Monsanto Technology Use Guide, and the Roundup Ready 2 Xtend® Soybean Technology Use Guide Supplement. U.S. patents for Monsanto technologies can be found at the following webpage: http://www.monsantotechnology.com


Biochar is a form of carbon that results from pyrolysis (heating in the absence of oxygen) of biomass – e.g. wood, bark, stalks, chaff and crop residue, nut shells, or virtually any organic material – leaving behind a durable matrix with a porous structure. This substance has a range of physical, chemical and biological properties that can provide multiple, cascading ecological services. The first, and most compelling, application of biochar comes from the nature of the carbon itself. If we pyrolyse biomass at the correct temperature range, the resulting product is a highly stable and long-lived form of carbon, and as such represents a low-tech means of sequestering atmospheric CO2 captured by photosynthesis of the plants that provide the feedstock.
We could pyrolise large quantities of biomass and then simply store the end result in landfill, and by doing this we would have an effective tactic for global carbon drawdown over time. The fifteenth special report of the IPCC includes biochar as a promising mitigation technology and this development has acted as a catalyst for expanded funding of trials in the EU.
But there are so many uses of biochar aside from its value as a carbon sink that this direct storage route, although worthwhile, would represent a host of missed opportunities. The physical structure of biochar is a massively porous matrix, averaging over a hectare of surface area per 25 g of material. This property means that it can retain moisture and provide habitat for diverse and flourishing microbial populations. The carbon matrix also provides an array of chemical bonding sites where ions dissolved in solution can attach and be held loosely enough to be available for uptake by microbes or plants. The combination of these factors mean that biochar can effectively take out dissolved contaminants from water, for example. It also makes biochar an effective soil amendment for a range of settings, from arable, pastoral, and forestry lands to rehabilitated wetlands and marginal habitats. There is nothing novel or radical in adding carbon in this form to soils, either: it is a natural process of soil building that has been going on in nearly all parts of the world where fires occur, and on average pyrogenic (fire derived) carbon accounts for at least 13% of soil organic carbon globally.
The effects of biochar incorporation into soils over the long term can be seen in many settings, but the most striking examples would be the terra preta (black earth) of the Amazon, the famed black soils of Iowa and Ukraine, and, in Aotearoa, in māra kai where burnt matter was deliberately added to kūmara plots. In the Amazon, a flourishing and settled farming civilisation, numbering perhaps in the millions, was reported by the first Europeans to explore the interior in the 16th century. As the harsh and infertile nature of tropical rainforest soils was better understood, the presence of this culture (subsequently exterminated by introduced diseases) stood as a mystery that was not solved until the the late 1990s, as scientists worked with samples of the soil and found that it had high levels of carbon. As the carbon was dated, its effects understood, and a mechanism for its presence was formally described, a whole new area of research opened up into the qualities of biochar. Now we know that for a period of at least 1,500 years, and likely up to twice as long, the settled farming culture of the Amazon basin was routinely and purposefully incorporating charred organic matter into their severely depleted and leached rainforest soils and reaping the rewards of the increased fertility.
In temperate regions, the most productive agricultural areas are often atop the deep prairie soils formed by humid grasslands – places like the US Midwest, southern Russia and Ukraine, and the Argentine pampas. Soils with high amounts of durable carbon have formed in these locations by repeated low-intensity fires that charred the abundant aboveground vegetation and surface litter. The fire regime had natural beginnings, but would have been enhanced in frequency by the presence of humans, who deliberately set them in order to drive game and modify the landscape. Radiocarbon dating of these soils has yielded carbon fraction ages of over 12,000 years in Ukraine and 7,000 years in Iowa.
This is our evidence that incorporation of biochar in soil is one of the surest and safest methods of long-term sequestration available. Its corollary benefits to primary productivity are just the icing on the proverbial cake, but these serve as additional incentives to bring biochar into our climate response strategy.


Since 1910, the Vader family has been producing maple syrup on their farm situated on the south shore of East Lake in Prince Edward County. The family’s rich agricultural history and maple traditions have been carefully passed down through several generations to the present day, where Todd Vader and his wife Susan continue the maple legacy with passion and gratitude for mother nature’s pure harvest.
The Vader farm boasts a large maple bush where approximately 3,000 maple trees are tapped each year. A tubing system is used to gather the maple sap which is then boiled down on a 3 foot by 14 foot evaporator in their rustic sap house.
As a single-source producer, Vader's produce 100% of their maple products. The climate of southern Prince Edward County, in combination with the farm’s unique terroir-soil, provide Vader’s Maple Syrup with a distinctly decadent maple flavour.
All maple syrup grades: golden, amber, dark, and very dark are available in a wide variety of glass and plastic containers. Other maple products such as maple butter, maple jelly, granulated maple sugar, maple leaves, and whisky barrel aged dark maple syrup are handcrafted with great care and reflect the benefit of experience.
A farm store located in the sap house is open year round for visitors to purchase maple syrup and maple products and to observe and learn about maple syrup production


Success Story | Urban Orchards
Vacant Lots Transformed into Urban Orchards in Five Cincinnati Neighborhoods
Chris Smyth has been involved in dozens of community garden projects in Cincinnati over the years. Formerly the Sustainability Coordinator at Price Hill Will, he helped the neighborhood community development corporation build seven different community garden projects and installed more than 100 home gardens through the Grow It Forward Program. Price Hill Will has partnered with The Port and Hamilton County Landbank on a number of initiatives ranging from homesteading, creating affordable housing opportunities, to a Percussion Park at the corner of Warsaw and McPherson.
“It’s so important to help children understand our connection to food. Many kids think food comes from Kroger; they don’t realize there’s an entire ecosystem that supports the growth of fruit and vegetables.”
Each lot has its own distinct features – such as sun, shade, slope, soil and water – that Chris takes into account when designing the master plan for each parcel. The nine orchards he’s established so far feature 100 fruit trees, 300 berry plants, 800 perennials/medicinals. After three years of growth, Chris expects the yield to be 6,000 lbs of fruit each year after 2022.
“The work Chris is doing through these orchard projects helps activate vacant lots that may not be redeveloped back into housing,” shared Will Basil, Senior Planning Associate with The Port. “We believe using these lots to grow edible food and educating people about the importance of these types of ecosystems is a good start towards helping shape a more sustainable future.”
On a 1/3-acre at the corner of Glenway Avenue and Schiff Avenue, peach trees planted in Spring 2017 yielded fruit in 2018 and aronia bushes are full of berries in early September 2019. Chris uses a tarp system to keep weeds down and installed the orchard rows on contours because there’s no available water source.
“By spacing the orchard rows and using tarps on the contour of the property, we’ve been able to maximize the water flow,” commented Chris. “The fruit trees are planted in patterns of three: a nitrogen fixer (Black Locust), an Apple and another fruit tree. In between the trees; berries, medicinal plants and pollinators provide habitat for bees and predatory wasps. This helps the orchard be self-fertile and creates a strong ecological immunity to pests.”
Chris has hosted students from the Deaf Institute and many other neighbors at the orchards in Price Hill. “The orchards help create community interaction,” he notes.
While the Landbank has funded his work through the Neighborhood Initiative Program (NIP), from the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, Chris has plans to launch a non-profit called The Common Orchard Project later this year. You can find more information via www.facebook.com/commonorchards. He’d like to identify a 2-acre site in a central location to make it a demonstration space that can educate more children and adults about Permaculture throughout Greater Cincinnati. You can learn more about Chris, his work and plans at http://chrismyth.com.
Learn More About the Gardens + Greens Program
Help us put properties back to productive use. Our gardens + greens program focuses on transforming vacant lots into gardens or community green space. Any party interested in purchase may apply. All applicants must be able to show a viable redevelopment project and the ability to maintain the property.See our Available Properties


product description page
Keys to the Tropical Fruit Flies (Tephritidae: Dacinae) of South-east Asia : Indomalaya to North-West
About this item
Fruit flies are a major issue facing horticultural producers, and as global warming and species migration become more prevalent issues there is an urgent need for easy identification of these pests. A companion volume to the recently published Tropical Fruit Flies of South-East Asia (Tephritidae: Dacinae), this book provides fully-illustrated keys for the identification of all currently-known Dacinae fruit flies. Focusing on south-east Asian fauna, it covers areas including India, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, China, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, Palau, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. This major new reference work is produced by experts with over 80 years' combined research experience, and through simple identification information can help prevent these major pest species being introduced to new geographical areas. Of particular value to agriculture and quarantine officers responsible for the detection of new incursions, where early detection is both economical and essential to guarantee eradication, this book is also a valuable resource for researchers and students of agriculture and entomology.
Number of Pages: 487
Genre: Technology, Science
Sub-Genre: Agriculture / Crop Science, Life Sciences / Zoology / Entomology, Agriculture / Tropical Agriculture
Publisher: Stylus Pub Llc
Author: Richard A. I. Drew & Meredith C. Romig
Street Date: January 4, 2017
Item Number (DPCI): 248-20-9320
If the item details above aren’t accurate or complete, we want to know about it. Report incorrect product info.


List of products by manufacturer Meligyris Apiary
Meligyris Apiary is located in the village of Arkalohori, Heraklion. The Stefanakis family tradition of beekeeping dates back to 1920 and is currently under the leadership of agriculturalist Manolis Stefanakis. Today, scientific knowledge combines with family traditions to bring a range of exclusive honeys which are carefully harvested and packaged to retain all their natural characteristics and nutritional benefits. The honeys are 100% natural, premium products with unique organoleptic characteristics that are directly related to the special terroir and exceptional flora of Crete. Manolis Stefanakis is also one of the founders and members of the Scientific Community of Greek Beekeepers.
- No featured products at this time.


We proudly produce DOC Douro wines, premium Port Wines and Moscatel. This project that started in the early 90’s of the XX century, had on its base a centenary estate where our family has been producing Port since the last years of the XIX century. Our commitment to the production of quality wines has been, since the first moment, the heart and soul of Quinta do Portal. This effort, passion and dedication have been recognized both at a national and international level during the course of the years.
Quinta do Portal vineyards are under integrated farm management, a farming system that has the objective of producing high quality grapes by using natural resources and regulating mechanisms to replace polluting inputs and to secure sustainable farming.


We support local growers by sourcing our produce from farmers markets at Bangalow, Lismore, Byron Bay and Ballina.
We source fresh organic and spray free produce, ingredients you can feel good about feeding your family. Our meals are prepared and delivered on the same day so you get the freshest quality.
Our menu reflects local offerings of the season, produce at its peak nutritional value.
We pride ourselves on using environmentally friendly packaging, including: a jar return system (detailed in FAQ)
A minimal waste system where all parts of the produce are used. Even the food scraps fed to our bunny or composted to rejuvenate the soil.
Our packaging and general waste is kept to a minimum due to sourcing from local farmers markets where food can be transported without excess plastic packaging.
Click here to view our cancellation policy
Recognition of Traditional Owners
We would like to acknowledge and pay our respects to the Arakwal people, the Minjungbal people and the Widjabul people of the Bandjalang Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our business operates and honour their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.


If you want to promote root growth in your plants, consider buying Metrop MR1 fertilizer. This is a high-concentrated growth fertilizer. This product contains both high-nitrogen and high-phosphorus ingredients to support healthy root growth. This fertilizer can help you grow plants at an accelerated rate, and its formula is also compatible with all kinds of plant types.
Metrop MR1 High Phosphorus Growth fertilizer
With a high phosphorus content, the Metrop MR1 high phosphorus growth fertilizer will make your plants’ roots stronger. This is especially helpful during the flowering stage, when the plant’s root system is critical for the strength and health of the plant. It also contains essential trace elements that plants need to produce hormones and vitamins. As a result, your plants will have a better taste and health.
METROP MR1 is a high-concentration, fast-acting growth fertilizer with bio-minerals and natural extracts. Whether you’re cultivating in the ground or in pots, this nutrient is designed to provide all the necessary nutrients for root growth. It’s also biodegradable and free of harmful coloring.
METROP MR1 contains magnesium and phosphorus for maximum root growth. The high-phosphorus content is important for the root system of plants, because most of their phosphorus content is in their roots. Because of this, your plants’ roots need to have plenty of phosphorus to grow big and strong. This fertilizer also contains magnesium, a key mineral for the correct synthesis of chlorophyll.
Buy Metrop MR1 fertilizer for root growth
If you want your roots to grow as big and strong as you want them to be, you need to use METROP MR1 fertilizer for root growth. This fast-acting concentrated growth fertilizer contains a high level of phosphorus. Combined with a root stimulator, this fertilizer will give your plants the nutrients they need to grow as big and strong as they can be.
It is also suitable for hydroponics. It is 100% natural and does not contain harmful dyes or chemicals. It is made of pure raw materials, suitable for all substrates, and is non-toxic. Depending on the type of soil you have, you can apply this fertilizer every day. You should make sure that it is stored in a cool, dry place and that it is not in the reach of children.
The high level of phosphorus ensures that root growth will be explosive. This fertilizer is also rich in potassium, which will help your plants grow more vigorously. It also contains a high amount of magnesium, which optimizes the synthesis of proteins and chlorophyll.
A1- MR1 Growth fertilizer for sale
A1 MR1 Growth fertilizer is a concentrated liquid plant fertilizer that contains high phosphorus and is specially designed for the growth phase. Its components are very pure and contain high concentrations of all the necessary macro and micro-elements for plant growth. It is formulated to deliver maximum yield, and is safe for use on all substrates.
Metrop MR1 grow fertilizer is made from high quality plant extracts. It is free of harmful colouring agents and water-based solutions. All the raw materials used in its formulation are natural and pure. The product is biodegradable, and must be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight.


When it comes to discussing essential elements for plant growth, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium often steal the spotlight. However, in the list of essential plant nutrients, sulphur, with its remarkable benefits, deserves recognition. Often overlooked, this vital element plays a crucial role in the development and overall health of plants. In this article, we will uncover the importance of sulphur in plant growth and its undeniable impact on the flourishing green world around us.
Sulphur: A Powerful Ally for Plant Health
Sulphur, a naturally occurring element, is a vital nutrient necessary for the synthesis of proteins, enzymes, and vitamins within plants. Just as we rely on protein for our growth and development, plants also require an ample supply of sulphur to thrive. Although plants do not require sulphur in as large quantities as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, it is by no means a micronutrient, and it needs to be available in good quantities for optimal growth.
Sulphur deficiencies a modern problem!
Up until the 1970s sulphur deficiencies in crops were fairly rare. This was due to factors. In the developed world, sulphur was being supplied to agricultural fields as dissolved sulphur dioxide; a pollutant from a number of industrial processes. As industry has cleaned up its act, and we have moved away from coal-fired power stations, the supply of sulphur nutrition from pollution has dramatically reduced. Secondly, the organic matter content of soils has reduced. Organic matter/ humus is a good source of sulphur (and some micronutrients) for plants.
So together these two factors, reduced pollution and reduced organic matter content, have resulted in a number of crops suffering from sulphur deficiencies. However, there are two problems for growers/farmers wishing to address sulphur deficiencies. Firstly; sulphur deficiencies are hard to spot and often mistaken for signs of nitrogen or iron deficiency. This is because the main symptom is chlorosis of leaves, very similar to nitrogen deficiency. However, unlike nitrogen deficiency the chlorosis presents on younger leaves first. Unfortunately your plants may be suffering significant reductions in growth (stunting) before chlorosis become visible.
The second major hurdle to addressing sulphur deficiencies is that many ‘complete/compound’ fertilisers completely lack sulphur. This is because sulphur can react with the other nutrients in the mix, and because many of these traditional ‘old school’ fertilisers were developed before sulphur deficiency became an issue. Therefore, I strongly advise that you check the label on your fertiliser and see if it contains a good amount of sulphur. If it does not, consider supplementing the feeding of your plants with one of these three sulphur fertiliser options:
- Ammonium thiosulphate: A soluble form of soluble sulphur. Allows for both instant and medium-term sulphur release to the plants.
- Liquid Gypsum: Combines calcium and sulphur. Also flocculates (breaks up) clay soils.
- Lime Sulphur: Calcium and sulphur, but also has a sterilising effect on the plant surface and in the soil. So use when pests or diseases get out of hand. Very popular with rose growers to control Black Spot fungus.
- Epsom salts: magnesium sulphate. A good option for lawns where you want to green them up, without stimulating excessive leafy growth.
Avoid powdered sulphur as a fertiliser. It is not plant-available or soluble. Plus it is converted to sulphuric acid and acidifies the soil.
The Role of Sulphur in Plants
- Aiding in Protein Synthesis: Proteins are the building blocks of life, and sulphur plays a key role in their formation. Sulphur-containing amino acids, such as cysteine and methionine, are essential components of proteins. These amino acids provide structural stability and contribute to the functionality of enzymes, hormones, and chlorophyll molecules, thus supporting the overall growth and development of plants.
- Enhancing Nutrient Uptake and Efficiency: Sulphur promotes the efficient uptake and utilization of other essential nutrients. It aids in the absorption of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, allowing plants to maximize the benefits of these macronutrients. Sulphur also contributes to the activation of enzymes responsible for nutrient metabolism, ensuring that plants have a well-balanced diet.
- Stimulating Root Development: Strong and healthy roots are the foundation for robust plant growth. Sulphur plays a crucial role in the formation of roots by encouraging cell division, elongation, and differentiation. By facilitating root development, sulphur promotes better nutrient and water absorption, leading to overall plant vigor.
- Boosting Disease Resistance: Sulphur is known for its fungicidal and bactericidal properties. By producing chemical compounds that inhibit the growth of pathogens, sulphur enhances the plant’s natural defense mechanisms. This reduces the risk of diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, and certain pests, ensuring healthier plants and higher crop yields.
- Contributing to Flavor and Aroma: In addition to its essential functions in plant growth, sulphur also plays a role in enhancing the flavor and aroma of certain crops. For example, it is responsible for the distinctive taste and aroma of onions, garlic, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. Sulphur compounds contribute to the pungent and aromatic qualities that make these foods so appealing.
While often overshadowed by other essential nutrients, sulphur is undeniably critical for plant growth and overall plant health. From protein synthesis and nutrient uptake to root development and disease resistance, the role of sulphur is multifaceted and essential for the flourishing of plant life. By recognising the significance of this hidden hero, farmers and gardeners can unlock its full potential to cultivate healthier crops, promote sustainable agriculture, and nourish the world with bountiful harvests.


May7–June 12, 2010
Opening Reception Friday, May 7, 2010 from 6:30–8:30 PM
Artist Talks at 6 PM
Farming of the Future (Now is The Only Thing That is Real) | Malcom Smith
Mary E. Bawden Scuplture Garden
Aquaponics is a high-density food production arrangement that produces both plant matter and fish in one system with an absolute minimum of water usage.
Very little power is required to operate the Aquaponic system. The lower part of the system houses the fish that create the fertilizer for the plants. The plants are contained in what is called a “grow bed” which sits above the fish tank. A single water pump propels nutrient rich water from the fish tank to the grow bed(s). Plants become a natural filter as they absorb nourishment from fish waste, reducing or eliminating the water's toxicity for the aquatic life while the water fills the plant container. Once the plant container is full a device known as an “auto siphon” drains sparkling water effortlessly back to the fish tank using only the power of gravity. No external power is needed for the auto siphon to operate.
The water, now clean, is returned to the marine animal environment and the cycle continues. Aquaponic systems do not discharge or exchange water. The systems rely on the natural relationship between the aquatic animals and the plants to maintain the environment. Water is only added to replace water loss from absorption by the plants, and evaporation into the air.


A Community Garden creates opportunity for recreation, exercise, therapy and education. Having a garden plot encourages self-reliance, provides nutritious food for your family and reduces a family’s annual food budget. The Wilbraham Community Garden grows in leaps and bounds each year with over 60 active gardeners growing veggies in plots varying from a 10 feet by 50 feet area to almost an acre. We also have four raised garden beds for those folks who have limited mobility.
Garden plots are available on a first-come, first-served basis with priority given to returning gardeners. New and returning gardeners are invited to attend the annual spring sign-up meeting held at the Wilbraham Town Hall prior to the growing season. The exact date of the meeting is posted in the local newspaper. Garden plots are approximately 25 feet by 50 feet, or 1250 square feet, and the rental cost is $30 per plot. (as of 2017) There are several gardeners that share a plot each season to help alleviate the work and time. During the growing season, there is water on site as well as a portable toilet. If you are interested in joining us at the Wilbraham Community Garden, or if you would like more information, you may contact the garden coordinator Melissa Graves in the Conservation Commission Office at 596-2800, ext. 204.


India lives in villages and it has 649481 villages. The ground water table is going down in most of our villages. It is said that if third world war is fought it will be fought for water. To improve water table village ponds can help a lot.
These ponds can be used for drinking water for the cattle and at times it can be used as irrigation of land. Ponds can also be used for fish farming. If we decide to have an additional pond of 5 hectare in each village built with the MNREGA scheme in the coming year and put it to use for fish farming. It can boost fish production of 9.7 lakh tonnes per annum taking an average of 3 tonne per hectare.
Taking an average price of Rs 200 per kg it will be additional revenue of Rs 19400 crore to village panchayats.
Even if the fish are to be used by panchayats for serving to the students in mid-day meal scheme free of cost it will improve the health of the students. A 5 hectare pond can give 15000 kg fish per annum and 300 kg of fish per week to the school can be sufficient to be served to 1500 children once per week. This quantity can be adjusted as per the number of students in the village schools. This will go a long way in improving the health of children in times to come.
The ponds will also help recharge ground water and a source of water for cattle and irrigation.


Cowpeas are one of the most important food legume crops in the semi-arid tropics covering Asia, Africa, southern Europe and Central and South America. Cowpea is an important grain legume throughout the tropics and subtropics, covering Asia, Africa, and Central and South America, as well as parts of southern Europe and the United States. Cowpea, a drought tolerant crop, has the unique ability to fix nitrogen even in very poor soils. It is also shade-tolerant and, therefore compatible as an intercrop with many cereals and root crops. Subsistence farmers in sub-Saharan Africa usually intercrop their cowpea with maize, sorghum, millet, and cassava.
Cowpeas are a common food item in the southern United States, where they are often called field peas. A subcategory of field peas is crowder peas, so called because they are crowded together in their pods, causing them to have squarish ends.
These are an integral part of the cuisine in southern region of India. In TamilNadu during the Tamil month of Maasi (February) – Penguin (March) called Kozhukattai/Adai (steamed sweet cake) prepared with cooked and mashed cowpea bean mixed with jaggery, ghee and other sub ingredients. In Hindi, it is called ‘Lobhia’. According to the USDA food database, cowpeas have the highest percentage of calories from protein among vegetarian foodsCowpea, an important legume in the tropics, has many uses. In fresh form, the young leaves, immature pods and peas are used as vegetables, while several snacks and main meal dishes are prepared from the grain. All parts of the plant that are used for food are nutritious, providing protein, vitamins (notably vitamin B) and minerals. The cowpea haulm is also a great source of livestock feed, and therefore of great value to farmers.


Why is Saffron so expensive?
Kesar, another name for saffron, is one of the most costly spices available. The labour-intensive saffron harvesting process and the comparatively low saffron yield per flower are the main causes of the spice's high price. In this piece, we'll look at the factors that make saffron valuable as well as the reasons why it costs so much.
The stigma of the Crocus sativus plant, which only blossoms for a few weeks each year, is harvested to make saffron. Only three delicate stigmas are produced by each flower, which means they must be manually harvested before the bloom withers. One kilogram of saffron requires approximately 150,000 flowers to make, which explains why the spice is so expensive.
The soil and climate requirements for saffron cultivation increase the expense of the spice in addition to the labour-intensive harvesting process. The Crocus sativus plant is indigenous to the Mediterranean region and needs a particular set of circumstances to flourish.
The environment must be dry and sunny with mild winters, and the soil must be well-draining and abundant in organic matter. The areas where saffron can be grown are constrained by the absence of these conditions, which raises the cost of the spice.
The medicinal qualities of saffron are another reason in its high cost. Traditional medicine has used saffron for thousands of years to address a variety of ailments, such as anxiety, PMS, age-related macular degeneration, and depression. Saffron may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may enhance mood and cognitive performance, according to some studies. Because of this, saffron is expensive and in high demand in the pharmaceutical business.
Due to its expensive cost, saffron has become a target for fraud and adulteration. Some vendors may combine pure saffron with other ingredients like plastic fibers, pepper, or even turmeric to increase weight and volume while lowering price. In order to guarantee the quality and purity of their saffron purchases, consumers should exercise caution and only buy from reliable sources.
As a result of its labour-intensive harvesting, restricted growing environments, medicinal qualities, and vulnerability to fraud and adulteration, saffron is expensive. Saffron continues to be a highly valued spice despite its high price, and its distinctive flavour and aroma make it a necessary component in many different cuisines all over the globe.


A nutritious mix of canola seed, canary seed, white and red millet, safflower, corn, oat groats, buckwheat and red milo.
Simply soak overnight to start germination, rinse in morning, and feed. Seeds become soft and more digestible.
Soaking seed, starts the germination process, causing the protein levels to rise, and increases the levels of B vitamins.
Wonderful during breeding season and when chicks are weaning.
Can be very beneficial for weak/ill small birds, that do not have the strength to crack dry seed.
Any seed left uneaten after a few hours, should be thrown out before it becomes sour, especially in hot and humid environments.


Here are a few simple ways to attract your local fireflies (from Silent Sparks Chapter 8):
Create an inviting habitat
- Let the grass in part of your lawn grow longer by mowing it less frequently. This will help the soil hold more moisture.
- Leave some leaf litter and woody debris in parts of your yard – this makes good habitat for larval fireflies.
- Fireflies need moist places to lay their eggs, so preserve any wetlands, streams, or ponds in your neighborhood.
Bring back the night
- When installing or re-thinking your outdoor lighting, use only what you need to get the job done.
- Use Dark-Sky compliant, shielded lighting fixtures; these direct light downward, where it’s most useful for safety and security. Use bulbs as low-wattage as possible to provide just the light you need.
- Turn off outdoor lights when they’re not needed, or put them on timers or motion sensors.
Reduce pesticide use
- Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides like malathion and diazinon. Instead, choose horticultural oils or insecticidal bacteria like Bt that will kill specific target pests.
- Get informed about the health and environmental impacts of pesticides. Consider using organic or least-toxic practices and products on your lawn and garden.
- Only apply pesticides when problems arise, never routinely. Don’t use Weed & Feed or similar products – they might seem convenient, but they put pesticide when and where it isn’t needed.


Subak – a UNESCO World Heritage
This irrigation system, which dates back to the 9th century but is still in use today, can be found in the agricultural areas of Bali and stretches through terraced rice fields and even connects the fields to nearby temples. Temple priests who practice Tri Hita Karana, a philosophy that seeks to bring harmony to the spiritual, human, and natural worlds, keep an eye on water management.
The Bali Subak system is an ancient and intricate irrigation system that plays a pivotal role in Balinese agriculture and cultural heritage. This UNESCO-recognized agricultural system is not only crucial for sustaining the island’s agriculture but also holds deep religious significance and reflects the profound interconnectedness of the Balinese people with their environment.
Religious Significance: The Subak system is deeply entwined with Balinese Hinduism, and its management is overseen by water temples, which are considered sacred sites. These water temples are essential for maintaining harmony between humans, nature, and the spiritual world. Balinese farmers believe that water is a gift from the gods, and the water temples act as mediators, ensuring proper distribution of water and coordinating planting and harvesting schedules.
Complexity and Functioning: The Subak system is intricate, involving a complex network of canals, tunnels, weirs, and terraced rice fields. The water is sourced from rivers or springs and channeled through a series of canals to reach the rice paddies. A unique and democratic water-sharing system, called “Subak Sanggah,” is employed, ensuring fair water distribution to all farmers within a specific Subak community.
The system relies on precise timing and coordination to control water flow. Water temple priests, known as “Pemangku,” carry out rituals and offerings to appease the gods and seek their blessings for a bountiful harvest. The priests also interpret natural signs, such as the behavior of birds or the movement of stars, to determine the appropriate time for planting and harvesting.
Importance for the Balinese People: The Subak system is not only an agricultural technique but also a way of life and an essential part of Balinese identity. The system fosters a strong sense of community and collective responsibility among farmers. It promotes cooperation and harmony among neighboring villages, reinforcing the Balinese people’s interconnectedness with nature and each other.
Temples Associated with the Subak System:
Pura Taman Ayun: Located in Mengwi, Pura Taman Ayun is considered one of the most important water temples. It was built in the 17th century and served as the royal family’s temple, reflecting its historical significance and cultural importance.
Pura Ulun Danu Batur: Situated on the shores of Lake Batur, Pura Ulun Danu Batur is a significant water temple in the Kintamani region. It is dedicated to the goddess Dewi Danu, who is the protector of lakes and rivers. The temple plays a vital role in managing the water supply for the surrounding rice terraces.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: Located on the shores of Lake Bratan in Bedugul, this iconic water temple is a popular tourist attraction. It is dedicated to Dewi Danu and is known for its picturesque setting amidst the serene lake and lush surroundings.
The Subak system’s preservation and maintenance reflect the Balinese people’s commitment to their cultural heritage and sustainable agricultural practices. It stands as a testament to the island’s harmonious relationship with nature and its deep-rooted religious beliefs, making it a unique and vital aspect of Bali’s cultural landscape.


Laytonville, California 95482
Vegetable gardens. Fruit orchards. They give us nature's bounty and provide the foundation for healthy living and good nutrition.
The latest dietary guidelines and clinical research consistently emphasize that people need to eat more fruits and vegetables to improve their chances of living long and healthy lives. And scientists learn more every day about the nutritional power packed into every tomato, cranberry, and piece of broccoli. Antioxidants. Phytonutrients. Vitamins. Fiber. And more.
Juice Plus+ provides the nutrition from 17 different fruits, vegetables, and grains in convenient and inexpensive capsule form. Juice Plus+ Orchard Blend contains seven of the most nutritious fruits around: apples, oranges, pineapple, cranberries, peaches, acerola cherries, and papaya. Juice Plus+ Garden Blend contains ten nutrient-dense vegetables and grains: carrots, parsley, beets, kale, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, tomatoes, and rice bran and oat bran.
Taking Juice Plus+ capsules every day provides the nutritional foundation we so desperately need that is so lacking in our diets today.


The Sullivan County Agriculture & Farmland Protection Board (AFPB) was established by the Sullivan County Legislature in accordance with Article 25AA §302 of NYS Agriculture and Markets Law. The purpose of the AFPB is to:
The AFPB consists of eleven members, identified as either Regular or Ex-Officio, nominated by the AFPB and appointed by the Sullivan County Legislature; and includes at least: four active farmers, one agribusiness representative, one member of the County Legislature, a representative from the Sullivan County Soil & Water Conservation District, the Commissioner of the Sullivan County Division of Planning and Community Development, the Director of the County's Real Property Services Office, a Cornell Cooperative Extension Agriculture Educator; and may also include an agricultural land trust representative. Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County currently provides staff assistance to the AFPB for administrative matters.
Current Board Members
Farmer: John Gorzynski, Gorzynski Ornery Farm, Chairman (Term expires 12/31/22)
Farmer: Dan Brey, Breys Egg Farm (Term expires 12/31/24)
Farmer: Ed Leonardi, Wildcraft Farm (Term expires 12/31/24)
Farmer: Erika Malmgreen, Winterton Farms (Term expires 12/31/23)
Farmer: Eugene Thalmann, Sprouting Dreams Farm (Term expires 12/31/26)
Agri-Business Representative: Dr Joe D’Abbraccio, Catskill Veterinary Services (Term expires 12/31/23)
Soil & Water Conservation District Representative: Willie Hughson (Ex-Officio)
Sullivan County Legislature Representative: Luis Alvarez (Ex-Officio)
Commissioner of Division of Planning & Community Development: Freda Eisenberg (Ex-Officio)
Director of Real Property Services: Chris Knapp (Ex-Officio)
CCE Sullivan Agriculture Educator: Michelle Proscia (Ex-Officio)
All correspondence for the Sullivan County Agriculture & Farmland Protection Board (AFPB) should be directed to Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County, to the attention of Melinda Meddaugh, Ag & Food Systems Issue Leader, email@example.com or 845-292-6180 ext. 116.
Last updated May 17, 2023


About Our Partners
The UC Davis' College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences is #1 of its kind in the world. The Honey and Pollination Center is pleased to be working with:
The Department is world renowned for its quality research, education and public service. Globally, it is ranked No. 7 by The Times Higher Educational World University Rankings. The UC Davis Bee Lab is home to world class research and extension programs supporting California’s beekeepers and growers, students, colleagues and the people of California. Programs include integrative research on honey bee and wild bee health, management, behavior, genetics, microbiology, ecology and conservation, as well as pollination of wild and crop systems. Members bring together collaborative teams to address pressing issues and longstanding challenges for bees and pollination.
The California Master Beekeeper Program was established in 2016 in response to the ever-increasing numbers of California beekeepers. The program uses science based information to educate stewards and ambassadors for honey bees and beekeeping. Then this program is perfect for you! The mission of the California Master Beekeeper Program is to provide science-based education to future stewards and ambassadors for honey bees and beekeeping.
The Viticulture and Enology department combines the sciences of viticulture and enology in a single research and teaching unit that encompasses all of the scientific disciplines that impact grape growing and winemaking. The LEED Platinum Teaching and Research Winery, made possible by a gift from Robert Mondavi, is the most advanced and most sustainable winery in the world. Currently the department is collaborating with the center doing mead research.
The Department of Food Science & Technology is internationally recognized to make food safer, tastier, and healthier for consumers. Currently the department is collaborating with the center researching varietal honeys, analyzing nutrients and evaluating sensory attributes.


NOURISHES & TONES
Satureja, also called "Donkey Pepper" in French.
Rich in rosmaniric acid (antioxidants) helping to restore and protect your skin barrier against external aggressions (cold, pollution, stress,...).
The Savory is cultivated by a local producer in France. This extract is made with a first cold-pressed carrier oil used as a solvent to extract the properties of the plant.
Cistus ladaniferus, recommended by Charlemagne's royal domains for its aromatic properties.
Rich in monoterpenes helping to regenerate your skin tissue.
The Cistus Ladanifer is cultivated by a local producer in France. This extract is made with a first cold-pressed carrier oil used as a solvent to extract the properties of the plant.
Camelina sativa, cultivated in Europe since more than 3000 years.
Rich in fatty acids (omega 3), vitamin E and antioxidants helping to calm and protect your skin.
The Camelina is cultivated in France. Its seeds are slowly cold-pressed to extract the oil and preserve the high quality of its active ingredients.
INCI: camelina sativa seed oil*, satureja montana extract*, cistus ladaniferus leaf extract*, cera alba*, anthemis nobilis flower oil*, rosmarinus officinalis extract*, helianthus annuus seed oil*, limonene*
*From organic farming
Nature & Progrès certified
Fabriqué par GAEC Plantes des Cévennes, 48110 Les cambous, titulaire de la mention Nature & Progrès


2019’s featured plants are snapdragon, pumpkin, Salvia nemorosa and dahlia.
Each year National Garden Bureau (NGB), the non-profit organization that promotes gardening on behalf of the horticulture industry and its members, encourages the use of selected plants for its “Year of the” program.
For 2019, they are:
• Annuals: Year of the Snapdragon: A nostalgic plant that has been updated for today’s garden.
• Vegetables/edibles: Year of the Pumpkin: A wide variety of sizes, shape and colors make this a very fun class to promote!
• Perennials: Year of the Salvia nemorosa: Commonly known as Woodland Sage and is a great food source for pollinators.
• Bulbs: Year of the Dahlia: Highlighted in cooperation with the American Dahlia Society, a respected organization that helped make the NGB dahlia photo library the most extensive in “Year of” history!
Promotional marketing materials for the four 2019 “Year of the” classes are now available on the National Garden Bureau’s website.


Remember our first session this past season, "Super Wheat" with USDA wheat geneticist, Cheryl Baker? Remember she brought little vials of wheat for us to look at and taste?
I got an email from the Slavens family a while back. They said, "Thank you for giving us the wheat. We planted it and look how much it has grown! Thank you lots! :)"
Recently I received this update: "We have harvested the wheat and hope to get it cleaned, the old fashioned way, with a sheet and some breeze. Our goal is to eventually make some bread! Wish us luck!"
Is that cool, or what? Good luck to you, and let us know how it goes with the bread!


We, group of companies "NMGK" care for our relations with our partners - producers of agricultural products and we are always open to new opportunities for interaction. Our goal is a long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation with regional producers of grains and oilseeds.
Advantages of cooperation with "NMGK"
- Stability: If you cooperate with us, you choose reliable, proven partners. The guarantee of this is the history of purchasing growth of the Group, the success of GK “NMGK” products in the market and our aim to establish long-term relationships with raw materials suppliers;
- Honesty in the receipt of agricultural products: automated control systems, modern equipment allows us to accurately and objectively determine the quantity and quality of raw materials;
- Quality of acceptance, storage, handling and shipment services: we are constantly improving material and technical base of plant facilities, and we also closely monitor the quality of operations at all the stages.
- Efficiency: We understand the importance of well-coordinated fast work in the height of the season - that's why we tend to promptly accept and pay for raw materials;
- Flexibility: we tend to maintain good-neighborly relationships with the suppliers. Therefore, we are always ready for discussions and resolutions of various issues and problems. If you have questions about selling of raw materials and elevator services, please contact the head of the facility in your region.