Living in the Environment
A food desert is an urban area where people have little or no easy access to nutritious food without traveling long distances. In the United States, an estimated 23.5 million people, including 6.5 million children, live in such areas, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People living in these urban neighborhoods tend to rely on convenience stores and fast food restaurants that mainly offer high-calorie, highly processed foods that can lead to higher risks of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Will Allen (Figure 12-1), one of six children of a sharecropper, grew up on a farm in Maryland, but left the farming life for college and a professional basketball career, followed by a successful corporate marketing career. In 1993, Allen had decided to return to his roots, and he bought the last working farm within the city limits of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was to become a food oasis in a food desert.
On this small urban plot, Allen developed Growing Power, Inc., an ecologically based farm and a showcase for forms of agriculture that apply all three scientific principles of sustainability. It is powered partly by solar electric and solar hot water systems and makes use of several greenhouses to capture solar energy for growing food throughout the year. The farm produces an amazing diversity of crops—150 varieties of vegetables along with organic herbs and sunflowers. It also produces chickens, turkeys, goats, fish such as tilapia and perch, and honey- bees. And the farm’s nutrients are recycled in creative ways. For example, wastes from the farmed fish are used as nutrients to raise some of the crops.
The farm’s products are sold locally at Growing Power farm stands throughout the region and to various restaurants. Allen also worked with the city to establish the Farm-to-City Market Basket program through which people can sign up for weekly deliveries of organic produce at modest prices.
In addition, Growing Power runs an education program for school children who visit the farm to learn about where their food comes from. Allen also runs a training program for about 1,000 people every year who want to learn organic farming methods. In 2011, the farm partnered with the city of Milwaukee to create 150 new green jobs for unemployed, low-income workers, building greenhouses and growing food organically. Growing Power has expanded, locating another urban farm in a neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, and setting up satellite training sites in five other states.
For his creative and energetic efforts, Allen has won several prestigious awards, including a MacArthur Fellowship. However, he is most proud of the fact that his urban farm helps to feed more than 10,000 people every year and puts people to work raising good food.
In this chapter we look at different ways to produce food, the environmental effects of food production, and how to produce food more sustainably.


Serving the finest matcha from the shade-grown farms of Kyoto, Japan
Stonemill Matcha is sourced from Kyoto, the birthplace of matcha
Over 800 years ago, a monk carried the seeds of the green tea plant from China to be cultivated and transformed in Japanese soil. Our matcha is sourced from farmers who continue the tradition on that same soil.
Our matcha is curated by a master blender from a traditional teahouse in Kyoto
Each year, tea leaves produce their own flavors distinct from the generation before them. Only a master’s hand can develop a perfect blend from an array of the finest leaves.
Matcha selected from the youngest, most tender leaves
Attention to every detail
From harvesting to packaging and brewing, we give attention to every detail so that the vibrant color, Umami-rich flavor and nutrition is preserved at its best.
Various health benefits
You will immediately experience the energized calm of green tea as your body absorbs the long-term benefits of antioxidants and vitamins. L-Theanine and catechin are unique to green tea and especially abundant in our Matcha because we are true to the authentic method of growing Tencha leaves. All these nutrients can be consumed at once in a soothing bowl of matcha.
Relaxed and focused
Although matcha has caffeine content equivalent to that of a coffee, L-theanine helps you to be relaxed and focused without the jittery feel. Because of these qualities, matcha was ritualistically used before meditation practices by Zen monks from ancient times.


Beautiful Plants For Your Interior
Beautiful Plants For Your Interior
Fixed wing and multi-copter drones are the two types of drones used in agriculture.
Fixed-wing drones are more durable than multi-copter drones; they can resist extreme weather conditions and typically have longer flight times.
Fixed-wing drones require a big takeoff and landing space due to their design, which makes them more expensive.
Compared to fixed-wing drones, multi-copter drones are significantly more adaptable, simpler to fly, and considerably less expensive.
Multi-copter drones can be utilized for precision insecticide, fertilizer, and even seeds spraying in addition to photogrammetry because of their unique design.
For farmers and agronomists, the DJI Phantom 4 Multispectral drone is an effective tool.
The multispectral sensor enables you to monitor nutrient levels, identify soil moisture, and more to learn more about the health of crops.
Farmers will be able to more precisely monitor plant growth and check crop health with the use of the DJI Phantom 4 Multispectral drone.
The visible and near-infrared light, which are generally filtered out by conventional cameras that only collect red, green, and blue wavelengths, can be captured by the DJI Phantom 4 Multispectral Drone.
Farmers will now be able to use this technology for activities like monitoring plant stress or recognizing insect infestations early on so they can make adjustments in the growing process accordingly. This camera is reported to provide a much sharper picture of crops.
Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology is used by the DJI Phantom 4 RTK drone.
Precision farming and mapping applications are both possible with this kind of location.
The drone can fly for up to 30 minutes, has a 7-kilometer operational range, and can take 20MP photos.
It’s an excellent drone for mapping and 3D modeling farmland since it can deliver centimeter-level accuracy, which is useful for plant counting, crop height and density measurement, and crop health inspection.
Due to its numerous payload capacities and RTK system, which enables users to take incredibly detailed photos for precise maps and 3D models, the Matrice 300 RTK is appropriate for a wide range of sectors.
It boasts a sturdy construction that enables it to be flown in adverse weather situations, powerful AI capabilities, 6-directional obstacle detecting and avoidance, and an advanced health management system. It also has an industry-leading flight length of 55 minutes.
The drone is appropriate for mapping vast farms because to its extraordinarily long flight time, and thanks to its numerous payload possibilities, including those from third-party manufacturers, users will be able to take pictures for orthomosaic, thermal, and multispectral maps.
The eBee AG is one of the top fixed-wing drones created exclusively for mapping farms and is quite similar to the eBee X, which is the top all-around drone from SenseFly.
The eBee AG can go over 300 acres of land in a single flight and has a flight time of about 45 minutes.
A dual camera system consisting of an RGB and multi-spectral camera is included.
Because of its RTK mechanism, the RGB camera can produce centimeter-accurate orthomosaic maps from high-quality photos.
The visual data that multi-spectral cameras collect at various wave lengths will highlight any crop difficulties and show whether there are any pest infestation, disease, or irrigation issues.
This drone is the company’s flagship and is appropriate for a variety of industries, including agriculture because it works with a variety of cameras.
Its rugged construction makes it appropriate for usage in a variety of circumstances, and its PPK/RTK technology enables it to deliver aerial photos with survey-grade precision.
It can fly for up to 90 minutes and has a 59-minute flight period, which enables users to cover almost 500 hectares of ground.
This hybrid drone combines the greatest features of multi-copter and fixed-wing drones; it has a multi-copter-like fixed-wing design but also has VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) capabilities.
One of the greatest mapping drones on the market, this drone has a 55-minute flying time and can map hundreds of acres of land with sub-centimeter precision. Here is a short sample of drones used for crop spraying.
One of the newest crop spraying drones, the DJI Agras T30, has an enormous 30 liter tank, a tough build that can withstand flying in adverse weather conditions thanks to its IP67 classification, and it can spray up to 40 acres in an hour.
It has 16 nozzles with a 9-meter spray range and an optimized plunger that can pump out 8 litters each minute.
The drone boasts an innovative spherical radar system for safer flying as well as front and back FPV cameras for better visibility.
This drone was created specifically for spraying crops.
It has a 20L capacity and a 15-minute maximum flight time (depending on the load).
It has an improved spraying mechanism, 8 nozzles, and a spray width of 7 meters. It can cover 12 hectares in an hour.
The drone can be used for fertilizing, seeding, and spraying.
It includes an advanced obstacle avoidance technology for safer flying and was designed to fly in extreme weather conditions. It can also be used during the day or night.
Farmers will be able to adjust the drone’s autonomous flight modes with centimeter-level accuracy using the RTK dongle on the remote controller and the built-in RTK technology, which allows for centimeter-level accuracy.
Similar to the T20, but with a 16-liter cargo capacity, 10 hectares of ground may be covered in an hour, RTK GNSS technology, and a sophisticated obstacle avoidance system.
There are a few additional crop-saving drones made by DJI, but they are exclusively sold by authorized resellers.
These drones are the DJI Agras MG-1P and MG-1S, which offer an obstacle avoidance system, autonomous flight modes, and a 10 liter.
So do you want to know more about agricultural drones? visit our list of best drones for agriculture here


During one particular project, the manufacturer was building 2 biogas digester systems at two separate dairy farms in upstate N.Y. Unfortunately, the projects were both in full swing through the winter months and the frigid temperatures that accompany them. These low temperatures represented a big issue, as the manure digesters only produce biogas when the nearly 2 million gallons of manure is kept at 100 degrees Fahrenheit - this allows the enclosed microorganisms to digest the manure and produce their biogas.
In a fully functioning digester, this heat is generated by the CHP unit (combined heat and power) - a 600 KW generator that uses the produced biogas to provide heat to the digester through a heating loop. More importantly however, the CHP unit also produces electricity that the dairy farms can use and then sell back any excess to the grid.
This crucial CHP unit is typically the last component to be completed in the construction of the digester system, meaning both projects found themselves with an immediate solution to power their digester’s heating and electrical operations.


- Author : Nadia Higgins
- Release Date : 01 August 2017
- Publisher : Lerner Publications ™
- Genre : Juvenile Nonfiction
- Pages : 32
- ISBN 13 : 9781541509467
Experiment with What a Plant Needs to Grow Book Summary
Sunlight, air, water, and minerals help keep plants alive. But do you know how much water is needed for a seed to sprout? Or what a plant will do to find the light it needs? Let's experiment to find out! Simple step-by-step instructions help readers explore key science concepts.


At the virtual Cocoa of Excellence 2021 Awards ceremony on 16 December 2021, in Italy, the Roods and Perches sample (Commercial Sample No. 1120201701 – CoEx Sample Code: 353/21), received a Silver Award, one of two silver awards presented to producers from Trinidad and Tobago.
The 2021 Edition of the Cocoa of Excellence Awards recognised 16 Gold, 17 Silver, and 17 Bronze awardees in the four global cocoa- producing regions of the world. C
Check out our local and international winners here
COCOA OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Fifty-three (53) cocoa producing regions participated in the 2021 Edition of the Cocoa of Excellence Awards.
Two hundred and thirty-five (235) cocoa bean samples were received, assigned a blind code, and evaluated.
Of these, two hundred and thirty-four) 234 cocoa bean samples were processed into cocoa liquor and evaluated blindly by the eleven members of the Cocoa of Excellence Technical Committee, a panel of international experts in sensory evaluation.
From the liquor evaluation, the Best 50 high quality cocoa samples were selected to represent the four global cocoa-producing regions.
Trinidad and Tobago is in the Central America and Caribbean Region.
The sample from Roods and Perches was among the Best 50 high quality liquor samples.
The liquor samples were then processed into a dark chocolate, tempered, and molded. The Best 50 samples were evaluated blindly by the Cocoa of Excellence Technical Committee and a larger panel of 39 experts and professional chocolate makers.
The Cocoa of Excellence Programme was started in 2009, by the Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), to recognise cocoa quality and flavour diversity in the production of cocoa.
The Cocoa of Excellence Award is a global competition to recognise the work of cocoa farmers and celebrate the diversity of cocoa flavours across the different cocoa producing regions of the world.
To participate in the competition, cocoa farmers have to submit a sample of 5kgs of well-prepared, fermented, and dried beans to their local National Organizing Committee (NOC).
In Trinidad and Tobago, the NOC is the Cocoa Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (CDCTTL).
The bean sample is evaluated locally for physical, whole, and cut bean sensory qualities.
The Roods and Perches sample received 2nd place in the local leg of the competition and was selected to represent T&T at the international competition in Italy.


Blogger's Note: This blogger had their first Sugarcane at the Old Farmer's Day festival at around age eight. The outside looks of the rugged stalks belied the juicy delicious syrup contained within. This time of year is Sugarcane harvesting time in Southern Louisiana, let's take a moment to "stop and taste the sugar".
(Above): Cut stalks of Sugarcane from the harvest.
From the LSUAg Center website:
"Sugarcane has been an integral part of the south Louisiana economy and culture for more than 200 years. When Jesuit priests first brought sugarcane into south Louisiana in 1751, little did they know that the foundation was being laid for an industry that now contributes $2 billion to the Louisiana economy.
The first successful sugar crop used to produce raw sugar was that of Etienne de Bore. In 1795, de Bore succeeded in making sugar that was valued at $12,000. A thriving sugar industry soon replaced the cultivation of indigo in Louisiana. The first sugarcane varieties grown in Louisiana were 'Creole,' from which Etienne De Bore first granulated sugar, 'Otaheite,' and later 'Louisiana Striped,' 'Louisiana Purple' and 'D74.' These varieties were called the 'Noble' canes and were characterized by a large stalk diameter, low fiber content and a sucrose content satisfactory for sugar production under Louisiana conditions.
Today, Louisiana sugarcane yields range from 30 to 50 tons per acre, with recoveries ranging from 180 to 240 pounds of sugar produced from each ton of cane. These sugar levels rival yields obtained in the more tropical sugarcane-growing regions. That's why sugar continues to be a major part of the south Louisiana economy."
How to Eat Sugar Cane
From the WikiHow website:
Step 1 Take out a sharp knife and a cutting board.
Step 2 Cut the stalk into sections between the segments, as the end of each segment is woody and not edible.
Step 3 Start from the top and slowly and carefully cut into it and slice down to the bottom to remove the outer, woody layer.
Step 4 If you look in the middle of it, you will see the fibrous veins; that is where the sweet sugar sap will be.
Dig into it and pull some of the fibrous material out.
Step 5 Chew it like gum to squeeze out the sugary sap. Spit out the fiber after it is no longer sweet.
Enjoy! Sugarcane has been a tasty treat for generations of children throughout the South.


Poster Session 4, Thursday, October 6, 11:00–12:40
Developing optical methods for seaweed biomass estimation and biofouling growth in cultivated kelp farms
Cultivated macroalgae (seaweed) is considered one of the largest under-exploited sustainable global biomass resources, for both food and energy, and a growing industry with great potential in Europe. As kelp farms continue to expand, autonomous methods for monitoring of growth, biomass and biofouling become increasingly important. This project (MoniTARE) aims to develop an open source, optical and imaging method where, in the future, seaweed farmers can apply this technology themselves to decide when to harvest to maximize high quality biomass. Growth of the sugar kelp, Saccharina latissima, was monitored during slack tide and once every two weeks from February to June 2022 in a commercial kelp farm located in the coast of mid-Norway. For seaweed length and biomass estimation, a built-in Full HD camera, in addition to GoPro stereo-cameras, were mounted on the Blueye – a mini, portable and affordable remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Several methods were used for accurate lamina length estimations and were compared to manual measurements of size. Our results are an initial step towards autonomous identification and quantification of kelp biomass using computer vision and artificial intelligence. These findings are a first step towards revolutionizing biomass monitoring in the seaweed aquaculture industry, with the potential to influence decision-making regarding management and optimization of cultivation at sea.
Martin Overrein, NTNU, [email protected]
David Aldridge, Seaweed Solutions, [email protected]
Geir Johnsen, NTNU, [email protected]


Featured Golf News
TPC at Deere Run Opens May 1
The Tournament Players Course at Deere Run in Davenport, Iowa, has reopened. The course officially debuted last year, and hosted a PGA Tour event, the John Deere Classic in July. But an unseasonably hot and humid September caused problems with the greens and a premature closure of the course.
Those kinds of weather problems should be a thing of the past, as efforts were made in the offseason to weather-proof the young course, a co-design of Chris Gray and D.A. Weibring. Selected trees were removed to allow more sunlight, while limbs and underbrush were cleared to enhance air flow. Also, an expensive sub-air cooling system was installed to keep the greens cool in hot weather.
The TPC at Deere Run is a semiprivate facility that allows public play. Reservations can be made by calling toll-free at 877/872-3677 or 309/796-6000 ext. 110.


#KHAAD (100% Organic Compost) by Alico Waste Experts can be used as a soil conditioner, can be added to existing soil to build health and is particularly useful in poor or nutrient depleted soil.
This high quality organic compost creates stronger and healthier root, plant growth and adds the fertility most gardens need as it:
- Increases organic carbon in the soil
- Improves aeration and water infiltration
- Increases nutrient uptake by plant roots
- Improves plant resilience against disease and during extreme conditions
- Helps keep soil temperatures more constant – cooler in summer and warmer at night
- Contains organic green waste compost.
- Encourages the presence of beneficial soil micro-organisms for soil fertility
· Improves Soil Biology
· Apply 1 to 4 cu ft per 100 sq ft (layer on top of the soil) depending on soil fertility. Incorporate into the top 2"- 4" of soil by raking, tilling or digging.


Guasch-Jané M.R. (2019) Grape Archaeology and Ancient DNA Sequencing. In: Cantu D., Walker M. (eds) The Grape Genome. Compendium of Plant Genomes. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-18601-2_4
Abstract The cultivation and domestication of the grape appears to have occurred between 7000 and 4000 BC. The archaeological and historical evidences suggest that the domestication of the grapevine took place in the Near East. Nevertheless, whether a single origin or secondary independent grapevine domestications occurred and where they happened remains so far unanswered. Wine has had an important role in religious rituals since Antiquity. In mythology and theology, wine was symbolic of the power to revitalize and rebirth. In Ancient Egypt, wine was daily served to the gods by the Pharaoh and the priests in ritual ceremonies in the Egyptian temples. In daily life, wine was an enjoyable drink consumed by the elite in festivals, banquets and funerals. Further, the grape was one of the most important fruits in the Classical Mediterranean civilizations and grapevines and the wine were widely spread through trade sea routes. This chapter presents an overview of the archaeological evidence for wine culture in the ancient Near East, Egypt and the Mediterranean region. It also presents a discussion of the chemical and morphological research methods and paleogenomic analyses and discussion that have been applied to ancient grape and plant material.
Keywords: Ancient DNA, Amphora, DNA preservation, Grape domestication, Wine archaeology.


Our olives are grown and hand-harvested from our single estate in Sicily, Italy
Our Family-Owned Estate Olive Oil
Santo Stefano® Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is made from olives grown and harvested by hand from our single estate in Santo Stefano Quisquina, AG, Sicily, Italy.
Only olives from Santo Stefano Quisquina’s family-owned, century-old olive groves are used to create Santo Stefano® Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Our estate follows time-honored and tested processes, allowing them to consistently produce some of the finest olive oil to be found.
Since its foundation nearly 150 years ago in SANTO STEFANO QUISQUINA AG, Sicily Italy, both BIVONA® and SANTO STEFANO® Extra Virgin Olive Oils have become the epitome of a passionate love affair with nature, exquisite taste, and old-fashioned authenticity passed from generation to generation.
Dedicated to making only the finest Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, LA CUCINA ITALIANA LLC (our Italian Kitchen) provides estate olive oil cultivated and nurtured in our natural and organic environment, combined with production and packaging techniques that produce the purity, quintessence, and holistic value.
Each of our gourmet olive oils is crafted from our meticulous selection of hand-harvested olives using the combination of traditional stone mill pressing methods with state-of-the-art technology.
The size of SANTO STEFANO QUISQUINA AG's olive grove makes it possible to do everything by hand from pruning and irrigation to picking, crushing, and bottling, all of which contribute to the production of our finest quality olive oil. With our smaller scale production, there is less room for errors and a lot more room for the integrity of the product - a commitment that permeates the soil, the trees, the blushing olive fruit, and ultimately the quality that defines BIVONA® & SANTO STEFANO®'s organic extra virgin olive oil.
Intense golden yellow with light green hues, with a fruity smell and hints of almond flavor and a sweet aftertaste, BIVONA® & SANTO STEFANO® organic extra virgin olive oils are made from Biancolilla, Nocellara del Belice, and Cerasuola olives, grown on the farm of Santo Stefano Quisquina AG. and the neighboring town of Bivona - the names we've dedicated these finest olive oils.
The olives are harvested between late October to late November, when not quite ripe, which accounts for its intense fruity flavor and balanced aroma.
In an effort to maintain the tradition of olive oil production, our harvesting is done by hand which reduces the damage to the olives during the process and ensures low acidity levels. For optimal quality, our olives are cleaned and cold-pressed in a traditional way within 24 hours of harvesting.
After being pressed, our oil is kept in the dark in closed containers, at a cool temperature around 14-18 C, away from direct heat and light. During the bottling process, each bottle is filled and labeled with pride that symbolizes the passionate connection with the art of olive oil and the pride of a land rich with nostalgic traditions.
Known for producing the highest quality olive oil, LA CUCINA ITALIANA LLC's oil-fueled gastronomy has earned a respectable reputation in the region, thus becoming the main supplier of organic olive oil for local consumers proud to be a part of the pastoral culture in this traditional heartland of olive oil.
Our exquisite olive oils are produced by the Cicarello family on their estate in Santo Stefano AG, Sicily, from 150-year-old olive trees. Pressed within 24 hours of hand picking, our distinctive blend of Sicilian olives brims with the flavor and aroma of green grass and almonds.
We guarantee our finest quality and the most fragrant Organic EVOO is perfect to satisfy an avid gourmet foodie and novice alike.
Essential for any fresh olive oil lover’s pantry, SANTO STEFANO® & BIVONA® versatile olive oils create a complex depth of flavor in salads, pasta, grilled foods, and more.
Chefs Worldwide Demand High Quality Olive Oil
Santo Stefano® Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is crafted from our exclusive and select blend of Biancolilla, Nocellara del Belice, and Cerasuola olive varieties, and harvested at the zenith of their ripeness, October and November.
This traditional practice and attention to detail yields an authentic Sicilian unfiltered extra virgin olive oil with a clear, vibrant golden-green color, permeating a harmony of sweet, bitter, and spicy elements.
Santo Stefano’s sweet aroma and distinct flavor enhances, but never masks, all food types.
Our Organic EVOO exceeds all quality benchmarks for our Santo Stefano® olive oil products.


Rainwater Harvesting Systems is an important system and had been in used since many centuries through the world. In industrialized countries, rainwater harvesting systems have been developed for the purpose of reducing water bills, watering crops, or providing drinking water. In many countries where there is a shortage of clean water, rain water is the main source for providing water for both drinking and for cultivating crops. In these countries, rain water are collected from trees and houses using leaves or stems. The more advance countries use sophisticated filtration and catchment tanks. Harvesting rainwater is growing in usage once more due to diminishing resources and an ever growing population.
One of the easiest way to store rain water is the use of rain barrels. These barrels can hold up to 55 gallons of water which can be used for gardening. There are various types of rain barrels available in UK, You need to buy according to your need. We will be discussing in details about rain barrel later in this article.
Benefits of rain water harvesting
The harvested rainwater can be used for potable purposes. It can be used for people and animals (usually livestock). Often it is used for watering gardens and food crops. The surplus water, after usage, can be used for recharging ground water aquifer through artificial recharge techniques. This can also result in improving the quality of the ground water, e.g. less fluoride content in the ground water.
When captured and stored correctly, rainwater is an economical and sustainable source of water. Although close to three fourths of our planet is made of water, not all of it is suitable for use. Most rural households have to source all their water on their property, and rainwater often provides a better quality household supply than river, bore or dam water. By creating a rain garden, you can help protect the watershed from storm water pollution and you get to enjoy the beauty of a low-maintenance garden filled with native plants. Compared to mains water – which is stored in dams and treated with chemicals – rainwater is considered to be a safer, higher quality and more cost-effective alternative.
- The water in the oceans and seas cannot be used as drinking water and little of it can be utilized for other purposes.
- Rainwater harvesting is not just for rural areas though.
- Safe drinking water from local drinking water systems or private wells originates in ground water, streams, rivers, springs or lakes – this is called a watershed.
- Installing a rainwater harvesting system is a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to water recycling on its own.
- As a result, there is a constant shortage of water that is either good for drinking or home and industrial use.
- Although urban households may be connected to a reticulated, treated (mains) water supply, rainwater harvesting can significantly lower mains water usage. t is important to note that only those properties fitted with a water meter will benefit financially from rainwater collection systems.
Protection of all water sources in the watershed requires the combined efforts of municipalities, water systems managers, conservation agencies, farmers and individuals. These days, many companies even consider integrating rainwater harvesting systems from the planning stages of their new site, rather than leaving it as an afterthought. Areas on the planet that have long faced water shortage were able to combat this problem by harvesting what little rain water they received. Those who do not have a meter and pay a flat rate for water will not see much in the way of financial return, as the amount of drinking water saved will make no difference to the eventual bill (though the ecological effect is still sizeable). More and more people are starting to turn to a metered water provision, even if they have a large family.
Rainwater Harvesting systems can capture the natural rain fall for later use. When harvesting rainwater in this way, the water that you’ll be left with will be relatively pure and free from toxins and minerals. Due to a range of factors which include increased infrastructure costs, unpredictable weather patterns and increased consumption across the country; water bills are rising and are likely to continue to do so for quite some time. Being on a meter can save a large amount if your initial water usage is low (in some cases halving the bill) but it can also prompt you to be more conscious of recycling and not taking this valuable asset for granted. The storm water retention systems divert water from roofs or a matrix of pipes into underground rainwater tanks before they ever become contaminated by the earth or any chemicals placed there by the water companies.
You can then use it for sprinklers in your garden, for watering your home-grown vegetable patch, for filling up your pond, for washing your car and for a lot of other related household chores that require water. In addition to increased water costs, many homes & businesses are looking to become greener, more efficient and more self reliant and look towards these technologies as sound investments. Of course, there could be some natural contaminants from rooftops or even birds and insects but Rainwater Harvesting systems are developed to manage this effectively. Rainwater Harvesting is one of the quickest and easiest ways for you reduce water consumption and become more efficient.
Rain water and gardening
Gardeners can play a key role in conserving freshwater by harvesting rainwater. Determining how much water your roof collects can involve lots of complex calculations. Stored rainwater contains some organic matter. During the summer, much of our potable water is used outdoors. In addition to reducing demand on our water supplies—especially important during drought and summer (when 40 percent of all water is used outdoors)—rainwater harvesting reduces water pollution.
- But all you really need to do is figure how much water your garden will need and if your roof can collect that much.
- If collected from your rooftop, rainwater contains traces of organic material.
- We fill our pools, wash our cars and water our lawns and gardens.
- In a rainstorm, oil, pesticides, animal waste, and fertilizers from our lawns, sidewalks, driveways, and streets are washed into sewers that often overflow into rivers and estuaries, contaminating fish and other wildlife.
- The gardener who’s going to irrigate a large vegetable patch in the desert Southwest will need a lot more water than the one dousing a few container plants on a patio in the Midwest.
- While the water is very clean and should run clear, it has been exposed to anything on your roof.
This water must be chemically treated to make it safe for drinking. which is great for you, but not necessarily great for your plants. The most common tank materials are plastic (polyethylene), concrete, and coated steel. The rule of thumb is the average 25 foot by 40 foot home roof sheds about 600 gallons of water in an hour of moderate rainfall, around 1 inch. We’re not talking about chunks (these get pre-filtered out on their way into properly-designed rain barrels)–we’re just talking about contact exposure to leaf litter, pollen, bird droppings and the like (which perhaps not surprisingly are great for your plants). A rain barrel hosts a beneficial biology to keep the water alive – literally.
Collecting rainwater for gardening can eliminate many of these chemical salts and harmful minerals from your soil. The type of material you select depends on your budget, the size of tank, water use and whether the tank will be sited above or below ground. If you have two downspouts, they’ll each divert about 300 gallons of water toward the barrel under them. It’s like a light application of fertilizer every time you water. Rainwater is naturally soft. Modern steel tanks have a long life polymer coating on the inside and a wide range of shapes and sizes are available. The more barrels you have, the more of this water you can collect. Fresh, treated mains water isn’t all that great for the environment – or the garden. The less water used from your local treatment facility, the fewer chemicals they have to use and the less money they have to spend on those chemicals. Domestic wastewater (known as ‘grey water’) may also be used in the garden. There are a range of slim-line designs suitable for urban sections available.
Even many experienced gardeners have trouble comprehending just how much water soil can hold. For a start it has to be extracted from somewhere. This may be from the kitchen, the washing machine or baths, basins and showers. ‘Black water’ from WCs should always be consigned to the sewerage system and never used in the garden. Concrete tanks are strong and can be sited below the ground. Except in areas with consistently high rainfall, your garden soil’s moisture level will seldom be at “field capacity.” That’s the term scientists use to describe the maximum amount of water a soil can hold.
Then it has to be purified then stored, before finally being pumped into our homes. Water from septic tanks is best not used either. Plastic is tough, durable and relatively lightweight, and – like steel – there are a wide range of sizes and shapes suitable for urban environments. When it rains or when we irrigate, gravity pulls the water down into the soil. This requires (a) a lot of energy and (b) an inordinate volume of chemicals to treat the water. Household soaps and detergents are harmless to plants, but water containing bleaches, disinfectants, dishwasher salt and stronger cleaning products should not be used, as they can harm plants and even damage soil structure if used long-term on soil.
After a heavy rain, some of the water may move all the way down to the water table or the bedrock, but a large amount of it is held by capillary forces that cause water to coat each soil particle and partially fill the spaces between particles. Extracting and storing this water often disrupts natural ecosystems and/or lowers water tables, which in turn can threaten fertile farmland. And when it does finally get to us, our fruits and vegetables don’t much care for it, preferring instead the natural balance and purity of highly oxygenated rainwater.
Why use Rain Barrels and buying guide
A rain barrel is essentially a large tank with a spigot that sits under your home’s gutter downspout to harvest rainwater from your roof. Winterize your rain barrel system when temperatures are below 41-deg. The simplest rain barrel setup requires a storage tank (water barrel), a secure lid, a basket strainer or screen, and a spigot or drain valve. The amount of water you harvest from your roof depends on how many barrels you use. You can make one for just a few dollars, or you can purchase a basic model for around $50 to $100.
- Water flows off of the roof into the gutter, then enters the downspout and pours through the basket strainer attached to the lid of the barrel.
- In a perfect example, with wooden rain barrels under all of your downspouts to harvest all of the runoff from your roof, 1 inch of rain (on a 1,000-sq.-ft. roof) can yield approximately 600 gallons of water.
- A more decorative model will cost upwards of $300.
- By completely draining the barrel.
Rainwater can be retrieved directly from the spigot at the bottom of the barrel, or a hose can be attached by which the water can be directed to the desired location. Since there can be issues such as gutter leaks or clogs, subtract about 20 percent of that total for a more accurate total (approx. 480 gallons). You can also look up you area’s average monthly rainfall and using the square footage of your roof, determine your potential amount of harvested rain water. Rain barrels come in all sorts of materials, from durable stainless steel to fiberglass and recycled plastic, so let personal preference be your guide. If storing outside, be sure to turn the barrel upside down and place a heavy object on top to keep it from blowing away. You’ll find something to match every design motif, from sleek and contoured modern vessels to classic terra cotta urns and rustic faux wooden barrels.
Retrieving your water can be done with a spigot, electric or manual pump. Some retailers even sell rain barrels made from old whiskey or wine barrels, probably a more sustainable choice, saving materials from ending up in a landfill. Emptied rain barrels can also be stored in a shed, garage or basement during the winter months. If you’re trying to keep a low profile, consider a rain barrel disguised as a rock, or even a rain barrel disguised as a brick wall. Most tanks are equipped with a regular garden spigot at the bottom of the tank that can be hooked up to a garden hose.
A barrel full of rain may be good for your garden, but dangerous for a small child or the family pet. Rain barrels are for water collection and outdoor use only. There’s something for everyone, and the sky is the limit with the new designs that have been hitting the market for the past several years. If you have a larger barrel of system, a pump can be used to retrieve the water. Check your barrel for specific design elements that prevent it from tipping over. Rainwater harvested from roofs can contain animal and bird feces, windblown dust, pesticides and particles from pollution making it unsuitable for drinking. Since hand pumps need to be worked manually, electric pumps are easier to use but are more expensive. For example, many barrels come with a flat back so it can be attached to the side of the house or a fence. No other uses are recommended.
Protect your home’s siding with a sheet of wood inserted between the downspout and the siding to prevent damage. In order to find the best rain barrel to suit your needs, you’ll need to consider several factors – the amount of water you can harvest, your intended use for the water, the materials used for the barrel, the area where your barrel will be installed, and more. We’ve laid out all of the most important factors in the rain barrel buying guide below, along with some general guidelines to help you narrow down your choices.


The postage stamp size garden I am endeavouring to maintain with far too little water has yielded great pleasure in terms of colour. Especially pleasing are the Namaqualand / African daisies. I planted a packet of out-of-date seeds in the bare, dry ground with great faith and have watched them anxiously from the first tiny shoots to the orange and yellow flowers that open with the sun and wave merrily in the breezes.
Growing plants from seeds in a drought is a risky affair and so I caved in once our local nursery opened and bought calendula seedlings. These have survived being chomped by several locusts to produce pretty blooms, such as this one.
The miniature marigolds were also purchased as seedlings, but very few have survived the onslaught of snails.
This Van Stadens River Daisy (Dimorphotheca ecklonis) originates from plants my late mother grew on our farm in the now Mpumalanga.
To my considerable joy, several self-sown cosmos have grown up from last year’s crop.
A very strange thing I have discovered since the COVID-19 lockdown began is that there are no flower seeds for sale in the supermarkets. At first they weren’t allowed to sell any seeds (don’t ask) and now only have vegetable seeds on offer!
Bees have been very scarce in our garden for a while now. I am thus concerned that the few flowers we have enjoyed this winter have fallen foul of the lack of pollinators.
BUT WE HAVE THESE:
While looking at the stunted, yet very pretty, self-sown cosmos I noticed it being visited by this insect:
A much closer view reveals it to look like this:
It moved to the next flower and was joined by this one:
Both have a long proboscis. There are a lot of ordinary flies about too, so I realise I need to stop thinking about bees, butterflies, moths and beetles being the only pollinators – nature makes sure there is a variety.
The winter cold is associated with the end of a vibrant life cycle and a period of dormancy as shown by these leaves and the dead dahlia head:
Most of our trees are evergreen, as are the euphorbias and aloes:
The aloe flowers are both beautiful and provide important nutrition during this harsh season.
Blackjack seeds abound, just waiting to be dispersed.
While self-sown cosmos make a brave start.
It is Lockdown Day 34: this means that it is over a month since we have been able to go outside of our gardens (thankfully I have a garden!) and go for a walk. During the course of the month the cheering array of cosmos flowers dancing in the breezes have dwindled to the last few; the tall stems have fallen over; and soon there will be none left. The last few continue to be visited by bees and so I show you one of the last ‘action’ cosmos and its visitor:
We all know that pollination takes place when a bee carries pollen from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another. Close observation reveals that the pollen clings to the sticky hairs on the bee’s body and is rubbed off as the bee flies from one blossom to another. The flowers in this and other photographs are Cosmos.
In addition to pollinating plants, bees collect pollen to take to their hives for food. The large orange-yellow bulges on the hind legs of this bee looks as though it is carrying baskets for this purpose – much as we would use a shopping basket.
These baskets or pollen sacs are known as the corbicula, which are made up of hairs blended together to form a concave shape. Once a bee has visited a flower it begins a grooming process during which the pollen that has gathered on the body is brushed down towards the hind legs and packed into the pollen baskets mixed with a little nectar.


Table of Contents
Top Reasons to Get Gardening With Your Kids
Gardening is a rewarding and educational activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. One of the most wonderful ways to introduce your children to the joys of gardening is by involving them in the process. Gardening with kids offers numerous benefits, from fostering a deeper connection with nature to teaching valuable life skills. In this article, we’ll explore the top reasons why you should consider getting your hands dirty with your little ones in the garden.
**This is a paid collaborative post
Connecting with Nature
In today’s digital age, children are often glued to screens, disconnected from the natural world. Gardening provides an opportunity for kids to connect with nature on a personal level. As they dig, plant, and watch their garden of flowers and shrubs grow, they become more aware of the environment around them. This hands-on experience can instill a lifelong love for nature and a greater appreciation of the outdoors.
Learning About Life Cycles
Gardening is a wonderful way to teach kids about the life cycles of plants. They can witness firsthand how a tiny seed transforms into a flourishing plant with proper care and attention. This process of growth, flowering, and eventually, seed production can be a powerful lesson in the circle of life and the importance of nurturing living things.
Taking care of a garden requires consistent effort and responsibility. Kids can learn valuable life skills such as discipline, commitment, and accountability by tending to their garden regularly. They’ll understand the importance of watering, weeding, and protecting their plants from pests and harsh weather conditions. These responsibilities can translate into other aspects of their lives as they grow older.
Enhancing Fine Motor Skills
Gardening activities like planting seeds, transplanting seedlings, and pruning require fine motor skills. These activities help children develop hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and precision. Digging in the soil, handling tools, and delicately caring for plants all contribute to the improvement of their fine motor skills.
Promoting Healthy Eating Habits
When kids participate in gardening, they are more likely to develop an interest in the fruits and vegetables they grow. This can have a positive impact on their eating habits, as they become more open to trying fresh produce straight from the garden. Studies have shown that children who are involved in gardening are more likely to consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, which can lead to better overall nutrition.
Gardening is a creative endeavor that allows children to express themselves. They can design their garden layout, choose colorful flowers, and create unique plant arrangements. This fosters creativity and helps them develop a sense of ownership and pride in their work.
In today’s fast-paced world, patience is a valuable virtue that can be cultivated through gardening. Children learn that plants take time to grow and develop. They must wait for their efforts to bear fruit or bloom, teaching them patience and delayed gratification.
Connecting with Science
Gardening is an excellent way to introduce children to basic scientific concepts. They can observe the effects of sunlight, water, and soil on plant growth. They can also learn about the role of insects and pollinators in the garden ecosystem. These observations can spark their curiosity and interest in science.
Fostering a Sense of Pride
Watching a garden thrive due to their care and effort can boost a child’s self-esteem and confidence. They feel a sense of pride and accomplishment when they see their plants flourish. This positive reinforcement can have a lasting impact on their self-image.
Quality Family Time
Gardening is a wonderful bonding activity that allows families to spend quality time together outdoors. It provides an opportunity for parents and children to work together towards a common goal, share experiences, and create lasting memories. Gardening can strengthen family relationships and create a sense of unity.
Through gardening, kids can develop a greater understanding of the environment and the importance of sustainability. They learn about conserving water, reducing waste, and creating a habitat for wildlife. These eco-friendly practices instill a sense of responsibility towards the planet and the need to protect it.
In conclusion, gardening with your kids is a fulfilling and enriching experience with numerous benefits. It not only connects children with nature but also imparts essential life skills, fosters creativity, and promotes healthy habits. As you watch your children nurture their garden and witness the wonders of growth and life cycles, you’ll be creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some seeds, and embark on a gardening adventure with your kids – it’s a journey filled with growth, discovery, and the joy of watching your garden and your children flourish.


Airlinks Golf Course, London
Weller Designs were appointed by Glendale Golf Operators to remodel all 18 holes to make the course more competitive within the local golf market
As a former refuse tip, the site has its complications as the existing subsoil (or cap) was not to be disturbed and no rainfall falling onto the site was to leach through to the refuse layers below or be allowed to migrate beyond the course boundaries.
The scheme involves re-capping the site with inert recycled soils and reshaping all the holes on the course. This will require in the region of 500,000 m3 of imported soil. The rainfall management scheme involves extensive use of subsoil drainage and catch basins within the golf course to not only prevent water migrating to the refuse below or off the site but also to provide a rainwater harvesting scheme for use in the irrigation system.
Click the images below to view larger versions and description.
We are incredibly proud of creating a golf course that will not only be a fabulous experience to play but will be recognised as being right at the forefront of sustainability, serving as a model for water conservation and recycling for other architects to follow.Stephen Ridgway


Green gold was planted in Natal and flourished like a well fertilised weed. Sugar Cane, a labour intensive crop, promised to be the saviour of the British colonial conclave at Port Natal. However, the indigenous Zulu refused to perform manual labour in the sugar fields. This paved the way for indentured labour from India to plant, harvest and tend the cane crops. This is their story and marks the beginning of the largest population of Indian people in one place outside of India itself. From these humble beginnings, with diligence, hard work and innate intelligence, they grew into a wealthy nation within a nation, which subsequently enhanced the cultural and fiscal fortunes of southern Africa.


Waterloo Cottage is a 125 acre nature-friendly farm, award winning farm shop, butchery and community garden. It all began in 2010 with 5 acres, a farm house and two pigs called Fleur and Ruth. From there, was born Angus’ dream of rearing well cared for animals, producing healthy meat, whilst also enhancing the natural environment.
Angus now employs regenerative grazing methods, alongside agroforestry, to produce pasture fed beef, lamb and hogget and free range pork. This type of agro-ecological farming has been shown to sequester carbon and support the recovery of nature.


Mercy Junction is gardening in the desert — a food desert.
According to the USDA: “Food deserts are defined as urban neighborhoods and rural towns without ready access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food. Instead of supermarkets and grocery stores, these communities may have no food access or are served only by fast food restaurants and convenience stores that offer few healthy, affordable food options. The lack of access contributes to a poor diet and can lead to higher levels of obesity and other diet-related diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.”
We started planting in early March in raised beds behind Renaissance Presbyterian Church, 1211 Boynton Dr, Chattanooga, TN 37402.
Mercy Junction’s Morgan Koch hauling top soil for the garden
So far we have planted several different types of greens, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, herbs, and raspberry and blackberry bushes. We have also started seeds for a variety of vegetables. We’ll be planting strawberries, potatoes, beans and more in the upcoming weeks. We’ve also set up rain barrels to collect water for the garden.
Food from the garden will be given to those who live in Chattanooga’s food deserts. Any surplus produce will be shared with other programs that provide free food to people in our community.
We need volunteers!
We’re working in the garden every Monday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. In addition, as spring rolls into summer, we’ll need volunteers daily to tend to watering and weeding.
If you’d like to help us with the gardening, please join us any Monday evening. For more information, email firstname.lastname@example.org or call 423-457-2519.
Mercy Junction’s Austin Young and William Nix planting berry bushes.


尺寸：700cm(L)x 550cm(W)x 150cm(H)
Artist: Lee, Kuei-Chih
Material: Bamboo, rice shell
Size: 700cm(L)x 550cm(W)x 150cm(H)
Location: Yunlin County Cultural Center, Yunlin County, Taiwan
“12% SKIES- Yun-Chia-Chia-Ying Visual Art Link”
I was born in Yunlin County known as the "Capital of Agriculture". Because my grandparents grew rice, I have deep emotions for land and water, and gradually developed my creative ideas in the organic world, using the most powerful metaphors in Chinese philosophy -"water" as the catalyst when I created. To present the energy in nature through works, and then explore the relationship between the nature of creation and the relationship between people, nature, and the environment.
The theme of this exhibition is "12%of the sky". Yunjianan Plain occupies 12%of the total area of Taiwan. The rice farmers often watch the sky through the reflection of water, and feel that the sky is closely linked to the land. And rice is a Chinese staple food. It has a long history and rice food customs that change with the season. It is also the crystallization of culture and economy.
Therefore, I use the two elements of "rice" and "ripples" to interpret the importance of water breeding the earth. I used bamboo to weave the huge rice grains sculpture, and the ripple-shaped shape is arranged in the space with rice shells. The ripple of the rice shell is a symbol of the cycle, which reminds me of the scene of the Rice drying in the sun in the past. It is also like the cultural ripples of rice on this land. It is not only production that continues to expand with the water, but also the humble attitude in life with the seasons—care of the land, and ecological wisdom with nature.


It all started with cotton. Oddly enough, cotton grows exceptionally well in the Arizona soil and the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company took notice when they found that cotton helped to lengthen the life of their famous tires. Goodyear bought 16,000 acres of Arizona land to begin farming cotton.
In 1918, the company set up the first building on the site--the Organizational House, which served as lodgings for ranch suppliers. They suggested, as did the company's executives who often brought their families to the ranch, that the site would be perfect for a winter vacation spot.
The company took their advice and on Thanksgiving of 1929, The Wigwam officially opened as a guest ranch with a maximum capacity of 24 guests. A golf course with nine holes was built in 1930, with nine more holes following in 1941.
After 80 years and many changes to the site, the Organizational House still stands as a reminder of The Wigwam's small beginnings.


LAVENDER CHOCOLATE CAKE
Lavender is a classic garden plant in the Ballarat region, it is one of the most enduring fragrant herbs in our gardens. Most of us have memories of lavender and old ladies and the many fragrant uses for the dried flowers. It is also an amazing culinary herb, although the only variety suitable for cooking is the English variety and you must ensure to use lavender that is free from chemicals and pesticides, so definitely not the lavender varieties you will find in most gardens or nurseries.
For this classic chocolate cake we used Egerton Blue dried lavender from the Yuulong Lavender Estate, they also sell lavender plants for you to grow in your kitchen gardens. You will be surprised at the wonderful flavour lavender infusions add to many recipes from sugar and milk baked goods to fruity dishes and savoury cooking. The key to using lavender in cooking is to keep it subtle, lavender has a strong flavour with the potential to overpower your dishes, when really just a hint of the flavour to compliment other flavours is the key.
The Lavender Chocolate cake is a deliciously moist recipe that uses coconut oil instead of butter. A rich and rather dessert like cake which lasts for quite a few days. To compliment the chocolate and lavender flavours we have used a marscapone frosting with a hint of lemon, perfect for a summer afternoon tea.


open days: Friday, Monday, Saturday, Thursday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Not open for public sales except for public tours (see the their website), parking at gate 7, 8 and 9. The National Flower Centre which is located on the Melbourne Markets site provides a wholesale trading facility for cut flowers and plants. Victoria produces about 40% of the national market for cut flowers. There are 140 permanent grower stands plus an extensive group of casual growers who sell through the flower markets.


The main objective of the project is the creation of a mycological reserve with a demonstrative and informative purposes as well as to guarantee the fructification of a wide fungal cortex through the application of waterings. Parallel to this main objective and taking advantage of synergies, an experimental device has been established aiming to evaluate the evolution of fungal ecosystems under climate change scenarios. Specifically, the incidence of rainfall variations on wild mushroom production is evaluated for further analysis on future climate change scenarios.
The experimental device consists of 4 sample units, each composed of four permanent plots, with an area of 60 m2 each. Each plot is randomly distributed within a continuous forest site of Pinus sylvestris with a perimeter delimitation that prevents access and uncontrolled harvest. This space is equipped with an infrastructure for the application of different doses of irrigation through micro irrigation that reach 20 liters per week. Since year one (2017), scenarios with different rainfall conditions are being tested with a parallel development of weekly inventories of macromycetes.
Despite having a short data series (3 years) in a preliminary analysis of the results, in all cases (years) a positive response in the fructification of macromycetes with application of watering has been observed, along with a clear relationship between the fructification and the moment in which irrigation is applied. Moreover, dependence on climatic conditions during the fruiting period has also been noticed. In three inventory campaigns, a total of 6972 macromycetes have been recorded, identifying 75 different mycological species. The informative and demonstrative character of this space was accomplished through an average of 15 visits and 500 visitors per year.
The development of the inventories should be carried out by highly qualified personnel due to the complexity of the identification without collection and to avoid duplication when counting the specimens that have been recorded in previous samples. Despite this peculiarity of the inventory, in most cases the taxonomic classification has been achieved at the species level. To avoid the bias of duplication of specimens, it has been designed an application where it is possible to consult, during the sampling, the specimens registered in previous samplings. The fungal species are registered in the database for further analysis.
The promoter of the space (Natural Heritage Foundation of the Region Castilla y León) and the managing entity (Environmental Territorial Service of Soria) have supported this experimental initiative, while contributing with the necessary resources for the execution of the infrastructure, as well as the development of the fungal inventories. The approach of new experimental designs for an analysis of the variation of the fungal cortex under the influence of climate change requires sophisticated designs of rainwater exclusion structures, in order to avoid the influence of shading and of the water flows eliminated with the forest mass adjacent to the plots.
What, how much, why and at what point? These are some of the answers that we must solve with the experimental designs that are proposed from now on. There is the need for models that relate productions, using tools that quantify accumulated precipitation at any point in the territory, in real time, with great precision and fine scale. The early prediction of the fructification is useful information for the exploitation manager, allowing anticipated actions directed to a sustainable management of resources.
José Miguel Altelarrea Martínez


When it pertains to producing a rich and also lively grass, turf setup is one of the most reliable ways to achieve quick and magnificent outcomes. Turf, likewise called grass, provides instant plant as well as eradicates the demand for waiting on yard seeds to sprout and also mature. Whether you’re going back to square one or wanting to revamp your existing lawn, right here are some valuable tips and also tricks to make certain a successful sod setup.
1. Preparation is Key
Prior to setting up sod, it’s essential to prepare the location properly. Begin by getting rid of all existing debris, such as rocks, sticks, as well as weeds. Next, farm to a deepness of at the very least six inches to produce a loosened and also abundant surface area. This step assists with water drainage and origin infiltration, inevitably advertising healthy and balanced sod growth. Finally, make certain the dirt is smooth and also level by raking it, getting rid of any kind of lumps or high spots.
2. Pick the Right Turf
The choice of sod plays a significant function in the end result of your yard. Choose a yard range that fits your regional environment, dirt conditions, as well as maintenance choices. Common turf kinds include Kentucky Bluegrass, Bermuda lawn, and Zoysia grass, each with distinct qualities as well as treatment demands. Consult a local grass vendor or a lawn care expert to determine the very best turf for your specific demands.
3. Proper Watering
Appropriate watering is crucial during the first stages of sod installation. Immediately after installing the sod, water it thoroughly to ensure good root-to-soil call. This aids to stop air pockets as well as advertises deep root establishment. Over the following few weeks, keep the sod continually moist by sprinkling it deeply two to three times a day, particularly during warmer months. Gradually lower the regularity of watering as the sod begins to develop sturdy origins.
4. Maintenance and also Care
Keeping your recently set up sod is necessary to accomplish a lavish as well as healthy and balanced lawn. Stay clear of walking on the turf for the first couple of weeks to avoid damaging it and also impeding root development. Slowly introduce light foot web traffic as the roots develop themselves. On a regular basis trim the yard, keeping it at an optimal elevation for your details turf selection. Additionally, fertilize the yard according to the grass type and also local suggestions to ensure appropriate nutrition and growth.
Finally, sod installation supplies a convenient as well as quick option to change your outside area into a verdant oasis. By following appropriate prep work strategies, choosing the right sod, giving sufficient water, and also preserving it vigilantly, you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous and dynamic lawn in no time. So, prepare yourself to enjoy the benefits of a lavish eco-friendly rug under your feet!


Agriculture Export Volumes
November 2016 | Released on 4 April 2017
|Nov 16||Oct 16||Sep 16||Aug 16|
|Total volumes (tonnes)
Agricultural export plunges as Tongan squash season ends
November’s agricultural exports volume has declined immensely by 81%. This significant decline is explained by the squash season coming to an end therefore the amount of squash exported overseas fell by 97.8% from 2693.2 tonnes in October to only 59.8 tonnes in November. The Tongan squash season is towards the end of the year hence October 2016 recorded the highest volume of Tongan squash exported, which accounted for 80% of the total agricultural exports of the previous month with no Tongan squash exported during the month of November.
On the outlook, NRBT anticipates that both volume for export and domestic production will increase in 2016/17 supporting the expected growth in the agricultural sector. The higher squash exports during the squash season supports this projection. The latest revised climate update released by the Meteorology Division forecasted a period of more rainfall than usual for the upcoming three to six months, which is an advantage for growers to start planting various crops. The year 2016/17 has seen better weather conditions than that of the previous year which will likely have favourable effects on the agricultural sector’s growth. In addition, Tonga is currently negotiating the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus which may contribute to the increase. On the downside, the export of Kava Tonga and coconuts will continue to decline due to low supply as a result of unfavourable weather conditions in the past years.
- Download the complete report | 398 KB
Agriculture Export Volumes Archive


Welcome! We at Edge of Urban Farm are happy you have found your way here. A family farm has sprung to life at the edge of San Diego County, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Check out options for our CSA, Contact us with any questions, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. We can’t do this with out your support of local, organic produce – we are eternally grateful to you!
We strongly believe in organic, which is why all of our produce is certified organic through CCOF.


The vineyard gable trellis post is made with hot rolled steel. It’s “Y” shape, some people also called it “V”shape.
Trellis poles are an essential part of growing beautiful and healthy grapes.
They also serve many other purposes. Grape vines become heavy after they start bearing fruit.
Trellis offers better support when vine is trained, and it grows up on the wires as well as supports.
The gable trellis pole allows for better air flow and efficient growing techniques. It also creates a cooler and shaded environment for harvesting. Our unique trellis system enhances our plastic covering program ensuring quality product for the fall harvest.
The metal steel gable trellis systems mainly used in vineyard, orchard,
grape manor, agriculture plantation and farming. Compared to traditional wooden post systems.
The gable trellis has far more advantages thanks to its design and easy
set-up,strong and long life.
An open gable system is recommended for table grapes,which are cropped to hold a much heavier crop,up to 15tons per acre(or more).This system uses six wires in the lyre to support the canes and the fruit.Posts are placed very 20feet, and the gables can be mounted on wood or steel.The manufacturer recommends installation of one wood end post,about 5’ in from the final end post to add stability and strength to the system.
Material: Hot Dipped Gal. steel sheet
Thickness: 1.2mm 1.5mm 2.0mm 2.5mm,3.0mm
Center bar: 1120mm, 1307mm
Lateral bar: 1460mm, 1473mm
Surface treatment: Hot dipped galvanized, Black (no treated)
Packing: on pallet.


The press is beginning a new Looking Back series featuring photographs of the Pickering Farm. The farm was acquired in 1867 by William Pickering, Sr. , the territorial governor of Washington Territory. The farm was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The nine remaining acres of the farm and buildings are owned by the City of Issaquah and are designated one of Issaquah’s 35 city treasures.
Published in the Issaquah Press on September 27, 2000
In this 1911 photo, Charlie Baxter is driving the three-horse team corn harvester, harvesting corn which appears to be about 10-feet-tall. The man at the right is believed to be a salesman holding up a bundle of harvested corn.


A family business, trading used agricultural machinery for over fifty years, H Bult & Sons remain farmers to this day. As operators of Massey Ferguson machinery on their arable farm, the team at H Bult have a fantastic knowledge of these machines, built up over decades. As well as quality used machines we also supply STARK flail mowers, Tuchel Sweepers and products, and LWC Agricultural products supplying attachments such as bale grabs, buckets, forks etc, and we can supply these at very competitive prices and also supply a full range of spare parts.
Customers can be confident not only in our experience of buying and selling quality machinery, but also in the quality of servicing carried out in our dedicated on‐site workshops.
Our own transport is available to deliver machines across the UK and we often export used tractors and machinery to Ireland.
Based near Bridgwater, we are five minutes from junctions 24 and 25 of the M5.


The Stanford Food Heroes is a collective of Stanford growers and producers who live and work in the area surrounding Stanford. You can inhale the scent of their herbs and aroma of their buttery bakes, roll their tomatoes and lemons around in your hands and breath in the spices of their charcuterie at the weekly Wednesday Morning Farmers’ Market at Graze, and the Saturday Morning Market on the Stanford Hotel stoep. Besides these markets, some heroes supply or run their own restaurants and delis. Their identity is that they hold home-grown, local produce dear and believe in keeping the supply chain local and lekker. They believe that the best things in life take time.
In 2017, a small group of ideas people identified the Stanford Food Heroes and the increasingly foodie identity of Stanford, and approached them to ask if they were interested in being a part of a new phone application trial aimed at marketing fresh surplus to the closest market, and reducing food loss. What a great idea for a communications app to team up with a group of growers and producers – the Stanford Food Heroes could really sink their teeth into this partnership.
The new FoodforUs app is a United Nations-funded application that links local growers and buyers. It was designed to ensure that edible and nutritious food is not wasted at farm level but instead fulfils its primary purpose of feeding people. It will do this by linking local groups of growers (farmers at all scales) and buyers (feeding schemes, early childhood development centres, restaurants, guesthouses and individuals) through a convenient mobile app. The app will provide an overview and images of what is available from each grower and enables growers and buyers to communicate on payment and delivery methods.
Food is wasted at farm levels for a variety of reasons. Retailers sometimes cancel orders at the last-minute leaving farmers unable to find appropriate markets for their produce in time, or farmers can produce a surplus that they have not planned for in terms of marketing and sale. The FoodforUs app provides farmers with immediate access to a group of local buyers.
The app is available on the Google and iTunes play stores. Once registered, participants will be sent a password that they use to log into the app to view the produce available. This research trial is being conducted in Stanford, Worcester and two pilot sites in the Eastern Cape. Once the initial phase is complete, users’ feedback will be incorporated into a revision of the app’s features and the platform will be released to a wider audience.
Follow the project on Facebook @foodforusza or contact the team directly on firstname.lastname@example.org.
FoodforUs looks forward to working with Stanford’s innovative food networks to trial the app that helps to reduce food waste by linking local growers and buyers. More information can be found on the project at www.foodforus.co.za.
*For more on the Stanford Food Heroes, click here
Words by Phil Murray and Stephanie Swanepoel


STC Program: Soils Unit Kit, 3rd Edition
In Soils, students investigate the chief components of soil (sand, clay, and humus) and the relationship between soil and plant growth. They create their own compost bags to observe decomposition of organic materials over time. Students observe and read about earthworms to learn about their connection to plant roots and soil. They also conduct tests to observe and compare such properties of soil as odor, appearance, and texture. Settling, water content, and soil consistency are explored.
Kit Tips & Tricks


April 16, 2021
Estimated Read Time: 9 Minutes
As we all know, nature plays a huge part in Wiccan rituals. So why not bring the ingredients you need into your home — or your yard? If the prospect of cultivating your garden is a bit overwhelming, don’t worry, we’ve narrowed down a list of thirteen herbs that are all great choices!
Mind you, while most of the herbs we’re about to discuss have magickal properties, some of them have other beneficial properties as well. For example, basil, mint, lavender, and rosemary are all considered to be natural pest deterrents. So even though we use them for casting, their protective properties extend to our gardens too.
Many of the plants on our list can thrive indoors as well. So with that in mind, let’s talk about the herbs that are great for witches to grow.
Top 13 Herbs a Witch Should Plant
Basil leaves have a wonderfully complex flavor that makes them ideal for culinary purposes. However, that’s not the only benefit we get from the herb.
Namely, basil can help us fight bacterial infections and even strengthen our immune systems against viruses. Additionally, it seems to be an effective treatment for bloating, as well as kidney and liver issues. But how can it be used in Wiccan practices?
Well, basil is useful for casting protective and warding spells, as well as attracting love, money, and general prosperity. It’s mainly associated with Mars (Ares) and therefore gives off fiery masculine energy.
You can plant basil in your garden or in a container — though you’ll need to ensure adequate moisture drainage. The herb needs to get about seven hours of sunlight every day. However, if you opt to plant it outside, make sure to plant it near vegetables, not herbs. If you must, you can keep it near rosemary or chamomile, but make sure it’s nowhere near sage or rue.
Chamomile is famous for its soothing effects. Aside from promoting sleep and relaxation, it can also reduce inflammation and pain. Needless to say, these associations make chamomile ideal for anxiety and stress-relieving spells. On top of that, we can use them to attract happiness, peace, as well as money, and success.
Washing your hands in chamomile tea will attract abundance. Alternatively, you can also use dry chamomile flowers to cleanse your space and release negative energy. We usually associate chamomile with the Sun and various solar deities. So if you need someone to call to during a ritual, try Apollo, Helios, or Ra.
You’ll note that the flowers of this plant look a lot like common daisies. But unlike daisies, chamomile doesn’t grow as easily. You’ll want to be particularly vigilant about watering the herb during the summer, though it generally needs dry soil. If you can, plant your chamomile somewhere that’s partly in the shade.
You could also grow the herb in a container, though you’ll have to make sure it has room to grow. After all, chamomile loves to spread out — though it also likes to grow next to mint or basil! Lastly, depending on the type of chamomile you get, it’ll either produce flowers annually or perennially.
Chives are another herb that is associated with Mars and masculine energy. As such, it helps repel evil spirits, cast wards, and other protection spells, as well as break hexes. On a more medicinal level, eating chives can also help us fight off bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. And it’s been shown to repel certain insects!
Best of all, you’ll be able to take advantage of those effects whether you plant the herb in your garden or indoors. If you have to use a container, you’ll need to give each plant about 6 inches of space. It won’t spread out as it grows, but more chives will probably want to come out from the ground.
Ultimately, you’ll be able to harvest your chives several times each year. You’ll just have to wait until it’s about 6 inches tall, then snip the leaves at the base.
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Cilantro, a.k.a. Mexican parsley, is an herb we often sprinkle over various soups, as well as bean, egg, and fish-based foods. The annual plant is a wonderful garden companion for tomatoes and spinach. Additionally, it goes well with basil, mint, and lavender, among other things.
Now, cilantro contains an antimicrobial compound that could help us fight off infections and food poisoning. However, the real benefits of cilantro go beyond its culinary and medicinal uses. Namely, the seed of the cilantro plant, called Coriander, is an ingredient many Wiccans use for healing spells and even to attract love!
If you decide to keep it in a planter, you’ll have to put it near a southern window. While the herb appreciates sunlight, hot weather makes it bolt pretty quickly. Still, once you figure out the right placement for your cilantro, it’ll be a wonderful addition to your garden.
Dill is a fantastically flavorful herb to use in everyday cooking, particularly for soups, dips, and salads. It has numerous health benefits, such as promoting digestion, boosting immunity, and even reducing blood pressure and preventing diabetes. These attributes make it pretty useful for casting protection spells against diseases.
But the most popular use of dill as a spell casting ingredient is for love and lust spells. Since the herb is aligned with the element of fire and masculine energy, it’s also a useful ingredient for warding off evil magick and banishing spells.
The perennial herb should keep growing year-round, whether you plant it in a garden or keep it in a pot. However, you’ll want to figure out the size of the container based on the variety of dill you’re using. Above all, you’ll want to make sure the plant is getting plenty of direct sunlight. Do that, and your dill will not only enhance your spells but also help your garden thrive!
Most people know exactly what lavender is used for. Whether you get it in dry form or as an essential oil, it’s generally considered to be an anxiety-relieving plant. As such, we can use it to attract serenity — but that’s not the only way to use lavender for spell casting.
Namely, lavender can also help us purify and cleanse our tools and space. Additionally, it can enhance our clairvoyant abilities. It’s also a common ingredient used in love and attraction spells.
This herb is associated with the goddess Hecate, the sorceress Circe, and many other female deities. However, since it’s also connected to the planet Mercury, it has distinctly masculine energy.
Above all, lavender needs direct sunlight and fairly dry soil. If you keep it in a pot, make sure the moisture can drain away freely. That will help it bloom throughout the year. However, if it only gets sunlight and drainage during the summer season, that’s when it will bloom.
Mint is another wildly popular ingredient for spell casting. The plant’s name comes from the Greek Menthe, which was the name of a nymph that tried to seduce Hades. The nymph was subsequently turned into a plant by Persephone. That should explain why we still associate this herb with the King and Queen of the Underworld.
On its own, the herb is a natural remedy for stuffy noses and upset stomachs. It could even improve brain function and bring mental clarity. In Wicca, we use it for healing and purification, as well as to enhance psychic awareness.
Unlike most of the herbs we’ve discussed so far, this perennial seems to fare best in wet soil. Its roots spread very quickly, so you might want to plant it in a container even if it’s in the ground or in your garden. Otherwise, in a few years you might have a garden completely full of mint! Still, mint will be a fantastic addition to your garden because it’s an effective insect repellent.
Over the centuries, people have used pretty much every part of the mugwort plant to achieve various results. The root of the herb was said to boost energy, while the other parts were used to relieve digestive issues. Some of those uses have even made it into folk magick practices. For example, people might put mugwort leaves in their shoes before embarking on long journeys.
In Wiccan practices, we use the bushy perennial plant to enhance various psychic abilities. Aside from scrying and divination, mugwort can also help us get into the right state of mind for lucid dreaming.
Notably, this plant is also known as Artemis Herb. That’s why we mainly associate it with Artemis or Diana. In any case, that’s what gives mugwort psychic properties that are perfect for practicing Lunar magick as well.
While mugwort is pretty flexible, it should ideally get plenty of direct sunlight and well-draining soil. Because of that preference, you can easily plant the herb in a pot, as long as you move it to the sun.
Like most herbs on this list, oregano requires direct sunlight and well-draining soil. As long as it has those things, you can grow it in your garden or in your kitchen. If you keep it in a garden, the plant should be quite an effective pest repellant. However, it’ll also attract beneficial insects that help with pollination.
Believe it or not, oregano shares some common associations with mugwort. For example, both are associated with the planet Venus. Additionally, both offer protection, particularly when traveling. On top of that, oregano can boost creativity and happiness, and even enhance prophetic dreams.
Rosemary is a hugely important spell casting ingredient for Wiccan practices. It’s great for protection, purification, and cleansing spells, as well as attracting honesty, fidelity, and happiness. Additionally, you can use rosemary to improve your memory — wearing it while you study will help you retain information.
With that being said, rosemary doesn’t seem to get along with other herbs. Apparently, sage is its only companion. So you might want to plant it near vegetables instead, if you get the chance. Alternatively, you can just keep it in a pot.
As an evergreen shrub, rosemary should do well in moderate climates, though it’ll thrive in sunlight. Thanks to its strong aroma, rosemary should be an effective insect repellent as well.
Sage is an excellent herb for cleansing and purifying our space and tools before performing rituals. Like juniper, lavender, mugwort, and rosemary, this herb is great for smudging. Of course, if you don’t like the smell of burning herbs, you can always make a cleansing spray instead.
Other than its protective properties, sage also promotes wisdom, knowledge, and healing. It also enhances mental clarity and psychic power. On top of that, people have been using sage for its medicinal properties for centuries now.
If you don’t live in a humid climate, your sage will grow as a perennial. The plant should do well whether you keep it in a pot or you plant it in a garden. Just keep in mind that the only herb it seems to agree with is rosemary.
Summer and Winter Savory are aromatic herbs that belong to the mint plant family. As such, they share some of the same medicinal benefits as mint. However, unlike mint, these herbs still prefer well-drained soil and direct sunlight. Both can be annual or perennial, depending on the conditions.
The best way to utilize savory herbs in Wiccan practices is to carry or wear them in pouches. According to Wicca, the savory plant enhances mental powers. So it’s great for improving clairvoyance or practicing divination.
Last but not least, we have thyme. If you’re looking to attract the blessings of the Fair Folk, this is the perfect herb to plant in your garden. Of course, you can also put it in a clay pot, as long as you provide plenty of sun, heat, and soil drainage.
Thyme can help treat colds and maintain overall health — but then again, so can many of the other plants on our list. As for its magickal benefits, this herb is unrivaled! We can use it for beauty spells, to gather strength and courage, and enhance psychic power. Additionally, thyme is famous for protecting against evil spirits, so having a bush in your garden or home can summon positive energy.
Cultivating the Ultimate Wiccan Garden
The herbs we’ve listed above are a good place to begin building your garden. Don’t feel obligated to plant all of these, even just one in a planter is a great start! These herbs are hardly the only ones you might want to use for your rituals though. Furthermore, fresh ingredients aren’t a necessity for casting spells. Many of the ingredients we use for spell casting could already be in your pantry! Happy casting!
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Webinar Two: Biochar for a Sustainable World
In June 2020 Dr Adrian Morphett from Earth Systems presented a free online webinar for the community. He covered how biochar is produced and about its economic, soil health and carbon sequestration benefits. This was the second online webinar in our Climate Solutions Series.
Missed the Webinar?
Wednesday 17 June at 7.00pm (for approximately an hour with a Q&A after).
Venue: Online via Zoom
Register on Eventbrite.
Biochar is a form of stable carbon produced from organic matter that represents a practical, localised opportunity for carbon sequestration. It is also tremendously beneficial for soil health. Dr Morphett runs a facility on behalf of the nearby City of Manningham which produces biochar from the municipality’s green waste marketed under the brand Green Man Char.
This is the second in the YCAN Climate Solutions Webinar Series and you are most welcome to participate.


What the heck is that plant? Is it beets? Is it spinach? No! It’s chard, or Swiss chard to which its often referred. This leafy green is one of the healthiest plants you can eat. It comes in green and white, green with yellow stalks, or the type I grow, green with beautiful red stalks. Foods belonging to the chenopod family—including beets, chard, spinach, and quinoa—continue to show an increasing number of health benefits not readily available from other food families. Containing powerful antioxidants and phytonutrients beneficial for all aspects of health, this amazing vegetable is an important component to the diet. And, it tastes great!
I never knew what the heck to do with chard before I started growing my own. I grow it in my amazing aeroponic Tower Garden, which I absolutely love. I never had success with growing my own food before. The feeling of going out back to grab some homegrown chard, a few cucumbers, some kale and lettuce, or some strawberries, is like none other! I had read that chard was easy to grow so I bought the seedlings and in no time, I had these gorgeous, huge, green and red leaves ready to be eaten. The young, smaller leaves are good raw, but the mature leaves are too “green” tasting and bitter for me. I much prefer them cooked. The way I prepared them yesterday is my favorite so far. Up until then I had just steamed them, and eaten with a little sea salt and lemon juice, or added to pasta with marinara sauce. I’ve enjoyed all preparations, but this one is the winner so far.
*gluten-free if you use gluten-free (i.e. brown rice) tortillas.


EPA Awards Grant to Cleveland Botanical Garden to Use Vacant Lots to Protect Water Quality
Posted July 16, 2012 in Articles
Author: US EPA
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $59,680 under its Urban Waters Small Grants program to the Cleveland Botanical Garden to improve vacant land in Cleveland neighborhoods and reduce stormwater runoffto Lake Erie and its tributaries.
“EPA’s Urban Waters program provides grants to protect and improve water quality and revitalize urban areas,” said EPA Regional Administrator Susan Hedman. “This grant will help to improve water quality in Lake Erie and transform vacant lots in Cleveland neighborhoods.”
The Botanical Garden will cover 12 vacant lots with a mixture of dredge material, wood chips and compost, and plant low-maintenance groundcover. These efforts will improve soil nutrient levels, reduce lead toxicity in soil and reduce stormwater runoff. The deep roots of low-maintenance lawns absorb more water than regular grass and stabilize soil, preventing erosion. The improved appearance of the lots will help stabilize neighborhoods and reduce the city’s maintenance costs associated with mowing and caring for vacant urban land.


FLAVOR: Apricot, black tea, sweet, toast
This Washed Yirgacheffe Grade 2 Kanketi comes from smallholder farmers in the villages of Foggi and Negele Gorbitu in Abaya which borders the Gedeo Zone in Yirgacheffe. Coffee farming in Abaya started in the 1970s under the European Union's Coffee Improvement Program. Only in the last decade did farmers in Foggi and Negele Gorbitu start coffee production. Coffee from these villages have a bean structure and cup quality that reflect vigor of their youthful coffee trees.
This coffee was produced by Fikadu Abayneh Kebede whose mill serves approximately 400 smallholder farmers from the villages of Foggi and Negele Gorbitu. Fikadu started working in coffee over 15 years ago, under the supervision of his father; he established the wet mill in Foggi about 10 years ago. Fikadu's wet mill buys freshly harvested coffee cherries from local farmers for processing. The cherries are fermented in tanks for 36 hours before being washed. Afterwards the coffee goes through a natural drying process on raised beds over a period of a week. Post processing, coffees from Fikadu's mill are put up for sale through Kanketi Coffee Export.


Ag Commissioner wants more NC corn
Here in North Carolina, the state’s Agriculture Commissioner is calling on farmers in the Tarheel State to help meet more of the demand across the world for corn.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, over 96 million acres of corn was planted in the United States this year, but less than one percent was in North Carolina.
Commissioner Troxler has challenged North Carolina farmers to come up with a certified 400 bushel per acre yield of corn.
North Carolina corn farmers are forecasted to harvest about 114 bushels per acre this year, which up from last year and more than the 10-year average.
Troxler’s request to see more corn produced in North Carolina comes on the heels of a drought in the Midwest that has devastated parts of the nation’s corn crop.