by Catherine Haug
After our discussion at the screening of our Root Cellars, Gardens & Greenhouses Slideshow, I’ve felt inspired to write a bit about composting theory. This article includes the following main topics:
by Catherine Haug
Our June 24 gathering featured a 42 minute slideshow video produced by ESP. Most of the photos were taken by Edd Blackler; layout and video production by Catherine Haug. This summary includes some, but not all, of the photos used in the slideshow.
Locations featured:
Also included are a few ideas and recommendations from Root Cellaring by Mike & Nancy Bubel, and group discussion the night of the gathering.
See Gathering Summary: Gathering Summary: Root Cellars, Gardens & Greenhouses Slideshow, 062409, for complete printable pdf file of the event summary (496 kb, 10 pages).
See also EssentiaList Handout: Storage of Produce (128 kb pdf) including tips for storing fruits, vegetables and grains, and cold storage options for root veggies.
See also Motion-Activated, Non-Fence for Deer & Other Critters, with information from Keith B.
by Catherine Haug
Published June 8, 2009;
As a first time gardener, I keep my eyes and ears open to tips on gardening. Here are a few I’ve picked up this last week. If you have any gardening tips to add, send them my way and I’ll add them to the post. (more…)
by Catherine Haug
I don’t have much experience at gardening, so I’m very interested in learning every aspect of the craft, including soil quality. My Dad had been an avid gardener in the 1950s and 60s when I was growing up; he hand-tilled the soil in the fall with debris from the harvested garden and some manure from the neighbor’s cow, then planted seeds in the spring. Or at least, that’s how I remember it.
But I’ve come to learn that if you want maximum nutrition in your veggies, it is not necessarily so simple. Your soil needs to have the right carbon:nitrogen ratio, be the right pH (level of acidity), and have the right kind of drainage for the plants you want to grow. (more…)
by Catherine Haug
Today’s savvy gardeners are looking for less toxic ways to control pests in the garden, lawn, and landscaping. Not only are chemical pesticides toxic to humans and pets, but also to our water sources and environment. This post addresses good gardening practices to help your plants fed off insects and diseases, rather than application of substances. [See Tips: Natural Pest Control in the Garden for practical substances] (more…)
by Catherine Haug
When you garden as part of a community, you not only provide food for your table, but also food for your soul. Perhaps because of a return to healthful fresh foods, or because of the current state of the economy, community gardens are springing up all over the Flathead.
Kalispell Community Garden
This group is starting a container gardening project (kick-off event was April 25). See Kalispell Community Garden (ACGA site) or Who is Your Farmer (Farm Hands) for more info about this garden.
Nourish the Flathead
This is a non-profit organization in Whitefish, is starting with a community garden in Whitefish. They can help you start a community garden in your neighborhood (Contact Diane Grove for more information; dianneg44(at)gmail.com; email disguised).
St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church
ESP is assisting the church in Ferndale to develop a Community Garden on their property. This year will be busy readying the soil, fences and water for next year’s gardens (2010). (more…)