Agriculture

The word "farm" often conjures up images of pigpens, silos, and acres of corn, not urban “farmers” living in a city.

Urban farming isn’t new. Ancient Persia had urban farms, and so did Macchu Picchu. However, now with the popularity of green living, urban farming has become more common. The environmental benefits of urban farming are numerous. Cities are often the most environmentally-friendly places to live, with public transportation and being able to walk everywhere. If you can grow your own food, it just adds to the “greenness.”

One hurdle when it comes to urban farming is space. Here are some ways around that:... read more

Many of us are looking for ways to go about our lives in a more eco-friendly manner. Rainwater harvesting is one strategy you can employ. 

Here, we’ll discuss the what, the why, and the how on rainwater harvesting—what it is, why you might want to do it, and how to go about doing it.

Consider how much water we underutilize when it rains!

What is rainwater harvesting? Harvesting rainwater is the act of using one of several methods to collect and reuse rainwater prior to its hitting the aquifer, where water is often extracted for well use. It helps to reduce the strain on local water systems and can actually help provide cleaner water to those consuming or utilizing it than that which has run through the soil and absorbed the chemicals and minerals therein. 

Why do it?  There are many uses for harvested rainwater. Some people use it for drinking water and other domestic uses like cleaning and bathing. Many people use it to water their lawns and gardens, and some farmers use it to save money on providing water to livestock.

Not only can this be a smart financial move, but it also happens to be good for the environment because it places less pressure on the water distribution system, particularly in times when there are water shortages. ... read more

One of the most breathtaking signs that spring has sprung are the flourishing cherry blossoms. Differing from the fruit-bearing cherry trees that most of us are familiar with, ornamental cherry trees, like the Japanese Flowering Cherry are cherished for their beautiful pink or white blossoms. They are usually in full bloom in late March and early April.

Like snowflakes, no two flowering seasons are ever alike. Cherry trees blossom every year, but they might not produce the same amount of flowers as in years past– which depends on the type of winter we have.... read more

Are insects eating more of your garden veggies than you? Before you start dousing your plants with industrial strength insecticide, consider what you might be introducing to your garden soil and, eventually, your stomach.

Originally developed as neurotoxins during World War II, organophosphate insecticides were first used commercially and residentially in the late 1930s. Since then, the use of many of these insecticides, such as DDT, has either been banned or heavily restricted due to its toxicity in creatures such as in fish and birds. As these were eaten by the next animal up in the food chain, the toxicity levels would increase until it started to reach levels that could potentially harm humans. This toxicity scare quickly brought the issue of finding safe yet effective insecticides to the forefront and commercial and hobby gardeners alike have since been experimenting with both new and age-old approaches to insect elimination.... read more

With the first warm seconds of spring, some additional gardening works are lying ahead to be carried out. Those falling branches and rough, dead leaves need to be cleaned off the ground and garden lawn. However, wait until the wetness of soil starts to disappear. However, don’t wait for too long or else the old weeds all get tangled for new growth. Cutting and cleaning the old plants is easier as long the new growth doesn't take place. So, be quick in your approach. Let's have a clear discussion on the cleaning process.

To start with gardening during the spring season, the very first task is to remove all the remains of dead annual plants. These plants will never return to their original state. So, their presence is not needed. They need to be removed and cleaned off properly. If this step is not taken, then the garden will showcase a very ugly outlook. The perennials of last fall need to be pruned back. There are a whole lot of different perennials that need to be left standing all through the winter season. This is primarily an additional protective measure. However, there is no reason to keep them for the spring. They will die back to the ground during the winter season. With the growth of new perennials, the old winter mulch needs to be removed. This ensure better plant growth and a much finer outlook/appearance to the garden.... read more