Farm & Family

Thoroughly Equipped to Educate

Have you ever done something because it seemed like the right thing, the logical thing, to do, only to realize that it wasn’t right for you at all?  Have you ever done what was expected and then discovered the freedom to break away from the norm?

How to Prune Basil for the Best Flavor

Basil may possibly be the best loved garden herb.  Even people who don’t have a full fledged garden love to grow a pot of basil on the patio, or a balcony, or even in the kitchen. Did you know that strategically cutting back your basil plants yields a bushier plant with better flavor? Let’s take…

How to Save Kale Seed (and Why I Probably Won’t Do It Again)

On a whim this spring, I decided to allow several overwintered vegetable plants to go to seed.  I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a crazy year, and it seemed like a good time to learn how to save kale seed.

DIY Wooden Raised Garden Beds

Any way you look at it, raised garden beds are my favorite way to grow vegetables.  They’re beautiful, easy on the back, and easy to weed.

How to Plant a Fruit Tree Guild

Imagine an orchard that produces a variety of beautiful fruits each year, adds beauty to your homestead, and operates with little human input.  If this interests you, I invite you to join me as we learn how to plant a fruit tree guild.

My Simple No Till Gardening Method

What’s the best way to create a new garden space?  I get this question all the time!  One of my very favorite ways to prepare a new garden space is by using this simple no till gardening method.

How to Pinch Pepper Plants (and why)

Do you know how to pinch pepper plants?  I recently learned how to pinch off the flowers, buds, and first, tiny peppers in order to yield stronger, healthier plants and a greater harvest in the end.

How to Build a Raspberry Trellis

Wondering how to build a raspberry trellis for your backyard berries? 

Canning Supplies List for Beginners

Ready to start preserving your homegrown fruits and veggies? 

10 Best Veggies for Beginning Gardeners

Victory gardens have made a comeback recently, as many folks started growing vegetables during the worldwide pandemic of 2020 and beyond.  I love to see more people gardening and growing food!  Let’s grow all the things!