606: Crystal Stevens on Regenerative Urban Farming.
Bringing gardening methods full circle.
In This Podcast:
We learn from Crystal Stevens about the many inexpensive ways to build a regenerative and edible landscape using natural resources. Crystal describes the different possibilities that can be incorporated into any size space that can lead one down the path towards self-sufficiency. One of her specialties is herbs and she shares with us some of the medicinal properties of herbs and their health benefits.
Our Guest:
Crystal lives along the bluffs of the Mighty Mississippi River in Godfrey, Illinois with her husband, and 2 children. She is an Author, an Artist/Art Teacher, a Folk Herbalist, a Regenerative Farmer, and a Permaculturist. She has written 3 books published by New Society Publishers: Grow Create Inspire, Worms at Work, and Your Edible Yard. Crystal speaks at conferences and Mother Earth News Fairs across the United States and has been teaching a Resilient Living workshop series for over a decade.
Listen in and learn about:
- Crystal’s herb school
- What is her definition of regenerative
- Sustainable versus regenerative in a ‘closed-loop’ system
- Changing HOA rules and regulations
- What are some inexpensive resources that can be used for gardening
- How do you build food for microbes in the soil
- What does Crystal’s farm look like
- The importance of incorporating medicinal herbs in the garden
- What is ‘rooting’ elderberry cuttings
Epic Story: How did Crystal aid her father after he was diagnosed with lung cancer
- How does mullein tea help respiratory tract issues
- How did she move from urban dwelling to starting a farm
- What is the purpose and benefits of dynamic accumulators
As well as:
Her failure – When she tried to grow too many things in too many places and got overtaken by weeds
Her success – Being self-employed with several income streams while still having time for family
Her drive – Empowering others to take charge of their health and seeing their results
Her advice – “Start small, it is ingrained within us that everything has to be fast and instantaneous; take some time to sit in your space and observe, you’ll be less overwhelmed.”
Books written by Crystal:
Grow Create Inspire: Crafting a Joyful Life of Beauty and Abundance
Your Edible Yard: Landscaping with Fruits and Vegetables
Crystal’s Book recommendations:
Ishmael: A Novel by Daniel Quinn
How to reach Crystal:
Website: growcreateinspire.com
Access her books: shop.growcreateinspire.com
Facebook: @growcreateinspire
Twitter: @GrowCre8Inspire
Instagram: @growcreateinspire
UrbanFarm.org/GrowcCreateInspire
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