by Guest blogger: David Stark — The critical importance of microbes (bacteria, fungi and protozoa) for soil health finally is becoming more widely recognized. In response, a plethora of microbial products are hitting the shelves. Since most of the microbes sold are soil microbes, a common and logical question is…
Things I learned about wicking garden beds – by Team Member: Ray Jess — When I was introduced to wicking beds almost four years ago, I became obsessed. I have built them at home, for friends, and even built a few on contract. I enjoyed giving suggestions and recommendations to anyone who …
Getting serious about the microscopic life in soil. — In This Podcast: Retired after years of leadership in Monsanto, David Stark was asked to mentor a young company making what was essentially compost tea. Reluctantly and with some concerns over the science, he agreed and now is excited to share what he has learned about…
Having WAY too much fun with worms! — In This Podcast: Watching his coworker throw her lunch scraps into a large bin under her desk was just too exciting for Bentley Christie and soon he was on his way to becoming the Compost Guy with a popular blog and website about worm composting. He shares his excitement and admiration for…
Keeping people at the core of small business success. — In This Podcast: When an entrepreneurial opportunity came his way, Carl Atwell jumped on board with a passion. He is now president of Gempler’s and is building it again with a commitment towards his customers and employees. He shares the story of how Gempler’s was created with a focus on good values and how he connected with that. He also explains…
The Future of Food – Native Bees by Guest Blogger: Dave Hunter of Crown Bees: We know there are huge differences in how pollen is carried by the European honey bee and our native bees. Relatively unknown, people are surprised to learn that hole-nesting native bees like our mason and leafcutter bees are actually much better pollinators than honey bees.
Research shows that mason bees can significantly increase the yield of…
Developing a relationship between primary pollinators and growers. — In This Podcast: Realizing that his apple trees were barely producing compared to his neighbors, Dave Hunter found the answer was mason bees. His hobby increased his harvest, and eventually his new passion developed into…
A chat with a seed expert. — In This BONUS Podcast: Once again we join a conversation with Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson to learn about growing from seed, growing for seed, and why our seeds are so important in these changing times. This is the replay of the May 2019 Seed Saving Class…
Late spring is always a time of bountiful harvest in my garden. The tomatoes are ripening at an alarming rate, the onions and garlic are ready to pull and the basil is big and beautiful. With so many things coming together at the same time there is always a dilemma as to what to do with it all, aside from gifting to my neighbors.
Focusing on higher yield and better quality in harvests. — In This Podcast:Earning his degree in agronomy put Marty Campfield on a path that led him eventually to work for AZOMITE selling this unique nutrient dense fertilizer/soil amendment product. He helps explain about the importance of…
