tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77534119334342409072024-03-13T13:19:50.834-07:00Bepa's GardenOrganic Gardening - Organic Gardening, Healthy Eating & Healthy Living!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-85352665267177579482022-10-23T12:14:00.004-07:002023-02-25T09:50:14.610-08:00The Backyard Chicken Coop<h2 style="text-align: center;"> The Backyard Chicken Coop</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Uv-iQhK89VZ7UCwhhSLCcwSPqoEpYEzMXWHDpsmLXGxNg1DoiREKfzL2JI_XScXwxq-TIKDsOmq5n5Zbedz-D3mADYdZtAmAdDZGrzpfV6B1OPW9ac0KUNXLAioj5Xe4nX89tpEBweDfWI9XWLuy05ADKZKf_TuMy-Lsj3AB2_ZHhcV-KnpPCn5GXQ/s600/IMG_2194.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="429" data-original-width="600" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Uv-iQhK89VZ7UCwhhSLCcwSPqoEpYEzMXWHDpsmLXGxNg1DoiREKfzL2JI_XScXwxq-TIKDsOmq5n5Zbedz-D3mADYdZtAmAdDZGrzpfV6B1OPW9ac0KUNXLAioj5Xe4nX89tpEBweDfWI9XWLuy05ADKZKf_TuMy-Lsj3AB2_ZHhcV-KnpPCn5GXQ/w400-h286/IMG_2194.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Several years ago we decided to keep backyard chickens. I checked with the town to see if we needed a permit and to see if there were any requirements for housing. On our 1/4 acre lot, the town requires that the coop not exceed a footprint of 6' x 8' and a height 5'-5". </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9vnfHL3fB8Kif9wtwIVrgcH_TqbJUqbBUUpfcFrIW4ITrn_nsrt5uqUORE53V8XRUIAQabWpbOmIEO5ssbRN3qz1l9UU6PC_Rn6ewkUFdWqa-Sv8KMDRvRgOOsm0PQ9dpxrhvlNDuE6FE1b1NQcj0UgCQHRT5gXebBQEZUleYWRQLi-CGPKP2oJQsQ/s600/IMG_1466.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="429" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9vnfHL3fB8Kif9wtwIVrgcH_TqbJUqbBUUpfcFrIW4ITrn_nsrt5uqUORE53V8XRUIAQabWpbOmIEO5ssbRN3qz1l9UU6PC_Rn6ewkUFdWqa-Sv8KMDRvRgOOsm0PQ9dpxrhvlNDuE6FE1b1NQcj0UgCQHRT5gXebBQEZUleYWRQLi-CGPKP2oJQsQ/w286-h400/IMG_1466.jpg" width="286" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An overall height of 5'-5" isn't tall enough for a walk in coop, so I decided to design something that would work well for a small flock within those parameters.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9fN_jK4ZDWhSnAksYNRN9hLjmAFI8dZ5EJ-O62o56DoFpLpak0Uo8lo9d4TwtVQ6c35lyRGU0OuPsvjkBsG1s5hAkdpLYSeyNNyQ7HcgA8Chgyw47xYSe9V_lb38M5deofwelOGvZmi9krsporoSVJesBkomcJ-gJBcg7QmvGy51P07QxcgP8G_NHw/s600/IMG_0524.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="429" data-original-width="600" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9fN_jK4ZDWhSnAksYNRN9hLjmAFI8dZ5EJ-O62o56DoFpLpak0Uo8lo9d4TwtVQ6c35lyRGU0OuPsvjkBsG1s5hAkdpLYSeyNNyQ7HcgA8Chgyw47xYSe9V_lb38M5deofwelOGvZmi9krsporoSVJesBkomcJ-gJBcg7QmvGy51P07QxcgP8G_NHw/w400-h286/IMG_0524.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I came up with the 4' x 6' Backyard Coop. This coop has an upper enclosed area that houses the chickens at night. The roof panels on one side are hinged so you can easily clean the coop. There is a hinged door on the floor that opens to a ramp which leads to an enclosed pen underneath. There is a roost bar inside, a loft area and nesting boxes that are accessible from outside the coop. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0vo_A-rHD2VVZ-G8MsHk_YzZoF8vANNQbt-ba1nU106gWK-REiXU4Ene-4KHOsngWtcZs_-Qw0sS1V0eo7EyQI8rdz4mgFzE3Fj3b2nCxWvren2Iu09uhA0dQwtyY93-7dIvFnOsA1ycvhnkJcGBm-FoNtFj6ZeUE9A9gvGpnmSylOqDFDU3OB4AH6A/s600/IMG_2390.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0vo_A-rHD2VVZ-G8MsHk_YzZoF8vANNQbt-ba1nU106gWK-REiXU4Ene-4KHOsngWtcZs_-Qw0sS1V0eo7EyQI8rdz4mgFzE3Fj3b2nCxWvren2Iu09uhA0dQwtyY93-7dIvFnOsA1ycvhnkJcGBm-FoNtFj6ZeUE9A9gvGpnmSylOqDFDU3OB4AH6A/w400-h300/IMG_2390.jpg" title="View from outside egg door" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View through outside egg door into the coop</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1B8kTryFqj_EvSn7i13NCxz-HJDf_95Qzt91WZQ20vMmJPFOyM5AHYMVGRDyikzndhwj1_v2OX-nD4MedmkdcM9r6pX_UAjm8gngKG7RgLEWeWlc2J7XdaKeZyJ2uRv5x2QSgkfPVHBZQRWLllNbUukiVHh_GbnY9OUFu8MrC0VJUbMrN4EERHe-VmQ/s600/IMG_2383.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1B8kTryFqj_EvSn7i13NCxz-HJDf_95Qzt91WZQ20vMmJPFOyM5AHYMVGRDyikzndhwj1_v2OX-nD4MedmkdcM9r6pX_UAjm8gngKG7RgLEWeWlc2J7XdaKeZyJ2uRv5x2QSgkfPVHBZQRWLllNbUukiVHh_GbnY9OUFu8MrC0VJUbMrN4EERHe-VmQ/w400-h300/IMG_2383.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Egg door on back of coop. The solar panel is for the coop lights.</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The recommended space requirements for chickens is a minimum of 4 square feet of space per chicken in the coop and 10 square feet of space per chicken in the run.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This coop is 4' x 6', which equals 24 square feet inside. That is suitable for up to 6 chickens. We only have 3, so that is more than adequate. The run underneath is also 24 square feet, which would be a little small if we didn't let them free range in the yard during the day. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I decided to also add an additional 6' x 6' run on the front of the coop so that could have an expanded protected enclosed area if we weren't able to let them out or if the weather was bad.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPh0TUlrBtbyf5FS6fayCihR7jzWXA4i-RolnPbY0RYefYTMegV2ShPZ5Tucn7_Vbu0FGP_UJCLC0D-oZDCUuPpGnyiOBrxU6YfBpEIJx3yixr6Q--rNBft-dM-vuanTNtTqwDHyzW3G3JKF84PZXuZW71lzXGvpEC680LqAfmRzYvBv65Ot5AsRJMA/s600/IMG_3460.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPh0TUlrBtbyf5FS6fayCihR7jzWXA4i-RolnPbY0RYefYTMegV2ShPZ5Tucn7_Vbu0FGP_UJCLC0D-oZDCUuPpGnyiOBrxU6YfBpEIJx3yixr6Q--rNBft-dM-vuanTNtTqwDHyzW3G3JKF84PZXuZW71lzXGvpEC680LqAfmRzYvBv65Ot5AsRJMA/w300-h400/IMG_3460.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6' x 6' front run</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9-d56M1W8_S4xwud6fTq10jAvgZZToCPlnV3XzoJMbpxOqBWq9XhPa_MeKaOA66DA8_FzSpX02rv64dtP3Y1NP-zk_82E7iKeCc7QhjhaJDhA-6AD7BgXMydKfvf185wzFXs7A0OjxWee-QMvgSZqMD_82aHZfLM3MKqUt535eS3qyRelFyLqSx_x4A/s600/IMG_3462.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9-d56M1W8_S4xwud6fTq10jAvgZZToCPlnV3XzoJMbpxOqBWq9XhPa_MeKaOA66DA8_FzSpX02rv64dtP3Y1NP-zk_82E7iKeCc7QhjhaJDhA-6AD7BgXMydKfvf185wzFXs7A0OjxWee-QMvgSZqMD_82aHZfLM3MKqUt535eS3qyRelFyLqSx_x4A/w300-h400/IMG_3462.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">The coop is located under the canopy of a very large maple tree so the chickens have plenty of shade in the summer. They seem to be very happy with their accommodations.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOeIoAV3I28BcSOA12mtdKCSLGoSW-1x4s_bp_H4aytVRt1Sq6u0Zn0Hy7ygrVjTaJbB5_LdGP-T95h1K95vNipbIS9Zx6T58i9cKMkgPyvqkOQ-Ic_l7-QUREwhx4w02jSv0jcO8ZBi_yHonC1L1M3tPvnpQum8uGl6KhI8t4G5lizuQHAKM8Q8L3iQ/s600/IMG_0507.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOeIoAV3I28BcSOA12mtdKCSLGoSW-1x4s_bp_H4aytVRt1Sq6u0Zn0Hy7ygrVjTaJbB5_LdGP-T95h1K95vNipbIS9Zx6T58i9cKMkgPyvqkOQ-Ic_l7-QUREwhx4w02jSv0jcO8ZBi_yHonC1L1M3tPvnpQum8uGl6KhI8t4G5lizuQHAKM8Q8L3iQ/w300-h400/IMG_0507.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLRl9uKvW9kdkri4CutgKdUbqvDIhtXR_6Vyu1IbQpKdCmMKKITiK-xDk8BEY6M7bhfHemHtU_-xFvpaFY36hAmlMetzNTHpNK7TgBtmKxgDUUO2NBWFpHxUq4mZN62OExIYov--vo6_8pCwvnGbvhLGq720R6Z4XbTKqoeDezMMAv5kbFiPp5h5syg/s600/IMG_0561.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLRl9uKvW9kdkri4CutgKdUbqvDIhtXR_6Vyu1IbQpKdCmMKKITiK-xDk8BEY6M7bhfHemHtU_-xFvpaFY36hAmlMetzNTHpNK7TgBtmKxgDUUO2NBWFpHxUq4mZN62OExIYov--vo6_8pCwvnGbvhLGq720R6Z4XbTKqoeDezMMAv5kbFiPp5h5syg/w300-h400/IMG_0561.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkSwnjdfQD-A47tAUieR4-qnRu4RL1ysS99YlZRYy43lActB8fv1mPcf7f0VLySkG7L_FulpkW0lFJgNljEk4sF3b4eDQ2XwxutjRPLAD3zW-dptDcW6BXoLGz0GwhMd68bxln789VV9se_SihGbPqHzLIKq8v-F0-sTRVvBojQ1Pbok59S4wCu2XAKQ/s600/IMG_2510.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkSwnjdfQD-A47tAUieR4-qnRu4RL1ysS99YlZRYy43lActB8fv1mPcf7f0VLySkG7L_FulpkW0lFJgNljEk4sF3b4eDQ2XwxutjRPLAD3zW-dptDcW6BXoLGz0GwhMd68bxln789VV9se_SihGbPqHzLIKq8v-F0-sTRVvBojQ1Pbok59S4wCu2XAKQ/s320/IMG_2510.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiSTiuNXRrZrZIMoaQJu39sUa8dVRWHU0GHtUz25GdofAonYfrm4tKssiRYHscFgXAT3e9WreeFCKHGavb3lFz3d7a-RZb4zbFEM5pH-IU5bDafZlO0jNOOl_5-7ESy2glDhvqQCxUtYMqW4IKgiZZKRGP2LIhseJTxZ4g4jj00d2_7MljYE0bgJv3A/s600/IMG_2313.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiSTiuNXRrZrZIMoaQJu39sUa8dVRWHU0GHtUz25GdofAonYfrm4tKssiRYHscFgXAT3e9WreeFCKHGavb3lFz3d7a-RZb4zbFEM5pH-IU5bDafZlO0jNOOl_5-7ESy2glDhvqQCxUtYMqW4IKgiZZKRGP2LIhseJTxZ4g4jj00d2_7MljYE0bgJv3A/s320/IMG_2313.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4F2-f3mZ0QnjY6DxgnRsiefApqTBY9ITnpPjeKCnv9aVJrsDLgYVudRJPFf_T4ERGau8WdNgdGasUXfdbecSYVqpBqkR6b26utT9lePKufP2kJXaKgBbR8tVpgbosCFMNJW_tXlSMEm6IhqtpdHMP7vPFnGu1y8HanYByFh3iF2Fl-vOIETxo02lCbw/s600/IMG_2386.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4F2-f3mZ0QnjY6DxgnRsiefApqTBY9ITnpPjeKCnv9aVJrsDLgYVudRJPFf_T4ERGau8WdNgdGasUXfdbecSYVqpBqkR6b26utT9lePKufP2kJXaKgBbR8tVpgbosCFMNJW_tXlSMEm6IhqtpdHMP7vPFnGu1y8HanYByFh3iF2Fl-vOIETxo02lCbw/s320/IMG_2386.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've finally the created plans for the Backyard Chicken Coop which are now available in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rjterry" target="_blank">ETSY shop</a>. The plans include a materials list, cut list and step by step assembly instructions.</div><div style="text-align: center;">There are also plans available for the 6' x 6' front run as well as a 4' x 6' side run.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2khx7-u0or9KZgVd6g5AxNBD98xMhPwhjU02hBv_kt3ETS2la0-M8x2ajTCSsOQqRZ4zFSSASZrq21kbBJvrJoSvxwHpeB45MD1MWZ67v4X0H5fwmJe9cmOzd-CX_RtWu8aqGjibSoJHoJt5aXi0Geg1bCOf-m8KFmyj1Hnp7dE8ODBRyuiHf49Dqg/s600/_cover_front.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="464" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2khx7-u0or9KZgVd6g5AxNBD98xMhPwhjU02hBv_kt3ETS2la0-M8x2ajTCSsOQqRZ4zFSSASZrq21kbBJvrJoSvxwHpeB45MD1MWZ67v4X0H5fwmJe9cmOzd-CX_RtWu8aqGjibSoJHoJt5aXi0Geg1bCOf-m8KFmyj1Hnp7dE8ODBRyuiHf49Dqg/w309-h400/_cover_front.jpg" width="309" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-h4iAWfPQ728kzVAOa9omj8TETTiuBIkrx8FFiaKks7L0wwsGGd4S_uvg6cH-b7idJMULTQ99H4VLC8xUYa0NzKT74wJ_eBxtlfASopXjlaOvjus4d2b0-TSxUwX9a0Sy4uDZp4fWWWV9Cr5UmxqkQYC76MZRNIRIClrByKfiFVzpEybV-h8cWd0ZqQ/s600/Side%20Run.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="464" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-h4iAWfPQ728kzVAOa9omj8TETTiuBIkrx8FFiaKks7L0wwsGGd4S_uvg6cH-b7idJMULTQ99H4VLC8xUYa0NzKT74wJ_eBxtlfASopXjlaOvjus4d2b0-TSxUwX9a0Sy4uDZp4fWWWV9Cr5UmxqkQYC76MZRNIRIClrByKfiFVzpEybV-h8cWd0ZqQ/w309-h400/Side%20Run.jpg" width="309" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I also have many popular sizes of greenhouse plans available in both Printed and digital PDF format.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I am working on new designs for larger chicken coops, sheds and other yard and garden items which will be available in my ETSY Shop soon!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUcy5-q7-A3RpI-WabuKUMOx2JO1gr2iKcdAZyJ1o1Y6vXfKMfpgEz09e1XTrxC-f97yCX2vyuV0a0jGrFpCIt6PVu_dDdcX23hIfJfFLeDugukGhaBjuQ-xMTQLEfLhF2gVBj_tdCBkLrZW049gxVt-F0yG7wOkXx9oZRSQVBQ4K1wHWrDRmrRXNag/s600/IMG_2513.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUcy5-q7-A3RpI-WabuKUMOx2JO1gr2iKcdAZyJ1o1Y6vXfKMfpgEz09e1XTrxC-f97yCX2vyuV0a0jGrFpCIt6PVu_dDdcX23hIfJfFLeDugukGhaBjuQ-xMTQLEfLhF2gVBj_tdCBkLrZW049gxVt-F0yG7wOkXx9oZRSQVBQ4K1wHWrDRmrRXNag/s320/IMG_2513.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">~Rob~</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><h4><span style="color: #93c47d;">Shared at:</span></h4><a href="http://www.thecapecoop.com" target="_blank">The Cape Coop</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-3823780885879212122020-05-03T12:00:00.001-07:002023-02-25T09:49:47.466-08:00Building a Greenhouse - 9 years later...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ydWeHrCXBiM/Xq784T8g1-I/AAAAAAAADw4/8TH4geqWLoY4AiuKkXboaX9rMb913eAsQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ydWeHrCXBiM/Xq784T8g1-I/AAAAAAAADw4/8TH4geqWLoY4AiuKkXboaX9rMb913eAsQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0313.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I built my first greenhouse 9 years ago as a way to grow more of our own food on our 1/4 acre lot, who would have thought that I would be depending on it so much today to provide fresh food for my family.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-29FZB2gtEok/Xq7-eI4H44I/AAAAAAAADxE/xkpjYZAP8GMbaYCNsbYFmVNMzruIP_F5gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-29FZB2gtEok/Xq7-eI4H44I/AAAAAAAADxE/xkpjYZAP8GMbaYCNsbYFmVNMzruIP_F5gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0314.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is the greenhouse today. Everything is original, including the 6 mil plastic ...</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mj0t7JFTTUw/Xq8D4KFRKfI/AAAAAAAADxk/FwduRSIl7q8PhMrvBXqWsFw2Ec_9wMWTACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2611.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mj0t7JFTTUw/Xq8D4KFRKfI/AAAAAAAADxk/FwduRSIl7q8PhMrvBXqWsFw2Ec_9wMWTACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2611.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's been though a couple hurricanes and a some heavy northeast snow, but it's still holding up well. Right now it's full of seedlings waiting to go into the garden.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TmPMUgptv-Y/Xq8EKKco3cI/AAAAAAAADxw/uSxYpAiF64Iz8iZmX3CjXYLFCdUZDsg4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2613.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TmPMUgptv-Y/Xq8EKKco3cI/AAAAAAAADxw/uSxYpAiF64Iz8iZmX3CjXYLFCdUZDsg4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2613.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NC5aApTw5U4/Xq8QD2AD2OI/AAAAAAAADzc/l1agRkD-r2wIfXXhqGmEXjIZQDaKUB9bgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2614.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NC5aApTw5U4/Xq8QD2AD2OI/AAAAAAAADzc/l1agRkD-r2wIfXXhqGmEXjIZQDaKUB9bgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2614.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomato Seedlings</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l6YzNrhxZoc/Xq8QFfPqgOI/AAAAAAAADzg/bqCfDE9jdxgSmzMYYwYHkEmP1jIM8e1wwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2618.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l6YzNrhxZoc/Xq8QFfPqgOI/AAAAAAAADzg/bqCfDE9jdxgSmzMYYwYHkEmP1jIM8e1wwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2618.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Squash, Cucumbers and Summer Squash</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RABIWX4uiMQ/Xq8QHyKE02I/AAAAAAAADzk/I-kMm5jcS5krFAYXjPth7qYLe4WF731QQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2617.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RABIWX4uiMQ/Xq8QHyKE02I/AAAAAAAADzk/I-kMm5jcS5krFAYXjPth7qYLe4WF731QQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2617.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing Sweet Potato Slips</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organic Ginger </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hosDkU_ujXA/Xq8QeA5H4GI/AAAAAAAADz4/coVxt1CHndkr9fN5OpOFy2doOCDEhgJagCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2615.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1180" data-original-width="1600" height="236" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hosDkU_ujXA/Xq8QeA5H4GI/AAAAAAAADz4/coVxt1CHndkr9fN5OpOFy2doOCDEhgJagCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2615.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nasturtiums</td></tr>
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With everything going on in the world today, there has been a rush of people wanting to grow their own food. It's no wonder as it's been harder and harder to find fresh produce at the grocery store and farmers markets have been cancelled or are opening but are limiting the number of people who can attend. </div>
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There has also been a huge increase in the number of people purchasing seeds from seed companies since March. Most of the companies I usually order from have had long delays in filling orders or have stopped taking orders all-together until June or July. I am glad that I save seeds every year so I didn't have to purchase any for this season.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyeoD05pJ48/Xq8Ip5VRcdI/AAAAAAAADyw/-YVfralTelwlDPa350XbTTJFYisb_BUPACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2590.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyeoD05pJ48/Xq8Ip5VRcdI/AAAAAAAADyw/-YVfralTelwlDPa350XbTTJFYisb_BUPACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2590.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seedlings in the kitchen on my seed starting rack.</td></tr>
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After building my first greenhouse, I wanted to encourage others to build one for themselves and take a part in growing their own food so I listed my plans in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rjterry" target="_blank">ETSY</a> store and the response has been very surprising. I have sold thousands of plans to people all over the world. Since March I have had people contacting me daily inquiring about my plans who are excited to build their own greenhouse.<br />
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Since listing my original plans, I have come up with several new designs for different sizes of greenhouses after getting many requests from people wanting to build one to fit their particular needs.</div>
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The most popular sizes have been the original 6'-10" x 8'-0" and the 8' x 12'</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHPt9zHtq5g/Xq8Bs9l0eKI/AAAAAAAADxU/sTGUZISKPMU7olNqxKj44wQeo6kcz9akQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/il_794xN.379333410_haes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="794" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHPt9zHtq5g/Xq8Bs9l0eKI/AAAAAAAADxU/sTGUZISKPMU7olNqxKj44wQeo6kcz9akQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/il_794xN.379333410_haes.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6'-10" x 8'-0" Greenhouse</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HNCUn9p5_r0/Xq8BsiaE6bI/AAAAAAAADxQ/Rrboe6ekK8swTfGE-y1LzwROUxTLIJARgCEwYBhgL/s1600/il_794xN.1257363500_9lar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="794" height="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HNCUn9p5_r0/Xq8BsiaE6bI/AAAAAAAADxQ/Rrboe6ekK8swTfGE-y1LzwROUxTLIJARgCEwYBhgL/s320/il_794xN.1257363500_9lar.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8' x 12' Greenhouse</td></tr>
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I now have plans for several sizes ranging from 6' to 8' wide and lengths from 8' to 16' long. I am also working on plans for 10' wide greenhouses. I have designed many custom greenhouses, greenhouses with chicken coops attached and lean-to greenhouses.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aQa2KLj6B1Q/Xq8M6_mNL0I/AAAAAAAADzM/PhmthiXiOvYOaIB0hQSek6gvcWAu52g7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1237" data-original-width="1600" height="247" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aQa2KLj6B1Q/Xq8M6_mNL0I/AAAAAAAADzM/PhmthiXiOvYOaIB0hQSek6gvcWAu52g7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8' x 8' Greenhouse</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RI_kKzHWzF0/Xq8NIBkspoI/AAAAAAAADzQ/PXVoo7WGaxAfarEF8_gmrP1ZV6FfFp-LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/8x16_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1237" data-original-width="1600" height="247" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RI_kKzHWzF0/Xq8NIBkspoI/AAAAAAAADzQ/PXVoo7WGaxAfarEF8_gmrP1ZV6FfFp-LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/8x16_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8' x 16' Greenhouse</td></tr>
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If you're interested in building your own greenhouse, visit my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rjterry" target="_blank">ETSY </a>store and use the the code SAVE10 to receive a 10% discount from 5/3/20 to 6/3/20.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YRZbMBlyo60/Xq8HwZ0WdtI/AAAAAAAADyc/QXkGn3oix7s0DeLclwV0nvtyjbMtuTA2QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2625.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YRZbMBlyo60/Xq8HwZ0WdtI/AAAAAAAADyc/QXkGn3oix7s0DeLclwV0nvtyjbMtuTA2QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2625.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini-Greenhouse with perennials</td></tr>
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We have added backyard chickens to our gardens for the benefits of having natural pest management and fresh eggs! I am finishing up the plans for the backyard chicken coop and they will also be available soon in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rjterry" target="_blank">ETSY</a> store.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9a977dNfAno/Xq8KyxgcemI/AAAAAAAADy8/HgfJ5GChDSMD8sx4oQRSTQYldYiHvdbsACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2508.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9a977dNfAno/Xq8KyxgcemI/AAAAAAAADy8/HgfJ5GChDSMD8sx4oQRSTQYldYiHvdbsACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2508.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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~Rob~</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-90600196270855329832015-09-14T06:22:00.000-07:002015-09-14T06:22:51.990-07:00Growing Flint Red Corn<div style="text-align: center;">
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It's been quite some time since I've posted anything, but now that fall is ever so slowly approaching and the gardens are just about done for the season, I am finding the ambition to sit down and write again.<br />
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We are still searching for our farmhouse in Vermont with enough land to start a small organic farm. While we aren't quite ready to move just yet (we still need to finish renovations and repairs on our current home), we seem to be getting closer to finding that perfect house. In the meantime I am trying to work with the space I have with my current property, and at the <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">school garden</a>, to feed my desire to farm!<br />
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One of the many reasons I garden is to try to grow as much of our own food as possible. Knowing that our food is grown organically, comes from open-pollinated or organic seeds, and is picked fresh and is nutritious means a lot. Nothing compares to freshly harvested and prepared food! What we don't grow, which seemed to be quite a lot this year, we try and get from local farmers.<br />
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Building a seed inventory is another goal of mine. I've been selecting varieties to grow out and save based on several different criteria including, flavor, variety, and regional history.<br />
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This year I tried growing Roy's Calais Red Flint Corn.<br />
Here is a little bit of history (<a href="https://www.slowfoodusa.org/ark-item/roy-s-calais-flint-corn" target="_blank">from slowfoodsusa.org</a>):<br />
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"Roy's Flint Red Corn is an open-pollinated heirloom variety which was originally cultivated by the western Abenaki people in Vermont, and grown and maintained by pioneer farmers, including Roy and Ruth Fair of North Calais, VT. In 1996, Tom Searns obtained the seed from local farmers like Mike and Doug Guy, who had received the corn and seed saving information from Roy Fair. Tom Searns crossed all of the inbred strains and grew out the variety introducing it through his company, <a href="http://www.highmowingseeds.com/organic-non-gmo-seeds-roys-calais-flint-corn.html" target="_blank">High Mowing Seeds</a> of Wolcott, VT."<br />
If you are interested in reading more about the history, click <a href="https://www.slowfoodusa.org/ark-item/roy-s-calais-flint-corn" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Roy's Flint Red Corn is an heirloom variety that is said to be ideal for cornmeal, flour and hominy. It is an eight row flint variety that has a short growing season which is ideal for northern climates. According to <a href="http://www.fruitionseeds.com/product-p/sc3.htm" target="_blank">Fruition Seeds</a>, "it has a significantly higher amount of protein than other varieties of corn. It requires long cooking to break down the hard starch, but you will never go back to off the shelf polenta after this."<br />
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We had planted quite a few seeds at the school garden in hopes of doing an activity of grinding the corn into meal and making corn bread, but we ended up with fewer ears of corn than we had hoped for. We did however grow enough seed to over plant next year to try again growing this variety!<br />
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As you can see in the photos below, the variety of colors are truly fall-like and amazing.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ph4HsdqhOWk/Ve8f_NG9yZI/AAAAAAAADcM/0w-GS3R6QOQ/s1600/_MG_3909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ph4HsdqhOWk/Ve8f_NG9yZI/AAAAAAAADcM/0w-GS3R6QOQ/s320/_MG_3909.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We now have several pounds of seed for next year, and are planning on building the soil over the winter with either cover crops or compost and leaves, and amending again in the spring so there are plenty of nutrients available for this heavy feeding variety.<br />
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We are hopeful that next year we will be able to grow enough to grind to try making flour or cornmeal!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8xiJBfQKELk/Ve8f_-tPxFI/AAAAAAAADcU/CRahGS9C46Q/s1600/_MG_3919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8xiJBfQKELk/Ve8f_-tPxFI/AAAAAAAADcU/CRahGS9C46Q/s320/_MG_3919.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This will be another variety that will be added to my seed bank and grown out each year. It's very rewarding growing your own food, but it makes it even more meaningful when you are preserving a part of history and your food has a story behind it, something I hope to pass along to my children!<br />
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~Rob~<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-73925743022266535862015-02-25T09:23:00.000-08:002015-02-25T09:23:18.654-08:00Waiting for spring...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CUaTrkGS338/VO30LI6y3OI/AAAAAAAADQo/vYCeQi1q5L8/s1600/_MG_3427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CUaTrkGS338/VO30LI6y3OI/AAAAAAAADQo/vYCeQi1q5L8/s1600/_MG_3427.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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It certainly doesn't feel like spring is just around the corner, especially when you look outside, but the grow room is already filled with germinating seeds waiting to make the trip out to the greenhouse, as soon as it warms up a bit of course!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0GcstPL_mac/VO31_ZXBOhI/AAAAAAAADRo/wxM3mS2x1oQ/s1600/_MG_3420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0GcstPL_mac/VO31_ZXBOhI/AAAAAAAADRo/wxM3mS2x1oQ/s1600/_MG_3420.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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This year I was actually able to start seeds on time so we can enjoy some early crops of kale, lettuce, spinach, cabbage and swiss chard. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MpuCuvyTl9c/VO31-v5FFKI/AAAAAAAADRU/HW2BYYQkacA/s1600/_MG_3402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MpuCuvyTl9c/VO31-v5FFKI/AAAAAAAADRU/HW2BYYQkacA/s1600/_MG_3402.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Curled Scotch Kale</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x4OCjtkQb50/VO319yLBqMI/AAAAAAAADRE/Xdn1_Lrvmu8/s1600/_MG_3371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x4OCjtkQb50/VO319yLBqMI/AAAAAAAADRE/Xdn1_Lrvmu8/s1600/_MG_3371.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lettuce</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_a7s3JXyMRg/VO31-NHb5lI/AAAAAAAADRQ/vOPfqTz5vtU/s1600/_MG_3385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_a7s3JXyMRg/VO31-NHb5lI/AAAAAAAADRQ/vOPfqTz5vtU/s1600/_MG_3385.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Express Cabbage</td></tr>
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For the first time in several years I was able to start the artichoke and celery seeds on time as well. The taste of store bought celery just doesn't compare to celery fresh from the garden, but then again I guess that's true with just about anything!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ck0lnd0hetg/VO319NzHgmI/AAAAAAAADQ8/kwj32sPcQ6Y/s1600/_MG_3361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ck0lnd0hetg/VO319NzHgmI/AAAAAAAADQ8/kwj32sPcQ6Y/s1600/_MG_3361.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Globe Artichoke</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4mYRyVMNz8U/VO318x1uXYI/AAAAAAAADQ0/7ksKkcf0LNY/s1600/_MG_3350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4mYRyVMNz8U/VO318x1uXYI/AAAAAAAADQ0/7ksKkcf0LNY/s1600/_MG_3350.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Utah Tall Celery</td></tr>
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There are also trays of onions, leeks, broccoli, cauliflower and eggplant, as well as flowers and the herbs for medicinal and culinary herb garden. I think it's time for a larger greenhouse!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Un95Gk3C6s/VO4CFSg8YFI/AAAAAAAADSU/uSUOtzf0RB8/s1600/_MG_3363-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Un95Gk3C6s/VO4CFSg8YFI/AAAAAAAADSU/uSUOtzf0RB8/s1600/_MG_3363-001.jpg" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemongrass</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wmWUozeNH5M/VO31-LSIPAI/AAAAAAAADRM/jAizRPMnviU/s1600/_MG_3373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wmWUozeNH5M/VO31-LSIPAI/AAAAAAAADRM/jAizRPMnviU/s1600/_MG_3373.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thyme</td></tr>
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I can't believe it's been almost a year since I posted last, but things have been really busy and I have been spending more time to doing and less time talking about it. The <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">school garden</a> project has been consuming a lot of time, but it is well worth it. I have been working on crop planning, plant & harvest schedules and whittling down the 300+ varieties that I have in my seed collection to include only those varieties that we have had success with and want to keep growing year after year. </div>
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This year there are some exciting projects planned, like the completion of the garden shed and construction of a self sufficient greenhouse at the school garden. I am also planning on {finally} building the garden shed for our home garden as well as a larger, more permanent, greenhouse so I have the room to grow enough vegetable seedlings and flowers to sell at farmers' markets. </div>
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The big goal, as always, is to grow enough food for my family so we can eat mostly from the garden and spend less at the grocery store, and it looks like we are well on are way to doing that this year, weather permitting!</div>
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Stay tuned...</div>
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~Rob~ </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-7517065647394078782014-05-27T08:16:00.003-07:002014-05-27T08:16:58.280-07:00Scenes from the garden...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yr_xEtmcGHo/U4ShQYyNPTI/AAAAAAAADKg/Qx8ng7TGnZs/s1600/_MG_0430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yr_xEtmcGHo/U4ShQYyNPTI/AAAAAAAADKg/Qx8ng7TGnZs/s1600/_MG_0430.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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This is turning out to be a very busy year!</div>
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Managing both the school garden and our garden at home hasn't left me much time for posts, so here is a quick update on what's been happening in the gardens.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5aWg47iczY/U4ScgMCR1sI/AAAAAAAADJE/slhfFx2BE00/s1600/_MG_0803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5aWg47iczY/U4ScgMCR1sI/AAAAAAAADJE/slhfFx2BE00/s1600/_MG_0803.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet basil waiting to be planted.</td></tr>
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The greenhouse is starting to empty, but still has several trays of plants waiting to go into the garden. </div>
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Most of the plants went into the school garden but there are still more flowers, herbs and a few vegetable seedlings that still need to get planted.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NrDVutshQDM/U4Scfh0SHnI/AAAAAAAADI4/0toqwpkjVmI/s1600/_MG_0800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NrDVutshQDM/U4Scfh0SHnI/AAAAAAAADI4/0toqwpkjVmI/s1600/_MG_0800.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drunken Woman Fringed Head Lettuce - almost ready to be picked!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GReGsjmgxas/U4SceAvzC0I/AAAAAAAADIY/P9AFy8xnz7Q/s1600/_MG_0791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GReGsjmgxas/U4SceAvzC0I/AAAAAAAADIY/P9AFy8xnz7Q/s1600/_MG_0791.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another tray of lettuce, still in the 3/4" soil blocks!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8vcS-9YjhsE/U4Sch_sMVGI/AAAAAAAADJc/yf-9xhURAzs/s1600/_MG_0817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8vcS-9YjhsE/U4Sch_sMVGI/AAAAAAAADJc/yf-9xhURAzs/s1600/_MG_0817.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tray of tomatoes, lemon balm and mint.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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This year I started several varieties of flowers to plant a cutting garden. </div>
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I started zinnias, calendula, dahlia, ageratum, amaranth, morning glory and lots of sunflowers.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7l2eCdrs20w/U4SceeHU6LI/AAAAAAAADIc/qzuBWoceJII/s1600/_MG_0788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7l2eCdrs20w/U4SceeHU6LI/AAAAAAAADIc/qzuBWoceJII/s1600/_MG_0788.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ageratum - Dondo Blue.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-prQn8PgESp0/U4Sce0kPVuI/AAAAAAAADIs/cZgM0lNqkq4/s1600/_MG_0793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-prQn8PgESp0/U4Sce0kPVuI/AAAAAAAADIs/cZgM0lNqkq4/s1600/_MG_0793.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calendula - Mixed.</td></tr>
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I also started several varieties of herbs to create a medicinal herb garden. The plan is to grow my own organic herbs for salves, teas and tinctures. I started lemon grass, several different varieties of basil, rosemary, thyme, sage, chamomile, cayenne peppers, lemon balm, evening primrose, mint, marshmallow, licorice and peppermint.</div>
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The fence is already up, but the beds still need to be turned before I can get the seedlings in the ground. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SzwrKfb6noY/U4ScfE4j0cI/AAAAAAAADIw/N-mpwD4iA0c/s1600/_MG_0797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SzwrKfb6noY/U4ScfE4j0cI/AAAAAAAADIw/N-mpwD4iA0c/s1600/_MG_0797.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Grass</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-02Z172DuK1g/U4Scgn3wvkI/AAAAAAAADJI/ayWiKFBGz4U/s1600/_MG_0804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-02Z172DuK1g/U4Scgn3wvkI/AAAAAAAADJI/ayWiKFBGz4U/s1600/_MG_0804.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6yljEhUg78A/U4SchfBqxDI/AAAAAAAADJg/PNvGtiBaY0c/s1600/_MG_0809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6yljEhUg78A/U4SchfBqxDI/AAAAAAAADJg/PNvGtiBaY0c/s1600/_MG_0809.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holy Basil (Tulsi)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tLwfoVOHM5g/U4SciBGTJkI/AAAAAAAADJk/pp8Ze-YGZ6U/s1600/_MG_0819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tLwfoVOHM5g/U4SciBGTJkI/AAAAAAAADJk/pp8Ze-YGZ6U/s1600/_MG_0819.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Balm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uyfa3oAAiRI/U4Sci4V9AeI/AAAAAAAADJs/9TYUb6mWRao/s1600/_MG_0832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uyfa3oAAiRI/U4Sci4V9AeI/AAAAAAAADJs/9TYUb6mWRao/s1600/_MG_0832.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosemary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0m35FydZXcQ/U4Scg_1VdjI/AAAAAAAADJM/z84TD8kqM3U/s1600/_MG_0807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0m35FydZXcQ/U4Scg_1VdjI/AAAAAAAADJM/z84TD8kqM3U/s1600/_MG_0807.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evening Primrose</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some new varieties that I am trying for the first time this year are rhubarb and pop corn. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I purchased seeds from a supplier in Vermont and am excited to see what kind of results I get.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kHgYL15yLC4/U4SlPRs9bCI/AAAAAAAADKo/iGd6-Rs-50Y/s1600/_MG_0452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kHgYL15yLC4/U4SlPRs9bCI/AAAAAAAADKo/iGd6-Rs-50Y/s1600/_MG_0452.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rhubarb seedling.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P767Om9wYBs/U4SlVTUdcyI/AAAAAAAADKs/aL1ASMo3V68/s1600/_MG_0455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P767Om9wYBs/U4SlVTUdcyI/AAAAAAAADKs/aL1ASMo3V68/s1600/_MG_0455.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tray of pop corn, started in soil blocks so the seeds wouldn't get eaten in the garden.</td></tr>
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I am always amazed by how well the plants grow in soil blocks. Using them has really cut down on the cost of plastic starting trays and pots. </div>
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The kale, lettuce and greens that I planted last fall have all started to go to seed. I am just waiting for the pods to turn brown so I can harvest the seed for next season.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CHfaV5QRR14/U4ScjTvsV6I/AAAAAAAADJ0/tuSaDQl3NOg/s1600/_MG_0844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CHfaV5QRR14/U4ScjTvsV6I/AAAAAAAADJ0/tuSaDQl3NOg/s1600/_MG_0844.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kale, lettuce and greens going to seed.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bIrQShoqvWw/U4SclLW5lNI/AAAAAAAADKI/QNkqt4QIJVM/s1600/_MG_0853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bIrQShoqvWw/U4SclLW5lNI/AAAAAAAADKI/QNkqt4QIJVM/s1600/_MG_0853.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seed pods on the Ruby Streak - greens</td></tr>
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At the <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">school garden</a>, we added more beds, increasing the growing area to 1,200 square feet!</div>
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We also put up a fence to keep the deer out after seeing signs of them eating the greens last fall! </div>
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In a couple weeks we will be putting up a tool storage shed, building cold-frames and building one of my greenhouses so we can start seedlings right in the garden!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lk2SHiJazn8/U4SeKp1nZvI/AAAAAAAADKY/-DugRsfsndg/s1600/_MG_0770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lk2SHiJazn8/U4SeKp1nZvI/AAAAAAAADKY/-DugRsfsndg/s1600/_MG_0770.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Most of the beds have already been planted and the beans we put in last week are just starting to emerge!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dy-urS0GhTE/U4Scd_W4nQI/AAAAAAAADIU/qRddf1tpX2g/s1600/_MG_0580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dy-urS0GhTE/U4Scd_W4nQI/AAAAAAAADIU/qRddf1tpX2g/s1600/_MG_0580.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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That's what's been going on in the gardens this spring. </div>
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While I wish I had more time for more posts, I am really enjoying the time spent working out in the gardens. Hopefully once everything is planted, and things settle down a bit, I can find time to share my results with growing the new varieties. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
~Rob~</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-67393666788625063832014-04-28T10:31:00.001-07:002014-04-28T10:31:33.530-07:00"Grow a Sustainable Diet" a book review<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Grow a Sustainable Diet</b></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: small;">planning and growing to feed</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: small;">ourselves and the earth</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">by </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cindy Conner </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zCLMn-qYkWE/U1lNHiwxcdI/AAAAAAAADEo/EY8lX0kbrug/s1600/IMG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zCLMn-qYkWE/U1lNHiwxcdI/AAAAAAAADEo/EY8lX0kbrug/s1600/IMG.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
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Over the winter I have read numerous books that have inspired me to become better at growing most of our own food, and to work harder towards doing this as a career. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>"Before we feed others, however, we need to know how to feed ourselves." ~ Cindy Conner</i></span><br />
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"<a href="http://www.northshire.com/book/9780865717565" target="_blank">Grow a Sustainable Diet, planning and growing to feed ourselves and the earth</a>", is probably one of the most comprehensive book I have read to date about
growing your own food and doing it sustainably. I've learned several new techniques for growing as well as planning the gardens, an area I seem to have the most difficult perfecting.</div>
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The author, Cindy Conner, covers every aspect of growing from planning the gardens, choosing crops for nutrition, calculating how much to grow, companion planting and seeds. She uses the bio-intensive method of gardening, something I have talked about several times, and replenishes the soil with use of cover crops and compost. She discusses mapping out our garden so you know how much growing area you have and with the use of her worksheets you can easily:</div>
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plan <i><b>How much to Grow</b></i><br />
calculate <i><b>Plant / Harvest Times</b></i><br />
create a <b><i>Plant / Harvest Schedule</i></b><br />
track your <i><b>Seed Inventory</b></i><br />
and <br />
calculate <b><i>Seeds and Plants Needed</i></b><br />
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The worksheets are extremely useful, especially in the <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">School Garden</a>, because I have to figure out when to start seeds so the plants are ready for our fundraisers. I also need to create a plant/harvest schedule so we can get the most yield from our garden. (Over the weekend we added 11 new beds and increased our growing area to over 1200 square feet!) I have already begun using the worksheets to plan the garden, and the children will be using the information to calculate our estimated yield and will then compare it to our actual yield.<br />
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There are also chapters on companion planting and crop rotation, two subjects I have been trying to learn more about. There are resources listed in each chapter where you can find additional information on each topic.<br />
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This book is an excellent resources, one I highly recommend if you are interested in learning about sustainably growing your own food. I have begun using the worksheets this year and we started implementing many of the techniques found in the book in both our home garden and the school garden. The worksheets have become teaching tools we can use with the children, not only to grow more sustainably, but to also incorporate other lessons like art and math into the <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">school garden</a>, and to help foster a deeper appreciation of nature.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
"Grow a Sustainable Diet" has already become one of my most valuable resources!<br />
<br />
~Rob~ </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S0YMfsk3yC8/U16OdLJX5wI/AAAAAAAADGU/TfdH9PO0-K4/s1600/_MG_9858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S0YMfsk3yC8/U16OdLJX5wI/AAAAAAAADGU/TfdH9PO0-K4/s1600/_MG_9858.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning Glory seedling in soil block.</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-10894062125310592592014-04-26T16:03:00.001-07:002014-04-26T16:03:20.079-07:00Scenes from the garden - 4/26/14<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DT-0MEr1hGA/U1wzivTg3uI/AAAAAAAADFs/KKhQjjsalx8/s1600/_MG_9833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DT-0MEr1hGA/U1wzivTg3uI/AAAAAAAADFs/KKhQjjsalx8/s1600/_MG_9833.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raindrops on the Red Russian Kale.</td></tr>
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It's been a cool and rainy day here in New England. I couldn't work in the garden today so I went outside with the camera and snapped a few photos of the raindrops that I though looked interesting on the Kale and Lettuce plants.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PW77Sgn4XDQ/U1wze8CJedI/AAAAAAAADFA/DSxWLveaA5A/s1600/DSCN3281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PW77Sgn4XDQ/U1wze8CJedI/AAAAAAAADFA/DSxWLveaA5A/s1600/DSCN3281.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Russian Kale, planted last fall.<br />
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Yesterday I moved the cold frame off the kale, lettuce, onions and garlic, now that the night-time temps have been staying above freezing.<br />
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I also transplanted some of the extra Kale seedlings that were started on 4/6 into the garden.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tOmj7AG_8iE/U1wzqtses3I/AAAAAAAADF0/F-84oFJZpQ0/s1600/DSCN3309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tOmj7AG_8iE/U1wzqtses3I/AAAAAAAADF0/F-84oFJZpQ0/s1600/DSCN3309.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Curled Scotch Kale seedling.</td></tr>
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The greens I planted last fall really seem to be loving the cool spring temperature.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HxIgkQI6cEM/U1w3gUcsEHI/AAAAAAAADGE/8iQrdH6Hm1w/s1600/DSCN3306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HxIgkQI6cEM/U1w3gUcsEHI/AAAAAAAADGE/8iQrdH6Hm1w/s1600/DSCN3306.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greens, Ruby Streaks</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KyLnXL2Q60o/U1wzffCcsZI/AAAAAAAADFI/MKJKm8nsqV4/s1600/DSCN3297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KyLnXL2Q60o/U1wzffCcsZI/AAAAAAAADFI/MKJKm8nsqV4/s1600/DSCN3297.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greens, Mustard Red Giant</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tHKG5XJswdY/U1wzhqtjJgI/AAAAAAAADFk/DbYr2gkhWO4/s1600/DSCN3300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tHKG5XJswdY/U1wzhqtjJgI/AAAAAAAADFk/DbYr2gkhWO4/s1600/DSCN3300.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These greens have add a nice spicy punch to salads.</td></tr>
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I am thinking about letting some of them go to seed so I can save them for next year!</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hIpKPrZxsow/U1wzgLkpIgI/AAAAAAAADFU/mn9QHafYMJw/s1600/DSCN3298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hIpKPrZxsow/U1wzgLkpIgI/AAAAAAAADFU/mn9QHafYMJw/s1600/DSCN3298.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R6eMqmn-1Ss/U1wzhd7w2oI/AAAAAAAADFg/wmvwaAOthXA/s1600/DSCN3299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R6eMqmn-1Ss/U1wzhd7w2oI/AAAAAAAADFg/wmvwaAOthXA/s1600/DSCN3299.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gW5MrMobM8I/U1wzv7h-0eI/AAAAAAAADF8/vFet0pD7Es4/s1600/DSCN3303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gW5MrMobM8I/U1wzv7h-0eI/AAAAAAAADF8/vFet0pD7Es4/s1600/DSCN3303.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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The color in the leaves, highlighted by the raindrops, is making my mouth water for a fresh picked crispy salad! </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
~Rob~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-38483806529683408242014-04-06T12:45:00.000-07:002014-04-06T12:45:33.456-07:00Blocking up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZRQrzOd-rM/U0GgUHHht0I/AAAAAAAADDY/XH22QFXQbFM/s1600/DSCN3001-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lCZ-pfj8HDM/U0GgUqBh-5I/AAAAAAAADDg/7HNx0yECvIk/s1600/DSCN3040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lCZ-pfj8HDM/U0GgUqBh-5I/AAAAAAAADDg/7HNx0yECvIk/s1600/DSCN3040.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">94 degrees in the greenhouse!</td></tr>
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Today I spent the morning blocking up some of the seedlings I started on <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2014/04/starting-seeds.html" target="_blank">Tuesday</a> and enjoying the warmth of the greenhouse. As the sun rose higher it became so warm I had to open the vents to cool it off a bit.</div>
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The seeds seem to have germinated
extremely fast, I started these just 5 days ago and most are
ready to be blocked up to the larger soil blocks. I like to block them up as soon as they have two leaves so they don't get leggy.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pQL2Q3EbuRc/U0GiJWDQIrI/AAAAAAAADEI/9t8V8Afh8Zg/s1600/DSCN2986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pQL2Q3EbuRc/U0GiJWDQIrI/AAAAAAAADEI/9t8V8Afh8Zg/s1600/DSCN2986.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zinnias - Benary's Giant Mix</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILjAu1d3B_I/U0GgTbKnGwI/AAAAAAAADDE/t0YrwP1E5EE/s1600/DSCN2988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILjAu1d3B_I/U0GgTbKnGwI/AAAAAAAADDE/t0YrwP1E5EE/s1600/DSCN2988.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ageratum - Dondo Blue</td></tr>
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This year I started mostly heirlooms and regional seeds and am getting almost 100% germination rates from each variety. They seem to be growing much faster than the seeds I started last year.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZRQrzOd-rM/U0GgUHHht0I/AAAAAAAADDY/XH22QFXQbFM/s1600/DSCN3001-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZRQrzOd-rM/U0GgUHHht0I/AAAAAAAADDY/XH22QFXQbFM/s1600/DSCN3001-001.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cosmo seedling</td></tr>
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Now the logistical game comes into play as I try to juggle the seedlings into the greenhouse during the day and back into the basement at night, until the nighttime temps stay above 50.</div>
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I was hoping to have the new shed and greenhouse built last fall, with electricity for the heating mats, so I could start and leave the seedlings right in the greenhouse. Hopefully this spring I can get them both built.</div>
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On Tuesday I started 10 mini trays using the 3/4" soil block maker. The small tool makes 20 blocks at a time and I can fit four of them into each mini tray, 80 blocks each x 10 = 800 seedlings. When I <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2013/03/starting-seeds-in-soil-blocks-blocking.html" target="_blank">block up</a> to the next size, which is 1-1/2", I can fit 40 blocks in each of the seedling trays, so I will end up with about 20 trays to maneuver around the greenhouse. That's just the flowers, herbs, early and cold crops, I still need to start the squash, pumpkins, more herbs and flowers, so you can see why I need a larger greenhouse!</div>
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Of course Bert had to come in to see what was going on before heading out to take a bath in the pool that I just refilled!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uUppUh9H8Vo/U0GgUa4C_SI/AAAAAAAADDc/EAOfgudyLzg/s1600/DSCN3024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uUppUh9H8Vo/U0GgUa4C_SI/AAAAAAAADDc/EAOfgudyLzg/s1600/DSCN3024.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Now it is beginning to feel like spring, </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4UOPmn1OqE/U0GgVmhNkXI/AAAAAAAADDw/nPT2wK9Kbhg/s1600/DSCN3042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4UOPmn1OqE/U0GgVmhNkXI/AAAAAAAADDw/nPT2wK9Kbhg/s1600/DSCN3042.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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The greenhouse is starting to fill with seedlings and will soon be overflowing with plants waiting to move into the gardens.</div>
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~Rob~ </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>"A seed is sleepy,</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>but only until is it has found </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>a place in the sun </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>and it has had its breakfast </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>and a drink of water.t</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Then a seed is </i>...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>awake!</i>"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dianna Hutts Aston</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.northshire.com/book/9781452131474" target="_blank">A Seed is Sleepy</a></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-49229251930731121272014-04-04T08:46:00.005-07:002014-04-04T08:46:55.414-07:00Starting Seeds<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm about a month late, but I was finally able to find time this week to start some seeds for the garden.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KvFWrMzJrOE/Uz64lr6fpbI/AAAAAAAADCA/drlhQN0p-YY/s1600/_MG_9573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KvFWrMzJrOE/Uz64lr6fpbI/AAAAAAAADCA/drlhQN0p-YY/s1600/_MG_9573.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heirloom sweet corn seeds saved from last year.</td></tr>
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This year I am planning several new growing projects including putting in a cutting flower garden and a medicinal herb garden as well as starting to grow mostly regional heirlooms.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The Medicinal Herb Garden</h3>
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I have been intrigued with herbal remedies for quite some time now and over this past winter became even more inspired to put in a medicinal herb garden after reading <a href="http://www.northshire.com/book/9781603427036" target="_blank">Homegrown Herbs</a>, by Tammy Hartung <a href="http://www.northshire.com/book/9781609615703" target="_blank">Grow It Heal It</a>, by Christopher Hobbs and Leslie Gardner, and <a href="http://www.northshire.com/book/9781612120058" target="_blank">Medicinal Herbs, a beginner's Guide</a> and <a href="http://www.northshire.com/book/9781603420785" target="_blank">Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health</a> both by Rosemary Gladstar.</div>
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I plan on making my own herbal teas and salves using organically grown herbs from my garden, so I purchased some medicinal herb seeds from <a href="http://www.horizonherbs.com/" target="_blank">Horizon Herbs</a>. Some of the varieties I purchased are: Sweet Basil, Holy Basil, Burdock, Calendula, Chamomile, Echinacea, Elecampane, Evening Primrose, Flax, Lemon Balm, Licorice, Marshmello, Mint, Motherwort, Passionflower, and Cayenne Pepper just to name a few.</div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The Flower Garden</h3>
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I am also planning on putting in a cut flower garden so I purchased some flower seeds from <a href="http://www.fedcoseeds.com/" target="_blank">Fedco Seeds</a> to get started.</div>
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I purchased varieties like Ageratum, Amaranth, Cockscomb, Cosmos, Rudbeckia, Salvia, Snapdragon, Sunflower and Yarrow. Not only would it be nice to have a steady supply of fresh cut flowers, but hopefully I will be able to grow enough to sell at the local farmers market.</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The Heirloom Garden</h3>
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One of my biggest goals for gardening is to be able to sustainably grow as much of our own food as possible. Part of that is saving seeds for nutritional value and adaptability to my region. After reading <a href="http://www.northshire.com/book/%5Bmodel%5D-115" target="_blank">The Seed Underground</a>, by Janisse Ray (an excellent book I need to do a review on very soon!) and learning about Sylvia Davatz of <a href="http://www.uppervalleyfood.coop/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Solstice_Seeds_Catalogue_2014.pdf" target="_blank">Solstice Seeds</a> in Vermont, who grows and sells heirloom seeds, I immediately contacted her to see if I could order some of her regionally grown seeds for my garden.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B9OSrK5jksY/Uz64kVgLXFI/AAAAAAAADBc/NydZRlFIO2A/s1600/_MG_9559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B9OSrK5jksY/Uz64kVgLXFI/AAAAAAAADBc/NydZRlFIO2A/s1600/_MG_9559.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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I ordered varieties like Cannelini Beans, Dark Red Kidney Beans, Black Turtle Beans, Beets, Vermont Red Kernal Popcorn, Athens Cucumber, Scotland Leeks, Rouge d'Hiver Lettuce, Tango Lettuce, North Pole Lettuce, Drunken Woman Fringed Head Lettuce, Guernsey Parsnips, Early Champagne Rhubarb and Monnopa Spinach. </div>
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I also have several varieties saved from my own garden from last year. Slowly but surely I am building my own heirloom seed inventory that I hope to be able to share soon.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zwl6gwSb05Y/Uz64l1v80_I/AAAAAAAADB8/hil7HMKqNnU/s1600/_MG_9575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zwl6gwSb05Y/Uz64l1v80_I/AAAAAAAADB8/hil7HMKqNnU/s1600/_MG_9575.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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All these seeds mentioned above will be planted in our home garden as well as the <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">school garden</a>.</div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Starting Seeds</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ov688PC9Do/Uz64j3ATBcI/AAAAAAAADBQ/upu48j-uuMQ/s1600/_MG_9548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ov688PC9Do/Uz64j3ATBcI/AAAAAAAADBQ/upu48j-uuMQ/s1600/_MG_9548.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Basil.</td></tr>
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On April 1st I finally decided to take some time off from what seems like an unbelievable busy year to get some seeds started. I usually start my seeds on March 7th, which gives me plenty of time to grow early tomatoes and lettuce, but this year I have been so busy that I am almost a month behind. Hopefully the weather cooperates and it doesn't warm up too quick like last spring. </div>
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I start my seeds in soil blocks, a method that has worked out very well. You can read more about starting seeds using soil blocks <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2013/03/starting-seeds-in-soil-blocks.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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I started over 800 seeds on Tuesday, including Basil, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts, Swiss Chard, Rhubarb, Kale, several varieties of Lettuce, Bell Peppers, Tomatoes, Sunflowers, Ageratum, Amaranth, Cosmos, Zinnias, Calendula, Rosemary, Thyme, Sage, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Evening Primrose and Mint. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H60BeLtWBVI/Uz64jFUG1-I/AAAAAAAADBM/uHXkM6vQ8tI/s1600/IMG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H60BeLtWBVI/Uz64jFUG1-I/AAAAAAAADBM/uHXkM6vQ8tI/s1600/IMG.jpg" height="320" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My chart for keeping track of the soil blocks.</td></tr>
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I haven't mastered starting the correct amount and I always end up with way more seedlings than I can fit in my garden, but between the school garden and giving them away they always all seem to end up in somebody's garden.</div>
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Most of the seeds this year are from the sources listed above and it is my first year growing them. So far I am very pleased with the germination rates. After only a few days just about everything has begun to grow and some of the trays have 100% germination!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rlQxeBF-tRg/Uz64jOCOPxI/AAAAAAAADBI/DGfxmDin_9E/s1600/_MG_9536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rlQxeBF-tRg/Uz64jOCOPxI/AAAAAAAADBI/DGfxmDin_9E/s1600/_MG_9536.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunflowers beginning to grow.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_5mPrRuZb8I/Uz64kMxYa1I/AAAAAAAADBo/rT4eb82I4Tc/s1600/_MG_9553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_5mPrRuZb8I/Uz64kMxYa1I/AAAAAAAADBo/rT4eb82I4Tc/s1600/_MG_9553.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
In the cold frame</h3>
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Last fall was also extremely busy so I wasn't able to get much planted in the cold frames. I did put in some extra Leeks, Garlic, and Onions that we had planted in the school garden as well as seeding in some Lettuce and Kale. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DrbzzOT3xj4/Uz64oKGc8lI/AAAAAAAADCo/UlorC0sNx8k/s1600/_MG_9587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DrbzzOT3xj4/Uz64oKGc8lI/AAAAAAAADCo/UlorC0sNx8k/s1600/_MG_9587.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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The plants took a beating because we had so many below freezing days during the winter, but now that it is warming up it is growing nicely and it looks like we will have some early greens to enjoy!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_54CxwOIqWM/Uz64nOhxnpI/AAAAAAAADCU/yrJiAKaOGTo/s1600/_MG_9576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_54CxwOIqWM/Uz64nOhxnpI/AAAAAAAADCU/yrJiAKaOGTo/s1600/_MG_9576.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Russian Kale</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GeRtEQZ3tkM/Uz64nyxmnHI/AAAAAAAADCk/N0WM7mEGWA0/s1600/_MG_9585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GeRtEQZ3tkM/Uz64nyxmnHI/AAAAAAAADCk/N0WM7mEGWA0/s1600/_MG_9585.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Curled Scotch Kale</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VhlStdOBHaw/Uz64m6ZmOvI/AAAAAAAADCM/UW0gYyYLaHw/s1600/_MG_9580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VhlStdOBHaw/Uz64m6ZmOvI/AAAAAAAADCM/UW0gYyYLaHw/s1600/_MG_9580.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greens, Mustard Red Giant</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VXZZQ2XcR3s/Uz64nR-4SDI/AAAAAAAADCc/Qc_oE_5-bTs/s1600/_MG_9581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VXZZQ2XcR3s/Uz64nR-4SDI/AAAAAAAADCc/Qc_oE_5-bTs/s1600/_MG_9581.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greens, Ruby Streaks</td></tr>
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This year is shaping up to be very busy with many exciting projects and events planned. </div>
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I vowed to get outside more often and spend more time doing and less time dreaming, so I may not be posting as much as I would like, as you can tell by the lack of posts this year. I will however try to post weekly photos of the gardens and share my experience with the new gardens and projects.</div>
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<i>"Life is short, live your dream and share your passion!"</i></div>
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~Rob~</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-5239332933943282232014-02-16T06:27:00.002-08:002014-02-16T06:27:30.451-08:00The morning walk to the greenhouse...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JDW823J8Nc/UwC-6ltb-SI/AAAAAAAAC-s/AqJ130lqjDI/s1600/IMG_8248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JDW823J8Nc/UwC-6ltb-SI/AAAAAAAAC-s/AqJ130lqjDI/s1600/IMG_8248.jpg" height="400" width="267" /></a></div>
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This winter has been especially cold here in New England. </div>
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Usually by now I am already thinking about starting seeds, laying out the garden plans and going through my seed supply pulling out the varieties that will be started soon, but instead I have been busy running my business and spending my free time sitting by the wood stove reading gardening and farming books.</div>
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Last fall I built a <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-duck-house-made-from-recycled.html" target="_blank">duck house</a> for our two Pekin ducks so I could leave them outside at night instead of putting them up in the garage in the portable coop. It has worked out extremely well protecting them from both predators and the elements. It is cozy and spacious, and they really seem comfortable in it. Each night at dusk, they would stand on the ramp and quack until I came out and put them up for the night.</div>
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(Unfortunately we lost one of our ducks last summer so we now only have one, Bert, who I am hoping to find a mate for come spring)</div>
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The winter nights have been extremely cold, so I packed the duck house with hay for extra warmth. The ducks usually aren't bothered by the cold or snow, but this year Bert doesn't seem to like it too much.</div>
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Our morning routine had become me filling up a tub with warm water in the greenhouse...</div>
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letting Bert out at sunrise...</div>
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having him follow me along the shoveled path...</div>
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(although on really cold days I need to carry him because he'll sit down in the middle of the path and quack)</div>
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and into the greenhouse </div>
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we he immediately heads for the tub of warm water to drink and take a bath.</div>
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He'll spend the day basking in the warmth of the greenhouse until dusk, when it's time to head back to his duck house.</div>
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Hopefully the temps will begin to warm and the greenhouse will soon be filled with seedlings waiting to go into the garden!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zJ-2VCAk2b0/UwDIR0v1klI/AAAAAAAADAc/Uj9vJn91oHk/s1600/IMG_0314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zJ-2VCAk2b0/UwDIR0v1klI/AAAAAAAADAc/Uj9vJn91oHk/s1600/IMG_0314.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div>
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~Rob~</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-61299175284036452662014-01-04T10:31:00.000-08:002014-01-04T10:31:04.089-08:00Scenes from the garden<div style="text-align: center;">
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I can't believe it is 2014 already, it seems like last year flew by so fast! </div>
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It has been extremely busy around here these past few months, hence the lack of posts, but things are starting to settle back down a bit and I have begun planning the gardens and projects for this year! </div>
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We had our first substantial snowfall yesterday and record low temps last night, dipping to -9°. The wood stove has been doing a great job keeping the house toasty but the wood pile seems to be going down much faster this year.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRMDHqgviC0/UshMo95l7LI/AAAAAAAAC8s/tM1fx1frlII/s1600/_MG_9352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRMDHqgviC0/UshMo95l7LI/AAAAAAAAC8s/tM1fx1frlII/s400/_MG_9352.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see Bert, just to the left of the birdbath, enjoying the 60° temp inside the greenhouse</td></tr>
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I felt uneasy leaving Bert outside in his duck house with the blustery winds and below zero temps, so I filled the empty greenhouse with hay and locked him in these past two days. </div>
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He seemed a little annoyed at first, but now that he has been enjoying the warmth, he refuses to come out!</div>
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The frosty temps have created some interesting designs on the cold frame walls.</div>
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Surprisingly, with the below zero temps and no row covers on the plants, the lettuce, kale, onions, beets and leeks seem to be doing just fine in the cold frame. </div>
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The seed catalogs have already started to trickle in and I can't wait to get my hands back into the soil! Until then all I can do is curl up in front of the wood stove and dream about this year's garden!</div>
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~Rob~ </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-48303723929853441112013-11-07T09:46:00.002-08:002013-11-07T09:46:19.549-08:00A Gift from the Past<div style="text-align: center;">
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I've mentioned several times that my passion for gardening comes from time spent with my grandparents when I was growing up. I feel my strong connection to food and farming has been instilled in me at a young age, by working side by side in the greenhouse with my grandfather, and cooking in the kitchen with my grandmother.</div>
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Some of the fondest memories I have are of picking raspberries in the summer with my grandfather. Putting the ripe berries in pint containers to sell to the small grocery store in town, and setting aside the overripe ones so my grandmother could brew up a batch of her sweet raspberry syrup which she used to make the most delicious raspberry juice.<br />
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I also remember the smell of my grandfather's greenhouse, the tropical aroma of soil and plants in the humid air. I remember his prized lemon tree with lemons the size of grapefruits and the bird of paradise plant, with the most beautiful flowers, growing in the corner. <br />
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I can remember being nervous about starting a new grade in elementary school, scared because of rumors I heard about my teacher being really mean. To help me, Bepa cut a flower from his bird of paradise plant and told me to give it to my teacher on the first day. He told me to extend a gesture of kindness and everything would be okay. Turns out the teacher was really nice. Those flowers got me through many stressful situations.<br />
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My grandparents both passed away when I was about 14, but I always remembered working in the greenhouse and that beautiful bird of paradise plant. About 10 years ago I purchases a small plant to keep in my office. I was always hoping to get it to flower, but despite it growing over 4' tall, it never did. This past summer, my cousin Patty, who I haven't talked to in a really long time, surprised me by dropping off this gift with a note:<br />
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I was beyond thrilled to have an offspring from Bepa's original plant!<br />
This gift meant so much to me.<br />
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I put the plant in my greenhouse over the summer, not sure if it would survive. I left it out there during the 100 degree days, and despite a few leaves dying, it seemed to be holding on. In September, I decided to swap it with the one in my office that never flowered. I re-potted it into a bigger pot and noticed that a large root had formed. There was hope that this plant would make it!<br />
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A few days later I noticed a new stalk coming up, but it just looked like another new leaf. I was very optimistic about the plant flowering because they are tropical plants, usually flowering in the high heat and humidity of summer. It was now October and we already had our first frost and daytime temps were dipping into the upper 40's.<br />
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By the beginning of November that stalk that I thought was a leaf started to take on a different shape. It began bending about 8" from the end and started to have light shades of orange and red. I was now positive that this was a flower! The thought of finally getting a flower from a plant that was divided just 6 months earlier was astounding. Over the next couple of days I watched with anticipation as the colors began to intensify as it looked like it was about to burst open.<br />
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Last night the pod finally opened! My wife and I both stood there in amazement and watched as the flower slowly emerged! I couldn't believe that this plant that came from Bepa's original was actually flowering!<br />
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This plant sits on my desk in my office next to a picture of Bepa that hangs on my wall. I always feel that he is watching over me, inspiring me and guiding me to move forward along my journey to farm. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iDqJo3uTFYY/UnvDXkyJrfI/AAAAAAAAC8I/V9xhiHUFL5s/s1600/_MG_3581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iDqJo3uTFYY/UnvDXkyJrfI/AAAAAAAAC8I/V9xhiHUFL5s/s400/_MG_3581.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
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My wife and I both said it would be funny if the plant flowered on Bepa's birthday. This morning we looked through our genealogy information and found out that Bepa's birthday was <b>November 3rd</b>, the day it started to flower! We both had goosebumps!<br />
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I always feel the presence of Bepa with me, but now I know for sure that he is there, watching over me and inspiring me to live the life I dream of.<br />
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~Rob~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-48267146533264674992013-10-30T08:37:00.001-07:002013-10-30T08:56:28.573-07:00Sweet Corn - From Seed to Seed...<div style="text-align: center;">
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One of my most favorite crops to grow this year was the sweet corn.</div>
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We had been trying to grow corn successfully for several seasons, but haven't had the best of luck. It was getting harder and harder to find organic, non-gmo seed, and when we were able to, and planted some, our seedlings were either devoured by crows or raccoons. </div>
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This year we decided to plant corn in <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">the school garden</a>. We purchased seed from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/129047687/heirloom-three-sisters-garden-seed?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">1840 Farm's</a> Heirloom Seed Collection and had the children from one of our after school garden clubs plant the seeds on May 30th.</div>
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We weren't sure how well the corn would grow because this was the first year growing the garden. The beds were freshly dug and only amended with a few inches of aged horse manure, but to our surprise the corn started sending up shoots in just 5 days!</div>
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The corn continued to grow and within a month it was surely knee high by July!</div>
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We just watered and weeded through the summer and were amazed by how fast the corn was growing.</div>
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By the end of July the corn was over 7 feet tall and was starting to form ears and tassels. </div>
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The stalks were unbelievably thick with roots that looked like fingers, holding it to the ground as it reached for the sky.</div>
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On August 25th were were harvesting the first ears of corn, roughly 3 months after planting it. The corn was so sweet and tender most of it was eaten raw right there!</div>
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We managed to save a few ears from being devoured right there and were able to give some to the families that helped with the garden. </div>
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We also left some on the stalks to dry so we could save the seeds for next years planting. When the corn was completely dry, and the kernels easily popped out, we picked it and saved the seeds. The dried stalks were donated to the school to use as decorations for the Halloween festival. </div>
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I was thrilled to have had such success growing corn, and the taste was so much sweeter than anything we have ever purchased at the grocery store. We now have over 200 seeds to plant in the school garden and in our own garden next year and we plan to save much more seed next time.</div>
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This was my first success growing corn and saving the seed. It was actually pretty easy to do and I look forward to saving seeds from more varieties each year. </div>
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My wife often jokes that I have millions of seeds stashed in paper bags and envelopes throughout my office. The scary thing is she is probably right, but there are reasons to my obsession (or madness). I want to be able to save enough seeds so we can donate them to other school gardens just starting out. I also want give some to school families so they can garden at home, and sell some to raise money to help support the school garden. I think by next year we will have enough seeds saved to do all this!</div>
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~Rob~</div>
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<h4>
<span style="color: #93c47d;">Shared at:</span></h4>
<a href="http://www.backyardfarmingconnection.com/" target="_blank">The Backyard Farming Connection</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-83849089820886864272013-10-28T08:08:00.003-07:002013-10-28T15:06:21.426-07:00Organizing and storing seed<br />
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Now that the growing season if officially over, after having been hit with our first frost, it is time to start sorting through the numerous paper bags, cups and envelopes full of seed I saved throughout the year and organize them for the next growing season.</div>
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Seed saving is as exciting to me as the growing of the crops. It will never cease to amaze me how many seeds can come from a single flower or fruit, and just how easy it is to save them for next season's garden. As you can probably tell, saving seeds has become a bit of an obsession for me. </div>
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This year I saved seeds from some new varieties like Stowell's Evergreen Sweet Corn, Black Hungarian Peppers, Bell Peppers, Purple Tomatillos, Good Mother Stoddard Pole Beans, Thai Basil. I also saved seeds from some of our flowers including, Marigolds, Sunflower, Zinnia, Morning Glory, Heliotrope, Dahlia, Petunia and Wild Iris.</div>
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Over the years it has been harder and harder to find organic corn, so I was excited to successfully grow and save seeds from this heirloom variety. We now have 150 seeds to plant for next year!</div>
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Although I wasn't able to grow as many beans as I would have liked, I was able to grow enough for seed. I am looking forward to planting these next year.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U1FKVlYcrAA/Um50rsO1jsI/AAAAAAAAC3E/IMAiThOHUDc/s1600/DSCN2400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U1FKVlYcrAA/Um50rsO1jsI/AAAAAAAAC3E/IMAiThOHUDc/s400/DSCN2400.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A favorite herb we often like to cook with, and is hard for us to find, is Thai basil. This summer I grew several plants and successfully saved hundreds of seeds. We are planning an extensive herb garden next year, so hopefully I will now have a steady supply of seeds.</div>
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For the smaller seeds, I use <a href="http://www.seedsavers.org/onlinestore/Seed-Collections-Supplies/Glassine-Packets.html" target="_blank">glassine envelopes</a> to store them in, which can be purchased from <a href="http://www.seedsavers.org/" target="_blank">Seed Savers Exchange</a>. </div>
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If you want to learn more about saving seeds you can check out some of my earlier posts about <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2012/10/seed-saving.html" target="_blank">saving basil seeds</a> and making your own <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2011/09/seed-saving.html" target="_blank">seed envelopes</a> like the ones pictured above.</div>
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There are several books available that walk you through the steps of saving seeds for each variety, with my favorite being <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/seed-to-seed-suzanne-ashworth/1100013064?ean=9781882424580" target="_blank">Seed to Seed</a> by Suzanne Ashworth.</div>
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One of the many books on my winter reading list this year is <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-organic-seed-grower-john-navazio/1110865658?ean=9781933392776" target="_blank">The Organic Seed Grower</a> by John Navazio. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Awx7oYr_7Ok/Um53kymoLsI/AAAAAAAAC3Y/w9H9QJjNBRU/s1600/9781933392776_p0_v1_s260x420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Awx7oYr_7Ok/Um53kymoLsI/AAAAAAAAC3Y/w9H9QJjNBRU/s320/9781933392776_p0_v1_s260x420.JPG" width="256" /></a></div>
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We are working towards saving almost all of our own seeds so we don't have to purchase them each year. We have been pretty successful so far and now only buy seeds for new varieties that we want to try and potentially add to our seed saving project.</div>
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There have been far more successes than failures, the latest being not harvesting the lettuce seed before the rain and it ended up getting too wet and molding, but there is always next season to try again!</div>
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Do you save your own seeds, if so what varieties do you have the best success with?</div>
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~Rob~</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-64791367944958094102013-10-18T07:51:00.002-07:002013-10-18T13:59:13.520-07:00Searching for farmland...<br />
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In the past couple of weeks I have decided to take the leap to start seriously looking for land to farm on. I have signed up with the <a href="http://www.farmlink.uconn.edu/" target="_blank">Connecticut FarmLink</a> Program and <a href="http://www.smallfarm.org/main/for_new_farmers/new_england_landlink/" target="_blank">New England Landlink</a> through the New England Small Farm Institute to try and locate farm land to either rent or buy.<br />
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Last week I looked at a potential property, a one acre flower farm
about a half hour away. The farm is home to a thriving flower business,
with the potential to expand to other crops. I met a very nice woman who
runs the business and ended up working with her yesterday, helping to clear the
gardens preparing them for winter. What better way to get a feel
for a farm than to spend a few hours working in the gardens. This
property may not be ideal for my particular visions of farming but it definitely has
possibilities. If anything I got a chance to meet a fellow grower and may end up
working with her part-time, learning more about her business.<br />
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In my search for farmland I have come across a very useful tool to help locate farm-able land, <a href="http://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/" target="_blank">Web Soil Survey</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/" target="_blank">Web Soil Survey</a> is a website that provides soil data and information provided by the National Cooperative Soil Survey and is operated by the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). It is very easy to use, you just enter in the address of the property, use the AOI (area of interest) tool to draw the boundary of the property, and click the soil map tab to get a soil report.<br />
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When I entered my current property the report read: </div>
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<b>Soil Type: Agawam fine sand loam </b><br />
<b>Farmland classification: All areas are prime farmland</b><br />
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The report is lengthy, as well as soil types and farmland classification it gives you components of soil type, properties and qualities, profile, drainage, flood zone, and a lot of other very useful information. It is a great tool to use to quickly eliminate properties that aren't really good for farming.<br />
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Ideally we would love to move to Vermont, but with my business, my
wife's job and our kid's still in school, it may not be the most
practical thing to do just yet. The dream of living on a 10 acre New
England farm is very appealing to all of us, but when the thought of
uprooting our comfortable lives becomes a real possibility, it becomes a
little daunting, so the new plan is to find local land to
start farming on now. <br />
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My ideal farm plan is to operate a small 5+ acre organic market farm, selling through an onsite farm stand and to local markets and restaurants. Getting my feet wet (or dirty) in actually running a farming business is a priority to help gain experience before I take the big plunge. Gardening at home and managing the <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">school gardens</a> are fulfilling, but it's not the same as running an actual farm business. We do have plans in the works to expand the gardens on our current property, add an additional greenhouse and talk to the town about getting a license to sell at farmer's markets. I am already licensed to run an in-home business so I don't foresee any potential issues.</div>
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I am in the midst of reading, <a href="http://www.northshire.com/book/9781603583862" target="_blank">Market Farming Success</a>, which is full of great ideas and inspirations, and am a subscriber to <a href="http://www.growingformarket.com/" target="_blank">Growing for Market</a> which is loaded with very informative articles and publications on market farming. These publications confirm that the potential exists for market farmers to be very successful, especially with so many people wanting to eat healthier these days.<br />
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I have so many notebooks full of ideas for my farm business and have mapped out several enterprises that I would love to try my hand at once we find farmland. The big plan is still to purchase our forever home, that New England Farmhouse with enough land to farm on, room for a few greenhouses, and a roadside stand to sell fresh organic vegetables and cut flowers, but in the meantime I will be happy farming on an acre or two to get some experience under my belt and start doing what I dream about doing every day!<br />
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~Rob~ <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-80908249935595874602013-10-04T07:53:00.002-07:002013-10-04T07:53:13.785-07:00Growing a Winter Garden<br />
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Mother Nature has thrown us yet another curve ball with warmer than normal fall temperatures here in New England, but as a gardener you can use this to your advantage to start a winter garden. </div>
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I have come to appreciate walking out into may garden to pick fresh kale, lettuce and other salad greens all summer as opposed to the tasteless and often bitter greens you often get from the grocery store, and just because summer is over it doesn't mean that supply of fresh greens has to end.</div>
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There is nothing like going out to your garden in the middle of January to harvest fresh lettuce, greens, radishes, and carrots for a salad. The cold tolerant veggies are easier to grow in late fall and winter because you don't have to water as much, the problem of pests is virtually eliminated, and the veggies taste even sweeter because of the colder temperatures! </div>
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Winter growing is extremely easy to do, and is quite possible even here in the North East with cold winter temperatures and an abundance of snow. To be successful you need to do a little planning which I have written about in <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2013/07/planning-fall-garden.html" target="_blank">Planning a Fall Garden</a>. You need to choose cold hardy varieties of arugula, celery, endive, leeks, lettuce, parsley, radish, scallions, spinach, swiss chard, carrots, kohlrabi, mache, radicchio and kale and start them early enough to be established before the cold weather hits. As soon as it starts getting colder, the plants growth will continue, but at a much slower rate. You will also need to protect your plants from frost and snow by using row covers, hoop houses or cold-frames (mini-greenhouses).</div>
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I have written several posts about growing a winter garden using <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/search/label/Mini-greenhouse" target="_blank">min-greenhouses</a>. </div>
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Mini-greenhouse are practical, inexpensive and are perfect for those who don't have the room for a greenhouse. They are easy to build, portable and have many uses throughout the year. They can be used for starting seedlings in the spring, starting early tomatoes & peppers, protecting tender plants from wind and harsh weather, hardening off seedlings before planting in the garden, moved to the garden to extend the growing season, and of course to grow a winter garden. </div>
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Free downloadable plans to build the <a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/plans.html" target="_blank">mini-greenhouse</a> are available on my Project Plans page.</div>
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I have had such an overwhelming response to my step-by-step <a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/greenhouseplans.html" target="_blank">greenhouse plans</a> that I have decide to also make available step-by-step plans to build the mini-greenhouses as well. </div>
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The plans include complete step by step instructions as well as
materials list, cut lists and templates to build both the 4' x 4' and 4'
x 8' mini-greenhouse. They also include plans to build the raised bed
system which can be used as the base for the mini-greenhouse. </div>
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They are available in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164717655/mini-greenhouse-plans-pdf-version?" target="_blank">ETSY store</a> in PDF form and will also be available soon as a printed and bound booklet.</div>
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Happy Gardening!</div>
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~Rob~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-59562673241346834642013-09-29T08:01:00.000-07:002013-09-29T08:01:53.237-07:00Day trip - Putney, VT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Saturday morning we decided to take a day trip to Putney, Vermont to go apple picking at <a href="http://www.greenmountainorchards.com/" target="_blank">Green Mountain Orchards</a>. The weather was spectacular with typical fall Vermont clear blue skies and cool, crisp air!</div>
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Once in Putney, we stopped at the <a href="http://www.putneycoop.com/" target="_blank">Putney Co-op</a> for breakfast. Fresh local egg, cheese and soy sausage on home-made bagels - YUM!! </div>
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<a href="http://youtu.be/I8xu-A718HQ">http://youtu.be/I8xu-A718HQ</a></div>
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While eating breakfast we noticed the Community Garden sign across the parking lot and ventured over to have a look.</div>
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It is a very impressive community garden and gave us some really good ideas and inspirations for our <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">school garden project</a>!<br />
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There were many plots laid out with wood chips between each bed for walkways.<br />
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There were all sorts of delicious vegetables growing like kale, chard, lettuce, greens, basil, peas, butternut squash, pumpkins and raspberries!<br />
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The fennel bulbs were huge and looked amazing! <br />
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After looking at the kale we were craving our daily kale smoothies!<br />
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The community garden had their own compost areas,<br />
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and a greenhouse!<br />
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Putney seems like a great community where people come together to garden. The Co-op sells produce and goods from local farmers and merchants, and they have several programs to help feed the hungry. <br />
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It was truly an inspiring start to what turned out to be another fantastic day in Vermont!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mqNgtSPh1cE/Ukg8kX0kYNI/AAAAAAAACxE/qebvH3gKPR8/s1600/DSCN2062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mqNgtSPh1cE/Ukg8kX0kYNI/AAAAAAAACxE/qebvH3gKPR8/s400/DSCN2062.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--gwvs1Ka1_w/Ukg8kjjuSSI/AAAAAAAACxI/SUVtUzzmhf0/s1600/DSCN2068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--gwvs1Ka1_w/Ukg8kjjuSSI/AAAAAAAACxI/SUVtUzzmhf0/s400/DSCN2068.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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~Rob~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-17017702693468311702013-09-15T12:05:00.000-07:002013-09-15T12:05:01.249-07:00Sunday Morning Photos<br />
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This morning my family and I went for an early morning walk to enjoy the brisk, fall-like weather, and to gather beach stones for a wedding wish jar. </div>
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Here are a few photos from our trip. </div>
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First we stopped at Waterford Beach ...</div>
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Then we stopped at Harkness Memorial State Park ...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arial view of mansion and gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The heliotrope gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice he is holding ducks</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strange seed pods from the ivy growing on the arbor</td></tr>
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It was a very relaxing way to spend the morning and enjoy the cooler weather. </div>
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The beach stones that we gathered are for my brother-in-laws wedding which will be held next Saturday in the mansion at Harkness. It's a beautiful setting with the gardens and restored mansion overlooking the ocean, and it should be a beautiful wedding.</div>
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~Rob~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-46679948306836621242013-09-09T09:35:00.000-07:002013-09-09T09:35:25.140-07:00Reclaimed Lumber Mission Style Coffee Table<br />
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Well it is certainly starting to feel like fall around here, and like the changing of the season I find myself spending more time in my workshop than out in the garden. This usually happens each year after the summer gardens have been cleaned and the winter gardens have been planted. </div>
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I had acquired some white oak that had been in an area where it was exposed to fumes from animal urine, like a horse stable, and the wood looked very weathered. Ironically, Mission style furniture was usually put into a tent and "fumed" with ammonia for 48 hours to darken the wood to create a dark brown hue. The ammonia reacts with the tannin in the oak and produces a mellow darkness that normally comes with natural aging of wood. Gustav Stickley used to use this technique to finish his furniture.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21-X4qK9kzU/Uid2NPjIkpI/AAAAAAAACl8/hvuXgJq3F9c/s1600/_MG_8741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21-X4qK9kzU/Uid2NPjIkpI/AAAAAAAACl8/hvuXgJq3F9c/s400/_MG_8741.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I didn't want to waste the oak, so I decided to use it to make a mission style coffee table. I like to use mostly with hand tools when I build furniture. I don't like the noise of power tools or the dust created by them. I like it quiet when I work so I can concentrate on what I am doing and put myself into each piece I build.</div>
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After the wood was cleaned, I cut it into workable boards and then cut out all the parts. The legs, apron and ends were all held together with mortise and tenon joints, and the boards for the top were glued up with a breadboard edge.</div>
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The table turned out great and the finish looked better than I had hoped for. I wasn't sure if the discoloration would show through the finish, but the wood had a warm, deep chocolate hue! It doesn't really show it's true color in the photos.<br />
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<br />The table is a nice addition to our living room and compliments the mantle and bookcases.</div>
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Now I think I need to build a couple matching end tables!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5q37a9Q0lCg/Uid2NSUJ2dI/AAAAAAAACmI/2hOKqQarhsk/s1600/_MG_8750-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5q37a9Q0lCg/Uid2NSUJ2dI/AAAAAAAACmI/2hOKqQarhsk/s400/_MG_8750-001.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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This was another easy to build project and, like the <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2013/09/building-farmhouse-table.html" target="_blank">farmhouse table</a>, I have included the plans on my <a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/plans.html" target="_blank">project plans page</a> for anyone interested in building one.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/images/Mission%20CoffeeTable_R0.pdf" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="157" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6PeX_5Q3Roo/Ui32w1slEJI/AAAAAAAACo8/f70UtscJGv4/s200/Mission+Coffee+Table.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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~Rob~<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-56430618937955682102013-09-06T09:58:00.004-07:002013-09-06T09:58:44.930-07:00Farmhouse Table Plans<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fO85aKYc91s/UioHOmsYNHI/AAAAAAAACoM/DnSPt2AhFGY/s1600/DSCN1707-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fO85aKYc91s/UioHOmsYNHI/AAAAAAAACoM/DnSPt2AhFGY/s320/DSCN1707-001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As promised, I have posted the <a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/images/FARMHOUSE%20TABLE_R0.pdf" target="_blank">plans</a> for the <a href="http://bepasgarden.blogspot.com/2013/09/building-farmhouse-table.html" target="_blank">Farmhouse Table</a> </div>
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on my <a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/plans.html" target="_blank">Project Plans</a> page.</div>
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<a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/plans.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-odyyIsylO_8/UioG66NHgwI/AAAAAAAACn8/QzcomHVs944/s320/Farmhouse+Table.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
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If anyone is interested in building one, please feel free to download the plans!</div>
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~Rob~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-19378002157077931372013-09-05T13:05:00.002-07:002013-09-05T13:05:33.762-07:00Time to start thinking about the winter garden<br />
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The summer growing season is beginning to wrap up here and I am starting to prep the gardens for winter growing. I love gardening, but each fall I look forward to clearing the beds, putting some to rest for the season and setting up others to grow greens throughout the winter.<br />
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<span id="goog_42837743">The zinnias are starting to look a little weathered, but I am waiting for the heads to dry so I can save the seeds for next year.</span><br />
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<span id="goog_42837743"> </span><span id="goog_42837743">Sunflowers on the side porch are still blooming </span>like crazy and the finches are enjoying them in the late afternoon. Hopefully they will leave some seeds for me!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pxgwA4ojddQ/UijXMnJ_5mI/AAAAAAAACnA/kBhhleBDZpI/s1600/DSCN1749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pxgwA4ojddQ/UijXMnJ_5mI/AAAAAAAACnA/kBhhleBDZpI/s400/DSCN1749.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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I let a bunch of lettuce go to seed so I can save the seeds for next years garden. I harvested that last night and cleared out the bed. The tomatillos are loaded and I am still waiting for them to drop off the plant.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-geMGekonsgw/UijXmPHtTII/AAAAAAAACnI/cRnUB9uyres/s1600/DSCN1746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-geMGekonsgw/UijXmPHtTII/AAAAAAAACnI/cRnUB9uyres/s400/DSCN1746.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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The Thai basil and sweet basil are still growing strong. Soon the seed pods will start to turn brown and I can harvest the seeds. The basil leaves will go into the dehydrator to be preserved for winters use.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JZgWL214bMQ/UijYPouZUnI/AAAAAAAACnU/hFpEdwCm34Q/s1600/DSCN1743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JZgWL214bMQ/UijYPouZUnI/AAAAAAAACnU/hFpEdwCm34Q/s400/DSCN1743.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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It has been extremely difficult this year to manage both our home garden and the <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">school garden</a>, so I have decided to plant only greens, lettuce, flowers and herbs (both culinary & medicinal) in our home garden, with just a couple tomatoes, peppers and eggplant in containers on the deck. Hopefully by not planting as much at home it will make it easier to manage both gardens.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lGIoVJVnip4/UijioAHrfmI/AAAAAAAACnk/aZd940nM5h8/s1600/_MG_0737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lGIoVJVnip4/UijioAHrfmI/AAAAAAAACnk/aZd940nM5h8/s320/_MG_0737.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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I will also be planting a large raspberry and blueberry patch where the back gardens are now and adding another greenhouse so I have enough space to grow seedlings to sell.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Of1pzGJtDFU/Uijiv5GTZOI/AAAAAAAACns/yLTTflD6QEs/s1600/IMG_6446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Of1pzGJtDFU/Uijiv5GTZOI/AAAAAAAACns/yLTTflD6QEs/s320/IMG_6446.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Soon it will be cold and snowy, so now is the perfect time to build a cold-frame or two to protect your plants through the winter.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Bj27RXMGXg/UijOD-A3BrI/AAAAAAAACmc/Kqp5OWdsr-E/s1600/IMG_8185-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Bj27RXMGXg/UijOD-A3BrI/AAAAAAAACmc/Kqp5OWdsr-E/s400/IMG_8185-001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JJgYm3iFzo4/UijOD7kU2oI/AAAAAAAACmg/lhAk6YvoF7I/s1600/IMG_8193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JJgYm3iFzo4/UijOD7kU2oI/AAAAAAAACmg/lhAk6YvoF7I/s400/IMG_8193.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My <a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/plans.html" target="_blank">plans</a> are still available for anyone interested in building one for themselves. They are inexpensive to build and work really well for growing through the winter and starting plants early in the spring. <br />
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~Rob~ <br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-86014180016332206762013-09-01T15:07:00.000-07:002013-09-11T04:56:13.539-07:00Building a Farmhouse Table<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PdH4cFO2e0A/UiOs3O2GB2I/AAAAAAAACkA/ed7-BkMdzD0/s1600/DSCN1630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PdH4cFO2e0A/UiOs3O2GB2I/AAAAAAAACkA/ed7-BkMdzD0/s400/DSCN1630.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Every year around this time, when the summer gardens have just about finished producing, I get the urge to get into my workshop and build furniture.</div>
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We had decided a while back to replace our old kitchen table so I was inspired to build a new one for ourselves. I needed to come up with a design that would fit our current kitchen space. We are planning on remodeling our outdated kitchen soon, so I also wanted a table that would fit with the new design. I love the simplicity and functionality of a farmhouse table so I set out to design one.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kpxi6O54V3Q/UiO1JHqEGnI/AAAAAAAACkQ/Tf5yv2jjduE/s1600/DSCN1704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kpxi6O54V3Q/UiO1JHqEGnI/AAAAAAAACkQ/Tf5yv2jjduE/s400/DSCN1704.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I decided to use kiln dried pine, because it is inexpensive and I have always been drawn to the warmth and richness of the grain. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KPp1UVL0YCg/UiO1ixO8PWI/AAAAAAAACkY/7BAQ0MIRrcE/s1600/DSCN1617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KPp1UVL0YCg/UiO1ixO8PWI/AAAAAAAACkY/7BAQ0MIRrcE/s400/DSCN1617.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The legs for the table and benches measure 3-1/2" square, it is a rugged table that will last for a very long time. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9eMw6a-xUw/UiO130RXg-I/AAAAAAAACkg/nt8sQXgYZAA/s1600/DSCN1619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9eMw6a-xUw/UiO130RXg-I/AAAAAAAACkg/nt8sQXgYZAA/s400/DSCN1619.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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All the parts are cut to fit into each other and held together with glue and screws. I used pine plugs in all the screw holes so they wouldn't be visible when it was painted.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1OcdhRdqe4/UiO2Wq5DSVI/AAAAAAAACko/ENT0v8CuMmg/s1600/DSCN1612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1OcdhRdqe4/UiO2Wq5DSVI/AAAAAAAACko/ENT0v8CuMmg/s400/DSCN1612.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The frames for the table and benches are pretty much built the same way, except for the center stretchers on the table.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PC_YyfDs1Ms/UiO2m3VDCDI/AAAAAAAACkw/9OjfDUfvKiU/s1600/DSCN1624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PC_YyfDs1Ms/UiO2m3VDCDI/AAAAAAAACkw/9OjfDUfvKiU/s400/DSCN1624.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh4OFyFKC7s/UiO2xRQ0DeI/AAAAAAAACk4/K4EhEy7byAQ/s1600/DSCN1622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh4OFyFKC7s/UiO2xRQ0DeI/AAAAAAAACk4/K4EhEy7byAQ/s400/DSCN1622.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The tops of the table and seats have breadboard ends.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8BAj5wR-Qmw/UiO26AbC4VI/AAAAAAAAClA/l878LFQib5c/s1600/DSCN1706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8BAj5wR-Qmw/UiO26AbC4VI/AAAAAAAAClA/l878LFQib5c/s400/DSCN1706.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Because we have limited space in our kitchen, I designed the benches to fit under the table when not in use so we can easily walk around it.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kySfAiY2UIM/UiO3p174I4I/AAAAAAAAClM/7XpF7l-ned0/s1600/DSCN1708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kySfAiY2UIM/UiO3p174I4I/AAAAAAAAClM/7XpF7l-ned0/s400/DSCN1708.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The table turned out much better than I though it would, especially using kiln dried pine. </div>
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The entire project only cost $95.00!</div>
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Now I need to get going on the kitchen renovation so I can replace that hideous floor with either hardwood or slate!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vHQmlVM_TEU/UiO4Qvw16UI/AAAAAAAAClU/NmkTvfDsxCM/s1600/DSCN1707-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vHQmlVM_TEU/UiO4Qvw16UI/AAAAAAAAClU/NmkTvfDsxCM/s400/DSCN1707-001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I may include the plans for the farmhouse table and benches in my <a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/plans.html" target="_blank">project plans</a> section if anyone is interested in building one.</div>
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~Rob~<br />
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**UPDATE**<br />
The plans for the farmhouse table are now available!<br />
Click <a href="http://www.bepasgarden.com/images/FARMHOUSE%20TABLE_R0.pdf" target="_blank">here</a> to download.<br />
<h4>
<span style="color: #93c47d;">Shared at:</span></h4>
<a href="http://www.backyardfarmingconnection.com/" target="_blank">The Backyard Farming Connection </a><br />
<a href="http://deborahjeansdandelionhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Deborah Jean's Dandelion House </a><br />
<a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2013/09/clever-chicks-blog-hop-50-includes-3.html" target="_blank">The Chicken Chick </a><br />
<a href="http://www.tillysnest.com/" target="_blank">Tilly's Nest</a><br />
<a href="http://www.theselfsufficienthomeacre.com/2013/09/the-homeacre-hop-35.html" target="_blank">The Self Sufficient HomeAcre </a><br />
<a href="http://1840farm.com/2013/09/from-the-farm-blog-hop-making-grapevine-wreaths/" target="_blank">From the Farm Blog Hop</a> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-22037874833703465512013-08-25T12:29:00.003-07:002013-08-25T12:29:50.301-07:00Oh Sweet Corn...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sreySTCKCts/UhpVN5OD4wI/AAAAAAAAChk/NdOStWKONwo/s1600/DSCN1588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sreySTCKCts/UhpVN5OD4wI/AAAAAAAAChk/NdOStWKONwo/s400/DSCN1588.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Today we harvested some of the corn at the School Garden <br />and oh how sweet it was! We were so excited by how nice it looked we couldn't wait to taste it. </div>
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It's amazing how sweet and tender it was right off the stalk!</div>
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We used organic heirloom seeds from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/129047687/heirloom-three-sisters-garden-seed?utm_source=custometsywidgetword&utm_medium=api&utm_campaign=api" target="_blank">1840 Farm's Heirloom Seed Collection</a></div>
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that were planted on May 30th by the <a href="http://thegardenatosw.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Oswegatchie School Garden Club</a>.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nHl7bJ2jh1c/UhpVxAg4f5I/AAAAAAAACjg/6P1dTG_77Ec/s1600/_MG_7687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nHl7bJ2jh1c/UhpVxAg4f5I/AAAAAAAACjg/6P1dTG_77Ec/s400/_MG_7687.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May 30th</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-od6z5MFM7sg/UhpVr2cZx7I/AAAAAAAAChw/CLGzqi3c290/s1600/DSCN0359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-od6z5MFM7sg/UhpVr2cZx7I/AAAAAAAAChw/CLGzqi3c290/s400/DSCN0359.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 14th</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XVcNcbY3YTM/UhpVtfP_WdI/AAAAAAAACiU/XKHnEH1-nUM/s1600/DSCN0994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XVcNcbY3YTM/UhpVtfP_WdI/AAAAAAAACiU/XKHnEH1-nUM/s400/DSCN0994.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 5th</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 15th</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBDJD6Tg9VM/UhpVu_DrjXI/AAAAAAAACi0/vSLV3on1_5Y/s1600/DSCN1341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBDJD6Tg9VM/UhpVu_DrjXI/AAAAAAAACi0/vSLV3on1_5Y/s400/DSCN1341.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 24th</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CEPMzKZ7M3I/UhpVtq6JejI/AAAAAAAACiY/dYJfTj7siZs/s1600/DSCN1360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CEPMzKZ7M3I/UhpVtq6JejI/AAAAAAAACiY/dYJfTj7siZs/s400/DSCN1360.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 28th</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1wezCbRCYU/UhpVut5VgdI/AAAAAAAACis/cmR21AQXGvU/s1600/DSCN1364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1wezCbRCYU/UhpVut5VgdI/AAAAAAAACis/cmR21AQXGvU/s400/DSCN1364.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 28th</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-87I4VoEkkJY/UhpVugImy6I/AAAAAAAACik/eR-8I99yXcI/s1600/DSCN1379-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-87I4VoEkkJY/UhpVugImy6I/AAAAAAAACik/eR-8I99yXcI/s400/DSCN1379-001.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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We picked six ears of corn today that we will be enjoying for dinner, not sure if we are going to cook it or eat it raw. It is nearly impossible to find organic corn at the farmer's markets and grocery store, especially one that tastes as sweet as this! This is our first success with corn and can't wait to plant more next year. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SRmyJTOCsY/UhpVwx6GEaI/AAAAAAAACjk/wOCNQBkdU94/s1600/DSCN1584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SRmyJTOCsY/UhpVwx6GEaI/AAAAAAAACjk/wOCNQBkdU94/s400/DSCN1584.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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~Rob~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-19557729294502556782013-07-11T13:00:00.000-07:002013-07-11T13:00:03.553-07:00Planning a fall garden<div style="text-align: center;">
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Even though the gardens are just now starting to produce a bountiful harvest, it is time to start thinking about planting a fall, and winter, garden.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMNvqZEMxKY/Ud8HnBNPPZI/AAAAAAAACgo/QMianPA3J-Q/s1600/_MG_2366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMNvqZEMxKY/Ud8HnBNPPZI/AAAAAAAACgo/QMianPA3J-Q/s400/_MG_2366.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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One of my goals is to have my gardens producing year round. I have been successful growing greens through the winter using my cold frames, but I also want to get better at succession planting and have a steady supply of certain vegetables like lettuce and carrots. <br />
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There are several great resources to help you plan a fall garden and help you can find information on what cold hardy varieties to plant and when to plant your seeds.<br />
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<a href="http://www.johnnyseeds.com/default.aspx?" target="_blank">J</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" target="_blank">ohnny's Selected Seeds</a> website will help you choose varieties to plant now and even has a <a href="http://www.johnnyseeds.com/Assets/seedstartingfallcrops.xls?source=H_FallPlantingCalc_072013_rnavtxt" target="_blank">Fall Planting Calculator</a> that you can download to help you plan the correct time to plant. <br />
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<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/four-season-harvest-eliot-coleman/1103554962?ean=9781890132279" target="_blank">Four Season Harvest</a> and <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/winter-harvest-handbook-eliot-coleman/1017819730?ean=9781603580816" target="_blank">The Winter Harvest Handbook</a>, by Eliot Coleman, are very useful books that will help you plan fall and winter gardens. These two are part of my library.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--HkmRrA1pj4/Ud8DNd2ORXI/AAAAAAAACgY/Zx4vF-Ms3GY/s1600/TYRVG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--HkmRrA1pj4/Ud8DNd2ORXI/AAAAAAAACgY/Zx4vF-Ms3GY/s200/TYRVG.jpg" width="155" /></a></div>
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I just started reading T<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-year-round-vegetable-gardener-niki-jabbour/1111186013?ean=9781603425681" target="_blank">he Year Round Vegetable Gardener</a>, by <a href="http://www.yearroundveggiegardener.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Niki Jabbour</a>. This book gives a lot of useful information on year round planting, growing in cold frames and using row covers and cloches to protect plants. The chapter I am reading now talks about how to determine when to start seeds so plants will be ready for harvest before your first average frost.<br />
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Here's how Niki tells you to figure it out:<br />
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You first need to know the average first frost date for your area. If you don't know this you can find it by going to the <a href="http://cdo.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-bin/climatenormals/climatenormals.pl?directive=prod_select2&prodtype=CLIM2001&subrnum%20to%20Freeze/Frost%20Data%20from%20the%20U.S.%20Climate%20Normals" target="_blank">National Climate Data Center</a>.<br />
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Next you need to look at the maturity dates for your cold hardy varieties. Niki recommends adding 1 to 2 weeks to the maturity date because the plants growth will slow as the temperatures get colder.<br />
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Average Frost Date (for my area) : October 19th<br />
Days to maturity: (for Nutri-Bud Broccoli) - 60 days<br />
Add 12 days for colder temps - 72 days <br />
Now count the days back from October 19th and you end up with August 8th for the date you need to transplant your plants into the garden.<br />
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If you follow the Johnny's Fall Planting Calculator, they tell you to add another 4 weeks to plants that need to be started indoor from seed - so that would be July 11th (today!!).<br />
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Calculating seed starting dates and planting at the correct times has always been challenging for me. I created a garden journal database where I keep all my seed inventory information including maturity dates, germination dates and all of my growing information so I can easily write formulas to automatically calculate planting dates and generate a planting schedule. It is still a work in progress, but so far it has worked out well.<br />
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Hope this information helps you plan your fall and winter garden!<br />
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Our friends at <a href="http://1840farm.com/2013/07/planting-a-fall-garden/" target="_blank">1840 Farm</a> and <a href="http://thismindbeinyou.com/2013/07/fall-planting.html" target="_blank">Let This Mind Be In Yo</a>u have also written post about planting a fall garden, so be sure to check them out as well.<br />
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I am also excited to tell you that I have teamed up with both of these bloggers to participate in a giveaway for some exciting prizes so be sure to enter!<br />
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~Rob~<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/5e6e0f11/" id="rc-5e6e0f11" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a> <script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7753411933434240907.post-45626650921366159432013-07-11T10:35:00.002-07:002013-07-11T10:39:36.835-07:00Guest Post: Kale seed saving by Fruition Seeds<br />
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I am thrilled to present this guest post on saving seeds </div>
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by Petra Page-Mann and Matthew Goldfarb of <a href="http://www.fruitionseeds.com/" target="_blank">Fruition Seeds</a>!</div>
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Saving seed is the origin of civilization.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also easy as pie!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Truly, some are easier than others and kale
is one of the easiest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Kale is biennial, so it gathers energy the first season to
produce its seed the second season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
our temperate Northeast climate, kale may overwinter as a full-size plant
uncovered but we plant our seed crop of kale in early September, finding the
overwintered young plants more reliably resilient.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some plants will inevitably not survive, but
those that do will be that much more adapted to your conditions!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8K_VHP25p4/Ud7k7XVnacI/AAAAAAAACfI/iJrX7lPOAgA/s1600/DSCN0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8K_VHP25p4/Ud7k7XVnacI/AAAAAAAACfI/iJrX7lPOAgA/s400/DSCN0036.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Petra with overwintered kale, ready to go to seed</td></tr>
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Kale may be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Brassica
napus</i> (Siberian types, such as Red Russian, sharing the species with
rutabaga) or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Brassica oleracea</i>(all
other types, sharing the species with cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprouts and
more).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is critical to only have one
of these species flowering at any given time, unless you want them to
cross!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three foot kale flowering in May.</td></tr>
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In the Spring the bedraggled plants will begin to grow again!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be sure to select for strong, vigorous
regrowth as well as leaf shape and color.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also important to thin
plants for increased air-flow around the plants as they go to seed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our kale planted in September overwinters young
and thrives when thinned to ten inches between each plant, give or take a
couple inches.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wt8kRRZRywo/Ud7n2mzP_-I/AAAAAAAACfw/wOFKpGwKHgc/s1600/IMG_0135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wt8kRRZRywo/Ud7n2mzP_-I/AAAAAAAACfw/wOFKpGwKHgc/s400/IMG_0135.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nathaniel Thompson of Remembrance Farm with flowering kale.</td></tr>
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Second year kale will bolt (go to seed) fairly quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy its tall, stately stalks lined with
pale yellow flowers covered in pollinators!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Each flower will turn into long green pods that swell and turn brown as
they mature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the lowest pods have
turned brown, dry and have shattered, harvest the whole stalk and set it on a
clean, hole-free tarp in a dry place for a few days to further dry down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Petra surrounded by flattening seed pods.</td></tr>
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Separating the seed from the fully dry stalk can be done in
any number of ways!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have several
sticks we are fond of that knock the seeds out of their pods quite
effectively.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also love to wrap up the
stalks in the tarp (like a burrito) and dance/stomp on it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H9mLb1RYiww/Ud7oURDNzcI/AAAAAAAACgA/ksPW2N-i3AM/s1600/IMG_0495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H9mLb1RYiww/Ud7oURDNzcI/AAAAAAAACgA/ksPW2N-i3AM/s400/IMG_0495.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wading through an ocean of kale going to seed.</td></tr>
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The seed has now fallen onto the tarp, along with all the
chaff (bits of the dry plant).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To clean
the seed from the chaff, use a colander or another screen you might have in the
garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, pouring the seed and chaff
before a box fan and into a bin will allow the chaff to be blown away while the
heavy seed falls straight down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5FZUFaNQZGA/Ud7olllAUdI/AAAAAAAACgI/IluX3n-1cGE/s1600/SAM_0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5FZUFaNQZGA/Ud7olllAUdI/AAAAAAAACgI/IluX3n-1cGE/s400/SAM_0015.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screening seeds.</td></tr>
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It is important to keep your seed well labeled, in a cool,
dark dry and rodent/insects-free place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If stored well, your kale will last for years and years!</div>
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Saving seed is easy, fun and incredibly satisfying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your seed will be uniquely suited to your
soils and climate, your particular taste and garden style.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> ~</span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2