Thoughts and opinions on the life and culture we have and need.
What to Grow and When Spring-Cleaning is impossible when you’re hands are in the dirt. That has been me (or at least my excuse) for a solid week now. Only a week? (You ask.) Yes, because on the weekend of March 9th I meant to work the soil (after doing a morning seminar at a... Continue Reading →
This is all my fault. In the last week of January, I took my wife and kids to Hawaii with another couple (a firefighting friend from Vancouver) and their kid. While there, my friend and I visited Honolulu Fire Hall #11 - an extraordinary place. Once we had explained who we were and where we... Continue Reading →
Quietly gaining recognition for spider mite control amongst the giants (figuratively-speaking) of the industry like phytoseiulus persimilis, amblyseius andersoni, fallacis and californicus, stethorus punctillum is making itself known to growers thanks to its’ flight, hunger, and suitability for hot crops, low humidity and sticky plants. The “giants” previously listed are all predatory mites. Stethorus is... Continue Reading →
Before you clean out your green house this year, please consider the following; there is a very simply procedure to follow for all organic growing areas that will greatly reduce your pest pressure and input of bio-controls in the following season/cycle. This is essential, whether you have 200 acreas or 10 square feet. The time... Continue Reading →
Brown Lacewing is one of the lesser-known but highly-efficacious natural predators. Unlike its cousin - the green lacewing, whose larva are the only predators - Brown Lacewings are predatory at all life stages. In fact, the adults are likely the most voracious life stage. An introduction of brown lacewing into your crop or garden... Continue Reading →
Late July, I’ve slowed down, and I love it. Time to enjoy what has been done and what is being produced. I’m training tomatoes daily, watering profusely, pulling weeds and eating produce directly from the soil. Let me show you what I have on the go: At the back, tall amaranth is just about to... Continue Reading →
I am happy that I still get regular “hits” on the vermiculture post I created earlier this year. I hope it means that people are searching for ways to help the environment. Because of this frequent attention, I thought it was prudent to provide an update, especially as things have changed! I re-read my vermiculture... Continue Reading →
All this wet weather we’ve had has provided an opportunity for aphids to get a foothold in many local gardens - mine included. I have found black aphids on a sunflower and cabbage aphids on - well - my cabbages. As there is often a mid-summer push of aphids, I thought it was time to... Continue Reading →
Hi all, I came across this flower in my yard and have no idea what it is. It is beautiful and striking! I am hoping that by knowing what it is I can better care for it, or make it spread (or get more). I know there are now plant ID apps one can... Continue Reading →
