Prior to my relocation to the South, cornbread wasn’t a staple in my culinary repertoire. While I might occasionally indulge in it as a side dish to chili or enjoy a corn muffin as a novelty at dinner, it was never a regular feature on my menu. Similarly, potlucks were not a common occurrence in … Read more
Mint’s versatility knows no bounds – from the classic juleps on Derby Day to soothing hot tea during a cold spell. But it’s not just a tasty treat; mint also boasts impressive health benefits and can even quench your thirst on a sweltering summer day. This incredibly easy-to-grow herb is an absolute must-have for any … Read more
The understated nasturtium is often overshadowed by more popular leafy greens, but its unique, peppery flavor makes it well worth the effort to grow. Not only do they offer an exciting taste, but their colorful blooms also provide a decorative touch to any dish. When you’re looking for something that serves both purposes, nasturtiums are … Read more
In my backyard sanctuary, a patch of chamomile thrives alongside mint and other herbs, its delicate white blooms wafting their soothing scent into the air. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, chamomile has a rich history of medicinal use dating back to ancient civilizations like Greece, Egypt, and Rome. These cultures prized it for its versatility … Read more
As I was chatting with some friends who had just started their organic vegetable garden, they revealed that they’d received their soil test results. According to the report, the only recommendation was to apply 10-10-10 fertilizer, which they planned to buy and apply without hesitation. My reaction? A loud and disbelieving ‘You’re what?! ‘ I … Read more
As I stepped outside, my Great Pyrenees puppy’s enthusiastic barking and the chorus of alarm calls from our flock of chickens immediately caught my attention. The commotion was followed by a panicked squawk from one of our hens, whose desperate bid for cover led her to seek refuge under the stairs leading to our back … Read more
I have a special fondness for growing radishes in my garden, and it’s easy to see why. Not only do they excel at filling empty spaces between other plants, but they also mature rapidly. The unique flavor profile is another significant draw – the crunchy texture and peppery zing of a freshly harvested radish are … Read more
Looking to cultivate a thriving garden despite limited space constraints? One often overlooked opportunity lies in the vacant windows of your home. With a little creativity, these spaces can be transformed into mini-plant nurseries, perfect for growing an array of fruits, vegetables, and herbs in window boxes. In this piece, I’ll delve into the most … Read more
As the gardening season kicks off, don’t be too quick to trade in your winter blues for a pair of gardening gloves just yet – there’s still one pesky issue to consider: those unwanted visitors known as pests. Among the most common culprits are aphids, tiny sap-sucking insects that can quickly wreak havoc on your … Read more
Plums are a personal favorite of mine, making it fortunate that they’re one of the more accessible fruit trees to cultivate. Compared to other popular options like apples and cherries, growing plums is relatively low-maintenance. Furthermore, there’s an impressive array of plum varieties that can thrive in diverse climates, increasing the chances of finding one … Read more