Grow. Forage. Give Back to Nature.
What most people fail to realize when looking at our current food systems is that agriculture as we know it is a relatively recent way of interacting with the Earth. And often a very destructive one. For time immemorial, people lived and sustained themselves in rich ways within forest based systems. This took place in nearly every part of the world, and still do in many parts today.
Growing Shiitakes is a simple process in a cold climate, and with some guidance you will be well on your way to fresh mushrooms. This process requires a shady spot, a few tools, freshly cut tree logs (not more than 3 months old), and Shiitake spawn. What is mushroom spawn you ask? Mushroom spawn is essentially any substance like saw dust or wood chips that has been inoculated with the mycelium of that specific mushroom.
It is an abundant world of fruit and nuts out there, even in a treacherously cold climate. Here in my home in Northern Ontario, I've compiled a list of fruits and nuts that not only tolerate the cold here...They thrive in it. I've outlined key information about every species that describes the flavour and applications of their fruits/nuts, growing requirements, and how they are an important gift to wildlife.
Have you ever thought about growing your own mushrooms, but hesitated because it seems difficult, mysterious, or expensive? Well I'm here to shatter all of those preconcieved perspectives and show you the simple and incredible path to delicious, gourmet, nutritious mushrooms. The world is actually your oyster...Mushroom! Even with a tiny bit of land, growing... Continue Reading →
Have you ever questioned your ability to grow fruit in a cold climate? Look no further! Sea Buckthorn, or Hippophae rhamnoides, is a wonder in the landscape I call home. This is a plant that grows with profuse creativity. It thrives in poor soils while fixing Nitrogen, has taste bursting berries full of antioxidants and bioflavonoids, and is extremely cold hardy. This shrub has so much potential for our health, our landscapes, and food security as a whole.
Elderberries are enthusiastic and energetic growers that can never be tamed. They are extremely useful shrubs that are magnets to incredible amounts of wildlife, medicine makers, foragers, wine makers, and foodies. Learn about making Elderberry syrup, harvesting and growing techniques, and how to propagate this wonderful shrub.
Balsam Poplar! Learn how to harvest, grow and make balm of gilead from this beautiful tree.
Giving back to Nature can be a beautiful and creative way of living. The gift doesn't end there. It's meant to be shared, carried on, and eventually returned in a changed and yet even stronger form. How do we give back for the things that we have taken? This is a question I find in the deepest foundations of my life.
White Pine! Cultural uses, make tea, steams, harvest inner bark, make salve, harvest pollen, and how to grow
Learn about apple seeds, and the importance of seed propagation, crop diversity. Learn how to plant apple seeds in the fall.
GROWING WILD 