As the chill of winter descends, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warming cocktail in hand. To take your winter libations to the next level, consider incorporating seasonal plants, herbs, and mulling spices into your drinks. These additions not only impart unique flavors but also add a touch of elegance to your beverages….
When it comes to the world of edible plants, most people think of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. But did you know that there are several unexpected and exotic plants right in your garden that are not only pleasing to the eye but also pleasing to the palate? Let’s take a journey through some of these…
In a world where wellness is gaining more importance, there’s a growing appreciation for all things natural, including our beverages. Enter botanical mocktails – delightful and refreshing concoctions that celebrate the vibrant world of plants and herbs. In this blog, we’ll explore the art of crafting botanical mocktails, celebrating flavors and aromas from the garden…
Growing grape vines has become a popular hobby in recent years, both for making homemade wine or simply enjoying the fruit. Plus, grape vines look really cool! But they can quickly become a mess if you don’t train them to grow appropriately. Here’s everything you need to know. Build a support structure. You can train…
Wine has enjoyed a resurgence of popularity in recent years, with many of us enjoying wine tastings, vineyard visits, and that relaxing afternoon glass of wine on the porch. But have you ever considered making your own wine? Experiencing the entire process from start to finish can be a truly educational hobby, and you could…
Who doesn’t love a big bowl of homemade guacamole? And it’s even better when it comes from your own yard! If you’re thinking about growing an avocado tree, here’s a brief guide to the basics. Do you need more than one? With some other types of fruit trees, you absolutely need more than one in…
Do you ever dream of living in a vineyard? Or perhaps you just enjoy learning to grow new foods. If grapes are next on your list of gardening skills to explore, check out the following guide to get started. Build a support structure. Grape vines need support as they grow, so your first task is…
In 2016, California voters passed Proposition 64 to legalize home growth and use of marijuana. But that doesn’t mean you can set up a pot farm in your backyard! Research the law first, and then spend a bit of time learning how to grow these plants correctly for the best results. Regulations do restrict who…
Gardens aren’t just beautiful; they can also provide us with food. And if you design your gardens well, they can do both! If you don’t have room to grow vegetables, or if you already grow vegetables and you’re looking for your next fun project, a spice garden will add variety to your cooking and color…
You enjoy the lush beauty of your garden throughout spring and summer, and you might reap a few meals from your vegetable plants, too. But many plants have a purpose beyond providing decorative flowers and food crops. Use these plants in your garden, and you can support your health, repel pests, and more. Aloe. If…
Garlic is one of the most popular flavors in the kitchen, and fortunately it can be very easy to grow at home. Once you get a good patch of garlic started in the garden, it should come back year after year. Follow these steps to grow your own garlic, and you can harvest and enjoy…
The past year has found many of us exploring new hobbies, and home brewing has surged in popularity. If you also enjoy gardening, why not combine the two pastimes and grow your own hops? That way, you can be certain of exactly what goes into your home brews and go all organic if you prefer….
During both World Wars, homeowners across the US and other countries planted “victory gardens”. The idea was to grow more food close to home, in order to free up food supplies for the war effort. For many, that habit stuck. Millennials grew up hearing their grandparents talk about gardening, and for a long time, it…
Lately, we’ve witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of people interested in food-bearing plants. Specifically, you might be wondering if you should utilize permaculture in your yard, adding plants that produce food within a sustainable system. That decision, of course, is ultimately up to you. But some basic information might help you decide how…
Many lemon trees produce fruit sporadically throughout the year but tend to show a burst in production in late spring or early summer. So, those of you with a lemon tree might have quite a few lemons that you’re ready to use. How about some refreshing summer lemonade – either the classic variety or with…
If you’re looking for an outdoor activity to stay busy and safe at home, why not try your hand at gardening? The following are just some of the reasons that gardening can benefit your health while also keeping you entertained. Reduce stress. Just getting outside often reduces anxiety noticeably within minutes. Even better, gardening provides…
At first glance, the sight of a salad adorned with fresh flowers might appear attractive to you, yet unusual. You might wonder if anyone actually eats flowers… And the answer is yes! Not only are many types of flower edible; they can add a distinct and delicious touch to many dishes! It’s important to remember…
We often hear that the French live healthier lifestyles overall, so you might be interested in how exactly their diets and habits are different from our own. We know that the French incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables into their diets, and in fact, 23 percent of the produce consumed by the average French person…
For the wine connoisseur, nothing beats the perfect bottle of vino… Except, perhaps, the satisfaction of creating it yourself! Homemade wine is making a comeback, and it’s easier than you think. While you might want to pick up a book or two on the subject in order to reach an expert level, we can get…
Now that your grapes and berries are ripe and ready to pick, what can you do with them? Sure, a handful of sweet, juicy berries makes a great summer treat, but it can get old after a while. Try these ideas to include your homegrown crops into meals, snacks, and drinks. Infuse your water. We…
Summer has arrived, and marks a favorite time of year for many. If you’re looking forward to fresh local vegetables and mornings spent peacefully browsing your local farmer’s market, you probably self-identify as a summer lover! But what if you could extend that feeling throughout the year? Or, what if those of you lacking garden…
Growing up, many of us can remember visiting our grandparents’ farm, fishing in a nearby pond, and spending hours playing in the woods behind our houses. Somehow, the magic of our childhood seems lost today, as we rush about on our daily commutes from townhomes to bustling office buildings. Even our food seems decidedly un-magical,…
Growing your own vegetables will give you access to fresh, affordable produce (and organic if you prefer). Vegetable gardens also serve as terrific educational tools for children and can save you money at the grocery store. But first, you need to establish a spot for your vegetable garden. Raised beds offer the convenience of simply…
Nothing says summer like a homegrown tomato, or perhaps your own homemade salsa! If you’re getting ready to plant your spring garden, you might be wondering which tomato and pepper varieties are best suited for home use. For container gardens. If space is an issue, you’ll be pleased to know that you can grow tomatoes…
You have probably heard about the recent alarm over e coli found in Romaine lettuce. While relatively few people got sick, in comparison to how much Romaine is sold in grocery stores, the problem is still concerning. This isn’t the first time lettuce has been contaminated with a dangerous pathogen, and it probably won’t be…