In recent years, it has come to light that cobalt is indeed an essential micronutrient for at least some plant species, particularly legumes.
Seed Saving
Vegetable Guide—Updated
We have revised and updated our free online vegetable guide just in time for the coming season. Look for a new section on companion planting.
Top 10 Gardening Resources
Whether you are a seasoned green thumb or one of many who gardened for the first time this year, you’ll enjoy our readers’ favorite posts and resources.
Basic Principles of Breeding Heirloom Vegetables
Tips for raising vigorous seeds, whether your goal is to preserve a variety or to create a locally adapted strain.
How to Test Seed Germination Rates
Spring is only a month away, and with spring comes gardening season. Now is a good time to check the germination rates of those seeds you have stashed away in the basement—before you need to plant them! You Will Need Seeds. Paper towel. Large Ziploc bag. Instructions Lightly moisten a square of paper towel. (Take […]
10 Gifts for Gardeners
Christmas is just around the corner! If you are looking for a few ideas to bring a smile to the face of that gardener in the family this year, allow us to make some recommendations. The Family Garden Journal. Our garden journal is a great way for a gardener to celebrate a year of growing […]
Seeds From the Tombs
Many gardeners know that cool, dry, dark places are ideal for long-term seed storage. Many gardeners cite the seeds found in ancient Egyptian pyramids as evidence. According to the popular story, these seeds, after lying dormant for thousands of years, sprouted when planted. While most scientists would agree on the perfect conditions for storing seeds, […]
The Dirt-Cheap Green Thumb
Gardening on a budget doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice looks or taste! The Dirt-Cheap Green Thumb: 400 Thrifty Tips for Saving Money, Time & Resources In and Around the Garden by Rhonda Massingham Hart will show you how to make the most of your gardening dollars, while still enjoying a beautiful and productive […]
5 Homemade Gifts From the Farm
There’s nothing like a homemade gift to warm someone’s heart at Christmas. The time and love put into a handcrafted present make it special. If you enjoy country living, you have an excellent opportunity to make and grow gifts that will touch others. Need some inspiration? Consider these ideas:
Pros and Cons of Fermenting Seeds Before Storage
The answer to the question of whether fermentation is worthwhile depends on scale.