6 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Lent

pH in Hydroponics When it comes to learning about hydroponics and aquaponics, it’s likely that you’ll run into a few unfamiliar terms. In particular, there’s a lot of mumbo-jumbo about pH—we know it’s important and we know that it affects the way our plants grow in the system. But what exactly does that mean; why does it have such a big impact on the success of our farms? Let’s dig into the chemistry a bit. pH is a measure of acidity, which matters because nutrients are more or less availa

Even if worms make you squirm, the benefit that these squishy invertebrates have on gardens is undeniable. Worm waste, or “castings,” are incredibly rich in vitamins and nutrients that help plants thrive. You can harness the soil production capabilities of worms to create a rich nutrient supplement for plants through a process known as “vermicomposting.” Starting your own “worm bin” for vermicompost is relatively inexpensive, simple and your plants will be thanking you in a matter of months

Raising meat goats on the homestead offers not only lean and naturally raised protein for the dinner table, but an opportunity to earn some extra cash to funnel back into your sustainable and self-reliant efforts, as well.  It is not necessary to own a large, or even medium acreage homestead to keep quality meat goats. The miniature Pygmy goat breed offers the opportunity to raise meat goats even for small or backyard homesteaders. Always check to make sure home butchering goats – or a

Rather, it’s Harper’s work in the laboratory that links her to the soil. A scientist at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Harper is doggedly researching tiny, human-made substances called nanoparticles, with the goal of identifying which will be a boon and which a bane for farmers, consumers and the environment. Nanoparticles, which are the size of molecules, are already used in everything from sunscreen to biomedical devices. Their minuscule size makes them