Articles and Information

Perennials: The Lasting Gems of the Garden Perennials are the garden’s workhorses – they return year after year, bringing beauty, consistency, and value to every space. Unlike annuals, which need replanting each season, perennials establish themselves over time, enhancing soil, attracting pollinators, and offering ongoing harvests. Here’s a guide to some standout perennials that will bring life, flavour, and colour to your garden for years to come.     Artichoke Artichoke adds striking texture to the garden with its impressive foliage and edible flower buds, while also offering medicinal benefits, commonly used to support liver health and aid digestion. If you don't eat the flowers while they're still tight buds, and leave them to enter their full purple majesty, they are a sight to behold.    Asparagus One of the few perennial vegetables, asparagus rewards patience. It takes a couple of years to establish, but the payoff is tender, flavourful spears each spring. Asparagus loves full sun and thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic soil. It also pairs well with companion plants like tomatoes and basil, which help deter pests.   Comfrey Comfrey is a versatile garden ally, loved by herbalists and permaculture enthusiasts. Its deep roots mine nutrients from the soil, making it an excellent addition for garden beds as green manure or mulch. A nutrient rich compost tea can be made by soaking its leaves in water, and has traditional medicinal uses as a compress for bruises, sprains and breaks among other remedies. Comfrey grows well in partial to full sun and moist, fertile soil.    Coreopsis Coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a tough, cheerful flower that blooms in bright yellow or red hues, adding vibrancy to any garden. It’s low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and ideal for sunny spots. Pollinators love it, making it a wonderful companion plant.   Dahlia Dahlias offer breathtaking blooms in an array of colours, from pastel pinks to vibrant reds. While technically a tuber that needs to be lifted in colder climates, it can survive in-ground in milder zones. Dahlias love sunny spots and soil rich in organic matter. Dahlia is also an edible plant!   Echinacea Also known as coneflower, echinacea is both a medicinal powerhouse and ornamental favourite. Its daisy-like flowers attract bees and butterflies, while its roots have immune-boosting properties. Plant echinacea in full sun and well-draining soil, and it will reward you with beauty and usefulness year after year.   Mullein Often acting as a permanent resident through self-seeding, Mullein is a statuesque plant known for its soft, velvety leaves and tall yellow flower spikes. It is a staple in the medicinal garden, traditionally used to support respiratory health and soothe the chest.   Goji Berry Goji berries are packed with antioxidants and thrive as a low-maintenance shrub in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Though not a quick-yielding plant, this drought-tolerant perennial offers small, tangy berries rich in nutrients, making it a worthy addition to the garden.   Holy Basil Also known as Tulsi, holy basil is revered for its medicinal properties. This herb prefers sunny conditions and slightly moist soil. It has a graceful, bushy growth habit with aromatic leaves and delicate purple flowers, creating a lush, lively presence that enhances aesthetic appeal in your garden. Holy basil’s leaves can be harvested for tea, adding a wellness boost to your garden’s bounty.   Lavender This fragrant herb is a perennial classic with its silvery foliage and purple blooms. Lavender thrives in hot, dry conditions and well-draining soil, making it ideal for low-water gardens. It’s a natural pest repellent, attracts pollinators, and can be harvested for culinary or medicinal uses.   Passionfruit Not only a delicious fruit, but also a climbing perennial that adds lush greenery to your garden. Passionfruit loves warm, sunny conditions and fertile, well-draining soil. With proper care, this climber can produce a prolific crop of juicy, tangy fruits – perfect for refreshing summer treats. Will happily adorn an arch, trellis or other vertical climbing surface and offers an abundance of eye catching flowers before the delicious fruit.   Rosemary Along with many other aromatic herbs like Mint, Thyme, and Sage, Rosemary stands out with its hardy, evergreen nature and versatile uses—not only enhancing culinary dishes and garden aesthetics but also offering medicinal benefits, known to boost memory, improve circulation, and relieve stress when used in teas, tinctures, and aromatherapy.   Salvia A pollinator magnet, salvia’s vibrant flowers are a garden staple. Salvia is hardy, easy to care for, and offers visual interest throughout the growing season. It thrives in well-draining soil and full sun, adding a touch of resilience and beauty to beds, fencelines and garden borders. There are multitude of colourful salvia varieties to choose from including blue, purple, white, pink, salmon, burgundy and red.   Strawberry A sweet perennial favourite! Strawberries spread quickly, covering the ground with glossy leaves, white flowers, and, of course, delicious red fruit. They grow best in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter and a sunny spot. Be prepared to protect your crop from eager birds and slugs.     Wormwood Wormwood is an aromatic herb known for its feathery silver leaves and natural pest-repelling qualities. It thrives in poor soil and dry conditions, making it a hardy choice for borders and forgotten corners. Avoid planting near edibles as its strong scent can interfere with other plants.   Yarrow Yarrow is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial with clusters of small, white or colourful flowers. It’s great for poor soil and provides medicinal benefits for herbalists. Yarrow’s high pollen production makes it a valuable resource for pollinators and beneficial insects and goes great in bouquets of cut flowers.   Why Plant Perennials? Perennials provide structure, continuity, and character to your garden, making them valuable for any gardener seeking a low-maintenance, eco-friendly setup. With proper planning, these plants will create a sustainable ecosystem, offering yields, beauty, and biodiversity benefits that can transform any garden into a thriving, lively space. There are many many more marvellous perennial plants not mentioned here, a quick tip is typing "perennial" into our search bar and they will pop up. Also good to mention that some plants act as perennials in one climate while dying off in the cold of deep winter or heat of high summer in other climates. It's always good to experiment with your own growing conditions and see what happens - one of the myriad joys of gardening - it's full of interesting observations and lessons in science. At the end of the day, just go out there, get dirty, and have some fun. See you in the garden!

Seeds, those tiny vessels of life, are more than just the starting point for our food and flowers—they’ve also inspired breathtaking works of art. Across the globe and throughout history, seed mosaics have served as a vibrant expression of human creativity, cultural heritage, and the deep connection between people and the natural world. From ancient traditions to contemporary showcases, this unique art form celebrates the beauty and diversity of seeds in stunning ways. A History Rooted in Nature Seed mosaics (sometimes referred to as Crop Art) have ancient origins, with seeds used in decorative crafts by cultures worldwide. Indigenous communities often incorporated seeds into ceremonial designs, reflecting themes of growth, life, and fertility. Seeds were often chosen for their symbolic meanings: wheat symbolised abundance, sunflower seeds loyalty, and other seeds were selected for their ties to prosperity and life cycles. In Europe, seed mosaics became a feature of harvest festivals, where grains and seeds were arranged into intricate displays to celebrate abundance and give thanks for the land’s bounty.   In the 19th century, seed mosaics gained prominence in the United States, particularly in the Midwest. Farmers and artists began crafting intricate designs with seeds, grains, and legumes, showcasing the region’s agricultural pride. Many designs incorporated geometric patterns inspired by mathematics, reflecting a sense of balance and harmony that was often considered sacred in ancient cultures. These mosaics became highlights at agricultural fairs, blending art and local heritage in a unique and captivating way.   The Corn Palace: A Monument to Seed Mosaics   No conversation about seed mosaics is complete without mentioning the iconic Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota. This architectural wonder has celebrated seed mosaics since 1892, when the first Corn Palace was built to showcase the area's rich agricultural heritage. Each year, the palace is reimagined with new murals made entirely of corn, grains, and other natural materials, designed by talented local artists. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corn_Palace   These murals require about 325,000 ears of corn in a palette of colours like red, brown, black, yellow, and white. The designs are drawn by hand before being "painted" with corn and grains, essentially creating a giant outdoor mosaic. Themes range from historical and cultural scenes to whimsical and local pride, making the Corn Palace a living gallery that attracts visitors from around the world.   Seed Mosaics at Agricultural Fairs   Seed mosaics are also a beloved tradition at agricultural fairs, particularly in states like Minnesota, where crop art competitions are a highlight. Artists meticulously sort and glue thousands of seeds to boards, crafting everything from portraits of public figures to satirical commentary on current events. These mosaics celebrate the artistry of individuals and the agricultural abundance of the region.   Modern Seed Mosaics and Sustainability   Beyond fairs and festivals, modern seed mosaics have become a platform for environmental awareness and education. Some artists collaborate with seed banks to use rare or heirloom seeds in their work, promoting the preservation of endangered plant varieties. Seed mosaics have even found their way into branding and advertising, showcasing agricultural products in a visually striking and eco-conscious way.    This art form is inherently sustainable; the seeds and grains used are biodegradable, and many traditional seed mosaics were designed to be composted or scattered after their display, symbolising the cyclical nature of life. Interactive installations, where communities come together to complete a seed mural, have also become popular, blending art, education, and engagement with agriculture.   Creating Your Own Seed Mosaic   If the Corn Palace or a state fair inspires you, seed mosaics are a wonderful way to connect with nature and your own innate creativity. Gather seeds like lentils, beans, or corn in various shapes and colours, and experiment with designs on a sturdy surface. Start with something simple, like a floral or geometric pattern, and embrace the meditative process of placing seeds into something uniquely your own.   ---   Whether you’re marvelling at the grandeur of the Corn Palace, exploring the artistry of fairs, or crafting your own seed mosaic, this timeless art form connects us to the land and reminds us of the incredible possibilities contained in even the tiniest seed. From its rich history to its modern reinvention, seed mosaics continue to celebrate the beauty of nature, the creativity of people, and the enduring ties between them.

Permaculture Plants That Thrive in the Heat When summer’s heat is bearing down, it’s not just our water bottles that need refilling—our gardens do too. But with the right permaculture plants, your garden can thrive in the heat while also supporting the health of your soil. These resilient powerhouses do more than survive the sun; they actively build fertility through a practice called chop-and-drop composting and, in some cases, supercharge soil with nutrient-dense compost teas.   Permaculture Explained: Permaculture is a sustainable design system that mimics natural ecosystems to create self-sufficient, regenerative environments. Rooted in ethics of care for the earth, people, and fair sharing of resources, permaculture integrates plants, animals, water, and soil in a way that reduces waste, increases biodiversity, and enhances food security. It’s about working with nature, not against it—designing systems that thrive with minimal human intervention.   What is Chop-and-Drop Composting?   Think of it as nature’s way of mulching on autopilot. Instead of pulling plants out and tossing them on the compost heap, you simply cut them back and drop the cuttings right where they grew. The leaves, stems, and foliage decompose in place, feeding the soil with organic matter, suppressing weeds, and locking in moisture—all without you lifting a fork. It’s lazy gardening at its finest. Leaving roots in the ground after harvesting has multiple benefits. It keeps the soil structure intact, preventing erosion and compaction. As roots decompose, they feed soil microbes and fungi, creating a rich, fertile environment. Root channels also improve water infiltration, encouraging healthier, more resilient soil for future crops. It’s nature’s way of self-renewal.   If you want to supercharge your garden’s soil fertility, These summer-hardy permaculture plants are the perfect place to start: 🌿 1. Tree Lucerne (Tagasaste)Tree Lucerne is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant permaculture champion with deep roots that draw up nutrients and improve soil health. Known for its nitrogen-fixing abilities, it enriches the soil for nearby plants while producing a steady supply of lush foliage for chop-and-drop mulch.   More than just mulch! Tree Lucerne is a high-protein fodder crop for livestock like chickens, goats, and cattle, making it an essential player in integrated farm systems. It boosts soil fertility, provides shade and shelter for understory plants, and offers nectar to support local pollinators. Its deep root system stabilises soil and increases water infiltration, making it a valuable ally for regenerative growing systems. 🌿 2. Mulberry (Morus spp.) Yes, mulberries give you delicious jammy fruit, but they also deliver leafy green abundance. Their large leaves break down quickly as mulch, and they can be pruned regularly for chop-and-drop material. Their roots stabilise soil, making them a win-win for gardeners and wildlife alike.   Did you know? Mulberry leaves are a high-protein stock feed for chickens, pigs, and even livestock. They’re a nutrient-dense supplement that can be harvested fresh and fed directly to animals, reducing your reliance on commercial feed. 🌿 3. Queensland Arrowroot (Canna edulis) Queensland Arrowroot is a tropical superstar, thriving in summer heat with rapid growth and dense, leafy foliage perfect for chop-and-drop composting. It’s a fast, reliable source of green biomass that breaks down quickly to nourish the soil.   Not your average green waste! Queensland Arrowroot is a multi-functional wonder. Its starchy rhizomes are edible and can be cooked like potatoes or ground into flour. The large leaves provide nutritious fodder for pigs, chickens, and livestock, while its strong, upright growth acts as a natural windbreak, protecting more delicate crops. Beneath the surface, its roots help loosen compacted soil, improving water infiltration and supporting soil microbial life. 🌿 4. Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan) Pigeon pea is like having a living fertiliser factory in your garden. This legume fixes nitrogen into the soil, grows rapidly in summer, and produces an abundance of pea pods for you and the birds.   Living mulch and more! Pigeon pea is an important food crop in Indian cuisine, where it’s known as 'toor dal' or 'arhar dal'. The dried peas are cooked into hearty stews, soups, and curries, providing a rich source of protein in vegetarian diets. Its edible green pods can also be eaten fresh, much like green beans. 🌿 5. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) Comfrey is famous for its deep taproot that draws up hard-to-reach minerals. Its leaves are packed with potassium, calcium, and other trace nutrients, making it the MVP of chop-and-drop mulch. Cut it back frequently in summer to feed your soil and watch your garden thrive.   Beyond the basics! Comfrey has a rich history as a herbal medicine. Its leaves and roots have been used for centuries to support wound healing, reduce inflammation, and soothe muscle strains. The plant contains allantoin, a compound believed to promote cell regeneration. While it’s not recommended for internal use due to potential toxicity, it remains a key herb in natural skin care and topical remedies. But comfrey doesn’t just do its magic on the ground—it can also be transformed into a powerhouse Comfrey Compost Tea. 🌿 6. Acacia spp. Acacias are nitrogen-fixing champions that bring a lot to the table. They’re hardy, drought-tolerant, and able to withstand intense summer heat. Their foliage can be used for chop-and-drop mulch and livestock feed, while their roots improve soil fertility below ground. 🌿 7. Purslane. Often mistaken for a common weed, Purslane is a succulent permaculture powerhouse. It thrives in the hottest, driest parts of the garden, acting as a "living mulch" that protects the soil surface from the sun while its deep taproot breaks up compaction. A nutritional superstar! Purslane is one of the richest plant sources of Omega-3 fatty acids and is packed with vitamins. Its crunchy, lemony leaves are delicious in summer salads, and because it is so resilient, it provides fresh greens when other lettuces have wilted in the heat.   Mulch makers and more! Acacia species play an important role in Australian bush food culture. The seeds of certain Acacia species (commonly called wattle seeds) are edible and have been a traditional food source for Indigenous Australians for thousands of years. Today, roasted and ground wattle seeds are prized for their nutty, coffee-like flavour and are used in baking, biscuits, bread, and even ice cream. They’re nutrient-dense, high in protein, and a symbol of Australian native cuisine. 🍵 How to Make Comfrey Compost Tea If your plants need a mid-season boost, comfrey compost tea is liquid gold for the garden. Packed with potassium, nitrogen, and trace minerals, it acts like a natural fertiliser for fruiting and flowering plants. Here’s how to brew your own batch: You’ll Need A large bucket or container (with a lid if possible) Fresh comfrey leaves (a good-sized bundle) Water (just enough to cover the leaves)   Instructions   1️⃣ Chop the Leaves – Harvest a bundle of fresh comfrey leaves and roughly chop them to increase surface area.2️⃣ Fill the Bucket – Place the chopped leaves in your container and cover them with water. Weigh them down with a brick or stone to keep them submerged.3️⃣ Cover and Wait – Put a lid on it and leave it to steep for 2-4 weeks. It will smell—badly—so keep it somewhere away from your house!4️⃣ Strain the Liquid – After a few weeks, strain out the leaves and keep the liquid. The leftover leaves can go into your compost.5️⃣ Dilute and Use – The resulting liquid is very strong. Dilute it at a ratio of 1 part comfrey tea to 10 parts water. Pour it around the base of plants or use it as a foliar spray.   This powerful DIY fertiliser can be used to boost flowering plants, fruiting trees, and any crops that need a quick mineral boost. How to Get the Most From These Plants 1️⃣ Chop Often – Regular pruning encourages fresh growth and keeps a steady supply of mulch material coming.2️⃣ Drop Strategically – Lay pruned material around the base of fruit trees, in garden beds, or wherever you need to build up organic matter.3️⃣ Layer It Up – Combine with dry, carbon-rich materials like dry leaves for a balanced decomposition process.4️⃣ Brew Your Tea – Use comfrey tea as a natural, mineral-packed liquid fertiliser to fuel flowering and fruiting plants.   By incorporating these hard-working summer plants into your garden, you’ll boost soil health, reduce the need for store-bought mulch, and create a resilient system that thrives in the heat. With chop-and-drop composting, edible crops, animal feed, and DIY compost teas, you can harness the power of nature to do the heavy lifting for you. Which of these plants do you already have in your garden? Or which one’s going on your wish list? 🌱

When it comes to growing beans, it’s tempting to stick to the old "dig a hole and bury the seed" method. But what if we told you there’s a better way? For improved germination and healthier plants, try planting your beans on the surface of the soil rather than burying them deep. This has been an experiment we here at Eden Seeds have put to the test this season, after reading the tip from a seed savers blog . Working on heavy clay soil where we are, we immediately thought, this is garden gold and had to try it. Glad we are, as it has worked a treat! No more mouldy, mushy or otherwise lost beans here!    Why Surface Planting Works Beans, whether bush or climbing varieties, are particularly sensitive to their environment during germination. Here’s why letting them start closer to the surface can give them a better chance: Moisture Control: Beans need consistent moisture to sprout, but burying them too deep can lead to waterlogging, which might cause rot. Placing them on the surface allows you to control the balance of moisture more effectively. Better Access to Oxygen: Seeds need oxygen to germinate, and heavy or compacted soil can suffocate them. Keeping beans near the surface gives them better air circulation. Avoiding Soil Compaction: Deep planting can mean seeds struggle to push through dense soil, especially in clay-heavy gardens. Surface planting gives them a head start and ensures they don’t expend all their energy just trying to break through. How to Surface Plant Beans Prepare Your Soil: Loosen the top layer of soil, removing any large clumps. A fine, crumbly surface works best. Lay the Seeds: Space your bean seeds evenly on top of the soil, following the spacing recommendations for the variety you’re planting (usually about 10–15 cm apart). Cover Lightly: Sprinkle a very thin layer of soil or compost over the seeds—just enough to keep them anchored and protected. You want to be able to still see the beans. Water Gently: Use a soft spray or mist to water the seeds, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. Mulch Wisely: Once the beans sprout, adding a light layer of mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.   Spotlight on the Scarlet Runner Bean Here’s a fun bean to try with this method: the Scarlet Runner Bean. Loved for its striking red flowers and vigorous vines, this heirloom isn’t just a showstopper—it’s also a multitasker. Native to Central America, it’s been cultivated for centuries as both a food crop and an ornamental plant. The beans are delicious fresh or dried, and the flowers attract all kinds of pollinators, making it a win-win for your garden. Also known as the Seven Year Bean, this vigorous climber has a unique ability to re-sprout from its roots in frost-free climates, making it a perennial treasure for many gardeners. The beans themselves are as beautiful as the flowers, with black and purple seeds so captivating they’ve been used to create stunning jewellery.   Pro Tip: Scarlet Runner Beans germinate particularly well with the surface planting method, especially in warm, moist conditions. Give them a sunny spot and a trellis, and watch them take off!  The Results? More Sprouts, Happier Beans Surface planting lets your beans germinate faster, with fewer losses due to rot or compaction. Once they’ve sprouted and sent their roots into the soil, they’ll establish themselves just as strongly as deeply planted beans—if not more so! So this season, give your beans the star treatment. Keep them close to the surface and watch your germination rates soar. Happy planting,

Gramma Pumpkin: An Heirloom with a Story as Rich as Its Flavour Gramma pumpkins are one of those near-forgotten heirloom gems that seem woven into the fabric of rural Australian backyard gardens, quietly sprawling across compost heaps, curling their vines over fences, and producing fruit destined for the most nostalgic of desserts—gramma pie. But this humble pumpkin has a story far beyond its place in the kitchen, stretching back through generations of growers, newspaper recipes, and even a sensational trial that scandalised Grafton in 1902.   The Growth Habits of a Classic Gramma pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata) are vigorous, long-vining plants that thrive in warm climates and well-drained, fertile soil. They require plenty of space, as their sprawling nature sees them reaching several metres in all directions. Large, deeply lobed leaves provide excellent ground cover, shading the soil and suppressing weeds, while their bright yellow flowers attract a flurry of pollinators.   More commonly grown in New South Wales and Queensland, gramma pumpkins are well-suited to Australia’s warmer, humid regions. Unlike some pumpkins that struggle in high heat, gramma pumpkins are particularly resilient, producing well even in tropical and subtropical conditions. Their ability to tolerate heat and humidity makes them a long-time staple in northern home gardens, where they’ve been passed down through generations.   The fruit itself is unmistakable—elongated and slightly bulbous at one end, with smooth skin that ripens from green to a rich golden-yellow. Inside, the flesh is dense, vibrant orange, moist and exceptionally sweet, making it ideal for baking. Unlike some modern hybrids, gramma pumpkins are fantastic keepers, storing well for months after harvest, ensuring that gramma pie can be enjoyed long after the vines have withered.   A Piece of Australian Food History While the gramma’s origins likely trace back to early European settlement, it has firmly established itself as a staple in Australian country kitchens. In fact, its presence in recipes goes back well over a century. The Australian Town and Country Journal in Sydney, 1885, featured a recipe for gramma pie, proving its place in Australian culinary history long before mass-produced desserts took over. Apparently, the gramma pie had its very own category in the Grafton Show by 1909, does anyone know if this is still the case? But gramma pie wasn’t always associated with warm family gatherings. In one of the more bizarre intersections of food and crime, the dessert found itself at the centre of a murder trial in 1902. James Dowling of Grafton, convinced that his wife had hidden 50 guineas in a pie and gifted it to another man, took a tomahawk to her in a fit of rage. The case, widely reported at the time, ended with a manslaughter conviction, forever linking gramma pie to one of Australia’s more morbid moments in history. The gramma is also said to be fantastic stock fodder for all manner of farm animal, and makes for a tasty jam.    Gramma vs. Gramma Trombone While the classic gramma pumpkin is the most well-known, a close relative, the Gramma Trombone, also thrives in Australian gardens. Named for its long, curved shape resembling a brass instrument, the gramma trombone (Cucurbita moschata) shares many of the same characteristics—sweet, dense flesh, vigorous vining growth, and excellent storage qualities. It’s particularly popular in Italian and Mediterranean cooking, often used in soups and roasts. Both varieties showcase the adaptability and hardiness of the Cucurbita moschata family, proving why these pumpkins have remained garden favourites for so long.   Gramma Pie: A Recipe for Tradition Thankfully, gramma pie is far better known for its taste than its criminal associations. It remains a favourite in rural Australia, a dish that brings back memories of childhood, country fairs, and handwritten recipe books. If you’ve got a gramma pumpkin on hand, here’s a classic recipe to try (we hear Kent makes an acceptable substitute in a pinch but that would be bucking tradition now wouldn't it!): Traditional Gramma Pie   Ingredients: 1 medium gramma pumpkin (about 1kg of cooked flesh) Sugar - traditional recipes say start with one tablespoon and work your way up from there, the fruit is very sweet. Optional spices - none/any/all 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp ground ginger Optional - Currants or sultanas - a handful or to taste. Some traditional recipes add these.   1 tbsp lemon juice  2 tbsp butter 2 eggs, beaten Shortcrust pastry for base and lid. Either storebought or homemade will work. Method: Preheat your oven to 180°C. Peel, deseed, and chop the gramma pumpkin into chunks. Simmer in a very small amount of water until soft (gramma is a moist fruit), then drain well and mash until smooth. Stir in the sugar, spices, lemon juice, currants if using and butter while the mixture is warm. Allow to cool slightly before adding the beaten eggs. Mix well. Line a pie dish with the shortcrust pastry and pour in the pumpkin filling. Cover with puff pastry, crimping the edges to seal. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm with cream or custard. Equally good chilled. A Pumpkin Worth Growing Gramma pumpkins are more than just a great ingredient—they’re a living piece of Australian heritage. Their ability to thrive in our climate, their excellent storage qualities, and their rich culinary history make them a must-grow for any gardener interested in heirloom varieties. Whether you’re baking an old-fashioned pie, making a hearty soup, or simply growing them for their history, the gramma pumpkin is a true Aussie classic.   So, next time you see a gramma vine winding its way through the garden, remember: you’re not just growing a pumpkin—you’re growing a piece of history. **Seeds from this year's harvest are currently drying and will be available shortly!

Early season tomatoes are in demand to be included in summer salads and cooking.There are many advantages to planting seed inside whilst it is too cold outside. First, work out when you can transplant outside and sow seed so plants will be strong enough to survive transplanting. Let’s say transplant mid October. So sow seed inside in early September.

For as long as people have been tending the land, they’ve been swapping stories, tricks, and superstitions about what makes a garden thrive—or fail miserably. Passed down through generations, these "old wives’ tales" blend observation, intuition, and a little bit of magic. Some are deeply rooted in practical wisdom, others are pure myth, and a few have even been backed by modern science.   So, whether you’re a believer in garden folklore or just here for the fun of it, let’s dig into some of the strangest, most intriguing, and surprisingly effective superstitions from gardeners around the world.   🌕 Plant by the Moon – Many gardeners swear that seeds sown with the lunar cycle grow better. The idea? Plant leafy above ground crops such as herbs, salad greens in the waxing moon when moisture is drawn upward, supporting vigorous top growth. Root crops like beets, carrots, potatoes, onions in the waning moon when the earth’s moisture pulls down, encouraging strong root development. And some swear you should never plant on a full moon unless you want leggy, unruly plants. While modern science hasn’t settled the debate, studies show that moon phases influence moisture levels in soil, which could affect germination. This idea is central to biodynamic farming, a regenerative growing method that considers cosmic rhythms, soil health, and plant vitality as interconnected. Biodynamic farmers time planting, pruning, and harvesting with lunar and planetary cycles, believing these forces subtly influence plant growth. Whether you follow the full biodynamic calendar or just keep an eye on the moon, it’s a tradition many gardeners still swear by. Even NASA tracks lunar cycles for growing food in space—so maybe there’s something to it!     🦶 Barefoot Gardening for Good Luck, or Good Health – Some traditions say you should plant your first seeds of the season barefoot to connect with the earth’s energy and ensure a strong harvest. Others believe walking barefoot on dewy grass in the morning brings prosperity (or at least wakes you up properly). The Science: This folk wisdom has a modern counterpart—"earthing" or grounding. Studies show that direct skin contact with soil may reduce stress, improve sleep, and even lower inflammation by allowing the body to absorb electrons from the earth. So, whether it brings luck or just makes you feel good, it’s worth a try!     🐞 Lucky Bugs & Unwanted Guests – Ladybugs? Good luck—if one lands on you, your garden will flourish. Spiders? Leave them be—they protect plants by keeping pests in check. But cutworms in your soil? That’s a sign of bad luck (and bad planting ahead). Some gardeners even bury an old rusty nail near their tomatoes to prevent disease—turns out, it’s actually adding iron to the soil, which plants need for healthy growth!     🧄 Garlic to Keep Evil (and Pests) Away – Beyond repelling vampires (naturally), hanging garlic braids near doorways was thought to ward off bad spirits. In the garden, it’s also a companion planting powerhouse, repelling aphids, caterpillars, and even fungal diseases. And yes—science confirms that garlic’s sulfur compounds are natural deterrents for both pests and some pathogens!     🌱 Speak Kindly to Your Plants – Some believe that talking or singing to plants makes them grow stronger. Turns out, plants really can sense their environment in ways we’re just beginning to understand. Studies from the University of Missouri found that plants can actually "hear" nearby insects chewing and respond by producing more defensive chemicals. Research in bioacoustics suggests that plants can respond to certain sound frequencies, potentially detecting approaching animals, water sources, or even human voices. Other research suggests that plants can recognise human voices and even react to sound vibrations, which could explain why some people swear their tomatoes thrive when they sing to them! A famous 1960s experiment by Dr. T.C. Singh (a botanist in India) found that plants exposed to classical music grew faster and healthier than those in silence. Interestingly, those exposed to harsh noise or chaotic sound waves didn’t fare as well. In 2007, South Korean researchers found that rice plants responded positively to certain frequencies of sound, which triggered gene expression linked to growth.   Plants don’t just listen—they also communicate! Many species form underground partnerships with mycorrhizal fungi, creating a vast "Wood Wide Web." This fungal network allows plants to: Send warning signals about pests or disease to neighbouring plants. Share nutrients and resources—stronger trees or plants can send carbon, nitrogen, and water to weaker ones. Detect stress or environmental changes—some scientists even suggest that plants can prepare for fire, drought or pest invasions by “listening” to chemical cues from their neighbours.     💡 Whether you follow lunar cycles, sing to your tomatoes, or keep a lucky ladybug around, there’s something beautiful about these old gardening traditions. Many may not be strictly scientific, but they remind us that gardening is more than just growing food—it’s about connection, care, and respect for nature’s rhythms.   Do you have a garden superstition or old trick that’s been passed down in your family? Let us know—we’d love to hear it! 

For centuries, herbal medicine has helped keep bodies strong and resilient, especially during seasonal shifts. Plants offer a wealth of immune-supporting properties, from antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects to essential vitamins and minerals. One of the most effective—and delicious—ways to harness these benefits is through an oxymel, a time-honoured blend of vinegar, honey, and medicinal herbs.   What is an Oxymel? The word oxymel comes from the ancient Greek oxymeli (ὀξύμελι), meaning “acid and honey.” This simple yet powerful remedy dates back to Hippocrates, who praised its ability to cleanse the body, aid digestion, and support overall health.   At its core, an oxymel is a herbal extraction method that balances the sharpness of vinegar with the soothing sweetness of honey. The vinegar draws out and preserves the medicinal compounds of herbs, while honey enhances both the flavour and therapeutic effects. The result is a potent, syrup-like remedy that is easy to take and a favourite among herbalists for generations.   Why Oxymels for Immunity? Apple cider vinegar  Apple cider vinegar does more than just preserve herbs—it actively supports immune health. It helps break down mucus, making it easier to clear congestion, while its antimicrobial properties help fight off infections. ACV also improves digestion by boosting stomach acid and enhancing nutrient absorption, which is key for a strong immune system. Despite its acidity, apple cider vinegar has an alkalising effect in the body, helping to reduce inflammation and support overall resilience. Rich in antioxidants, it protects cells from damage while also balancing blood sugar levels—helping to prevent energy crashes that can leave the body more susceptible to illness. As a bonus, ACV supports lymphatic drainage, assisting the body in flushing out toxins and keeping the immune system functioning optimally. All of these qualities make it the ideal foundation for a potent, immune-boosting oxymel.   Raw honey Raw honey isn’t just for sweetness—it’s a powerhouse of immune support. Naturally antimicrobial and antibacterial, it helps fight off infections while soothing the throat and respiratory system. Its anti-inflammatory properties ease irritation, while antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and support overall immunity. Unlike processed honey, raw honey contains enzymes, probiotics, and beneficial compounds that promote gut health—one of the key players in a strong immune system. It also acts as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of herbal remedies while enhancing their medicinal properties. With its ability to coat and soothe, raw honey makes oxymels more palatable, especially for children, while also amplifying their healing effects. It’s the perfect partner to apple cider vinegar, working together to nourish and protect the body.   Herbs  Herbs are the heart of an oxymel, each bringing unique properties to strengthen and support the immune system. Many, like elderberry and echinacea, are antiviral and help the body fight infections more effectively. Others, such as garlic and thyme, have powerful antimicrobial properties that target bacteria and viruses while also supporting respiratory health. Warming herbs like ginger and turmeric reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and help break down mucus, making them ideal for colds and congestion. Nutrient-rich herbs like rosehips provide a natural boost of vitamin C, enhancing the body’s defences against seasonal illness. Beyond immunity, adaptogenic and soothing herbs like lemon balm and chamomile can help regulate stress—a crucial factor in maintaining overall health. By infusing these herbs into an oxymel, their benefits are extracted, preserved, and made easy to incorporate into daily routines, creating a natural remedy that supports the whole family through the cooler months.   Some Herb Options for an Immunity-Boosting Oxymel   Elderberry – Antiviral and rich in antioxidants to help ward off colds and flu. Garlic – A powerhouse antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiviral herb. Ginger – Warming, anti-inflammatory, and helps break down mucus. Thyme – Respiratory-supporting, antibacterial, and great for coughs. Echinacea – Supports immune response and reduces severity of infections. Rosehips – High in vitamin C, strengthens immune defences. Turmeric – Anti-inflammatory, supports the immune system and gut health. Mullein – A premier respiratory herb used to soothe the lungs and help clear deep-seated congestion.   How to Make an Immunity-Boosting Oxymel Gather your ingredients: Choose one or a mix of the herbs above. Dried or fresh both work. Fill a jar halfway with herbs (chopped if fresh, or loosely packed if dried). Pour raw apple cider vinegar over the herbs until they are completely submerged. Top up with raw honey (typically a 1:3 ratio of honey to vinegar, but you can adjust for taste). Cover with a non-metal lid (vinegar reacts with metal), or place a piece of baking paper underneath lid as a barrier. Let it infuse for 2–6 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally. Strain and bottle – Store in a cool, dark place. How to Use It   Take 1–2 teaspoons daily as a preventative, straight off the spoon. Stir into warm (not hot) water or juice. Drizzle over salads or roasted vegetables. Mix into a tonic with warm water, lemon, and ginger.   Oxymels for Kids   For little ones, keep the blend gentler with:   A little more honey to balance the acidity. Kid-friendly herbs like chamomile, lemon balm, and elderberry. Diluting in warm water or juice before giving.   Bringing Oxymels into Your Daily Routine   Oxymels are a simple yet powerful way to support your family’s health through the cooler months. Whether taken straight, stirred into warm drinks, or drizzled over meals, they offer a delicious and effective way to enjoy the benefits of herbal medicine. With endless combinations of immune-boosting herbs, you can tailor your oxymel to suit your needs—whether it's a warming blend for winter wellness, a soothing formula for scratchy throats, or a kid-friendly mix packed with gentle, nourishing herbs.     So why not start a batch today? A little preparation now means you’ll have a natural, homemade remedy on hand when your family needs it most. Your immune system will thank you! 🌿🍯✨

🌿In a world that moves faster than your compost bin in summer, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind, in work, in life, in your garden.   But most good things (especially the green ones) don’t thrive under pressure. They thrive under patience. Under mulch. And under a slower, more seasonal pace.   This post is a gentle rebellion against hustle culture - with muddy boots and a watering can. Because even just five minutes in the garden can shift your nervous system, your mood, and your mindset. Here’s how.   🌱 The Science Behind Slowing Down 🧠 Hands in Soil = Microbial Serotonin There’s a bacteria found in healthy garden soil called Mycobacterium vaccae, and interacting with it has been shown to stimulate the production of serotonin - the "feel-good" neurotransmitter that stabilises mood and promotes wellbeing. You don’t need to get fancy. Just weeding with your bare hands or repotting something can literally lift your spirits, biologically.   Bonus fact: Gardeners have been found to have lower cortisol levels (stress hormones) and better sleep patterns than non-gardeners. Dirt therapy is real.   🌤️ Exposure to Natural Light = Better Sleep & Mood Spending time outdoors, even briefly, helps regulate your circadian rhythm by increasing melatonin production at night and serotonin during the day. Gardeners who get sunlight early in the day often sleep better, feel more balanced, and experience fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. Even pulling a few weeds before breakfast can shift your whole day.   🧘♀️ Gardening Reduces Rumination (Overthinking) Studies show that gardening decreases activity in the parts of the brain associated with rumination - the exhausting, repetitive thinking loops that fuel anxiety and depression. Focused tasks like sowing, planting, or harvesting gently redirect attention away from those thought spirals and into the present moment. It's mindfulness, but with dirt under your nails.   🔁 Repetition = Meditative Rhythm Watering, weeding, deadheading, tying up tomato vines - these gentle, rhythmic movements bring us into a state of flow. They're small tasks with clear beginnings and endings, which is deeply comforting to the human brain.   Regular time in the garden mimics mindfulness practice - your breath slows, your mind quiets, and the overthinking takes a break.   ✨ Tiny Wins = Dopamine Hits Watching a seed sprout, seeing a self-sown calendula reappear, harvesting and delightedly munching a single snow pea - these moments activate the brain’s reward system. They're the little jolts of “I did a thing!” that we often overlook.   Unlike the big goals modern life tells us to chase, gardens reward small, consistent effort. They don’t care about your KPIs - they care that you remembered to water yesterday.   🌱 One Small Ritual Can Change Everything You don’t need a big plan or a perfectly curated space. You just need one small thing to anchor you to something slower, gentler, and rooted.   Here are a few micro-rituals to try this week:   🧄 Plant something on a Sunday evening Not to be productive, but to be present. Tuck a clove of garlic into the soil, sprinkle some rocket seed, or repot a leggy herb. It’s a symbolic reset - a quiet little “I’m still here” offering to your week ahead.   🌼 Harvest one herb every week and make a tea Chamomile, lemon balm, tulsi, mint - whatever’s on hand. And it doesn't need to be much, just a few leaves will do. Brew a quiet cup, light a candle, and do nothing else while you drink it.   Be with the taste. The steam. The knowledge that something you grew is now inside you, nourishing your cells.    🦶 Walk barefoot in the garden Yes, even if it’s cold. Especially if it’s cold. Grounding through the soles of your feet is a proven nervous system reset. Combine it with candlelight or moonlight, and you’ve got yourself a backyard ritual that borders on magic.   🛏️ What If You’re Too Tired? Then don’t garden. Just sit in the garden. Light a candle. Let your body rest in the space you’ve created. Let the plants carry on without you for a while. Watch the way the breeze dances through the lettuce leaves. That counts too.   And if it’s pouring rain, or frozen, or dark by 4:30?   Pot up a single herb indoors. Light that candle anyway. Sketch your spring garden on the back of an envelope. Water the worm farm. Move one pot to a sunnier position. Dream of spring flowers. That.all.counts.   ✨This is Gardening for Nervous Systems✨   You don’t have to “stay on top of it.” You don’t have to plant every seed or prune every vine.   What your garden - and your soul - need most right now might just be to go slow.   So reject hustle culture. Embrace decomposition. Be the mulch. Let the radishes take their time. Let yourself take yours.   You don’t have to grow everything. You just have to begin. 🌙  

The Story of Gossypium barbadense - Sea Island Cotton   Softness has a price.For centuries, the world has worshipped cotton for its touch, comfort, and purity. But behind the feel of a clean sheet or a crisp shirt lies a plant that has shaped landscapes, labour, and history in ways few others have.   Origins and Botany Gossypium barbadense, better known as Sea Island cotton, is one of four domesticated cotton species in the genus Gossypium, part of the mallow family (Malvaceae), the same family that gives us hibiscus and okra. Its long, lustrous fibres make it the finest of all cottons, producing threads so silky they were once compared to spun glass. Native to tropical regions of South America, this species spread northward through the Caribbean, where enslaved Africans were forced to cultivate it along the warm, humid coastal plains that became known as the Sea Islands of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.   Cotton and Slavery By the late 1700s, Sea Island cotton had become a luxury export to Europe, often called “white gold.” Its cultivation depended entirely on the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved people not only planted and picked the crop but perfected the techniques that made it profitable: the delicate ginning and hand-separation of the extra-long fibres. Their knowledge and endurance made fortunes for plantation owners, while the cotton itself became a symbol of both refinement and oppression, luxury grown through brutality.   The Cost of Modern Cotton Today, the global cotton industry is dominated by Gossypium hirsutum, a high-yielding, machine-friendly species that accounts for about 90% of the world’s cotton production. It is genetically modified, heavily irrigated, and chemically supported to meet the endless appetite of fast fashion. The environmental toll is immense: Water use: More than 10,000 litres of water can be needed to produce one kilogram of cotton. Chemical load: Conventional cotton consumes a large share of the world’s pesticides and herbicides. Soil depletion: Monocropping and heavy tillage strip soil of structure and biodiversity. Cotton may look pure, but industrial cotton has become one of the dirtiest crops on the planet.   A Textile and a Warning Sea Island cotton is still grown, though in small quantities, mostly in the Caribbean and parts of the West Indies under niche heritage programs. True Sea Island cotton is prized for its extra-long staple length, often over 50 millimetres, and its natural sheen. The plants are shrubby perennials with heart-shaped leaves and creamy hibiscus-like flowers that age from pale yellow to deep pink before forming soft white bolls.   Traditional Uses Beyond textiles, Gossypium barbadense and its relatives were once used in traditional medicine. The root bark was used as an emmenagogue (to bring on bleeding) and uterine stimulant, the leaves as a poultice for inflammation, and the seeds for their mild demulcent and expectorant (soothing of sore throats, coughs) properties. These uses are historical and not widely recommended for home medicine today, but they reflect the plant’s long history as more than a fibre crop. It was once part of the healer’s garden too.   Threads of Responsibility Cotton’s story mirrors our own habits of comfort, excess, and disconnection from source. Fast fashion has made fibre invisible. The T-shirt in your drawer may have travelled thousands of kilometres, draining rivers and fuelling exploitation along the way. Sea Island cotton stands as both a marvel and a reminder: the most luxurious fibres on earth grew out of the harshest human conditions. To value what we wear, and what it costs the planet, is a kind of remembering.   Maybe the next step is not chasing softness, but learning to soften how we live in reciprocation with the earth that provides for us.

I bought my first coreopsis in early 2011 as a flowering plant to sit in a pot on the table, when it stopped flowering I trimmed it back and planted it into the garden bed. There it stagnated for most of winter but by mid spring it had grown in size and buds then flowers started appearing. I bought a couple more seedlings at the markets and planted them in the same garden bed. A couple of times I gave them a haircut and they responded, growing bushier and providing another flush of flowers.   Coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a member of the Asteraceae family, most species of which are native to various areas of North, Central or South America. The name Coreopsis is from the Greek koris, meaning "bug," and opsis, meaning "view”, the seed looks like a bug and many say like a tick. Some varieties are perennials and others annuals. Traditionally these are a very hardy species but some newer hybrid varieties are less so. They will grow as a clump from 20 to 60cm high. I am growing varieties of Coreopsis grandiflora which get bright yellow double or semi double flowers. There are some other varieties with single flowers and with varying shades of yellow flowers, some red and some pink, there are also some with multiple colours.   In America they were originally a prairie flower and as such will grow in most soil types, preferably well drained and in full sun. Coreopsis can be grown from seed and perennial varieties can also be grown by division and from basal cuttings. Seeds can be planted directly into the garden bed where you want them to grow early in spring. Young plants require regular watering until established but will then continue to grow with or without regular watering. Deadhead after flowering and they will usually flower again, in winter cut back to a few inches and they will grow up nicely for next summer. Mine have been growing and flowering well throughout spring and summer. Give them a feed of liquid fertiliser from time to time and a handful of Organic Xtra at the beginning of spring. Many varieties will self seed so be wary if you live close to bushland not to let them escape. Coreopsis is known to grow wild in areas of Western Australia and New South Wales. In Queensland it was first recorded as naturalised in Kingaroy in 1944 and is seen on the roadside from Tin Can Bay to the New South Wales border and in the Stanthorpe area. So be careful where you grow it.   Coreopsis make ideal cut flowers and are attractive to some butterflies and bees. They would definitely make a colourful, low maintenance addition to your summer garden. Buy Coreopsis seed from our online store.

Egyptian Spinach, Corchorus olitorius, is becoming very popular as a summer vegetable in our part of the world. It goes under many names Molokhia/Molokheiya (and several other ways of spelling it), salad mallow, Jew's mallow, jute mallow and West African sorrel to name but a few. It is thought to have originated in Egypt well before the time of Christ and has been a staple food there since the time of the Pharaohs. The Egyptian name molokheiya means ‘vegetable for the king’, according to Wikipedia a sick Egyptian king, around 6000BC asked for hot soup when he was unwell and after taking the hot soup every day his illness was cured. Cleopatra is also said to have enjoyed the same soup. Egyptian Spinach and its many close relations grow throughout Africa, the Middle East, India and many parts of Asia. It will grow in most tropical and sub tropical regions throughout the world.   It is grown as an annual, grows to about a metre tall, gets small yellow flowers, produces edible seed pods and edible leaves that can be continually harvested. It is very hardy and fast growing. As a close relation to okra many of the same growing conditions apply, loves the heat, can handle both dry and wet conditions (not waterlogged) but doesn’t like the shade.   Do you want to grow some? It will grow in all soil types and is not particular about the pH but of course prefers a fertile moist soil. It will even do well in pots. Prepare your soil in your normal way then plant seed directly where they will grow, the best planting time is between spring and autumn. Egyptian spinach seeds will germinate better if they are soaked in hot water before planting for at least a few minutes, Isabel Shipard recommends soaking for up to 12 hours. Start picking leaves when the plant is about 40cm high. Seeds which mature on the plant and drop to the ground will lay dormant in the soil until the weather is right and become next year’s crop. Egyptian spinach is fairly disease and pest free. Caterpillars and grasshoppers will share the leaves with you and in the heat of summer they can be affected by red spider mites but overall not too problematical. Seeds are currently available from BOGI seeds.   The leaves are very high in protein, minerals and vitamins. Younger leaves can be eaten raw in salads, on sandwiches and the older leaves cooked or dried. Use leaves as you would spinach. In Egypt the leaves are used in a traditional soup with garlic, coriander and meat, in other areas it is made into a stew with cassava, rice and chicken meat. There are many recipes available for this vegetable. Leaves can be dried then powdered and used as a tea, stored for future use in soups and stews for added flavour and as a thickener . In Japan it is marketed through health food stores as a healthy tea. Young seed pods can be used the same way as okra.   The health benefits of Egyptian spinach have been promoted since the time of the Pharaohs. As a tea it will boost your immune system and is also said to be helpful for treating anaemia, cancer, constipation, cystitis, diabetes, fatigue, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, menopausal symptoms, obesity, respiratory problems and water retention. Tea made from the leaves is said to aid in child birth and increase milk production for mothers. It can also be used a wash for sore eyes, rashes, cuts and abrasions.   Many members of the Corchorus genus are grown as a source of jute as they have long, strong fibres in their stalks. Over the centuries this jute was used to make a coarse yarn which was then made into rope and a coarse sacking fabric. The tallest, unbranched stems were best for this. Stems would be soaked for several days so the vegetable matter would rot and the fibres easily removed then washed, dried and sorted for use. This fibre is also used to make paper in some areas. Corchorus olitorius or Egyptian spinach is best used as a leaf vegetable while some of its other relatives are better used for jute production.   Nutritional Information Serving Size: (Leaves 100 grams, raw) Calories: 34                                           Kilojoules: 142 Total Fat: .03g                                       Cholesterol: 0mg Total Carbohydrates: 5.8g                      Dietary Fibre: 2g Sugars: 0g                                            Sodium: 8mg Protein: 4.6g                                         Calcium: 208mg Folate: 123mcg                                     Iron: 4.8mg Magnesium: 64mg                                 Manganese: .123mg Niacin: 1.2mg                                        Phosphorous: 83mg Potassium: 559mg                                Vitamin B6: .60mg Vitamin C: 37mg                                    Vitamin A: .5559IUmg Selenium: .90mcg                                  Zinc: .79mg     Molokhia (Stew) 750g fresh molokhia leaves, finely chopped                 1 chicken, duck, rabbit or wild shrimp 8 – 10 cups water                                                          1 onion, quartered Several cloves garlic, crushed                                       2 tbsp butter 2 tbsp fresh or 1 teas ground coriander                         1 tbsp lemon juice 2 - 3 bay leaves, crushed                                               4 - 5 cardamom pods, crushed salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste   Wash the meat, remove any inedible parts and dry. Place into large pot with onion, bay leaves, cardamom pods, salt and pepper, cover with water and bring to boil. Simmer until meat is cooked, don't overcook. Remove meat, drain, brush with butter or oil, place on baking tray in hot oven and roast until golden. While meat is roasting - strain broth meat was cooked in and return broth to pot. Melt butter in pan add crushed garlic, coriander and sauté until golden add lemon juice then mix into broth, bring to boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add molokhia and boil until just cooked (3 – 5 minutes). Remove meat from oven, cut into 6 – 8 pieces. Serve either mixed into broth or beside it.

A Different Way to Plant Your Beans.

An approach to controlling garden pests that leverages natural, mutually beneficial relationships within the ecosystem, promoting biodiversity and healthier, more resilient gardens.

Tales of seeds from times long past...

Simple Steps to Start Composting

One of the most effective and eco-friendly gardening techniques you can implement is companion planting. This method involves strategically planting different crops together to support each other’s growth, deter pests, attract beneficial insects, and improve yields—all without the need for chemicals or artificial fertilisers.

Getting kids involved in gardening helps foster a love for nature and an appreciation for where food comes from. These simple seed projects are perfect for little hands and curious minds, offering a fun way to spend time outdoors this spring.