Let's Take a Moment and THINK....

I know, I know, An Unexpected Garden pt.2 was to be my next blog, but can we talk?

In my neighborhood, I saw a man spraying his yard yesterday with Round-Up.  The labeled product was in the driveway next to a playing toddler.  A breeze was blowing and small foggy clouds of the herbicide were wafting across the lawn. He was dressed in shorts, tee shirt and flip-flops. Ugh!  Can I make a citizen’s arrest?  This was worse than just wrong. 

* Children and chemicals of any kind do not mix. Horticulture/agriculture chemicals are no exception. 

* Know about the pesticides you use and how they work.                                                                      

* Systemic herbicides are absorbed into plant (or human/pet) tissue.  Protective clothing, gloves and eye-wear keep the chemical away from skin.  Absorbed chemical contamination will not wash off.     

* Herbicides kill plants regardless of property lines; take care when applying pesticides near other people and their property. 

                                                                                                                           

* Wind and weather conditions should be considered and accounted for when applying chemicals especially when using a non-selective herbicide.

                                                                                       

* The label instructions were not read or followed.  

* Please do not mix chemicals stronger than listed on the label.   

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW ALL LABEL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE MIXING OR APPLYING ANY CHEMICALS.  

 

I know I seem to repeat the same things about pesticides. The truth is pesticides are getting safer each year but we need to educate ourselves on their use. Different strategies and environmental concerns push us to improve the way we grow our crops, deal with weeds or bugs and live our lives. Let’s get it right, if for nothing else ... 
                                                     ...our children.

Take a moment and think, (and read) the label before you spray.......

An Unexpected Garden - part 1

An Unexpected Garden – part1

It’s gardening season! We can’t wait to get out and touch the earth. Seeds or small transplants are happily set out and great care is taken to water, fertilize and maintain these growing symbols of freedom and hope. We anticipate the harvest and are proud of the additions we make to our own and our neighbor’s tables. 

Most folks garden outdoors, in a plot far from the sink and kitchen window. But if you don’t have access to a garden or you cannot get out, how do you make that happen? If you have the inclination, anyone can garden!

You can’t beat a “trash” garden, as these are veggies that will still produce edible greens from the tops we would otherwise throw away. Leave an inch of carrots, onions or turnips close to the top and place in a saucer of water. Several days later the green sprouts can be clipped and put in salads or stir fry. Unused celery hearts can be coaxed to sprout additional greens that are edible and can even be used as a treat for caged birds, hamsters and guinea pigs. 

A sunny window can provide enough light to grow some herbs like mint or French tarragon.  Catnip (in the mint family) is easy and the family pet will love you for starting this treat for them.

A quick how to: 

Start from seed for the best selection. Use fresh potting soil that does not contain fertilizer. Clean containers of any type will work as long as there are holes for drainage but four inch pots or larger work best. Plant the seed at the depth suggested on the seed packet and water often enough to provide moisture but don’t let the pot sit in water. Place in the window and fertilize lightly when the plants have grown enough that there are several sets of leaves. 

These are just two ways to garden without leaving the kitchen. Each household is unique so try what works for you. Just remember that gardening can happen wherever you are.

Part 2 is coming soon with more unexpected gardening!