The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson

In this Episode Christopher Parker shares his lifelong journey into mycology, rooted in growing up in the forests of Western North Carolina and decades of hands-on experience. He explains how fungi underpins life on Earth, drives soil fertility, and plays a critical role in regenerative agriculture. The conversation explores low-tech mushroom cultivation, indigenous ecological knowledge, and how working with fungi can create resilient, localized food systems. Christopher also highlights practical ways to grow mushrooms, restore ecosystems, and build livelihoods rooted in land stewardship. Our Guest: Christopher Parker is a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, he is a farmer, educator, and myco-culture keeper with over 30 years of experience in Indigenous regenerative agriculture and mushroom cultivation. He co-founded The Forest Farmacy, an Indigenous-led mushroom school rooted in the Cherokee homeland of Western North Carolina. Chris teaches applied eco-mycology—weaving traditional forest-tending knowledge with modern cultivation science to heal ecosystems and strengthen food sovereignty. His work centers on low-tech, scalable cultivation that transforms farm and forest byproducts into gourmet and medicinal mushrooms. Through his teaching and mentorship, he helps farmers and land stewards create ecologically sound, culturally rooted, and economically resilient livelihoods. Key Topics & EntitiesChristopher Parker Indigenous regenerative agriculture Mushroom cultivation (low-tech and scalable) Mycology and soil microbiology Mycorrhizal fungi (ecto & endo) Food sovereignty and local food systems Forest farming and ecosystem restoration Trichoderma and soil regeneration Korean Natural Farming (KNF) Biochar and microbial inoculation Mushroom cultivation on logs and sawdust The Forest Farmacy The Mycelial Healer (book) Radical Mycology (book by Peter McCoy) Key Questions AnsweredWhy does fungi matter in soil and regenerative agriculture? Fungi act as the “underground economy,” moving nutrients, water, and minerals between soil and plants. They unlock nutrients already present in the soil, reducing or eliminating the need for external fertilizers. Can healthy soil eliminate the need for fertilizers? Yes. When fungal and microbial life is balanced, natural processes provide nutrients to plants, dramatically reducing inputs and allowing nature to do the heavy lifting. How do mushrooms actually grow and function? The visible mushroom is only the fruiting body. Most of the organism exists as mycelium within logs or soil, breaking down organic matter and cycling nutrients. What is a simple way to start growing mushrooms? Low-tech methods like inoculating logs, pasteurizing straw, or using simple heat sources can produce mushrooms without expensive equipment. How can mushroom cultivation support regenerative farming? Spent mushroom substrates and even contaminated batches can be repurposed to build soil biology, suppress pathogens, and enhance fertility. What role does observation play in successful growing? Careful observation of natural systems—like how fungi interact with insects, trees, and decay—reveals cultivation insights that can outperform conventional methods. What are common failures in mushroom cultivation? Certain species like maitake and chicken of the woods are difficult to grow on logs using standard methods. Understanding their natural ecology can unlock success. How can farmers integrate fungi into their systems? By using local fungi, building soil biology, and incorporating techniques like KNF and biochar inoculation, farmers can regenerate land while producing food. Episode HighlightsFungi and bacteria underpin all life on Earth Mushrooms are just the “fruit”—most life is hidden as mycelium Healthy soil biology can eliminate fertilizer needs Low-tech mushroom growing is accessible to anyone Contaminated mushroom bags can regenerate soil via biochar Observation of nature led to breakthroughs in cultivation methods Indigenous knowledge and modern science can work together Start small, learn deeply, and scale gradually Calls to Action & ResourcesThe Forest Farmacy — https://theforestfarmacy.com Christopher's Book: The Mycelial Healer — Available via Chelsea Green Publishing Course — Year-long mushroom cultivation program HERE Christophers Book Recommendation -  Paul Stamets, Growing Gourmet Medicinal Mushrooms and  Radical Mycology by Peter McCoy Show Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/forestfarmacy Visit www.urbanfarm.org/ForestFarmacy for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In this Episode Zach Brooks shares how he transformed a barren cotton field into the thriving Arizona Worm Farm which is now one of the largest worm composting operations in the U.S. What began as a personal experiment in sustainability evolved into a regenerative, off-grid-inspired ecosystem that converts waste into soil, food, and community education. Zach explains how worms, compost, and black soldier flies work together to rebuild soil and produce nutrient-dense food. The conversation highlights practical, scalable solutions for local food systems using simple, accessible technologies. Our Guest:  Zach semi-retired from healthcare management at the age of 42 when his consulting company went public, and when his first of three grandchildren were born, he went back to Arizona State University to get a second master's degree in sustainability. Frustrated that most causes of climate change were not only fixable, but fixable with off the shelf practices and technology, Zach set out to prove that an off-grid lifestyle could be every bit as comfortable as a wasteful lifestyle and have a positive impact on the environment. And the most exciting thing...Zach has now built Arizona Worm Farm into one of the largest most successful worm farms in the United States. What is the Arizona Worm Farm? A regenerative, working farm designed to turn food waste into compost, soil fertility, and food production while educating the community on sustainable gardening practices. How did Zach Brooks get started in worm farming? After a career in healthcare, Zach pursued a sustainability degree and became motivated to address climate challenges using practical, existing solutions. He started by rebuilding dead soil using worms. How large has the operation become? The farm produces over 4.5 million worms annually, supports thousands of customers, and manages millions more worms dedicated to compost production. What role do worms play in soil regeneration? Worms convert organic matter into nutrient-rich castings filled with beneficial microbes that improve soil health, fertility, and plant growth. What do the worms eat at scale? Primarily pre-composted organic waste, including horse manure, landscape waste, and pre-consumer food scraps from caterers and food processors. Why is local composting important? Fresh, local compost contains active microbial life and reduces landfill waste, creating a closed-loop system that supports local food production. What are black soldier flies and why are they important? They are composting insects whose larvae consume waste rapidly and convert it into high-quality protein for animals, offering a sustainable alternative feed source. What makes Arizona Worm Farm a “one-stop shop” for gardeners? It combines education, compost, worms, plant starts, and regenerative techniques to help people successfully grow food at home. How does the farm generate revenue beyond worms? Through classes, compost products, plant starts, and value-added inputs like worm tea and insect-based fertilizers. What is the long-term vision behind the farm? To demonstrate that regenerative, self-sustaining systems can support communities using simple inputs like sunlight, water, and organic waste. Episode HighlightsBuilt from a dead cotton field into a regenerative ecosystem Scaled from 400,000 to 4.5 million worms annually Produces 80,000 worms per week through controlled breeding Diverts large volumes of food waste from landfills Integrates composting, aquaponics, and food forests Hosts highly sought-after, sold-out educational classes Produces 400–800 lbs of insect protein weekly via black soldier flies Demonstrates year-round food production in a desert climate Key TopicsArizona Worm Farm Zach Brooks Worm composting (vermiculture) Black soldier fly larvae systems Regenerative agriculture Soil microbiology & soil food web Composting systems (hot compost + worm compost) Food waste diversion Off-grid living systems Aquaponics integration Seasonal planting strategies Urban farming education programs Local food systems & backyard gardening Sustainable protein production (insects) ResourcesArizona Worm Farm — https://arizonawormfarm.com Show Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/azWormFarm Classes & Workshops — Available via website mailing list Self-Guided Farm Tours — Visit in South Phoenix Visit www.urbanfarm.org/AZWormFarm for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In this Episode Greg and Scott explore the concept of resiliency through both human behavior and regenerative farming systems. Scott Murray shares practical strategies for adapting to stress, uncertainty, and environmental challenges while building stronger personal and agricultural systems. The conversation connects biological resilience, seen in ecosystems and farms, to everyday preparedness, food security, and mindset. Listeners walk away with six actionable ways to improve resilience in their homes, gardens, and lives. Our Guest: Scott Murray has over 50 years of experience in organic agriculture across the U.S. and Mexico and has served as a California conservation official for 33 years. He specializes in farm creation, farmland preservation, and regenerative polyculture systems. Scott now leads pioneering research and consulting on California-grown coffee, managing multi-variety trials and agroforestry-based plantations. Key TopicsResiliency (human and ecological definitions) Carrying capacity in biological systems Regenerative farming principles Polyculture vs monoculture systems Water management and irrigation strategies Soil health and biological farming Organic vs chemical agriculture debate Food security and home food production Cut-and-come-again gardening method Emergency preparedness (food, water, go-bags) Decentralized food systems and local resilience Mindset and mental preparedness What is resiliency and how does it apply to daily life? Resiliency is the ability to adapt and recover from stress, adversity, or disruption. Like a rubber band returning to its original shape, humans can build emotional, mental, and behavioral flexibility to regain balance after challenges. How does resiliency show up in farming systems? In agriculture, resiliency comes from designing balanced ecosystems with diversity, proper water management, and healthy soil biology. Farms that mimic natural systems are better able to withstand environmental and economic shocks. Why is polyculture more resilient than monoculture? Polyculture systems grow multiple crops together, creating layered ecosystems that reduce risk, improve soil health, and increase productivity. If one crop fails, others can still thrive, ensuring more stable yields. Can organic systems produce enough food? Yes. The belief that organic farming cannot feed the world is a misconception. With proper design and soil management, organic systems can be highly productive and sustainable. What is “cut and come again” gardening? It’s a harvesting method where you remove outer leaves from plants like lettuce, kale, or chard, allowing them to regrow and produce continuously over months instead of a single harvest. How can families increase food resilience at home? By growing even a small portion of their food, storing shelf-stable items, and building relationships with neighbors or local growers, families can buffer against disruptions in the food system. Why is water management critical for resilient farming? Efficient irrigation—such as shorter, more frequent watering—prevents waste, improves plant health, and reduces stress on crops, especially in drought-prone regions. What role does mindset play in resilience? Mental preparedness is foundational. When individuals are prepared and confident, they respond to crises with clarity rather than panic, enabling better decision-making. Episode HighlightsResiliency is like a rubber band—stretch, recover, return to balance Farms of the future rely on biodiversity and natural systems Overwatering and poor design can silently destroy farm productivity Cutting water use in half can actually improve plant health One ounce of wheat seed can yield a five-gallon bucket of grain “Cut and come again” gardening extends harvests for months Food is more valuable than gold in times of crisis Preparedness reduces stress and increases adaptability ResourcesUrban Farm Podcast - https://www.urbanfarm.org Edge of Urban Farm - http://edgeofurbanfarm.com John Jeavons Urban Farm Podcast Episodes https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/16/423-john-jeavons/ https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/19/424-john-jeavons/ Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/futurefarms for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A new way of looking at climate solutions with Anthony MyintIn this Episode Anthony Myint shares his journey from pioneering pop-up restaurants to leading a climate-focused nonprofit transforming agriculture. He explains why consumer choice alone doesn’t change farming systems and introduces a new model: funding regenerative agriculture directly through small, scalable contributions. Through Zero Foodprint, businesses and individuals can help finance on-the-ground practices like compost application and cover cropping. The conversation reframes “farm-to-table” into “table-to-farm,” emphasizing collective action to restore soil and climate. Our Guest: Anthony Myint is the executive director of Zero FoodPrint, a nonprofit named one of the most innovative companies in the world by Fast Company. Zero FoodPrint leads, collaborations with state agencies, local governments, and hundreds of businesses to implement impactful and validated regenerative agriculture projects. The organization has awarded over $8 million to 600 plus farm projects Key Topics & EntitiesZero Foodprint nonprofit model Regenerative agriculture practices Table-to-farm vs. farm-to-table Restaurant industry innovation (pop-ups, Mission Chinese Food) Climate-beneficial agriculture Compost application and soil carbon sequestration Cover crops and reduced soil disturbance Grant funding for farmers (up to $25,000) Carbon measurement and cost-effectiveness modeling Public-private partnerships (state, local, conservation groups) Consumer participation through 1% contributions Collective regeneration concept Limitations of organic market growth (1% of U.S. farmland) Economic barriers for farmers transitioning practices Key Questions AnsweredWhat is regenerative agriculture? A system focused on improving land management through practices like compost use, cover cropping, reduced tillage, and integrating livestock, working with nature to restore soil health and sequester carbon. Why don’t better consumer choices alone change farming? Because farmers operate within tight financial systems driven by loans and input costs. Paying slightly more for products doesn’t provide enough capital or reduce risk for farmers to transition practices. What is Zero Foodprint’s solution? A funding model where businesses and consumers contribute small amounts (often 1% of sales), which are pooled and distributed as grants to farmers implementing regenerative practices. How does the funding reach farmers? Farmers submit simple grant requests for specific practices. Funds are allocated based on cost-effectiveness (e.g., cost per ton of carbon sequestered) and verified by local experts. What does “table-to-farm” mean? Instead of just sourcing from good farms, it means sending money back to farms to actively support the transition to regenerative practices across the entire system. How can individuals participate? By dining at participating businesses, contributing monthly donations, or supporting campaigns that direct funds to regenerative agriculture projects. What impact has the model achieved so far? Over $8 million has been awarded to 600+ farm projects, funding real changes like compost application and cover cropping at scale. What is the biggest barrier to adoption? Even small contributions (like a penny or 1%) are still a new concept, and businesses and consumers are not yet accustomed to paying directly for climate solutions. Episode HighlightsAnthony’s early career helped pioneer the pop-up restaurant movement, leading to Mission Chinese Food. A turning point came after realizing organic farming still represents only ~1% of U.S. farmland after decades. The failure of “vote with your dollar” thinking led to a new model focused on direct funding. Zero Foodprint enables consumers to participate passively—just by eating at certain restaurants. One restaurant group generated $650,000 for farm projects through a 1% contribution model. A single music tour commitment created $300,000 for regenerative agriculture. Grants are simple and accessible, taking farmers just 15–20 minutes to apply. The long-term vision mirrors recycling and renewable energy programs—small fees funding systemic change. ResourcesResource — Zero Foodprint Website Donate — Support Regenerative Agriculture Apply (Farmers) — https://www.zerofoodprint.org/apply Visit www.urbanfarm.org/ZeroFoodPrint for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!  Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A Rosie On The House Replay In this episode explores the foundation of successful gardening: healthy soil. Farmer Greg is joined by Shota Austin from Tank’s Green Stuff to discuss composting, soil biology, and how gardeners in dry climates can transform lifeless dirt into thriving soil ecosystems. They explain how compost introduces life into depleted soils, why organic practices support soil microbiology, and how mulch, compost, and planting mixes work together to build resilient garden beds. The conversation also highlights practical strategies for gardeners, including dechlorinating water, choosing soil inputs wisely, and avoiding common soil-building mistakes. Shota Austin is with Tanks Green Stuff in Tucson AZ. Shota has been in the agriculture industry for the last two decades. Working with livestock, goats, sheep, cattle, chickens, cotton, alfalfa, nursery crops, orchards and vegetable production. As a former U of A Compost Cat, Shota has been working with compost since 2013 and now works as sales and marketing director for Tanks Green Stuff, where he oversees all aspects of the business, including production quality control. Product development, sales, marketing, social media, and customer service. Shota is also a founding member of the newly formed Arizona Compost Council. Key Topics & EntitiesTank’s Green Stuff Arizona Compost Council Compost and soil microbiology Desert soil and low organic matter Organic fertilizers vs chemical fertilizers NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) Mulch and soil moisture retention Raised bed soil mixes Coco coir as a peat moss alternative Dechlorinating municipal water Soil biology and plant health Organic compost production from landscape waste Manure risks in garden beds Local soil products for arid climates Key Questions AnsweredWhy is compost so critical to soil health?Compost introduces organic matter, beneficial microbes, and nutrients into soil. In many desert environments, soil contains little organic material—often less than 1%. Compost transforms inert dirt into living soil by supporting microbial life that cycles nutrients and improves structure, water retention, and plant resilience. What is the difference between dirt and soil?Dirt is largely inert mineral material like sand, silt, clay, and rock fragments. Soil is a living ecosystem made up of minerals, organic matter, microorganisms, water, and air. When organic matter and biology are added to dirt, it becomes functional soil capable of supporting plant life. What role does soil microbiology play in plant health?Soil microbes act as the delivery system for plant nutrition. They break down organic matter, release nutrients, defend plants from pathogens, and create the soil structure plants rely on. When gardeners feed the soil microbiology rather than the plant directly, plants thrive naturally. What do the three fertilizer numbers (NPK) mean?The three numbers on fertilizer labels represent nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen promotes leafy growth and green foliage. Phosphorus supports flower and fruit development. Potassium strengthens root systems and overall plant resilience. These nutrients work best when supported by micronutrients, trace minerals, and active soil biology. Why can chemical fertilizers harm soil biology?Many synthetic fertilizers and pesticides reduce beneficial microbial populations. While they may provide short-term plant growth, they disrupt the biological systems that naturally feed and protect plants. Organic fertilizers support soil organisms instead of suppressing them. How can gardeners remove chlorine from municipal water before watering plants?Chlorine can harm beneficial microbes in soil. One simple method is letting water sit in an open container so the chlorine dissipates. Another option is installing a whole-house charcoal filtration system that removes chlorine before the water reaches garden soil. What is the difference between compost, planting mix, and mulch?Compost is decomposed organic matter used as a soil amendment. Planting mix blends compost with materials like coco coir and perlite to improve aeration, drainage, and moisture retention. Mulch is any material placed on top of soil to protect it, retain moisture, and gradually build organic matter as it decomposes. What ingredients create a high-quality planting mix?A strong planting mix typically includes compost for nutrients and microbial life, coco coir for moisture retention, aeration materials like perlite or pumice, a small amount of native soil for mineral content, and organic fertilizers for additional nutrients. Why is mulch essential for building soil in dry climates?Mulch protects soil from heat, reduces evaporation, and feeds soil organisms as it breaks down. In hot climates, thick mulch layers can reduce surface temperatures and improve soil moisture retention while gradually building organic matter. What materials should gardeners avoid putting in their soil?Gardeners should avoid chemical fertilizers, peat moss harvested unsustainably, screened fill dirt, and unverified manure sources. Non-organic straw or hay may also introduce herbicides or weed seeds that damage gardens. Episode HighlightsCompost adds life to soils that may contain less than 1% organic matter. Healthy soil is built from three main components: mineral particles, organic matter, and living organisms. Soil microbes function like delivery systems, transporting nutrients from soil to plant roots. Thick mulch layers can reduce landscape temperatures by as much as 15–20°F. Coco coir from coconut husks provides a sustainable alternative to peat moss and lasts longer in soil. Organic fertilizers supply nutrients along with micronutrients and trace minerals that synthetic fertilizers often lack. Letting water sit in a bucket allows chlorine to dissipate before watering plants. Locally produced soil products are often better suited for regional climate and sustainability. ResourcesTank’s Green Stuff — https://tanksgreenstuff.com Urban Farm Tree Planting Mix — Available through Urban Farm pop-up events - Store.urbanfarm.org Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/973 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman Join our live monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.org In This Podcast: Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman explore why building a local seed economy is essential for resilient food systems. They share the origin story of the Great American Seed Up, how communities can distribute seeds affordably, and why seed diversity matters in the face of climate change and fragile global supply chains. The discussion highlights grassroots strategies—from seed libraries to neighborhood seed events—that empower communities to grow their own food. They also dive into the science of epigenetics and local adaptation, explaining why saving seeds from your own garden improves future crops. Key Topics & EntitiesLocal seed economies The Great American Seed Up Seed Up in a Box Community seed distribution models Seed libraries and the Seed Library Network LocalSeeds.org Regional seed companies and seed exchanges Climate change and food system resilience Seed saving and landrace gardening Epigenetics and plant adaptation Joseph Lofthouse’s Landrace Gardening Barbara McClintock and epigenetics research Community gardening and food security Cowpeas and volunteer plants Key Questions AnsweredWhat is a local seed economy and why does it matter? A local seed economy means seeds are produced, saved, and shared within a region. This strengthens food resilience because local varieties adapt to local conditions and communities are not dependent on global supply chains. Why isn’t storing seeds in one “seed bank” enough? A centralized seed bank doesn’t build resilience. The real solution is thousands of people growing and saving seeds. When many gardeners are involved, knowledge spreads and communities collectively maintain crop diversity. How did the Great American Seed Up begin? The idea emerged from a conversation about getting seeds into as many homes as possible. Inspired by a community seed distribution organized by a church group in Idaho, Greg Peterson created a large event where gardeners scoop bulk seeds into their own packets—dramatically lowering costs and increasing access. How can communities distribute seeds affordably? Buying seeds in bulk eliminates most packaging costs. At seed events, participants scoop seeds from bowls into small bags, often receiving 3–10× the amount found in retail packets for less money. What is Seed Up in a Box? Seed Up in a Box is a packaged kit that enables small groups to run their own mini seed distribution events, making it easy for neighborhoods, libraries, and community groups to share seeds locally. Why are seed libraries important? Seed libraries allow gardeners to borrow seeds, grow them, save new seeds, and return them to the community. This builds regional adaptation and spreads genetic diversity. What role does epigenetics play in seed saving? Plants can adapt to environmental stresses like heat or drought within a single generation. Through epigenetics, those adaptive traits can be passed to the next generation, meaning seeds saved from resilient plants become better suited to local conditions. Why do volunteer plants often grow better? Volunteer plants come from seeds already adapted to the local environment. Over several seasons, natural selection and epigenetic responses help them become more resilient. Episode HighlightsA single church community in Idaho organized a bulk seed distribution so hundreds of families could access seeds cheaply. The Great American Seed Up events allow hundreds of gardeners to scoop bulk seeds into their own packets. Eliminating packaging reveals that many seed packets contain only about 13 cents worth of seeds. During COVID, the Seed Up concept evolved into Seed Up in a Box so small groups could run their own seed distribution events. Seed libraries and local seed exchanges are growing worldwide as grassroots solutions for food resilience. Volunteer plants and locally saved seeds often outperform commercial varieties because they adapt to specific climates. Epigenetics shows plants can quickly adjust to stress and pass those adaptations to future generations. Even a few plants can produce abundant food—three volunteer cowpea plants produced three pounds of beans. ResourcesAttend Seed Chat Live Seed Chat — https://seedchat.org Urban Farm Podcast Podcast episodes and archives — https://urbanfarmpodcast.com Seed Up in a Box Community seed distribution kits — https://seedupinabox.com Seed Library Movement Seed Library Network — https://seedlibrarynetwork.org Regional Seed Sources Local Seeds directory — https://localseeds.org Seed Community Resources Going to Seed — https://goingtoseed.org Visit UrbanFarm.org/974 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

SubtitleIn this Episode Christy Wilhelmy, founder of Garden Nerd and author of multiple gardening books, returns to discuss her upcoming novel Bolting to Seed. The book is the sequel to her debut garden novel Garden Variety and blends gardening education with a cozy mystery storyline set in a community garden. Christy shares how real-life community garden experiences inspired her fiction, how she structures a mystery novel, and why she chose to independently publish the sequel through Kickstarter. Along the way, she highlights how storytelling can inspire people to start gardening, even if they’ve never grown food before. Our Guest: Christy is the founder of Garden Nerd, the ultimate resource for garden nerds, where she publishes newsletters, her popular blog. Top ranked podcast and YouTube videos. She also specializes in small space, organic vegetable garden design, consulting, and classes. Between 50 and 70% of her family's produce comes from her garden of less than 300 square feet. She is the author of High Yield Small Space Organic Gardening, 400 plus Tips for Organic Gardening Success, Grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden and her debut novel Garden variety. Key Topics Christy Wilhelmy Garden Nerd Bolting to Seed novel Garden Variety novel Community gardens as storytelling inspiration Independent publishing and Kickstarter campaigns Cozy mystery genre Gardening education embedded in fiction Small space organic vegetable gardening Scrivener writing software Thrips damage on citrus and nectarines Beneficial insects and insectary plants Lacewings and minute pirate bugs Biological pest control in gardens Key Questions Answered How did Christy Wilhelmy move from gardening books into writing fiction? Christy spent more than 27 years gardening in a community garden and realized the setting was full of unique personalities and stories. She began collecting ideas over time and eventually turned those experiences into her debut novel Garden Variety, a rom-com set in a Los Angeles community garden. What is the new novel Bolting to Seed about? The sequel takes place a year after Garden Variety and focuses on late spring and summer in the same community garden. The story blends gardening lessons with a cozy mystery: a murder occurs, and the characters must solve the case while navigating community garden life. Why did Christy decide to self-publish the new book? After her agent shopped the manuscript to traditional publishers for nearly a year, she learned that publishers were hesitant to buy sequels unless the first book was a major bestseller. Rather than wait indefinitely, she chose independent publishing to maintain creative control and move the project forward. How does Christy structure a mystery novel? She approaches writing as a “planner.” She outlines the story in advance, maps out character arcs, and lists key scenes that must happen to move the plot forward. Using Scrivener, she writes scenes separately and rearranges them until the structure works, filling in gaps and transitions as the story develops. How are gardening lessons included in the novel? Christy intentionally makes a list of gardening topics she wants to teach—usually around ten lessons—and integrates them naturally into the storyline. At the end of the book, readers will also find a growing guide summarizing the key gardening takeaways. What is the Kickstarter campaign supporting? The Kickstarter helps cover the expenses of independent publishing, including editing, cover design, layout, printing, and marketing. Supporters can pledge at different levels to receive rewards like signed books, custom seed packets, tote bags, virtual launch party tickets, and even cameo appearances in future novels. How can beneficial insects help manage thrips damage? Thrips can scar citrus and other fruit during the flowering stage. Encouraging beneficial insects like lacewings and minute pirate bugs through insectary plantings can help control thrips populations naturally. Episode Highlights Christy shares how decades in a community garden inspired her first novel. Bolting to Seed shifts genres from romantic comedy to a cozy mystery. The sequel introduces new characters and a detective investigating a garden-related murder. Readers can learn gardening techniques while following the story. Christy explains the difference between “planner” and “pantser” writing styles. Independent publishing allows her to design the book exactly how she wants. The Kickstarter campaign includes creative rewards such as appearing in a future novel. Beneficial insect habitats can naturally manage pests like thrips. Resources Garden Nerd — https://gardennerd.com Kickstarter campaign for Bolting to Seed — https://gardennerd.com Podcast show notes — https://urbanfarm.org/BoltingTwoSeed Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

SubtitleIn this Episode Enoch Graham shares practical strategies for growing abundant food in small urban spaces. Drawing on 15 years of gardening in the Rogue Valley of Southern Oregon, Enoch explains how to maximize production in patios, rooftops, and compact yards. He outlines his Nine Keys to Small Space Gardening, covering water systems, sunlight management, container growing, vertical gardening, soil health, and creative use of limited space. The conversation also explores soil biology, organic practices, and why patience, especially during the first year, is essential for long-term garden success. Our Guest: Enoch Graham is the host of the weekend Gardening Talk YouTube show 'Let's Get Growing'. He has interviewed hundreds of the world's top gardening communicators and shares his small space gardening practices on his YouTube channel, the Urban Gardener. He has been growing his urban food garden for 15 years in Southern Oregon's Rogue Valley, utilizing many different spaces from a cemented back patio and to a carport rooftop to grow peppers. He has learned a lot over the years and truly loves sharing his experience with other passionate growers in the gardening community. Key TopicsEnoch Graham Small space urban gardening Container gardening Drip irrigation and drip tape Rainwater capture and alternative water sources Sunlight management in urban environments Vertical gardening and trellising Layered planting systems Soil health and organic soil building Compost and organic matter Biochar in soil mixes OMRI-certified organic soil products No-till container gardening Rogue Valley, Southern Oregon Questions AnsweredWhat are the most important factors for growing food in small urban spaces? Enoch outlines nine key principles that guide successful small-space gardening: reliable water access, adequate sunlight, containers, vertical growing, layered planting, soil management, and creative use of available spaces. How can urban gardeners secure a reliable water supply? Gardeners should start by identifying nearby water sources such as hose spigots, rain barrels, gray water systems, condensation capture, or stormwater runoff. Consistent watering is essential, especially in container gardens where soil dries quickly. What irrigation methods work best for small gardens? Hand watering allows gardeners to observe plant health closely. However, automated drip irrigation systems or drip tape with timers are helpful when gardeners are away or during hot summer months. How do buildings and urban structures affect sunlight? Walls, fences, and tall buildings can create heavy shade. Gardeners should observe how sunlight moves through the space during the day and select shade-tolerant crops when necessary. Why are containers essential in urban gardens? Containers allow gardening on patios, rooftops, and paved surfaces. Larger containers—typically five gallons or more—help maintain moisture and support stronger plant growth compared to smaller pots. How can vertical growing increase productivity? Trellising vining crops like tomatoes, peas, beans, cucumbers, and even melons allows gardeners to grow upward instead of outward, maximizing limited square footage. What does layering mean in a garden system? Layering involves growing plants at different heights—similar to a food forest—so taller plants capture sunlight above while shade-tolerant plants grow beneath them. Why is soil management especially important in container gardening? Container soil must provide structure, drainage, nutrients, and living biology. Good mixes often include compost, coco coir, vermiculite or perlite, and organic amendments. Why might a container garden struggle in its first year? New soil takes time to develop microbial life and balance. Gardeners should expect improvement in subsequent seasons as soil biology develops. How can gardeners maintain healthy container soil long-term? Instead of replacing soil each year, gardeners can treat containers like no-till systems by simply adding compost annually to replenish organic matter and nutrients. Episode HighlightsSuccessful small-space gardening starts with reliable water access and consistent irrigation. Urban shade patterns require careful observation before choosing crops. Five-gallon containers or larger help stabilize moisture and support plant growth. Vertical trellising dramatically increases yield per square foot. Layering plants mimics natural ecosystems and maximizes sunlight use. Healthy soil contains dirt, air space, water, organic matter, and living organisms. OMRI-certified products help maintain organic growing practices. Container soil improves over time as microbial life develops and compost is added annually. Calls to Action & ResourcesDrip Tape Class — Learn irrigation techniques taught each March by Urban Farm Urban Gardener YouTube Channel — Enoch Graham shares small-space gardening practices - https://www.youtube.com/@theUrbanGardener OMRI Organic Certification — https://www.omri.org Visit www.urbanfarm.org/TreasureYourGarden for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

With Shannan Perciballi A Rosie On The House Replay This episode explores Arizona’s local food community through a conversation with Shannon Perciballi, publisher and editor of Edible Phoenix. Shannon shares the story behind the magazine’s evolution, her transition from a 35-year restaurant career into publishing, and why “slow media” matters. The discussion highlights mesquite as an underrated desert food, the importance of supporting local restaurants and farmers, and how storytelling strengthens resilient regional food systems. Shannan Perciballi is the publisher and editor of Edible Phoenix, a quarterly magazine celebrating Arizona’s local food culture. A longtime Phoenix resident, she brings decades of experience in restaurants, wine, and hospitality to her work. Perciballi holds an English degree from Arizona State University and advanced wine certifications, and is deeply involved in supporting farmers, artisans, and regional food systems through storytelling, community partnerships, and advocacy for resilient local economies. Episode Highlights Shannon’s leap from restaurant executive to magazine publisher “We are never going to scoop a story—we are the slow story.” Mesquite flour and its sweet, caramel-like flavor in sourdough bread The power of seed swaps to spark food-growing conversations How summer restaurant slowdowns ripple through the local farm economy The tactile experience of holding a seasonal, intentionally crafted magazine Key Topics Edible Phoenix Shannon Perceval Pamela Hamilton Slow media and quarterly publishing Arizona local food culture Mesquite as a desert superfood Local First Arizona Uptown Farmers Market North Phoenix Baptist Church Desert Botanical Garden Seed swaps and community events Supporting independent restaurants and farmers Culinary education through Careers through Culinary Arts Program What is Edible Phoenix and why does it exist? Edible Phoenix is a quarterly magazine celebrating Arizona’s local food culture. It tells the “slow stories” of farmers, ranchers, bakers, gardeners, and artisans whose work often goes unnoticed in mainstream media. Its mission is to strengthen community through storytelling and support resilient local economies. How did Shannon Perceval become the publisher? After a 35-year career in Arizona’s restaurant and hospitality industry, Shannon purchased the magazine in 2023 when founder Pamela Hamilton retired. A longtime subscriber, she stepped into ownership to preserve and grow a publication she deeply valued. What makes “slow media” different? Unlike fast-breaking news, Edible Phoenix publishes quarterly and focuses on depth over speed. It explores how food is grown, prepared, and shared—embracing seasonality and intentional storytelling rather than headlines. Why is mesquite important to Arizona’s food system? Mesquite trees produce sweet, protein-rich pods that can be milled into flour. Despite being abundant in the desert, they’re often overlooked. Featuring local foragers and educators helps reintroduce this native, climate-adapted food into the regional diet. Why is supporting local restaurants and farmers critical? Local restaurants often source from local farms, creating a circular food economy. When independent restaurants struggle—especially during summer slowdowns—farmers and ranchers feel the impact. Spending locally keeps money circulating in the community and sustains family-owned businesses. How can consumers discover truly local food businesses? Visit farmers markets and ask vendors where their products are served. Farmers often supply independent restaurants directly. Markets like Uptown Farmers Market are hubs for discovering both producers and chefs committed to local sourcing. What role do community events play? Events like seed swaps, cookbook exchanges, and food festivals foster relationships and food literacy. Celebrations such as Devoured at Desert Botanical Garden and Local First Arizona’s Fall Festival connect eaters directly with growers, chefs, and artisans. Resources Edible Phoenix — https://ediblephoenix.ediblecommunities.com Subscribe to the magazine — https://ediblephoenix.ediblecommunities.com/subscribe Uptown Farmers Market — https://uptownmarketaz.com Local First Arizona — https://localfirstaz.com Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/971 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

How to Revolutionize Local FoodIn this Episode Dana Choquette, the Executive Director of the Western North Carolina Food Coalition, shares how a first-generation regenerative livestock farmer became a regional leader in local food system infrastructure. From backyard sheep during COVID to coordinating 12 food hubs and 9 food councils, Dana explains how small farms can transform local economies, reduce food insecurity, and strengthen community resilience. This episode explores food hubs, policy innovation, hunger relief, and why collaboration—not competition—is the future of regional food systems. Our Guest:  Dana Choquette is the executive director of a 19 county community coalition that works to strengthen the local food system in western North Carolina. She mobilizes projects to help people in all corners of the food system from those experiencing hunger to those building viable small farms. All while building local food distribution infrastructure. She's a first generation regenerative livestock farmer, and particularly loves working with sheep and cattle. Key Topics & Entities Western North Carolina Food Coalition (WNC Food Coalition) Dana Choquette’s transition from urban life to regenerative livestock farming Western North Carolina’s 19-county food system Food hubs as aggregation and distribution infrastructure WNC Food Hub Collaborative (12 independent hubs collaborating regionally) Grow Where You Live Policy (community gardens in high-density housing) Food councils (9 hyper-local councils across WNC) Community-based food pantries and 24/7 open-access pantries Manna FoodBank partnership Warehouse aggregation and distribution model Institutional food purchasing vs. national distributors Carbon footprint and local food sourcing Farmer viability and consistent market outlets Chris Smith’s book The Whole Okra Key Questions Answered How did Dana transition from urban living to farming and food systems leadership? Dana had no farming experience until nearly age 30. After relocating from Colorado to Western North Carolina during COVID, she and her husband started with backyard sheep. What began as a trial experiment quickly evolved into expanded livestock, leased land, and a deep commitment to producing food for their community. That hands-on experience led her into food systems work and ultimately to leading the WNC Food Coalition. What is a food coalition and how does it function regionally? A food coalition coordinates local stakeholders across the food system—from hunger relief to farmer support to policy advocacy. In Western North Carolina, the coalition serves 19 counties through 9 hyper-local food councils, each responding to the specific needs of its community. What is a food hub and why is it important? Food hubs are brick-and-mortar aggregation and distribution centers that purchase food from local farmers and redistribute it to consumers, institutions, CSAs, retail outlets, and food pantries. They create consistent market outlets for farmers, reduce distribution gaps, and help keep food dollars circulating locally. How do food hubs differ from national distributors? National distributors aggregate global food at scale, often prioritizing cost efficiency. Food hubs prioritize local sourcing, fair farmer compensation, shorter supply chains, and lower carbon footprints. They also strengthen local economies and improve freshness and nutritional value. How is the WNC region addressing hunger right now? The coalition partners with Manna FoodBank and operates 24/7 open-access community pantries, direct home delivery, and snack bag programs for unhoused individuals. Their approach blends immediate relief with long-term systems change. What is the Grow Where You Live Policy? A proposed Asheville policy requiring new high-density housing developments to include at least 5,000 square feet of community growing space, along with long-term maintenance support. What was the coalition’s biggest failure and lesson learned? Early on, the organization tried to solve too many food system challenges at once. They narrowed their focus, strengthened core programs, and built capacity before expanding again. What is the coalition’s biggest success? Bringing 12 independent food hubs together into a collaborative network focused on regional impact rather than competition. Episode Highlights Dana began farming with Craigslist sheep and YouTube tutorials during COVID. Western North Carolina’s terrain forces farmers to be scrappy and innovative. Food hubs offer consistent year-round markets for small farmers. The region supports 12 collaborating food hubs and 9 food councils. The coalition operates a central warehouse to aggregate donations and distribute food across multiple counties. 24/7 open-access pantries remove barriers to food access. Local food improves freshness, nutrition, and taste. Dana’s driving motivation: building a resilient food system for her daughter’s future. Resources Western North Carolina Food Coalition — https://www.wncfoodcoalition.org Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/wncfoodsystems Become a Member — https://www.wncfoodcoalition.org (Join for as little as $1) Show Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/WNCFoodCoalition Book Recommendation — The Whole Okra by Chris Smith Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Honoring a soil building heroIn this rebroadcast of Episode 185, Greg honors the late Dr. Elaine Ingham, a global leader in soil biology and founder of Soil Food Web Inc. Dr. Ingham shares her journey from childhood microbiology lessons to groundbreaking research on the soil food web. The episode explores composting, soil biology, succession, and how restoring microbial life can regenerate ecosystems and dramatically increase yields. Our Guest: Dr. Elaine Ingham is the Founder, President and Director of Research for Soil Foodweb Inc., a business that grew out of her Oregon State University research program. Behind her user-friendly approach to soil lies a wealth of knowledge gained from years of research into the organisms which make up the soil food web. Her goal is to translate this knowledge into actions that ensure a healthy food web that promotes plant growth and reduces reliance on inorganic chemicals. Elaine also offers a pioneering vision for sustainable farming, improving our current soils to a healthier state, without damaging any other ecosystem. In her spare time, Elaine publishes scientific papers, writes book chapters and gives talks at symposia around the world. Key TopicsElaine Ingham Soil Food Web Inc Oregon State University Environmental Protection Agency University of Georgia Colorado State University United Nations Monsanto Soil food web (bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, microarthropods) Genetically engineered Klebsiella planticola Biosafety protocol debate Ecological succession and weeds Composting (thermal, vermicomposting, static) Soil microbiome and human health connection Key Questions AnsweredHow did Dr. Elaine Ingham begin her journey into soil microbiology? Introduced to microscopes at age six by her veterinarian father, she developed early scientific curiosity. After deciding against medical school, she pursued microbiology, earning graduate degrees at Colorado State University and building foundational methodologies for quantifying soil organisms. What is the soil food web, and why does it matter? The soil food web is the complex community of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, and microarthropods that cycle nutrients, protect plants, and build soil structure. Without this biology, plants cannot thrive, and chemical dependency increases. What happened in the EPA experiment involving genetically engineered bacteria? Dr. Ingham and her graduate student tested a genetically engineered strain of Klebsiella planticola designed to produce alcohol from crop residues. In controlled soil experiments, the engineered bacteria killed all terrestrial plants by producing toxic alcohol concentrations at root zones. Why was this discovery globally significant? If released, the bacterium could have spread 10–11 miles per year, potentially eliminating terrestrial plant life. Dr. Ingham presented the findings at the United Nations, contributing to the approval of a biosafety protocol governing genetically engineered organisms. Why did Dr. Ingham leave Oregon State University? After presenting research that challenged biotechnology interests, including major corporate funders, her methodology was questioned. She ultimately left and founded Soil Food Web Inc. in 1996 to continue her work independently. How can growers restore soil health? By rebuilding biology through properly made compost containing diverse organic matter and maintaining aerobic conditions. Composting must be managed intentionally—monitoring temperature, oxygen, and ingredient diversity. Why are weeds part of soil succession? Weeds are early successional plants that establish when soil biology is degraded. As microbial diversity increases, ecosystems move toward more productive crops and perennials. What is the connection between soil microbes and human health? Beneficial microbes on plant surfaces originate in healthy soil and contribute to the human gut microbiome. Chemical inputs disrupt this protective biological layer. Episode HighlightsDr. Ingham’s childhood learning microbiology at age six. Transition from marine microbiology to soil systems research. First published documentation (1985) proving soil biology improves yields and suppresses disease. The EPA microcosm experiment: engineered bacteria killed wheat seedlings in seven days. Presentation at the United Nations biosafety meeting in Madrid. Conflict with university funding tied to agricultural biotechnology. Founding Soil Food Web Inc. to bring soil biology to growers. Compost as the gateway to restoring microbial life. ResourcesSoil Food Web — https://www.soilfoodweb.com Urban Farm Podcast — https://www.urbanfarm.org/podcast Visit www.urbanfarm.org/LifeInTheSoil for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A Garden Chat with Don TitmusIn This Episode: Noel Ruiz shares his journey from urban Southern California to rural Southern Oregon, where he and his family run Homestead Culture. What began as a struggling backyard garden evolved into a life centered on permaculture, seed saving, perennial crops, and heart-centered homesteading. Noel explains grexes, seed diversity, and multi-generational thinking—while reflecting on failure, renewal, and cultivating culture from the inside out. This episode explores how growing seeds can also grow resilience, connection, and joy. Our Guest: Noel is a gardener, homesteader, seed saver, lover of plants and a proud father. Together, he and his sweetheart offer homestead grown seeds of perennial vegetables, flowers, herbs in diverse mixes and grexes, through their family business Homestead Culture. Noel shares free resources and online education around seed saving through HomesteadCulture.com. He enjoys writing articles that explore changing culture, personal transformation, gardening and seeds all while blurring the lines between work and life, as he practices homesteading from the heart. Key Topics Homestead Culture (family-run seed and education business) Permaculture design & soil regeneration WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms) Seed saving on a homestead scale Grex breeding & genetic diversity Landrace adaptation Perennial vegetables, herbs, and flowers Multi-generational thinking in homesteading Homesteading from the heart Cultural transformation through gardening Protecting fruit and nut trees from deer and rodents Landrace Gardening by Joseph Lofthouse One-Straw Revolution by Masanobu Fukuoka Key Questions What happens when your garden fails—and what can it teach you? Noel’s first larger garden struggled due to depleted, scraped topsoil. A permaculture consultation revealed the real issue: soil health, not personal failure. That shift reframed his mindset and launched his journey into regenerative practices. What is WWOOF, and how can it accelerate learning? WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms) connects learners with farms and homesteads in exchange for room, board, and hands-on education. Noel spent two years immersed in diverse homesteads, gaining practical skills and mentorship. What does “homestead culture” mean? For Noel, “home” extends beyond a house to watershed and region. “Stead” means to stand firm. “Culture” means to cultivate. Together, it represents rooting deeply in place and tending life in ways that foster abundance, cooperation, and multi-generational resilience. Why plant trees from seed instead of grafted stock? While grafted trees fruit faster, seed-grown trees offer deep relationship and long-term legacy. Noel values the joy of growing plants from infancy and stewarding trees that may outlive him. What is a grex—and why grow one? A grex allows multiple varieties to cross-pollinate, saving seeds from diverse offspring. This increases adaptation, resilience, and joy in diversity. It’s both a practical breeding strategy and a celebration of natural cross-pollination. What is the difference between a seed farmer and a seed producer? Noel distinguishes himself as a homestead-scale seed producer, honoring full-time seed farmers who grow at commercial scale. His focus is small-batch perennial vegetables, flowers, herbs, and grexes. How can personal failure become transformation? After divorce and job loss, Noel entered a period of growth through volunteering and WWOOFing. The journey led to emotional maturity, reconnection with his former spouse, and the foundation of their current homesteading life together. What book is essential for seed savers? Landrace Gardening by Joseph Lofthouse reframed Noel’s approach to seed purity and adaptation. He sees it as required reading for both new and experienced seed savers. Episode Highlights Noel’s first 300-square-foot garden sparked a lifelong passion. Soil failure became the gateway to permaculture. A paid farm job paid little—but delivered deep purpose. Two years of WWOOFing replaced career confusion with clarity. Homestead Culture emerged as a family-centered, heart-driven brand. Growing trees from seed is about relationship, not speed. Grexes increase resilience and garden-level adaptation. “We are all in it together”—multi-generational problems require multi-generational thinking. Resources Homestead Culture — https://homesteadculture.com/ 8 Freebies for Gardeners & Homesteaders — https://homesteadculture.com/freebies/ Best Seed Saving Online Courses & Classes — https://homesteadculture.com/seed-saving-online-courses-classes/ Seed Resources (Free Articles) — https://homesteadculture.com/seed-resources/ Seed Catalog — https://homesteadculture.com/shop/ Coupon Code (15% off seeds & courses for two weeks): URBANFARM Recommended Reading Landrace Gardening by Joseph Lofthouse One-Straw Revolution by Masanobu Fukuoka Sponsors Homestead Culture — Family-grown perennial vegetable, flower, herb, and grex seeds, plus online seed-saving education. https://homesteadculture.com/ Visit www.urbanfarm.org/HomesteadCulture for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In This Podcast: Gigi shares how permaculture extends far beyond gardening into communication, community resilience, and social systems change. From EcoVillage living and military service to composting toilets after Hurricane Helene, Gigi explores earth care, people care, and fair share as a lived philosophy. This conversation dives into resource-based economies, repair culture, and the power of collective action. It’s a joyful, grounded exploration of how permaculture shapes both land and relationships.. Our Guest:  Gigi White was introduced to permaculture and foraging in college at Ithaca, New York in 2007 while studying acting and living at the Eco Village Ithaca. Which launched the rocket ship of figuring out how we can begin to work together in groups to live sustainably. After serving as an officer in the US Air Force with a tour in Iraq, she became a lifelong student of connecting nature to people sustainable. And joyful living through Improvisational music and acting. Key Topics & Entities Permaculture principles: Earth Care, People Care, Fair Share EcoVillage at Ithaca United States Air Force service and sustainability Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver Transition Towns movement The Humanure Handbook by Joseph Jenkins Humanure and composting toilet systems Hurricane Helene disaster response in Asheville Tool libraries and repair cafés Nonviolent Communication (NVC) in permaculture Resource-based vs. capitalistic economies Rocket mass heaters and appropriate technology Grafting fruit trees and perennial agriculture Key Questions Answered What is permaculture beyond gardening? Permaculture is a philosophy and design framework rooted in Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share. It includes communication styles, economic systems, animal husbandry, energy design, and community-building—not just food production. How can communities respond sustainably during disasters? After Hurricane Helene disrupted water systems in Asheville, Gigi organized education sessions and materials for composting toilets. By mobilizing volunteers, sourcing buckets and sawdust, and partnering with a local tool library, she helped residents create safe, low-resource sanitation systems. What is humanure and why does it matter? Humanure is composted human waste managed safely through carbon layering (like sawdust) and proper aeration. When done correctly, it becomes soil after about a year in temperate climates, reducing strain on water systems and rebuilding topsoil. How does permaculture apply to social systems? Permaculture extends into communication (including Nonviolent Communication), collective decision-making, barter systems, repair culture, and resource-sharing networks. It asks, “Why are we doing what we’re doing?” and challenges systems like planned obsolescence. What lessons come from failure in sustainable design? After a rocket mass heater installation led to a house fire, Gigi learned the importance of risk assessment, thorough research, and asking difficult questions—especially in high-stakes projects involving heat and combustion. What drives long-term sustainability work? A deep love of the natural world. For Gigi, the magic of witnessing transformation—like a moth emerging from a chrysalis—fuels her dedication to ecological living and education. Episode Highlights Permaculture is “a word for everything”—a philosophy of being, thinking, and relating. Living at EcoVillage at Ithaca revealed that sustainability can mean thriving—not surviving. Local food challenges in Alaska sparked deeper community connection and dietary awareness. Barter systems and lending exchanges offer alternatives to money-centered economies. Post-disaster “Poop Fairy” organizing helped Asheville residents regain sanitation independence. Tool libraries and repair cafés push back against planned obsolescence. A rocket mass heater fire became a powerful lesson in risk management and self-trust. Humor, humility, and joy are essential tools in sustainable living. Calls to Action & Resources The Humanure Handbook — The Humanure Handbook Intentional Communities Directory — https://www.ic.org Transition Movement — Transition Towns Show Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/gigisgarden Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with us to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

-(subtitle)-.In This Podcast: In this episode, Greg chats with sourdough baker, teacher, and cookbook author Amy Coyne of Amy Bakes Breadto demystify sourdough from starter to slice. Amy shares her personal journey into sourdough, explains the science and simplicity behind naturally fermented bread, and offers practical guidance for beginners and experienced bakers alike. The conversation covers fermentation, hydration, common mistakes, discard recipes, and how to make sourdough fit into busy family life. Throughout, Amy emphasizes patience, experimentation, and joy in the process. Our Guest:  Amy Coyne is a sourdough baker, teacher and creator behind Amy Bakes Bread, where she shares tried and true sourdough recipes that are approachable, reliable, and fun to make. She's been baking for as long as she can remember, and sourdough has been part of her kitchen for over 13 years. Amy is the author of The Beginner's Guide to Sourdough, A cookbook made to help every home baker feel confident creating incredible sourdough bread from scratch. Key Topics & EntitiesAmy Coyne Sourdough starter Natural fermentation Wild yeast and bacteria Hydration levels in bread Dutch oven baking Sourdough discard Inclusion loaves Family-friendly sourdough The Beginner’s Guide to Sourdough Amy Bakes Bread Home baking science Key Questions AnsweredWhat makes sourdough different from conventional bread? Sourdough relies on natural fermentation rather than commercial yeast, resulting in improved digestibility, lower glycemic response, and better nutrient absorption due to reduced phytic acid. How do you create and maintain a sourdough starter? A starter is made by culturing wild yeast and bacteria from flour and water through regular feedings, watching for predictable rise-and-fall cycles, and adjusting temperature and ratios for consistency. How does temperature affect sourdough fermentation? Warmer temperatures speed fermentation while cooler conditions slow it down, meaning timelines must shift with seasons and kitchen conditions. What is hydration, and why does it matter? Hydration refers to the ratio of water to flour; higher hydration creates a more open, airy crumb, while lower hydration produces a tighter, more structured loaf. What are the most common mistakes new sourdough bakers make? Unrealistic expectations, discomfort with wet doughs, and misunderstanding fermentation timing are common early hurdles. What can you do with sourdough discard instead of throwing it away? Discard can be used in crackers, pancakes, biscuits, cookies, gravies, and more—adding flavor, texture, and reducing waste. How can sourdough be adapted for busy schedules and families? Using refrigeration, adjusting starter ratios, and choosing approachable recipes makes sourdough manageable and sustainable long-term. Episode HighlightsSourdough bread uses just four core ingredients: flour, water, salt, and starter Fermentation improves both flavor and nutritional availability Starters can be refrigerated to fit modern lifestyles Hydration and flour choice dramatically affect loaf structure Dutch ovens help home bakers replicate professional steam baking Inclusion loaves (cheese, fruit, nuts, butter) expand sourdough’s versatility Discard recipes turn “waste” into some of the most flavorful bakes Calls to Action & ResourcesAmy Bakes Bread — https://amybakesbread.com The Beginner’s Guide to Sourdough — Available at local bookstores, libraries, and major retailers Explore sourdough discard recipes and free guides on Amy’s website Visit UrbanFarm.org/AmyBakesBread for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with us to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In This Podcast: Edmund Williams returns to discuss the LEHR Garden system and a breakthrough soil product emerging from it: LEHR Soil Amplifier. By combining ecological soil biology with engineered water flow, the LEHR system grows plants in primarily woody materials while composting beneath living roots. The resulting extracted soil behaves as a powerful biostimulant, dramatically improving plant growth, resilience, and heat tolerance. This episode explores living soil, stable carbon, and how feeding soil organisms transforms plant health. Our Guest: Edmund is a civil engineer and innovator in the urban and sustainable agriculture arena. He has been working with various municipalities and nonprofits to transform the ways our society feeds itself. The Lear Garden was designed to be a low maintenance system using biology as a part of the automation. To do this, Edmond created a compost bin as the core technology, and like any compost bin, it needs to be emptied periodically, The finished compost that comes out is unlike anything on the market having some very surprising and beneficial properties. Key Topics LEHR Garden (Linking Ecosystem and Hardware for Regeneration) LEHR Soil Amplifier Biostimulants in agriculture Living soil biology Stable soil carbon Glomalin and mycorrhizal fungi Biochar as nutrient buffer Urban waste stream composting Flood-and-drain raised bed systems Heat resilience in desert gardening Soil food web Tall pot tree propagation method What makes a LEHR Garden different from hydroponics or permaculture alone? It integrates both ecology and hardware, using a raised flood-and-drain system filled mostly with wood chips and organic waste, allowing plants to grow in living soil biology rather than inert media. Why does the garden soil need to be removed and reset? As woody materials break down, water flow slows, causing anaerobic conditions. Removing and resetting the soil restores oxygen flow and system performance. What is LEHR Soil Amplifier? It is the sifted, biologically rich soil produced inside the system, containing earthworm castings, biochar, microbial life, and multiple known biostimulant compounds. How is this different from regular compost? Unlike compost made separately, this material forms beneath living roots, encouraging creation of stable soil carbon compounds such as glomalin, which are critical to true topsoil structure. How much is needed to see results? Very small amounts are effective — about one gallon can treat roughly 1,000 square feet of garden space. What plant responses have been observed? Reports include greener lawns, higher vegetable productivity, improved pest and disease resistance, thicker rose petals, and rapid recovery of stressed trees. Can it improve heat tolerance? Gardeners observed lush summer growth during record heat, with plants surviving and producing through extreme desert temperatures. What is the underlying mechanism? The product stimulates soil biology, increases mycorrhizal activity, provides mineral buffering through biochar, and enhances nutrient cycling. Episode Highlights LEHR stands for Linking Ecosystem and Hardware for Regeneration Gardens grow food in mostly wood chips enriched by composting beneath roots Soil removal became the “problem that was the solution” Sifted soil behaves as a high-density biological stimulant Stable soil carbon forms directly through plant–fungal interactions One gallon treats approximately 1,000 square feet Gardeners report dramatic improvements during extreme heat Trees in tall pots showed accelerated growth using the amplifier Calls to Action & Resources LEHR Garden System — https://lehrgarden.com Contact Edmund Williams — mailto:info@lehrgarden.com For Episode Show Notes Visit — UrbanFarm.org/SoilAmplifier Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

With Beatrice Nathan...Curious permaculture storyIn This Podcast: Beatrice Nathan joins the podcast to explore how permaculture principles can be applied to family life, childcare, and community resilience. She shares her journey from home gardening to teaching permaculture, and launching a Village Roots childcare co-op. The conversation weaves together food production, social permaculture, and mutual aid as practical responses to modern parenting and systemic stress. This episode highlights slow, small solutions that build trust, connection, and long-term community health. Our Guest:  Beatrice Nathan is a home gardener, permaculture teacher, turmeric farmer, and mom to two boys. She is passionate about reweaving the web of social support, empowering ordinary people to grow food and teaching practical design principles. She believes that we all have a part to play in creating a better future. Key Topics & Entities Beatrice Nathan Permaculture ethics (Earth Care, People Care, Fair Share) Social permaculture Village Roots Childcare Co-op Babysitting co-ops / time-based exchange Front-yard food gardens Community resilience Parenting and childcare affordability Permaculture zones applied to time and energy Degrowth philosophy Permaculture Design Course (PDC) Ruby Ranch (Asheville, NC) Key Questions Answered What is permaculture beyond gardening? Permaculture is a framework for living a good life, offering ethics and principles that can be applied to land stewardship, relationships, parenting, and community design—not just gardens. How does a childcare co-op work without money? Families exchange babysitting hours using a shared spreadsheet. Hours earned caring for one family’s children can be used with any family in the co-op, building trust and flexibility without cash. Why is childcare so challenging for families today? High costs, limited availability, misaligned schedules, and the emotional toll on young children make conventional childcare inaccessible or unsustainable for many families. How does the Village Roots Childcare Co-op embody permaculture? The co-op applies permaculture ethics and principles like slow and small solutions, stacking functions, feedback loops, and people care to meet real childcare and community needs. How can permaculture help parents—especially mothers—avoid burnout? By reframing priorities through concepts like zones of time and energy, permaculture helps parents let go of nonessential commitments and focus on connection during demanding life seasons. What’s the value of front-yard food gardens? Front-yard gardens invite conversation, sharing, and relationship-building with neighbors, turning food production into a social connector. How can someone start a similar co-op in their community? Start small, set a geographic boundary, clearly communicate expectations, onboard families personally, and use existing guides and templates to reduce friction. Why is community-building increasingly important? As larger systems become more fragile, hyper-local, trust-based networks like co-ops, time banks, and tool libraries help meet needs when institutions fall short. Episode Highlights Permaculture as a life framework, not just a land design tool Applying permaculture ethics to childcare and family systems Designing a babysitting co-op using time instead of money Front-yard gardens as hubs for neighborhood connection Reframing permaculture zones around time, energy, and life seasons Degrowth, relocalization, and mutual aid as practical responses to system stress Teaching permaculture through lived, community-based examples Calls to Action & Resources Village Roots show notes — urbanfarm.org/villageroots Grow & Harvest Asheville — https://growandharvestasheville.com Permaculture at Ruby Ranch (PDC) — https://growandharvestasheville.com Substack: Collapsing Into Permaculture — Collapsing Into Permaculture Substack guide referenced: Cramming for the Apocalypse Instagram: Grow & Harvest AVL — Grow_Harvest_AVL Visit UrbanFarm.org/VillageRoots for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with us to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A Journey in Holistic Wellness In This Podcast: Clinical herbalist Kimberly Kling returns to discuss regenerative health in a highly toxic modern world. Drawing from personal experience, clinical practice, and ecological awareness, she explains how petrochemicals, industrial agriculture, and environmental toxins disrupt human health—especially the gut microbiome, mitochondria, and detox pathways. The conversation moves from root causes to practical, accessible steps people can take, including food choices, herbs, lifestyle shifts, and community action. Throughout, the focus remains on empowerment, resilience, and reconnecting with plant wisdom rather than fear. Our Guest: Kimberly is a clinical herbalist and the guiding force behind joyful roots in Southern Arizona where she helps her community locally and beyond cultivate inner wellness through earth centered herbal care, rooted in a deep reverence for the healing power of plants. Kimberly's journey began in childhood, crafting magical plant stews and foraging connections with Michigan's native flora. Her background in landscape architecture and engineering provided a foundation for understanding the intricate relationships between plants, people, and the land. However, it was motherhood and a personal health crisis that led to her clinical herbalism deepening her passion for holistic wellness. Now, Kimberly integrates traditional wisdom with modern herbal practices, empowering others to reconnect with plant wisdom for vibrant health and wellbeing. Medical Disclaimer: In today's episode we are talking about our health. The information provided in this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We are not medical doctors and no medical doctor/patient relationship is formed. Always seek advice from your qualified medical doctor regarding questions you may have about your medical condition. Key Topics & Entities Kimberly Kling Joyful Roots Clinical herbalism Environmental toxins Petrochemicals Haber-Bosch Process Glyphosate, Diquat, Paraquat Gut microbiome Mitochondrial health Autoimmune illness (lupus) Antioxidants Liver detoxification Regenerative agriculture Food forests Key Questions Answered Why are modern humans experiencing chronic illness earlier than previous generations? Because exposure to synthetic chemicals, petrochemicals, pesticides, plastics, and food additives has rapidly increased over the last ~150 years, overwhelming biological systems that evolved alongside natural substances. How do pesticides and herbicides affect the body if they’re “safe for humans”? They often harm microbial cells rather than human cells directly, disrupting the gut microbiome, increasing oxidative stress, damaging mitochondria, and contributing to inflammation, fatigue, brain fog, and chronic disease. What role does the microbiome play in detoxification and health? Humans host more microbial cells than human cells, with vastly more genetic material; toxins that disrupt these microbes can cascade into immune dysfunction, autoimmunity, and neurological issues. What personal steps can people take without becoming overwhelmed? Start small: filter water, improve indoor air quality, reduce chemical cleaners, prioritize rest and sleep, and make gradual food upgrades rather than trying to change everything at once. How can food and herbs support detox and mitochondrial health? Antioxidant-rich foods and herbs reduce oxidative stress, while fiber, minerals, and liver-supportive plants help the body process and eliminate toxins more effectively. Which foods are most important to buy organic? Grains like wheat and oats, which are commonly sprayed with glyphosate as a desiccant, along with legumes such as garbanzo beans. Why are bitter and “weedy” plants like dandelion so valuable? They support liver function, digestion, detoxification, pollinators, and biodiversity—demonstrating how cultural perceptions often obscure ecological and medicinal value. What does working with a clinical herbalist look like? A deep intake, personalized care plan, herbal and lifestyle guidance, and follow-up sessions that address the whole person across multiple roots of wellness. Episode Highlights Environmental toxicity has accelerated dramatically since the mid-1800s with synthetic chemicals and industrial agriculture. Most toxin exposure is cumulative and synergistic, not acute, quietly stressing the body over decades. Mitochondrial damage links toxins to fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and chronic illness. Antioxidants from colorful plants and herbs are a frontline defense against oxidative stress. Soluble fiber and mucilaginous plants may help bind and eliminate toxins and microplastics. Liver-supportive foods like beets, dandelion, milk thistle, and burdock are foundational to detox. Small, consistent lifestyle changes matter more than perfection or fear-based responses. Calls to Action & Resources Joyful Roots — https://www.joyfulroots.com Work with Kimberly — https://www.joyfulroots.com Remedy & Rhyme Podcast — Available on all podcast platforms YUKA App — Food and product ingredient scanner Visit UrbanFarm.org/JoyfulRoots for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with us to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A Rosie On The House Replay In this episode we explore the concept of wicking bed gardens, hosted by Romey Romero & Farmer Greg, our guest is . Farmer Greg joins Romey Romero on Rosie on the House to break down how to successfully grow fruit trees in the low desert, even during unusually warm winters. He explains why fruit trees are worth planting, how climate confusion affects citrus and deciduous trees, and the most common mistakes that kill young trees. The conversation covers proven planting methods, soil preparation, watering strategies, and long-term thinking for orchards that can produce for decades. This episode is a practical, experience-based guide for homeowners who want reliable fruit harvests in desert climates. Key Topics & Entities Low desert fruit tree growing Citrus varieties (navel, Cara Cara, Trovita, Minneola, Gold Nugget) Deciduous fruit trees (apple, peach, apricot, plum, jujube, mulberry) Low-chill requirements Rootstock selection Bare root trees Urban Farm Fruit Tree Program Six-Six Basin Rule Desert soil organic matter Mycorrhizae and soil biology Irrigation and deep watering Mulch and microclimates Key Questions Answered Why plant fruit trees instead of relying on store-bought fruit? Homegrown fruit has superior flavor, freshness, and nutritional value, and a single tree can produce for decades with proper care. What makes fruit trees struggle during warm winters in the desert? Low-chill trees may not receive enough cold hours to set fruit consistently, causing irregular growth, dormancy confusion, or skipped production years. Therefore, we need to make sure we plant low chill fruit trees. What are the three non-negotiables when buying fruit trees for the low desert? Choose low-chill varieties, ensure the correct rootstock for desert conditions, and select soft-flesh fruit that ripens before July 1. What are the most common ways people accidentally kill fruit trees? Planting in hot microclimates, allowing grass to compete with roots, and relying on shallow daily drip irrigation. How should fruit trees actually be watered in the desert? Deep, infrequent watering—about once a month in winter and every 10–14 days in summer—allowing soil to dry between waterings. Why are bare root trees preferred for deciduous fruit? They’re planted while dormant, establish faster, and adapt better long-term than potted trees when planted correctly. How long does it take for a fruit tree to really produce? Year one focuses on roots, year two on shoots, year three begins fruiting, and years four to five bring full production. Episode Highlights Fruit trees thrive when planted for climate, not convenience Citrus can be harvested across six months with smart variety selection The Six-Six Basin Rule dramatically improves survival and growth Desert soil must be rebuilt with organic matter and biology Overwatering and under watering look the same—but both can kill trees Bare root planting in January sets trees up for lifelong success A single well-planted tree can produce for 50–100 years Calls to Action & Resources Urban Farm Fruit Tree Program — https://www.fruittrees.org Free Desert Fruit Tree Master Course — https://www.fruittrees.org Questions or tree photos — greg@urbanfarm.org Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/962 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.org In This Podcast: Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman explore the idea of the seed commons—seeds as shared cultural, ecological, and community wealth rather than private commodities. They discuss how market-driven seed systems have eroded biodiversity and why community-based models are essential for resilience in the face of climate, economic, and social uncertainty. Through stories, examples, and lived experience, they show how seed co-ops, exchanges, libraries, and grassroots experimentation restore abundance, adaptability, and human connection. The conversation frames seed saving as both a practical survival skill and a deeply human act of stewardship. Key Topics & Entities Seed commons Shared wealth Biodiversity loss Climate change adaptation Seed co-ops Appalachian Seeds Snake River Seed Cooperative Seed exchanges Seed libraries Seed Library Network Seeds in Common Open-pollinated seeds Indigenous and community seed stewardship What does it mean to treat seeds as part of the commons? Seeds are framed as shared wealth—like air or water—meant to circulate freely so they can keep adapting, carrying cultural memory, and supporting future generations rather than being locked behind patents or profit motives. Why is the current market-based seed system failing biodiversity? Large-scale commercial systems prioritize uniformity and profit, leading to the extinction of many traditional varieties and reducing the genetic diversity needed to adapt to climate and ecological change. How do seed co-ops work in practice? Regional growers collaborate to grow, clean, package, and distribute seeds together, sharing labor and profits while keeping ownership local and ensuring regionally adapted varieties remain available. What role do seed exchanges and seed libraries play in communities? They provide accessible, low-cost ways for people to share seeds, stories, and growing knowledge, strengthening trust, local resilience, and intergenerational learning. What is unique about the Seeds in Common model? Instead of preserving varieties separately, Seeds in Common mixes many varieties together and distributes them widely, prioritizing real-world adaptation and survival over strict categorization or commercial naming. Can individuals really name and steward new plant varieties? Yes—historically, many important crops came from backyard growers. Naming and caring for a variety is an act of responsibility, not ownership, rooted in long-term stewardship rather than profit. Episode Highlights Seeds as shared wealth are essential for resilience, adaptability, and cultural continuity. Seed co-ops like Appalachian Seeds and Snake River Seed Cooperative keep control local and varieties alive. Seed exchanges offer efficient, story-rich ways to share seeds and knowledge within communities. Seed libraries have rapidly grown worldwide, each shaped by local values and creativity. Mixing and growing diverse seeds reveals what truly works under local, low-input conditions. Naming and saving seeds is a deeply human tradition that predates modern agriculture. Abundance thinking emerges naturally when people engage directly with growing and saving seed. Calls to Action & Resources Join live Seed Chats — https://seedchat.org Explore regional seed co-ops — https://snakeriverseeds.com | https://www.utopianseed.org Learn about seed libraries — https://seedlibrarynetwork.org Participate in seed sharing experiments — https://seedsincommon.org Visit UrbanFarm.org/961 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Don Tipping's Legacy of Regenerative FarmingIn This Podcast: Greg reconnects with returning guest Don Tipping to explore nearly a decade of evolution at Seven Seeds Farm and Siskiyou Seeds. The conversation dives deep into regenerative farming, bioregional seed stewardship, on-farm ecology, and the long arc of plant breeding as climate adaptation. Don shares practical insights from 30 years of full-time farming, from pest resilience without chemicals to compost, livestock integration, and the vision for a decentralized bioregional seed bank. The episode emphasizes patience, systems thinking, and seed saving as both a practical skill and a cultural act. Guest Bio: Don has been farming and offering hands on, practical workshops at Seven Seeds Farm since 1997. Seven Seeds is a small, certified organic family farm in the Siskiyou Mountains of SW Oregon that produces fruits, vegetables, seeds, flowers and herbs, while raising sheep, poultry and people. The farm has been designed to function as a self-contained, life regenerating organism with waste products being recycled and feeding other elements of the system. Lauded as one of the best examples of a small productive Biodynamic and Permaculture farms in the northwest by many, Seven Seeds helps to mentor new farmers through internships and workshops. In 2009 they began Siskiyou Seeds, a bioregional organic seed company that grows and stewards a collection of over 700 open pollinated flower, vegetable and herb seeds and is constantly breeding new varieties. Key Topics & Entities Don Tipping Seven Seeds Farm Siskiyou Seeds (Siskiyou Seeds) Regenerative agriculture Bioregional seed stewardship Open-pollinated seeds Seed saving Garden ecology Plant breeding Permaculture systems Compost and soil fertility Livestock integration Climate adaptation Cascadia Seed Bank Key Questions Answered How has Don’s farm and seed work evolved over the last nine years? The seed company has grown into the core of the farm’s work, with most annual and perennial crops now grown specifically for seed. Don has shifted toward contracting with a wider network of growers while focusing his own energy on plant breeding, research, and education. What makes bioregional, farmer-grown seed different from industrial seed? Unlike industrial seed—often brokered globally with little transparency—bioregional seed is selected under local climate, pest, and disease pressures. Over time, this results in crops that are better adapted, more resilient, and better suited to regional food systems. Why doesn’t Seven Seeds Farm rely on row covers or chemical inputs? By allowing natural selection to occur—such as letting cucumber beetles eliminate weaker plants—the farm selects for stronger genetics over time. This approach is paired with whole-system ecology that supports predators and beneficial insects. Why should gardeners save their own seed? Seed saving is empowering, abundant, and adaptive. One plant can produce years’ worth of seed, while gradually adapting to a gardener’s microclimate and conditions, even without advanced technical knowledge. How does Don manage seed purity when growing multiple crops? By understanding plant species and their pollination rules, Don grows only one variety per species when crops are close together. Knowing botanical Latin and species boundaries is key to effective seed saving. What role do animals play in the farm’s regenerative system? Livestock act as ecological equalizers—cycling nutrients, selecting diverse forage, and converting plants into fertility, fiber, and food. Sheep, poultry, and other animals help close nutrient loops and reduce off-farm inputs. Why is manure sourcing such a critical issue for organic farms? Persistent herbicides can survive composting and contaminate soil for years. Sourcing manure from known organic dairies ensures transparency, protects soil health, and maintains organic integrity. What is the vision behind the Cascadia Seed Bank? The goal is a decentralized, fireproof, nonprofit bioregional seed bank designed as a living backup for regional food systems—paired with on-farm trials, education, and community engagement. Episode Highlights The shift from crop protection to crop selection as a pest-management strategy Seed saving as “the original magic penny” that multiplies abundance Garden ecology as a diagnostic lens for pest and disease problems Compost as the foundation of soil, seed, and long-term fertility Livestock hides becoming more valuable than meat in evolving farm economics Plant breeding as a long-term response to climate change The need for regional seed sovereignty beyond global seed vaults Calls to Action & Resources Siskiyou Seeds — https://www.siskiyouseeds.com Siskiyou Seeds YouTube Channel — https://www.youtube.com/@SiskiyouSeeds The Agrarian Renaissance Podcast — Available on YouTube and podcast platforms Visit UrbanFarm.org/SevenSeeds for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with us to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 900 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.