Permaculture
Usena / Old Man’s Beard
Usnea longissima is a genus of lichens that grows on deadwood in the family Parmeliaceae. It grows all over the world wherever the air is clean. Although it is now considered rare in the United State. It’s decline is air pollution and loss of habitat. Here in the Redwood Coastal Forest, it is still abundant. After a big wind, I only have to go outside… Read More »Usena / Old Man’s Beard
Black Magic Drawing Balm recipe
This traditional and very old drawing balm is all-natural and very effective on stings, bug bites, splinters, ingrown hairs, and boils. Basically, anything you want to pull out of the skin. It will not stain the skin and even has anti-biotic properties. This means that it will draw out what ails you and then protect against infection. Be forewarned, it will stain fabric! Place on… Read More »Black Magic Drawing Balm recipe
Who Loves Who
Companion Planting allows us to use the collective wisdom of those who have come before us to teach us which plants benefit from growing together. One great example of the is The Three Sisters, Corn, Pole Beans, and Squash. According to The Farmers Almanac, there are many benefits to planting certain plants together. Large plants provide shade for smaller plants. Large stalked plants provide support… Read More »Who Loves Who
3 Sisters
Native Americans planted Corn, Beans, and Squash together and referred to them as the three sisters. This companion planting has been done for centuries by many Native American tribes. According to The Farmers Almanac, each of the sisters contributes something to the planting. Together, the sisters provide a balanced diet from a single planting. Corn the older sister, offers the Beans support. The Pole Beans… Read More »3 Sisters
Wild Fern Oil’s
Ferns have had the same DNA for 300 million years. They are virtually the same as they were when the Dinosaurs roamed our planet. And they are one of the only plants that have been able to do so. Redwood forests are perfect acidic soil for Fern growth. I have seen several different types of Fern hiking in our California Redwood forest. Maiden Hair, Water… Read More »Wild Fern Oil’s
Sprouted Pumpkins
Seeds need heat and water to start the growing cycle This year in December, I finally got around to harvesting the seeds from my Fall pumpkins. When I opened them up, there were seeds sprouted inside. I had forgotten how amazing gourds are. They were saved in root cellars and sustained people all winter long. As long as the skin is not compromised, they will… Read More »Sprouted Pumpkins
St John’s Wort
$50 St. John’s Wort has been used for hundreds of years for nerve pain. As well as a nighttime sleep enhancer. Members swear by its drug-free relief. Rub the balm or oil on the affected area. You can also rub a bit on your belly button at night to promote peaceful sleep. For Members only. Become a member