Megan McGowan is starting her own farm this year with the help of the Organic Growers School’s CRAFT farmer training initiative. In her first year farming, Megan is growing more than 100 varieties of vegetables, herbs, and sunflowers for market on an acre of leased...
Dear Tom – When we toured your farm last year I recall thinking that the supports you use for seed flats in your propagation house looked affordable and effective. Will you remind me how they are assembled? – Jean in Clyde Dear Jean – The basic idea is to use...
Dear Tom – I have two questions related to my soil sample test results. One is on phosphorus and potassium index results. I have read and heard differing answers. My soil sample index results range from 29 to 85. Some sources suggest that around 100 is ideal for P...
Tom – I keep hearing about biochar and its many benefits. How can I make biochar on my farm? — Bill in Burnsville Bill – I am hearing the same buzz about biochar. Farmer Pat Battle mentioned terra preta probably five years ago in a hallway conversation at the...
Tom – What is the best way to heat a greenhouse? Tim, Candler NC Dear Tim, Most growers are looking for ways to extend the market season and to bring crops in early when demand is high. Cold tolerant crop selection, row cover, quick hoops and cold frames are...
Hello — Thanks for the latest newsletter. Great info! I’ve been having tomato leaf blight on almost all my tomato plants. Is there any way to eliminate this? Thanks! Patricia Roshaven Patricia – Blight is both a specific and a generic term for leaves that...