The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson

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  1009: Growing Your Farm Without Outside Inputs w/ Shawn and Beth Dougherty 02.10.2026 48хв

  In this Episode Farmer Greg welcomes returning guests Shawn and Beth Dougherty, homesteaders with 40 years of experience growing food and building a farm ecosystem with minimal outside inputs. They discuss their philosophy of homesteading, living soil, biological wealth, and the patterns that allow a farm to generate its own fertility and abundance. Their new book, One Cow Revolution, is an in-depth instruction manual for the family dairy cow, drawing on decades of experience with cows, goats, grazing, milk, and farm systems.Shawn and Beth have been homesteading for the last 40 years. They speak all over the country on sustainable farming, teaching whoever will listen how to grow food without inputs. They grow 95% of what they eat and what their animals eat, and the heart of their sustainable homestead is their grass-fed dairy cow. They joined us for the first time on episode 147 all the way back in October 2016.Key TopicsHomesteading as producing food for your family while improving the soilHow to grow food without relying on outside inputsCreating living soil is biological wealthHow to build self-fertile farm ecosystemsThe relationship between plants, animals, soil, and sunlightRotational grazing and working with natural patternsLearning through failure, mistakes, and setbacksThe role of dairy cows in a homesteadOne Cow RevolutionThe Independent FarmsteadMicrograzing and small-scale grazingGrass-fed dairy, milk, cheese, butter, whey, and buttermilkChickens and pigs as part of the farm nutrient cycleFamily, food, farming, and passing knowledge between generationsKey Questions AnsweredWhat is homesteading?Shawn and Beth define homesteading as producing food for your own consumption while improving the soil through the same activities. They see it as more than food production: it is a way of reconnecting people with natural systems and creating an environment where families can thrive.How can a farm become less dependent on outside inputs?The key is learning the natural patterns that generate food, animal feed, and soil fertility. Instead of continually importing fertility, a farm can cycle organic matter, manure, animals, plants, and other resources so that the ecosystem becomes increasingly self-fertile.Why is living soil so important?Living soil supports mineral-rich plants, which feed animals and people. Returning organic matter and nutrients to the soil allows biological wealth to increase from one generation to the next rather than being depleted.What role does a dairy cow play on a homestead?A dairy cow converts grass and hay into milk while also producing manure, a calf, and byproducts such as whey and buttermilk. Those resources can feed people, pigs, chickens, and the soil, creating connections throughout the farm ecosystem.How can a dairy cow work on a small property?The Doughertys explain that cows can fit on relatively small acreage when their food is brought to them. They describe the family dairy cow as a powerful way to convert abundant grass into nutrient-dense food and other resources for the farm.What does failure teach us about farming?Mistakes and setbacks force farmers to observe, experiment, and discover what actually works. Shawn and Beth describe their own years of “homesteading badly” as an important part of learning the patterns that eventually made their farm productive.How should farmers respond to drought and other natural events?Rather than automatically fighting every environmental change, farmers can look for the opportunities within it. Their experience with drought showed how changing conditions can strengthen warm-season grasses and renew the seed base for future conditions.Why did Shawn and Beth write One Cow Revolution?They wanted to capture the small, intuitive details of managing a cow that are traditionally learned by watching experienced farmers. The book is intended to provide the practical knowledge and reassurance of an experienced farmer or grandparent who can help someone understand what is happening and respond appropriately.Episode HighlightsHomesteading is about producing food while improving the soil through the same activities.A healthy farm can generate much of its own fertility, food, and abundance when its natural patterns are understood.Biological wealth begins with living soil and grows when nutrients and organic matter are returned to the ecosystem.Failure and setbacks can provide some of the most valuable education a farmer receives.Shawn and Beth describe the dairy cow as a central connector between grass, milk, pigs, chickens, manure, and soil.Grass captures sunlight and provides abundant biomass, while ruminants transform cellulose into proteins, fats, and sugars that people and other animals can use.The Dougherty’s see farming as a process of stewardship and responding to nature rather than forcing an ecosystem into a fixed state.Their goal with their books is to pass along the practical, often intuitive knowledge that comes from decades of farming experience.ResourcesTheir Website One Cow Revolution - https://one-cow-revolution.comThe Independent Farmstead - Shawn and Beth Dougherty’s first bookOne Cow Revolution - Instruction manual for managing a family dairy cow -Shawn & Beth Dougherty - [email protected] www.urbanfarm.org/OneCowRevolution 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.
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  1008 - Worm Castings, Compost & Regenerative Gardening 25.09.2026 33хв

  In this Episode - What if the key to growing healthier, more productive gardens isn’t more fertilizer, but healthier living soil? Ben Lederer, co-founder of Regenerative Soil Company in North Phoenix, joins Greg to explore how compost, worm castings, mulch, and beneficial biology can transform the soil beneath your garden. You’ll learn simple ways to start composting, use kitchen scraps and chickens to build a regenerative cycle, and improve your soil while reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. Ben and Greg also share practical ideas for taking one small step toward a healthier garden and a more resilient community.Our Guest: Ben is the co-founder of Regenerative Soil Company, a small batch amendment company based in North Phoenix. A longtime gardener, chicken keeper, and compost enthusiast, Ben is passionate about helping people grow healthier plants naturally through worm castings, regenerative gardening practices, and living soil biology. He also works in turf grass management and enjoys teaching practical, approachable ways to build healthy soil at homeKey TopicsBen LedererRegenerative Soil CompanyWorm castingsLiving soil biologyRegenerative gardeningCompostingGreen mulch and cowpeasChickens and backyard food systemsLocal soil amendmentsTurf grass and soil managementPermaculture and closed-loop gardeningArizona Worm FarmCommunity gardeningThe Worm Farmer’s HandbookKey Questions AnsweredHow did Ben Lederer get into regenerative gardening and soil health?Ben grew up watching his parents garden and became fascinated by how plants grow. His experience in landscaping and turf grass management eventually led him to question conventional practices and look for ways to build healthier soil naturally. What are worm castings, and why are they useful in the garden?Worm castings are worm-processed organic material that contains microbes and nutrients. Ben describes them as a gentle organic fertilizer that can help plants grow stronger and handle environmental stress, while Greg shares his experience using them to reduce heat and transplant stress. What are some natural ways to improve garden soil?Ben recommends compost, worm castings, mulch, and green mulch. These practices can add organic matter, support soil biology, retain moisture, moderate soil temperature, and improve conditions for future plantings. How can cowpeas function as green mulch?Cowpeas help cover the soil, keep it cooler, and contribute nitrogen through their relationship with soil biology. At the end of the season, Ben recommends cutting the plants down and leaving the roots in the soil so they decompose in place. How can a beginner start composting at home?Ben says the simplest approach is to establish a compost pile in an appropriate area of the yard. A basic compost system needs a balance of nitrogen-rich “greens” and carbon-rich “browns,” along with moisture and occasional turning. How can gardeners get enough green material for compost?Ben suggests building relationships with neighbors and offering to collect their kitchen scraps. Providing neighbors with a five-gallon bucket gives them an easy way to contribute food waste while helping the gardener build compost. How do chickens, compost, and gardening form a regenerative cycle?Chickens can eat kitchen scraps, produce manure for the compost pile, and help turn and work through compost. The resulting compost feeds the garden, which produces more food and food scraps, creating a useful cycle between animals, compost, soil, and plants. Why does Ben emphasize buying soil amendments locally?Ben says local compost and soil products are more likely to retain active microbial life because they have not spent long periods sitting on a store shelf. He encourages gardeners to seek out local compost and soil producers. What does Ben see as the role of competition among local worm farms?Ben views other worm farms as potential complements rather than competitors. He believes there is ample demand for locally produced worm castings and that collaboration can help more gardeners succeed. What did Ben learn from personal setbacks?Ben describes rebuilding his life after struggling with drugs and alcohol as a teenager and young adult. He says the experience taught him resilience, responsibility, and accountability, and that those lessons now influence how he approaches agriculture and business. What book does Ben recommend for people interested in vermicomposting?He recommends The Worm Farmer’s Handbook by Rhonda Sherman, particularly for its detailed treatment of vermicomposting and producing worm castings at a larger scale. Key TakeawaysWorm castings provide organic matter, nutrients, and microbial life for the garden.Composting kitchen scraps can reduce waste while building healthier soil.Mulch helps protect soil from heat and moisture loss.Cowpeas can provide living ground cover and leave valuable roots in the soil after the growing season.Chickens can become part of a closed-loop backyard food system.Building relationships with neighbors can solve the challenge of sourcing compost ingredients.Local soil amendments can help gardeners access fresher, biologically active materials.Gardening success comes from learning, experimenting, and accepting that some plants will fail.Ben sees collaboration among local producers as a way to strengthen gardening communities.Small actions, such as starting a compost pile, can contribute to stronger communities.Episode HighlightsBen describes growing up fascinated by backyard gardening and eventually bringing together his experiences in gardening, landscaping, and turf grass management. Worm castings are introduced as a low-risk organic fertilizer rich in microbial life. Compost, worm castings, and mulch form the foundation of Ben’s approach to improving soil naturally. Cowpeas can cover large areas, cool the soil, contribute nitrogen, and leave decomposing roots behind when cut down. Ben explains how chickens, compost, gardens, food scraps, and eggs can work together as a backyard regenerative cycle. Ben shares how his personal recovery taught him resilience and accountability and shaped his approach to building a regenerative business. Ben discusses why he sees Arizona Worm Farm as a complement rather than a competitor and why local worm-casting production matters. Ben’s final advice: pursue your dreams, start small, get your hands dirty, and recognize that individual actions can make a difference. Calls to Action & ResourcesRegenerative Soil Company — https://regenerativesoilco.comInstagram — https://instagram.com/regenerativesoilcoEmail — [email protected] Farm Podcast Show Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/regenerativesoilcoBook — The Worm Farmer’s Handbook by Rhonda ShermanVisit www.urbanfarm.org/regenerativesoilco 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.
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  Building Peace Through Being Prepared w/ Wendi Bergin - Ep 1007 18.09.2026 42хв

  SubtitleIn this Episode Wendi Bergin and Greg Peterson explore preparedness as a practical, positive part of everyday life rather than fear-driven survivalism. They discuss building a working pantry, storing and rotating food, developing skills, maintaining backups, and preparing for the specific challenges of where you live. Greg and Wendi also share lessons from Hurricane Helene and other emergencies, emphasizing that preparedness creates peace and makes it easier to care for family, neighbors, and community. Key TopicsPreparedness as a way of lifeWorking pantry and food storageFreeze-dried and survival foodsFood-system vulnerabilityThree-day grocery supply and “three-hour supply”Meal planning for food storagePressure canning and food preservation“Two is one, one is none”Backup power and generatorsWater storage and filtrationEmergency cooking and lightingSkills versus possessionsHurricane Helene preparedness lessonsNeighborhood food infrastructureKey Questions AnsweredWhat does preparedness look like without becoming hoarding?Wendi and Greg describe preparedness as having useful supplies that are part of everyday life. Food should be familiar, used, and rotated rather than purchased and forgotten. How can someone build a food supply without buying large amounts of survival food?Start with meals the household already eats. Wendi recommends identifying 10 familiar meals and gradually stocking enough ingredients to make each meal multiple times. Why should preparedness be for everyone?Emergencies aren't limited to natural disasters. Job loss, health crises, family needs, power outages, and other unexpected circumstances can all create situations where having food, water, skills, and supplies makes life easier. Why are skills more valuable than stuff?Skills travel with you. Greg explains that gardening, food preservation, cooking, and other practical abilities remain useful even if you move somewhere else or lose access to your existing equipment and supplies. What does “two is one, one is none” mean in practical preparedness?It means having backups because equipment can fail when you need it most. Both Greg and Wendi share experiences where generators or other equipment failed or had to be given to someone else. How should people prepare for their particular location?Preparedness depends on local conditions. The conversation covers hurricanes in Florida, ice storms in New Jersey, extreme heat in the low desert, and the different needs of other climates and households. How can preparedness strengthen a neighborhood?Prepared people can share resources and skills instead of simply relying on others. Greg describes neighbors sharing food during Hurricane Helene and his idea for a neighborhood potato-planting party to build food production into the community. How can someone get started today?Start by taking inventory of what you already have: food, water, filters, flashlights, batteries, cooking equipment, generators, and other supplies. Then identify the gaps that matter most for your household and location. Episode HighlightsPreparedness doesn't have to be heavy or fear-based; it can simply become part of everyday life. Build a pantry around food you actually eat, and rotate what you store. A stocked pantry became especially valuable when Greg and Heidi experienced a week without water and electricity during Hurricane Helene. Test generators and backup equipment regularly instead of assuming they will work when needed. Water, food, shelter, cooking, and light are fundamental preparedness priorities. Skills can be carried anywhere, while possessions can be lost, left behind, or fail. Start small: inventory what you already have, then fill the gaps based on your circumstances. Preparedness can move beyond the household into neighborhood food infrastructure and community care. Calls to Action & ResourcesHomesteading Made Simple — Podcast and YouTube channel featuring homesteading skills, mindset, gardens, animals, and homestead properties. Food storage inventory — Start by documenting the food, water, equipment, and other preparedness resources already in your home. 10 Times Food Prep Document HEREVisit www.urbanfarm.org/1007 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.
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  1006: Seed Libraries: Growing Community, Resilience & Local Seed 11.09.2026 39хв

  A Seed Chat w/ Rebecca NewburnRebecca Newburn, co-founder of Richmond Grows Seed Lending Library and a leader of the Seed Library Network, joins Greg Peterson for a conversation about the power of community seed libraries. They explore how seed libraries differ from seed banks, why local seed matters, and how seed saving can increase biodiversity, food resilience, and community connection. Rebecca also shares new resources for seed saving, education, children, librarians, and communities that want to create their own seed-saving cohorts. The conversation ultimately comes back to a simple idea: seeds are life embodied, and they sprout hope.Key Topics & EntitiesSeed Library NetworkRichmond Grows Seed Lending LibrarySeed libraries vs. seed banksCommunity seed saving and sharingLocal and regionally adapted seedSeed diversity and biodiversityPermaculture and traditional wisdomSeed-saving educationSeed-saving cohorts and teacher trainingSeed-saving guidelines and chartsSeed libraries in public libraries and schoolsFood resilience and cultural preservationKey Questions AnsweredWhat is a seed library?A seed library is a free community resource where people can get seeds without paying for them or being required to return seeds. When gardeners learn to save and return seeds, the library can become increasingly self-sustaining.How is a seed library different from a seed bank?Seed libraries generally serve home gardeners and don't require seeds to be returned. Seed banks are more commonly associated with farmers and often require a return of seed in greater quantity than was borrowed.Where did the modern seed library movement come from?Rebecca was inspired by BASIL, the Bay Area Seed Interchange Library at the Berkeley Ecology Center. While taking a permaculture design course, she connected with one of its founders and decided to develop a replicable model for creating seed libraries.Why is local seed so important?Rebecca believes communities need to re-localize their seed. Much commercial seed is produced in different climates and sometimes different countries. Locally saved seed has the opportunity to adapt to local conditions while communities preserve greater genetic and cultural diversity.What does localizing seed look like?It means more people learning to save and share seeds, increasing the diversity of seed stocks, and paying attention to which plants actually thrive in their own communities.What should home gardeners save seed from?Save seed from what you like. Greg and Rebecca emphasize selecting plants that perform well in your particular environment and produce food you actually enjoy eating.What makes a seed library successful?Success depends on the community. It might mean getting people to garden for the first time, meeting the community's demand for seed, or gradually increasing the percentage of locally donated seed.Why is genetic diversity valuable in a home garden?Greater diversity can mean different plants mature at different times, while variation may provide more resilience when pests, frost, or other challenges affect the garden.What does a gardener need to know about saving viable seed?Seed saving isn't simply about collecting seeds. Some crops need cross-pollination and a sufficient number of plants to maintain viable genetics. Rebecca's forthcoming seed-saving chart addresses ease of saving, potential cross-pollination, viable seed production, and recommended population sizes.When are cucumber seeds ready to save?Unlike cucumbers harvested for eating, cucumbers intended for seed saving should remain on the vine until they become fully mature, orange, and even begin to soften. This allows the seeds to develop properly.How can communities create seed-saving teachers?The Seed Library Network is developing replicable seed-saving cohorts that combine online instruction from experienced seed savers with local hands-on learning. The goal is to help communities develop people who can teach seed saving to others.How can seed libraries connect with children and educators?Rebecca is developing coloring books, seed-saving activities, story-time resources, songs, bookmarks, downloadable materials, and "Program In A Box" concepts that libraries, educators, and homeschoolers can use to teach children about seeds.Episode HighlightsSeed libraries are free community resources where people can access seeds without the obligation to return them, while seed banks typically involve more formal seed-return requirements. Rebecca's experience creating Richmond Grows became a replicable template that has helped thousands of seed libraries get started around the world. The Seed Library Network map has about 1,500 self-reported seed libraries, while Rebecca notes that the actual number worldwide is much larger. Rebecca wants to see more local seed, arguing that centralization of seed has contributed to lost biodiversity and that locally adapted seed becomes increasingly important amid extreme weather. Greg shares his own experience discovering crops worth saving after moving from Phoenix to Asheville, including a self-seeding basil, a favorite round cucumber, and productive broccolini. Rebecca is developing a seed-saving chart covering plant families, ease of saving, cross-pollination, viable seed production, and recommended population sizes for home gardeners. The Seed Library Network is developing a 2027 cohort model to train more community seed-saving teachers and make high-quality seed education available to communities around the country. Rebecca describes seeds as grounding, life embodied, and something that "sprout hope," connecting seed saving with resilience and community. Calls to Action & ResourcesSeed Library Network — seedlibrarynetwork.orgSeed Library Map — Explore or add a community seed library through the Seed Library Network website.Create a Library Resources — Free step-by-step resources for starting a seed library.Richmond Grows Seed Library — https://www.richmondgrowsseeds.org/Seed Library Network Newsletter — https://seedlibrarynetwork.substack.com/Sign up for our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgVisit UrbanFarm.org/1006 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.
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  1005: Growing Urban Fruit Trees with Tom Spellman 04.09.2026 41хв

  In this Episode Tom Spellman shares more than five decades of experience growing, propagating, and managing fruit trees, with a focus on what he calls urban fruit tree culture. He explains why backyard growers should prioritize varieties they enjoy, choose trees and rootstocks suited to their climate, manage tree size, and use successive ripening to extend harvests. Tom also discusses protecting fruit trees from heat, sunburn, wind, and sudden weather events through whitewashing, shade, pre-irrigation, and mulching. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes a simple goal for backyard growers: get a little bit of fruit all the time rather than an overwhelming amount all at once.Our Guest: Tom Spellman has been involved in the nursery business since 1973. At that time, he was a freshman in high school and rode his skateboard to work. Since then he has worked for several different nurseries including La Verne Nursery where he was general manager for 20 years. And Dave Wilson Nursery where he was the southwestern sales Manager for over 20 years. Since retiring he is an Urban Fruit Tree and orchard consultant. Most of all he is the person that knows more about fruit trees than anyone else I know!Key Topics & EntitiesUrban fruit tree cultureFruit tree variety selectionRootstocks and climate adaptabilityTree size managementSuccessive ripeningBare root fruit treesDesert fruit tree growingSunburn and sunscald protectionWind stress and windbreaksPre-irrigation before extreme heatMulching and soil temperatureCompanion plantingCitrus in desert climatesContainer-grown citrusKey Questions AnsweredWhat is urban fruit tree culture?Urban fruit tree culture is growing fruit trees under limited backyard conditions, where space is restricted and the goal is to make the most productive use of that space. Tom recommends growing varieties you actually like and will use while considering climate, geography, and soil type.Why is tree size management so important for backyard growers?Backyard growers generally don't need hundreds of pounds of one type of fruit at once. Keeping trees compact makes pruning, thinning, harvesting, and other maintenance easier while allowing multiple varieties to be grown in the same space.How can successive ripening extend a backyard harvest?By planting varieties that ripen at different times, gardeners can harvest the same type of fruit over a much longer period. Instead of getting one large crop for two weeks, several varieties can provide fruit for a month and a half or longer.How should gardeners choose a fruit tree rootstock?The rootstock needs to be adapted to the gardener's climate and soil as well as the variety itself. Tom explains that desert growers need rootstocks capable of handling heat, sandy soil, low-desert conditions, and alkalinity.Why are bare root trees pruned before planting?When bare root trees are dug, their roots are pruned. The top should be pruned back to balance the reduced root system so the tree can establish new growth successfully. Tom's experiments show that heavily pruned bare root trees can develop significantly more vigor and new scaffold growth than unpruned trees.How can fruit trees be protected from extreme desert heat?Tom recommends protecting exposed bark from sunburn with a breathable whitewash, using limited temporary shade during a tree's first summer, and thoroughly pre-irrigating before a predicted extreme heat event.How does mulch help fruit trees in hot climates?A four- to six-inch layer of mulch can keep soil temperatures significantly cooler, improve water retention, increase biological activity, and reduce weed seed germination. Tom also recommends maintaining a broad mulched basin around fruit trees.What is the advantage of companion planting around young fruit trees?The space around young trees is already being irrigated and maintained, so annual or temporary companion crops can make productive use of that space while the trees are becoming established. Crops such as cowpeas and sweet potatoes can also help reduce ground temperatures.Why is citrus especially valuable for desert gardeners?Citrus offers a wide range of varieties with different harvest periods. By selecting varieties with different seasons, gardeners can potentially harvest citrus for many months of the year.Can people grow citrus in climates where it cannot survive outdoors year-round?Yes. Tom describes container culture as an option for people with sunrooms or greenhouses. Trees can be moved outdoors after the danger of frost and brought back inside when cold weather returns.Why is container culture difficult in the desert?Extreme heat and sun can create severe stress for container-grown trees. Tom explains that some desert wholesale growers use a "pot in pot" system, placing containers into the ground to keep the root zone cooler.What is the main difference between commercial and backyard fruit growing?Commercial growers generally want a large quantity of one variety to ripen at the same time for efficient harvest and marketing. Backyard growers usually benefit more from the opposite approach: multiple varieties that provide a smaller amount of fruit over a longer period.Episode HighlightsTom began working in a nursery at age 13, riding his skateboard about a mile and a half to work.He spent 20 years working with mentor Dieter Lotter at La Verne Nursery and describes that experience as an education that couldn't be bought in school.Urban fruit tree culture starts with growing what you like, what you will use, and what is adaptable to your climate and soil.Keeping fruit trees compact allows backyard growers to manage, harvest, and prune them from the ground while making better use of limited space.Successive ripening allows multiple varieties to share the footprint of one large tree while extending the harvest season.Pre-irrigating before an extreme heat event can make the difference between severe tree damage and a healthy orchard.A good layer of mulch can cool the soil, conserve water, improve biological activity, and reduce weeds.Tom's central philosophy for backyard growers is simple: "a little bit of fruit all the time."For more information on Greg's Urban Farm Fruit Tree program in Phoenix visit FruitTrees.orgVisit www.urbanfarm.org/1005 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.
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  1004: Growing Epic Tomatoes with Craig LeHoullier 28.08.2026 1год 11хв

  In this Episode Craig LeHoullier shares his lifelong journey from childhood gardening memories to becoming a renowned heirloom tomato grower, seed saver, and plant breeder. He explains the differences between heirloom, open-pollinated, and hybrid tomatoes and why preserving tomato genetics matters for future gardeners. Craig discusses the Dwarf Tomato Breeding Project, the story behind Cherokee Purple, growing tomatoes in containers and straw bales, and the importance of learning directly from your plants. He encourages gardeners to get their hands dirty, experiment, save seeds, and enjoy gardening as a lifelong journey.Our Guest: Craig is a North Carolina-based gardener, author, and plant breeder known for his deep expertise in heirloom tomatoes. With a PhD in chemistry from Dartmouth and a 25-year career in pharmaceuticals, he later shifted full-time into gardening and seed saving. Craig is a longtime advisor to Seed Savers Exchange, and is credited with helping popularize varieties like Cherokee Purple tomatoes. He co-leads the Dwarf Tomato Breeding Project and authored Epic Tomatoes, a widely respected guide for home growers.Key Topics & EntitiesCraig LeHoullier and his 40-year gardening journeyHeirloom, hybrid, and open-pollinated tomatoesSeed Savers ExchangeTomato seed saving and preservationThe Dwarf Tomato Breeding ProjectCherokee Purple tomatoTomato breeding and geneticsEpic TomatoesStraw bale gardeningContainer tomato growingVictory Seed CompanyGardening misinformation and experimentationFood systems and food desertsGardening as community buildingKey Questions AnsweredWhat makes a tomato an heirloom?Craig defines an heirloom as a genetically stable variety that can be passed down through saved seed, with age and a meaningful history or story associated with it.What is the difference between heirloom and open-pollinated tomatoes?All heirlooms are open-pollinated, but not every open-pollinated tomato is an heirloom. Craig uses 1949, when Burpee's Big Boy was introduced, as a useful guidepost for distinguishing older heirlooms from newer open-pollinated varieties.Why are hybrid tomatoes valuable?Hybrids can combine desirable traits such as disease resistance, heat tolerance, growth habits, and productivity. Craig emphasizes that there are excellent hybrids, heirlooms, and open-pollinated varieties.How did the Dwarf Tomato Breeding Project begin?Craig and Patrina began crossing large, flavorful heirlooms with dwarf tomato varieties to create tomatoes that could be grown in smaller spaces while retaining excellent flavor and interesting characteristics.Why is Cherokee Purple important to Craig?Craig received seeds in 1990 from J.D. Green, who told him they came through a Cherokee family history in Tennessee. Craig grew the tomato, named it Cherokee Purple, and helped distribute it so the variety and its story could continue.What makes a tomato variety worth preserving?Beyond flavor and popularity, a variety may contain genetic traits that could become important for future challenges such as heat, drought, water scarcity, or emerging diseases.What is one of the biggest mistakes gardeners make with tomatoes?Craig says gardeners need to pay attention to their plants. Daily observation can reveal early signs of disease, nutritional problems, water stress, and other issues before they become serious.What is the key to successful straw bale gardening?A straw bale is conditioned with nitrogen, water, and fertilizer for roughly two weeks before planting. The bale heats up as it decomposes and provides a productive growing medium that eventually becomes useful organic matter.What tomatoes work well in small spaces?Craig recommends Sun Gold cherry tomatoes, dwarf tomatoes, and micro-dwarf varieties for containers and limited growing spaces. Cherry tomatoes can also perform well with less sunlight than many larger varieties.What is Craig's advice for beginning tomato growers?Get your hands dirty, start with good seedlings or learn to start your own seeds, and let the plants teach you. Gardening is an education and a journey rather than a rigid set of instructions.Episode HighlightsCraig traces his love of gardening to childhood memories of working with his father and grandfather and describes how joining Seed Savers Exchange in 1986 sparked his passion for heirloom tomatoes.He explains how heirloom tomatoes preserve genetics, history, and stories—and why today's newer open-pollinated varieties may become tomorrow's heirlooms.Craig describes the Dwarf Tomato Breeding Project, which ultimately produced about 170 new varieties through collaboration among roughly 1,000 gardeners.He explains why preserving even ordinary tomato varieties can matter, since hidden genetic traits may provide future solutions for heat, drought, water shortages, and disease.Craig tells the remarkable story of how he received the tomato that became Cherokee Purple and how a chain of seed sharing kept the variety from disappearing.He explains why gardeners should observe their tomato plants every day and adjust their methods based on growing conditions rather than blindly following a fixed schedule.Craig describes straw bale gardening, including conditioning the bales, managing water and nutrients, and eventually reusing the spent straw as valuable growing material.He closes with a simple philosophy: get your hands dirty, grow something, turn off the distractions, and let gardening change your life.ResourcesCraig LeHoullier's Website — craiglehoullier.comInstagram — @nctomatomanEmail Craig — [email protected] Tomatoes — Epic Tomatoes: How to Select and Grow the Best Varieties of All TimeVictory Seed Company — victoryseeds.comJoe Gardener Organic Gardening School — Self-paced courses covering seed starting, organic vegetable gardening, and tomato growing.Seed Savers Exchange — Craig's longtime seed-saving community and an important part of his journey.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/EpicTomatoes 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.
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  1003: Community Gardens Grow People and Relationships 26.08.2026 36хв

  A Rosie On The House Replay w/ Jenny BeasleyJenny Beasley of Heart for the City shares how a barren dirt lot in Glendale, Arizona, became a thriving community garden serving families, schools, volunteers, and gardeners from eight different cultures. She explains how partnerships, raised beds, shared food, and educational programs helped transform the space into much more than a place to grow vegetables. The conversation explores how community gardens create belonging, purpose, friendships, healthier neighborhoods, and stronger connections between people. Jenny also offers practical advice for anyone interested in starting a community garden of their own. Key Topics & EntitiesHeart for the City GardenJenny BeasleyCommunity gardensGlendale, ArizonaRaised garden bedsCommunity partnershipsCity of GlendaleSchool garden partnershipsEight different culturesCucuzza squashUrban gardening in the desertGardening educationFood accessCommunity buildingKey Questions AnsweredHow did Heart for the City Garden begin?Jenny Beasley was challenged to transform a barren, partly asphalt-covered dirt lot into a community garden. The City of Glendale provided the property, while a community development grant helped fund the initial development. What made the raised beds such a game changer?The raised beds gave individual families and gardeners a sense of ownership. They also allowed people from different cultures to grow vegetables they remembered from childhood or from their home countries. How does the garden bring different cultures together?Gardeners from places including Jordan, Trinidad, China, Mexico, Hungary, and Peru grow alongside one another, sharing vegetables, recipes, gardening knowledge, and traditions. What is the biggest lesson Jenny learned about building community?People want to feel connected and be part of something. Growing side by side gives people a natural way to participate, contribute, and build relationships. How can someone begin creating a community garden?First determine what type of community garden you want to create, then visit and learn from gardens with similar goals. Jenny says learning from people who have already developed successful gardens can save enormous amounts of time. How does the garden operate in the Arizona heat?Heart for the City Garden grows year-round. During the hottest part of the year, peppers, okra, herbs, and other crops are growing, while tomatoes can be more challenging. How does the garden create purpose for people?Jenny describes a woman who unexpectedly retired and found purpose, friendships, activity, and a new routine through spending time at the garden. What happens beyond gardening at Heart for the City?The garden hosts cooking events, recipe sharing, educational activities, guest speakers, celebrations, and even weddings. Visitors may leave with seeds, plants, or planting calendars. How does the surrounding neighborhood participate?Neighbors walk to the garden with their children, donate gardening supplies, volunteer, and help one another. The garden has become a close-knit neighborhood resource rather than simply a place to grow food. What does Jenny consider the garden's greatest accomplishment?She is most proud of how the gardeners connect, help one another, care for their garden spaces, celebrate life's milestones, and continue learning. As another gardener put it, they are “growing people also.” Episode HighlightsA barren dirt lot becomes a thriving community garden and food forest over roughly 12 years. Raised beds become a “game changer,” giving families ownership and encouraging participation from multiple cultures. Partnerships with the City of Glendale, schools, businesses, and volunteers help sustain the garden. The garden's cucuzza squash inspires a club, a giant trellis, shared recipes, and plenty of fun. Gardeners support one another with rides, meals, home check-ins, and friendship—creating what Jenny calls a “big garden family.” Cooking and food-sharing events help people learn what to do with the vegetables they grow. The garden welcomes people from throughout the area who want to learn about gardening or simply connect with others. Jenny's central message: community gardens don't just grow vegetables—they grow people and relationships. Calls to Action & ResourcesHeart for the City Garden — heartforthecityaz.orgContact Jenny Beasley — [email protected] Heart for the City Garden — 69th Avenue, north of Bethany Home, behind the fire station in Glendale, Arizona. Support the Garden — Donations and community support help with ongoing expenses, including water and garden operations. In this episode we explore the concept of wicking bed gardens, hosted by Romey Romero & Farmer Greg, our guest is .Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/1003 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.
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  1002: Compost, Fungi & The Living Soil w/ Landen Schaelling - A Seed Chat. 21.08.2026 46хв

  In this July Seed Chat, Greg Peterson, Bill McDorman, and Landen Schaelling explore how compost, fungi, microbial life, and living plant roots work together to build healthier soil. Landen explains why keeping plants growing is more important for long-term soil carbon than simply adding organic matter, and why fungal-rich compost can help store the carbon plants produce. The conversation covers cover crops, composting methods, curing, moisture, carbon-to-nitrogen ratios, chop-and-drop, crimping, and compost extracts. Our Guests: Landen Schaelling is the founder of Sacred Soil Solutions. He is focused on bringing optimal and approachable microbe inputs to gardeners and homesteaders, while also teaching farmers in the American West how to implement soil building solutions at scale.And Bill McDorman has committed his life to community-based seed stewardship. In 1984, he started Seeds Trust High Altitude Gardens, a bioregional mail order seed company that he ran for 28 years. He authored the book Basic Seed Saving in 1994, and in 2010 Bill and his wife, Belle Starr, founded Seed School.Key Topics Compost and soil healthFungal-dominant compostSoil food webCover crops and living rootsRhizophagy cycleMicrobial fermentationsLiquid carbon and soil carbon storageThermophilic compostingJohnson-Su compostingBokashiCarbon-to-nitrogen ratiosChop-and-drop and crimpingCompost curing and moistureLanden Schaelling / Sacred Soil SolutionsKey Questions AnsweredWhy are living plants more important than simply adding compost for long-term soil improvement?Living plants act as the soil's “income earners,” putting liquid carbon into the soil through their roots. Compost can support that system, but keeping roots in the ground is what continually feeds the soil food web. What makes compost truly valuable?The goal isn't simply the solid organic material. High-quality compost provides a living community of fungi and other soil food web organisms that can interact with plant roots and help store plant-derived carbon. How can you encourage fungal growth in compost?Landen recommends a high-carbon pile, roughly 60–70% carbon, along with consistent moisture. Chunkier wood chips can help encourage fungal activity, and the compost needs a long curing period for the microbial community to develop. How long should compost cure?After the heating phase, Landen recommends roughly nine to 12 months of curing with consistent moisture around 50–60%. He describes seeing a significant increase in fungi, protozoa, and other soil food web organisms as the compost matures. Should compost be sifted?Landen strongly recommends against sifting mature compost because it adds oxygen, dries the material, and can damage fungal hyphae. The living organisms on the compost matter more than producing a perfectly fine, crumbly product. Can weeds function as cover crops?Some weeds can contribute positively when they are temporarily left growing, but not all weeds provide the same benefits. Landen specifically notes that context matters and that some weeds can be less supportive of fungal relationships. What is the difference between chop-and-drop and crimping?Chop-and-drop can create a rapid release of nitrogen, while crimping breaks the stems without completely severing them, allowing nutrients to move more slowly into the root system. Either approach works best when another crop is ready to capture the released nutrients. How often should microbial fermentation sprays be applied?Landen says plants can benefit from very frequent, even daily, applications because they respond well to small amounts delivered consistently. However, he emphasizes that less frequent applications can still provide significant benefits when time is limited. What should consumers look for when buying compost?Landen recommends asking compost producers for microscope analysis. He argues that microscopy provides important evidence about the biological quality of the finished compost. Episode HighlightsLiving plants, not dead organic matter, are the primary “income earners” that build soil carbon.Cover crops keep roots in the ground and continually support the soil food web.Fungal-rich compost helps capture and store the carbon produced by plants.A compost pile with roughly 60–70% carbon can encourage strong fungal development.Thermophilic composting is only part of the process; long-term curing is critical.Maintaining 50–60% moisture for nine to 12 months allows fungi and other soil organisms to develop.Sifting compost can damage fungal hyphae and reduce biological quality.Crimping can provide a slower nutrient release than chop-and-drop.The goal of compost is not simply decomposition—it is developing and applying microbial life.A fungally dominant compost can be extracted into water and applied directly rather than aerated like a bacterial tea. Calls to Action & ResourcesAttend future live Seed Chats — https://seedchat.orgListen to previous Seed Chats — https://urbanfarmpodcast.comLearn about Sacred Soil Solutions — Contact Landen Schaelling directly for information on Microbe Master Mix and educational resources. Instagram: @sacredsoilsolutionsFacebook: Landen SchaellingEmail: [email protected] Our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: In this month's Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman, discuss .Visit UrbanFarm.org/1002 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.
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  1001: Turning Garden Abundance Into Delicious Food 14.08.2026 40хв

  A Chat with Wendi BerginGreg Peterson and Wendi Bergin explore the “harvest mindset” and how to prepare for abundance before the garden starts producing more food than you can eat fresh. They discuss practical ways to preserve tomatoes, including freezing, canning, dehydrating, steam juicing, tomato powder, salsa, sauce, and tomato water. The conversation expands into zucchini preservation, fresh-milled grain, homesteading, preparedness, and the idea that being prepared can bring peace rather than fear. Throughout, Greg and Wendi emphasize experimenting, sharing ideas, and finding joy in growing and preserving local food. Key TopicsHarvest mindset and preparing for garden abundancePreserving large tomato harvestsFreezing tomatoes wholeWater bath canning vs. pressure canningSafe, tested canning practicesTomato sauce, salsa, tomato juice, and tomato waterSteam juicing and tomato powderZucchini preservation, relish, fritters, and zucchini lasagnaFresh-milled grain and home bakingAzure Standard bulk buying clubHomesteading and self-reliancePreparedness as a source of peaceLocal food economies and growing your own foodBasil preservation and pestoKey Questions Answered• What is a “harvest mindset,” and why is it important?A harvest mindset means expecting abundance instead of being overwhelmed by it. If you plant 20 tomato plants, you may get very little—or you may get pounds and pounds of tomatoes. Preparing ahead of time allows you to enjoy that abundance rather than scrambling to figure out what to do with it. • What is the biggest mistake people make when harvest season begins?Not being prepared. Wendi recommends having your preservation equipment, jars, lids, and other supplies ready before the large harvest arrives. • What is a simple way to preserve tomatoes before the harvest gets really large?Wash the tomatoes, place them in bags, and freeze them whole. As the harvest grows, the frozen tomatoes can later be taken out and canned. • Why does tomato canning require added acid?The discussion explains that modern tomato varieties may not be acidic enough for safe water-bath canning without additional acid. Lemon juice is discussed as a way to increase acidity when canning tomatoes. • What is the difference between water-bath and pressure canning?Water-bath canning uses boiling water and is intended for sufficiently acidic foods. Pressure canning reaches temperatures above the boiling point of water and is used for lower-acid foods such as meats and vegetables. • What can you do with tomato water from a steam juicer?Instead of throwing it away, Wendi cans tomato water and uses it in stews, goulash, chili, and for cooking pasta. • What are some ways to use tomato powder?Dehydrated tomatoes can be blended into powder and used to thicken spaghetti sauce, flavor broths, add to roasts, make tomato paste or sauce, create spice blends, and make tomato soup. • How can you preserve a large zucchini harvest?Zucchini can be shredded, have its excess water removed, and frozen. It can also be made into relish or pickles, fritters, bread, and even a lasagna using sliced zucchini instead of pasta. • What is the larger lesson behind food preservation?Preparedness can bring peace and help people live above fear. Whether facing an emergency or simply an overwhelming garden harvest, preparation makes it possible to respond confidently and joyfully. Episode HighlightsThe harvest mindset starts before you have 50 pounds of tomatoes or zucchini.Freeze smaller tomato harvests as they arrive, then process them later when the volume increases.Being prepared means having jars, lids, equipment, and a preservation plan ready ahead of time.Preserve tomatoes simply by canning them as pure tomato sauce and adding herbs and spices later when cooking.Steam juicing can separate tomato juice from the solids, creating useful tomato water and concentrated tomato material.Dehydrated tomatoes can become tomato powder with dozens of potential uses.Zucchini can become relish, pickles, fritters, frozen shreds, or even pasta-free lasagna.Preparedness isn't about fear—it can create peace, self-reliance, and joy in abundance. Calls to Action & ResourcesAzure Standard — azurestandard.comHomesteading Made Simple / Joyfully Prepared Podcast — Search for “Homesteading Made Simple” or “Joyfully Prepared”Homesteading Made Simple on YouTube — Search for “Homesteading Made Simple”Urban Farm Podcast — Listen to the Urban Farm Podcast for more conversations about growing food, local food economies, and self-reliance.Grow your own food — Visit your local farmers market, grow herbs and vegetables, and find ways to participate in your local food economyContent AdvisoryFood preservation safety is discussed, including water-bath and pressure canning. The guests strongly recommend following prescribed, tested canning recipes and established safety guidelines rather than using unverified preservation methods. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/1001 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.
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  1000: The Richest Payment You'll Never Deposit 07.08.2026 36хв

  What 1,000 Conversations Taught Me About Real WealthIn this milestone 1,000th episode, Greg Peterson reflects on more than 50 years as an entrepreneur, 34 years of building regenerative food systems, and nearly 11 years of consistently publishing The Urban Farm Podcast. Rather than measuring success solely in dollars, he explores the deeper forms of wealth created through knowledge, community, resilience, and food sovereignty. Through stories of listeners whose lives were transformed by growing food, Greg makes the case that every garden, fruit tree, and saved seed becomes part of the infrastructure for a stronger local food economy. Our Guest: “What if there was a garden and fruit tree in every yard?” This is a question that Greg ponders every day. For over 32 years he created of one of Phoenix's first environmental showcase homes for urban farming. The 1/4-acre yard featured a primarily edible landscape with over 80 fruit trees, rainwater and greywater harvesting, solar applications, and extensive use of reclaimed and recycled building materials. What we now call an Old Growth Food Forest. He is the co-founder of Great American Seed Up an educational organization designed to energize local seeds. He is also the founder of UrbanFarm.org and the host of The Urban Farm Podcast that has 1000 episodes and over 5 million listens. The podcast is designed to help fulfill Greg’s passion of spreading the word about growing your own food and sharing new and seasoned gardeners epic stories.Key Topics & EntitiesThe Urban Farm Podcast's 1,000-episode milestoneLocal food economy as community infrastructureRegenerative agriculture and permacultureFood sovereignty and household resilienceUrban Farm Phoenix food forestAsheville food forest projectFruit tree education for desert climatesSeed saving as community infrastructureBuilding knowledge archives through podcastingEntrepreneurial purpose beyond financial successCommunity gardens and food accessParallel food systems and resilienceConsistency as a long-term investmentTransforming the global food system one backyard at a timeKey Questions AnsweredWhy does Greg believe he was "paid twice" without receiving money?He describes receiving recognition from ChatGPT for the long-term impact of the podcast and a handwritten letter with saved seeds from a listener who started a community garden at a Chicago homeless shelter. Both affirmed that meaningful work creates value beyond financial income. What is a local food economy?A local food economy is more than farmers markets. It is the infrastructure that enables communities to produce, preserve, share, and distribute food locally, making them less dependent on fragile global supply chains. Why is growing food an act of resilience?Every garden, fruit tree, and saved seed strengthens local knowledge, increases food security, and builds community resilience against disruptions in centralized food systems. Why has consistency mattered more than revenue?Publishing every Friday for nearly 11 years created a searchable teaching archive that continues helping new listeners long after each episode was released. Greg argues that knowledge compounds just like healthy ecosystems do. What does Greg mean by "payment in multiple currencies"?He defines wealth as the accumulation of knowledge, confidence, relationships, healthier communities, seed saving, and transformed lives—not simply financial profit. How can anyone begin participating in a local food economy?Start small by growing one plant, planting a fruit tree, joining a community garden, learning seed saving, visiting farmers markets, and sharing knowledge with others. Every action strengthens the larger network. Episode HighlightsGreg reflects on reaching 1,000 podcast episodes and the unexpected recognition that confirmed the long-term impact of his work.A listener's community garden at a Chicago homeless shelter demonstrates how knowledge creates lasting change beyond the original conversation.The Urban Farm in Phoenix serves as a decades-long proof of concept for regenerative food production in the desert.Local food economies are built through relationships, education, and community infrastructure—not simply food sales.Showing up consistently for nearly 11 years transformed individual podcast episodes into a permanent knowledge archive.Every saved seed, backyard garden, and farmers market vendor contributes to resilient parallel food systems.Real wealth includes confidence, skills, community, and the ability to feed yourself and others.Greg challenges listeners to become active participants in rebuilding local food systems by simply growing something. ResourcesListen to the Urban Farm Podcast — Search the archive of 1,000+ episodes for practical gardening, permaculture, fruit tree, and food system education. UrbanFarmPodcast.comGrow Something — Start with one tomato, herb, or fruit tree and experience your first harvest.Save Seeds — Learn to preserve and share locally adapted seeds for future generations. GreatAmericanSeedUp.orgSupport Your Local Food Economy — Visit farmers markets, community gardens, and local growers.Share What You Learn — Teach someone else to grow food and help expand the network of local resilience. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/1000 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.
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  999: Tales with Taylor interviews Greg Peterson 31.07.2026 47хв

  Growing Food, Building Abundance, and Working with NatureIn a unique twist, Greg is interviewed by Taylor Luke of the Tales with Tayler Podcast. In this Episode Greg Peterson shares the philosophy and practical systems that have guided more than four decades of growing food in the desert and beyond. From creating an old-growth food forest in Phoenix to building local seed resilience through the Great American Seed Up, he explains how anyone can begin producing food at home. The conversation explores permaculture, fruit trees, seed saving, local food economies, and why understanding where food comes from is one of the most important skills of our time.I've spent a lot of time thinking about what I was going to do for my 1000th episode of the Farm podcast. And was recently interviewed by Tayler Wellman of tales with Tayler. After listening to the episode, I thought it would be a great jumping off point for my 1000th narrative episode. This tells some of my story and she did a really great job with the interview so I asked and she said yes, play it on your podcast. This will give you two opportunities, first to experience a new podcast and second to hear some of my backstory leading into the next 1000 episodes. Enjoy!Our Guest: Taylor hosts "Tales With Taylor," a spirited interview podcast where successful entrepreneurs and business owners share their most captivating stories from childhood to future goals. Each episode blends life-changing advice, nostalgic reflections, and playful humor, as guests open up about the best advice they've ever received, the lessons they wish they'd known sooner, and the legacy they hope to leave behind. Part business wisdom, part storytelling adventure, Tales With Taylor offers a genuine, personal connection to the highs, lows, and hard-won insights of inspiring people in the business world.Taylor is the owner and operator of Financial Potion, a video marketing company based in Mesa, Arizona. Taylor helps businesses and organizations make swift, lasting impressions through tailor-made video marketing, personally guiding every step from scriptwriting to production, editing, and video SEO. Clients consistently praise the process as stress-free and genuinely enjoyable.Key TopicsGreg PetersonUrban FarmUrban Farm PodcastPermacultureFood forestsFruit trees and perennial food productionThe Great American Seed UpSeed saving and home seed banksLocal food economiesDesert gardeningAsheville, North CarolinaTower GardensFarmers marketsRegenerative systemsKey Questions AnsweredWhat was Greg Peterson's favorite harvest?His favorite harvest is food that returns naturally year after year without replanting. Self-seeding crops like basil, parsley, cilantro, kale, nasturtiums, and sweet potatoes transformed his Phoenix property into an old-growth food forest that largely cared for itself.Why are fruit trees such an important investment?Fruit trees are planted once and can provide fresh food for decades. Greg shares stories of century-old citrus trees and explains why fruit trees offer one of the highest long-term returns for home gardeners.What is permaculture?Permaculture is the art and science of working with nature instead of against it. Greg explains how designing landscapes that mimic natural ecosystems creates resilient, productive gardens with less work over time.Why should every household maintain a seed bank?Seeds are the foundation of food security. Greg explains how storing seeds at home strengthens local resilience and inspired the creation of the Great American Seed Up, helping thousands of people build personal seed reserves.Do seeds really expire?Not necessarily. Most expiration dates reflect packaging regulations rather than biological limits. When stored cool, dark, and dry, many seeds remain viable for years—even decades.How can beginners successfully start growing food?Start small with crops you already enjoy eating. Herbs like basil are inexpensive, productive, and easy to grow—even on a sunny windowsill.What if someone doesn't have a yard?Greg recommends Tower Gardens, container gardening, windowsill herbs, and visiting local farmers markets. Food production is possible even in apartments and condos.Why is understanding our food system so important?Knowing where food comes from reconnects people with healthier eating, stronger local economies, and more resilient communities. Growing even a small amount of food changes the way people think about nutrition and sustainability.How can individuals help address climate change?Focus on regenerative practices that work with nature. Growing food, improving soil, supporting local farmers, and creating resilient food systems are practical actions anyone can take.Which book most influenced Greg's thinking?Ishmael by Daniel Quinn profoundly shaped Greg's worldview by challenging assumptions about humanity's relationship with nature and inspiring his lifelong mission of transforming food systems.Episode HighlightsGreg explains how self-seeding plants transformed his yard into an old-growth food forest that produces food with minimal maintenance.Fruit trees are presented as one of the easiest long-term investments for home food production.The story behind the creation of the Great American Seed Up and its mission to build community seed resilience.Why seeds stored properly can remain viable for decades despite printed expiration dates.Lessons learned growing food in both the Arizona desert and the mountains of North Carolina.How Tower Gardens make food production possible for apartment and condo dwellers.The philosophy that nature is regenerative while most human systems are degenerative—and why that must change.Greg's lifelong mission: helping people understand where their food comes from by inspiring them to grow even a small portion themselves.Calls to Action & ResourcesUrban Farm — https://urbanfarm.orgUrban Farm Podcast — https://urbanfarmpodcast.comGreat American Seed Up — https://greatamericanseedup.orgFruit Trees Program — https://fruittrees.orgFree Desert Planting Calendar — https://plantingcalendar.orgLearn about Permaculture — Explore local Permaculture Design Courses (PDCs) at Permaculture.netVisit Your Local Farmers Market — Meet local growers and buy seasonal food directly.Read: Ishmael by Daniel QuinnTales with Taylor Podcast on podcast platforms and HERE on YouTubeTales with Taylor Website - https://taleswithtaylor.comVisit www.urbanfarm.org/999 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.
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  998: Water Harvesting Beyond the Basics with Don Titmus 28.07.2026 34хв

  A Rosie On The House ReplayIn this episode we explore the concept of wicking bed gardens, hosted by Romey Romero & Farmer Greg, our guest is Don Titmus where we find that Water harvesting is about far more than capturing rain, it is a foundation for resilient landscapes, healthier soils, and regenerative living. Greg Peterson welcomes longtime permaculture educator Don Titmus to share the evolution of his Mesa, Arizona property, beeOasis, and the lessons he's learned from decades of designing landscapes that work with nature instead of against it. Together they explore permaculture principles, rainwater harvesting, biodiversity, and how small design choices can create thriving ecosystems in urban environments.Key TopicsWater harvesting and passive rainwater collectionPermaculture design principlesDon TitmusGreg PetersonbeeOasis (Mesa, Arizona)Urban FarmPhoenix Permaculture GuildPermaculture Design Course (PDC)Pollinator habitat creationComposting systemsTop-bar beekeepingBiodiversity in urban landscapesLandscape design for resilienceLong-term ecological thinkingQuestionsHow did beeOasis get its name?Don explains that after attending a top-bar beekeeping class, he realized his property naturally provided everything bees need—water, flowers, trees, pollen, nectar, and shelter—making it a true oasis for pollinators.Why did Don stop keeping bees?Although his landscape was ideal for bees, the hive's location near his compost system made routine compost maintenance difficult because the bees aggressively defended their territory. He ultimately donated the hives while continuing to maintain the property as pollinator habitat.How did Greg and Don first connect?The two met shortly after Don completed his first Permaculture Design Course in the early 2000s during an event at Greg's Urban Farm. Their shared passion for regenerative design led to years of collaboration through the Phoenix Permaculture Guild.What role did the Phoenix Permaculture Guild play?The guild became a hub for education, demonstrations, public tours, and community outreach, helping spread knowledge about rainwater harvesting, graywater systems, and sustainable landscape design.Why is naming a property important?Greg encouraged people to name their properties as a way to establish identity, purpose, and connection to the land. Don shares how this simple suggestion helped shape the identity of beeOasis.What makes a landscape resilient?A resilient landscape integrates water harvesting, healthy soils, diverse plantings, pollinator habitat, and thoughtful design that works with natural systems instead of relying on constant inputs.Episode HighlightsGreg introduces longtime permaculture educator Don Titmus and their decades-long friendship through the Arizona permaculture community.Don shares the story behind creating and naming beeOasis.The conversation explores how pollinator-friendly landscapes support both wildlife and resilient gardens.Don recounts his experience as a beekeeper and why he ultimately chose to remove the hives while preserving bee habitat.Greg reflects on the early years of the Phoenix Permaculture Guild and its influence on water harvesting education.The discussion highlights how permaculture principles can transform ordinary urban properties into thriving ecosystems.Listeners hear practical examples of designing landscapes that capture water naturally and build long-term resilience.Calls to Action & ResourcesLearn more about Urban Farm — https://UrbanFarm.orgExplore permaculture education and courses — https://UrbanFarm.orgVisit beeOasis during public tours — Check local announcements for tour opportunities.Community — Connect with local permaculture organizations and water harvesting groups to learn hands-on techniques.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/998 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.
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  997: Rebuilding Local Food Systems Through Community Food Hubs 24.07.2026 29хв

  With Graham Duvall of Terramonga Food HubIn this Episode Graham Duvall shares his 15-year journey building resilient regional food systems in western North Carolina through Mother Earth Food and its evolution into Terramonga Hub. He explains how food hubs strengthen local agriculture by connecting farmers with consumers, creating reliable market access, and improving food security. The conversation explores the realities of entrepreneurship, the collapse and rebirth of a mission-driven business, and why resilient local food economies are essential for thriving communities. Graham also reflects on personal growth, mindfulness, and the importance of staying committed to meaningful work despite repeated setbacks.Our Guest: Graham is the co-founder of Mother Earth Foods and warehouse manager at Terramonga Hub in Asheville, North Carolina. He is a longtime advocate for resilient regional food systems, helping connect local farms, food artisans, and communities through innovative food distribution and aggregation networks. His work supports sustainable agriculture, strengthens western North Carolina local food economy, and expands access to fresh, responsibly produced food.Key TopicsGraham DuvallTerramonga HubMother Earth FoodRegional food hubsLocal food systemsFood sovereigntyWestern North Carolina agricultureFarmers marketsCommunity Supported Agriculture (CSA)Healthy Opportunities Pilot (HOP) ProgramRegenerative agricultureLocal food distributionDaniel Quinn's IshmaelMichael Pollan's How to Change Your MindKey Questions AnsweredWhat is a food hub?A food hub is a flexible community-based organization that aggregates, stores, markets, and distributes products from local farms while creating dependable outlets for producers and increasing access to fresh local food.Why are food hubs becoming increasingly important?They help rebuild regional food resilience, support small farmers, shorten supply chains, strengthen local economies, and improve food security in an increasingly centralized food system.Why do farmers need food hubs?Many farmers can grow enough food but struggle to find reliable markets. Food hubs solve this by connecting producers with consumers, institutions, and community organizations.Why is western North Carolina well suited for local food systems?The region combines a rich agricultural history, strong farmers market culture, experienced growers, fertile farmland, and community support for local agriculture.How does Terra Monga Hub serve customers?Customers order online each week from a curated selection of seasonal produce, meats, dairy, artisan foods, and pantry items sourced primarily from local and regional farms and delivered directly to their homes.What happened to Mother Earth Food?After 14 years of operation and multiple financial challenges, Mother Earth Food closed and transitioned into Terra Monga Hub through a partnership with Terra Monga Farm, allowing the mission to continue under a new structure.What lessons come from entrepreneurial failure?Business setbacks can become opportunities when the mission remains intact. Adaptability, persistence, and strong partnerships often create the path forward.How can individuals help transform the food system?Start locally by growing food, supporting nearby farmers, shopping at farmers markets, and investing in community food systems where you live.Episode HighlightsGraham explains how food hubs create reliable market access for local farmers while strengthening community resilience.The evolution of Mother Earth Food into Terra Monga Hub demonstrates how mission-driven businesses can adapt after financial hardship.Western North Carolina's farming heritage provides fertile ground for rebuilding regional food systems.Graham shares how the Healthy Opportunities Pilot Program delivered nutritious food to hundreds of food-insecure families.Entrepreneurship in local food requires resilience through repeated cycles of growth, contraction, and reinvention.Personal development, mindfulness, and intentional self-reflection helped Graham maintain clarity during difficult seasons.Both Graham and Greg discuss how Daniel Quinn's Ishmael fundamentally changed their understanding of humanity's relationship with food and nature.The conversation concludes with a reminder that meaningful change begins within our homes and local communities.ResourcesLearn about Terramonga Hub — https://terramongahub.comContact Graham Duvall — [email protected] your local farmers market and support regional food producers.Start a home garden to reconnect with your food source.Read: Ishmael by Daniel QuinnRead: How to Change Your Mind by Michael PollanVisit www.urbanfarm.org/Terramonga 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.
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  996: The Plant Nutrition Revolution Has Arrived 17.07.2026 46хв

  How we are finally figuring out Plant nutrition with Landen SchaellingIn this month's Seed Chat, Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman welcome Landen Schaelling of Sacred Soil Solutions to explore the emerging science of rhizophagy, the process by which plants consume microbes for nutrition. The conversation examines how endophytes, fermentation, compost, and seed saving may work together to improve plant health, resilience, and flavor. They also discuss practical ways gardeners can introduce beneficial microbes into their gardens while highlighting the rapidly evolving research that is reshaping our understanding of soil biology and plant nutrition.Our Guests: Landen Schaelling is the founder of Sacred Soil Solutions. He is focused on bringing optimal and approachable microbe inputs to gardeners and homesteaders, while also teaching farmers in the American West how to implement soil building solutions at scale.And Bill McDorman has committed his life to community-based seed stewardship. In 1984, he started Seeds Trust High Altitude Gardens, a bioregional mail order seed company that he ran for 28 years. He authored the book Basic Seed Saving in 1994, and in 2010 Bill and his wife, Belle Starr, founded Seed School.Key TopicsRhizophagy (root-eating process)Endophytes and plant microbiomesSoil microbiologySeed saving and local adaptationHorizontal gene transferFermentation for microbial cultivationCompost and fungal soil biologyMicrobe Master MixEffective Microorganisms (EM/EM1)Dr. James F. WhiteJohn Kempf's Plant Health PyramidDr. Christine JonesBiochar and Terra PretaSacred Soil SolutionsKey Questions AnsweredWhat is rhizophagy?Rhizophagy is the process by which plants absorb living microbes through their root tips, consume many of them for nutrition, and release others back into the soil, creating a dynamic relationship between plants and soil biology.What are endophytes?Endophytes are beneficial bacteria and fungi that live inside plant tissues without causing disease. They become part of the plant's internal microbiome and contribute to nutrient cycling, resilience, and overall plant health.Why is this research changing how we understand plant nutrition?Emerging research suggests healthy plants obtain much of their nutrition by consuming living microbes rather than relying solely on dissolved minerals in the soil, expanding traditional models of plant nutrition.Why are locally saved seeds so valuable?Seeds saved in a local environment gradually adapt genetically to regional growing conditions. Local microbial communities appear to undergo similar adaptation, potentially increasing plant vigor over time.How can gardeners introduce beneficial microbes?Gardeners can inoculate seeds, apply microbial solutions as foliar sprays, drench transplant roots, build high-quality compost, and encourage living soil ecosystems through mulch and cover crops.Why are microbial fermentations useful?Fermentation allows gardeners to rapidly multiply beneficial microorganisms that can be applied efficiently to seeds, soil, and foliage while adapting to local growing conditions.Does treating seeds with microbes improve plant performance?According to Landen Schaelling's experience, treated seeds often produce stronger root systems, healthier foliage, improved nutrient uptake, greater vigor, and enhanced flavor.Is feeding the plant different from feeding the soil?The discussion suggests both are important, but directly supporting plant microbiology may allow healthier plants to build better soil through root exudates and microbial partnerships.How does drought affect soil microbes?Dry soils reduce microbial activity. Maintaining mulch and consistent soil moisture helps preserve beneficial microbial populations.Can microbial communities adapt to new environments?Yes. Through horizontal gene transfer and rapid reproduction, microbial populations can adapt to local conditions much faster than plants themselves.Episode HighlightsGreg celebrates the Urban Farm Podcast approaching its 1,000th episode.Bill McDorman introduces the emerging science of rhizophagy and why it has changed his perspective on gardening.Landen explains how plants consume microbes through root tips rather than relying solely on dissolved nutrients.The conversation explores how endophytes become part of a plant's internal immune and digestive systems.Bill shares dramatic improvements after using microbial treatments on greens grown in sandy soil.The panel discusses microbial fermentations as an accessible alternative to intensive compost production.Audience questions cover drought, raised beds, honey versus molasses, wheat adaptation, and sourcing microbial inoculants.The episode concludes with a discussion about nature's intelligence, seed adaptation, and the intriguing tradition of placing seeds in one's mouth before planting.Calls to Action & ResourcesAttend future live Seed Chats — https://seedchat.orgListen to previous Seed Chats — https://urbanfarmpodcast.comLearn about Sacred Soil Solutions — Contact Landen Schaelling directly for information on Microbe Master Mix and educational resources. Instagram: @sacredsoilsolutionsFacebook: Landen SchaellingEmail: [email protected] Recommended ResearchDr. James F. White — Rhizophagy Cycle researchJohn Kempf — Plant Health PyramidDr. Christine Jones — Soil carbon and regenerative agricultureEffective Microorganisms (EM/EM1) fermentation methodsVisit www.urbanfarm.org/996 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.
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  995: How Illegal Street-Side Water Harvesting Sparked Community Transformation 10.07.2026 52хв

  with Brad Lancaster & Andrew MillisonIn this Episode - What begins as a simple effort to redirect stormwater becomes a powerful story of ecological restoration, community organizing, and policy change. Brad Lancaster and Andrew Millison discuss how a grassroots, initially "pre-legal" water harvesting project transformed neighborhoods in Tucson, inspired new city policies, and is now influencing communities across the Southwest. They explore how small interventions can create lasting cultural shifts, why regenerative change requires generations of stewardship, and how anyone can become a catalyst for positive change in their own community.Our Guests: Brad is the author of the books Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond, the creator of HarvestingRainwater.com, and co-founder of Neighborhood Foresters.org. These converge through his neighborhood’s rain-irrigated native food forestry efforts in downtown Tucson, AZ. Their work has planted over 1,800 native food-bearing trees and thousands of multi-use understory plants solely watered by the 1.25 million gallons of stormwater they planted in streetside- and in-street rain gardens.  Andrew Millison is an educator and founder of Oregon State University’s Permaculture Design program. He has travelled the Earth documenting impactful stories of land regeneration on his popular YouTube channel, which boasts over 100 million video views. In his 30-year career in Permaculture, he has designed and consulted on numerous projects throughout the world.Key TopicsStreet-side water harvestingBrad LancasterAndrew MillisonTucson neighborhood restorationCommunity-led ecological designRainwater harvestingUrban heat island mitigationNative food forestsWater policy reformRegenerative community developmentGreen infrastructureEarth Repair FundNeighborhood stewardshipPermaculture designKey Questions AnsweredHow did an illegal curb cut become a model for public policy?A neighborhood experiment redirecting street runoff into planted basins demonstrated measurable environmental and community benefits. Those results convinced city officials to legalize and eventually promote the practice, creating a model now spreading to other cities.What problems does street-side water harvesting solve?It reduces flooding, cools neighborhoods, slows traffic, supports native ecosystems, grows food, increases biodiversity, improves walkability, and strengthens neighborhood relationships—all using rainwater that previously became waste.Why is community participation more important than infrastructure?Infrastructure creates opportunity, but long-term success depends on residents becoming active stewards. Cultural change happens when people continually care for and improve the systems they've created together.How has Tucson changed over the past 30 years?What was once a hot, barren streetscape has become a shaded urban forest filled with native plants, birds, pedestrians, cyclists, and community gathering spaces.Why focus on native plants?Native species require less irrigation, survive harsh conditions, support local wildlife, and create resilient landscapes that continue thriving even when maintenance decreases.What does "pre-legal" mean?Rather than breaking rules for the sake of rebellion, Brad describes testing practical solutions before regulations existed. Successful demonstrations then became the basis for changing policy.How do you convince government agencies to support innovation?By solving their existing problems—flooding, crime, heat, traffic, maintenance costs—and collaborating with receptive allies inside government rather than making demands.When does a project become a cultural movement?When it measurably improves people's daily lives, inspires widespread participation, changes public policy, and motivates others to adapt the ideas within their own communities.Why did Andrew Millison choose to document this story?Because it represents a proven, decades-long example of regenerative change that others can replicate, offering practical hope instead of theoretical solutions.What mindset shift do the speakers hope listeners experience?To begin seeing neighborhoods as living watersheds full of opportunities for regeneration, rather than fixed infrastructure that cannot be improved.Episode HighlightsA neighborhood experiment in harvesting street runoff evolved into city-approved infrastructure and inspired policy changes beyond Tucson.Water harvesting became a catalyst for cooling neighborhoods, restoring wildlife habitat, calming traffic, and building stronger communities.Native food forests transformed once-barren public rights-of-way into productive community commons.Brad Lancaster explains how changing policy requires collaboration, persistence, and demonstrating successful models.Andrew Millison shares why documenting proven regenerative projects creates hope and motivates action.The discussion explores how infrastructure can become a tool for cultural transformation.Both guests emphasize that regenerative work is lifelong, requiring continual community participation rather than one-time projects.Listeners are encouraged to identify their own community's "acupuncture point"—the small intervention capable of creating widespread positive change.ResourcesWatch the documentaryFundraising documentary on Brad Lancaster's Tucson water harvesting projectLearn Rainwater HarvestingHarvestingRainwater.comSupport the ProjectEarth Repair Fund crowdfunding campaignExplore Native Urban ForestryNeighborhoodForesters.orgLearn PermacultureOregon State University Permaculture ProgramBooksRainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond by Brad LancasterYouTubeAndrew MillisonBrad LancasterPodcast Show Notes Visit www.urbanfarm.org/TucsonWaterHarvesting 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.
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  994: Diving Deeper on episode 993 with Farmer Greg 07.07.2026 10хв

  In this special commentary episode, Farmer Greg reflects on his conversation with Shelby Maldonado and Leeza Chen of the Appalachian Grower Seed Collective. He explores how the Southeast lost much of its regional seed-growing infrastructure, why COVID-19 exposed the fragility of modern seed supply chains, and what it takes to rebuild resilient, locally adapted seed systems. Greg highlights the importance of bioregional seed stewardship, community collaboration, and becoming a "seed ancestor" by saving and sharing seeds. The episode is both a call to action and a vision for strengthening local food security through regional seed sovereignty.Key TopicsAppalachian Grower Seed CollectiveSeed sovereignty and regional resilienceCOVID-19 seed shortagesLocal seed production infrastructureSeed saving traditionsBioregional seed adaptationSouthern heirloom varietiesCommunity seed cooperativesClimate resilience in agricultureShared seed processing equipmentUtopian Seed ProjectLocal food securitySeed stewardshipBecoming a seed ancestorKey Questions AnsweredWhy did the Southeast largely stop producing its own seeds?Over time, seed production became concentrated in other regions and large commercial seed companies. Farmers shifted from saving seeds to purchasing them annually, causing local seed knowledge and infrastructure to fade.What did the COVID-19 pandemic reveal about the seed supply chain?When seed inventories sold out during the pandemic, many growers realized they were dependent on distant suppliers and vulnerable to disruptions beyond their control.Why are locally adapted seeds so valuable?Seeds selected over multiple seasons in the same region naturally adapt to local soils, climate, pests, and weather patterns, often outperforming varieties developed elsewhere.What is bioregional seed adaptation?Bioregional adaptation is the ongoing process of selecting and saving seeds that thrive under local growing conditions, creating increasingly resilient crops over successive generations.How did the Appalachian Grower Seed Collective get started?The collective began with ten farmers, shared seed-cleaning equipment housed in a mobile trailer, grant funding, and a year dedicated to building trust before launching seed production.Why does the collective only steward seeds grown locally for at least three years?Three growing seasons provide enough time for varieties to begin adapting to regional conditions, strengthening their long-term resilience and performance.How can individual gardeners begin preserving seed diversity?Anyone can save seeds from plants they love, share them with neighbors, and begin creating a regional seed legacy—even without large-scale infrastructure.Why should every region develop a seed collective?Regional seed collectives create local agricultural resilience, preserve genetic diversity, strengthen community relationships, and provide insurance when commercial supply chains fail.Episode HighlightsCOVID-19 exposed how dependent many local farmers are on distant seed suppliers.Modern local food systems are only as resilient as their seed sources.Seed saving knowledge disappeared gradually as commercial seed purchasing became the norm.Trust-building among growers proved just as important as equipment or funding.Every growing season becomes a selection event that strengthens locally adapted genetics.Gardeners can become the first "seed ancestor" in a new regional seed lineage.Seed collectives create practical infrastructure that complements—not replaces—the commercial seed industry.Building resilient food systems begins with communities stewarding their own seeds.Calls to Action & ResourcesListen to Episode 993 - https://urbanfarm.org/seedcollectiveLearn about the Appalachian Grower Seed Collective - https://utopianseed.org/storeConnect with the Urban Farm Podcast - https://urbanfarm.orgEmail Farmer Greg - [email protected] in starting a seed collective?Reach out to the Appalachian Grower Seed Collective to learn from their experience and begin building seed resilience in your own region. [email protected] www.urbanfarm.org/993 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.
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  993: Building Regional Seed Sovereignty Through Community 03.07.2026 45хв

  The Appalachian Growers Seed Collective w/ Shelby Mandonado and Leeza ChenIn this Episode Shelby Mandonado and Leeza Chen share the story behind the Appalachian Growers Seed Collective, a collaborative network of farmers producing and stewarding locally adapted seeds for the Southern Appalachian region. They discuss why regional seed production matters, how climate change makes local adaptation increasingly important, and how farmers can reclaim seed sovereignty by saving and sharing seeds. The conversation explores the practical realities of launching a seed collective, preserving heirloom varieties, and strengthening local food systems through collaboration rather than competition. It is an inspiring discussion about resilience, biodiversity, and the long-term power of community-grown seeds.Our Guests: Shelby is a farmer, organizer, and mother with a passion for collaborative models of community building based around our shared love of the land. And Leeza is a seed farmer near Asheville, North Carolina. She is inspired by the way seeds are both deeply personal and powerfully political, often leaning on them as a lens to understand our connection to the land, culture, and sovereignty.Key TopicsAppalachian Growers Seed CollectiveShelby MandonadoLeeza ChenSouthern Appalachian seed stewardshipBioregional seed adaptationSeed sovereigntyLocal food systemsCommunity-based seed productionSeed farmingClimate resilience in agricultureUtopian Seed ProjectHeirloom and heritage crop preservationFarmer collaboration and shared equipmentSeed saving as cultural preservationKey Questions AnsweredWhat is the Appalachian Growers Seed Collective?A regional network of approximately ten farmers who collaboratively grow, steward, package, and sell locally adapted seed varieties while sharing equipment, knowledge, and resources.Why are locally adapted seeds so important?Seeds grown and selected in a specific region become better adapted to local climate, weather patterns, soils, pests, and diseases, improving reliability for future growers.What is a seed farmer?A seed farmer allows crops to complete their full life cycle, harvesting mature seed instead of edible produce, then cleaning, testing, and packaging seed for future planting.Why has on-farm seed saving declined?Commercial seed industry consolidation has led many growers to purchase seed annually rather than saving their own, reducing regional adaptation and local seed resilience.How did the COVID-19 pandemic influence the collective?Seed shortages during the pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the food system and highlighted the need for local seed production and regional seed independence.How was the collective started?The founders secured a grant, purchased shared seed-processing equipment, built a mobile processing trailer, and spent significant time developing trust, shared values, and collaborative systems before expanding production.What makes Southern Appalachian seed production unique?The region's humid climate presents challenges rarely addressed by traditional seed-saving literature, requiring local experimentation and farmer-to-farmer learning.How can others start a regional seed collective?Begin with trusted growers, define shared values and goals, develop a complementary seed collection, share resources, and grow at the "speed of trust."How does the Utopian Seed Project support the collective?The nonprofit evaluates diverse crop varieties through research and field trials, then shares promising selections with the collective for regional seed production and distribution.What role does seed stewardship play in climate resilience?Saving seed from plants that survive local stresses gradually builds populations better adapted to changing environmental conditions.Can someone without a farming heritage become a seed steward?Absolutely. Every seed saver can become the first generation of a new seed lineage by preserving, sharing, and passing seeds to future growers.Episode HighlightsThe collective includes about ten farmers working together to grow, process, and market locally adapted seeds.Seeds are selected only after proving themselves through multiple growing seasons in Southern Appalachian conditions.COVID-19 seed shortages revealed how dependent local food systems are on distant commercial seed suppliers.Shared equipment, including a mobile seed-processing trailer, allows small farmers to access professional seed-cleaning tools.Trust-building, shared meals, and collaborative decision-making are considered just as important as technical farming skills.Climate change makes regional seed adaptation increasingly valuable for future food security.Every heirloom seed carries generations of cultural history, family traditions, and local knowledge.Anyone can become the first ancestor in a new seed-saving tradition by simply beginning to save and share seed.ResourcesAppalachian Growers Seed Collective Store — https://utopianseed.org/storeUtopian Seed Project — https://utopianseed.orgReal Seeds ZigZag Winnower Plans — https://www.realseeds.co.ukConnect with Leeza Chen — [email protected] Book - The Seed Garden by Jared ZystroFollow Utopian Seed Project — Instagram, Facebook, and the Utopian Seed Project mailing list for breeding trials, research, and seed releases.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/SeedCollective 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.
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  992: How Microbes Feed Healthy Plants w/ Landen Schaelling 26.06.2026 50хв

  In this Episode we have Landen Schaelling, founder of Sacred Soil Solutions, sharing how healthy soil biology transforms plant health from the ground up. Drawing on years of homesteading, regenerative soil research, and microscopy, he explains why bacteria, fungi, and other microbes are the true engine behind thriving gardens and farms. The conversation explores the science of rhizophagy, microbial ferments, compost quality, and practical strategies that gardeners and farmers can immediately implement to build healthier, more resilient soil. Landen also discusses how understanding living soil can reduce fertilizer inputs, improve plant immunity, and restore natural ecological balance.Our Guest: Landen Schaelling is the founder of Sacred Soil Solutions. He is focused on bringing optimal and approachable microbial inputs to gardeners and homesteaders, while also teaching farmers in the American West how to implement soil-building solutions at scale. Landen has been homesteading through a permaculture lens in Northern Arizona for over a decade. In the last couple of years, he has devoted his focus to restoring holistic soil microbiology and using practical microscope work to verify and guide that process.Key TopicsLiving soil biologySoil microbiomeRhizophagy (plant root feeding)Compost quality and fungal dominanceSoil microscopySymbiotic Antioxidative Microbes (SAM)Microbial fermentsCompost extracts vs. compost teasSoil pH and alkalinityWater retention in arid climatesPlant Health PyramidComplete protein synthesis in plantsRegenerative agricultureHomesteading and permacultureKey Questions AnsweredWhat makes soil truly healthy?Healthy soil contains a balance of minerals, water, air space, organic matter, and abundant biological life. Understanding each site's history helps determine the best path toward regeneration.Why are microbes so important?Microbes drive nutrient cycling, improve plant nutrition, build soil structure, support water retention, and create resilient ecosystems that naturally suppress disease and pests.What is rhizophagy?Rhizophagy is the process by which plant roots actively absorb bacteria and yeast through root tips, consume them, and gain proteins, micronutrients, and growth-promoting compounds directly from living microbes.Why does compost sometimes perform better than fertilizer?High-quality compost delivers living biology rather than simply nutrients. Plants respond rapidly when beneficial microbes become available through compost or microbial ferments.What's the difference between compost tea and microbial ferments?Compost tea extracts microbes already living in compost, while microbial ferments grow stable populations of beneficial microbes that can be applied as foliar sprays or soil drenches.Why is soil history important?Past management practices—including flood irrigation, synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and previous crops—continue to influence soil biology, fertility, and plant performance years later.How can gardeners encourage healthier soil biology?Build mature compost, reduce unnecessary disturbance, increase carbon-rich materials, apply microbial ferments, mulch consistently, and maintain proper moisture.Can healthier soil reduce pests and diseases?Healthy plants with complete protein synthesis become naturally less attractive to many insect pests while beneficial microbes improve plant immune function against common diseases.How does soil microscopy help?Microscopy allows growers to directly observe microbial populations, assess compost quality, diagnose biological deficiencies, and monitor progress during soil restoration.What common mistake delayed Landen's success?Using feedlot cattle manure overloaded his soil with nitrates, producing vigorous foliage but poor fruit production and severe pest pressure, ultimately leading him to study soil biology more deeply.Episode HighlightsLanden left a traditional academic path after discovering permaculture and dedicated his life to regenerative homesteading.Healthy soil depends as much on living biology as it does on minerals and organic matter.Rhizophagy has changed how scientists understand plant nutrition, showing plants directly consume microbes.Compost quality depends more on microbial diversity than simply creating dark, finished organic matter.Acidic microbial ferments can help offset alkaline soils common throughout the American Southwest.Living microbes improve plant nutrition, reduce pest pressure, and strengthen natural disease resistance.Soil microscopy allows growers to verify biological activity instead of relying solely on assumptions.Taking action before knowing everything is often the fastest path to learning and improving soil health.ResourcesBook RecommendationRegenerative Soil by Matt PowersLearn MoreSacred Soil Solutions School (Skool community)Sacred Soil Solutions educational resources on microbial fermentsFollowFacebook: Landen SchaellingInstagram: Sacred Soil [email protected] www.urbanfarm.org/SacredSoil 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.
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  991: Homesteading, Is It Really The Life For Me w/ Aly Nickling-Riddle 19.06.2026 36хв

  In this Episode Aly Nickling-Riddle shares her journey from personal tragedy and corporate life to building a homestead in Northern Ontario. After leaving everything behind to travel in a vintage RV, she unexpectedly met her future husband, and together they pursued a simpler, more self-sufficient lifestyle. Aly discusses the realities of homesteading, the emotional and financial challenges many aspiring homesteaders underestimate, and the inspiration behind her book Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You? This conversation offers a practical roadmap for anyone considering a move toward greater self-reliance.Our Guest: Aly is a Canadian author, keynote speaker, McGill lecturer, and freelance journalist who brings a refreshingly honest perspective to modern homesteading and self-sufficient living. With a background in media, business, and more than a decade of professional writing experience, she helps people think carefully before making major lifestyle changes. Her book, Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?, encourages aspiring homesteaders to look beyond social media ideals and understand the real physical, financial, and emotional demands of rural life. Through workshops, lectures, and presentations, she focuses on practical planning, resilience, sustainability, and building realistic paths toward long-term self-reliance.Key TopicsAly RiddleRiddle Ridge HomesteadHomesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?Self-sufficiency and resilienceEmotional challenges of homesteadingFinancial planning before buying landCommunity and neighbor relationshipsRural versus urban lifestylesInfrastructure costs and land developmentPreparedness and disaster resilienceBuilding realistic homestead plansPersonal consultations for aspiring homesteadersHurricane Helene recovery lessonsThe Encyclopedia of Country Living by Carla EmeryKey Questions AnsweredWhy did Aly choose the homesteading lifestyle?After experiencing multiple personal tragedies and a divorce, Aly decided to rebuild her life from scratch. She left the corporate world, traveled in an RV, and eventually found a path toward a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.What inspired the book Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?Aly and her husband noticed many people leaving homesteading after only a couple of years because they entered the lifestyle with unrealistic expectations. The book was created to help people understand what they are truly signing up for before they buy land.What makes this book different from other homesteading books?Most homesteading books focus on skills and projects after purchasing land. Aly's book focuses on the planning, financial, emotional, and practical considerations that should happen years before purchasing property.What is the biggest misconception about homesteading?Many people believe homesteading is a slower, stress-free lifestyle. In reality, it replaces urban stresses with different challenges that require resilience, adaptability, and commitment.How does Aly define homesteading?Homesteading is any effort to become more self-sufficient and less dependent on systems that can fail. It can happen in rural settings, suburban backyards, or even urban apartments.What hidden costs surprise new homesteaders?Infrastructure expenses such as wells, septic systems, driveways, utilities, and ongoing maintenance are often underestimated. Many people also overestimate how quickly a homestead can generate income.Why is community important for homesteaders?Strong neighbor relationships provide support, skill sharing, trade opportunities, and resilience during emergencies. Community often determines long-term success more than individual effort.What lesson did Aly learn from a tornado striking her property?The experience reinforced that no amount of planning eliminates uncertainty. Gratitude, adaptability, and resilience become essential when nature disrupts carefully crafted plans.What drives Aly's work today?She is passionate about helping people move from dreaming about self-sufficiency to creating practical, realistic plans that can succeed over the long term.Episode HighlightsAly rebuilt her life after personal tragedy by leaving corporate life and traveling full-time in a vintage RV.She met her future husband on the very first day of a work-camping opportunity in Florida.Their homesteading journey required far more planning and time than they originally expected.Emotional resilience is often more important than practical skills for long-term success.Homesteading can be practiced anywhere, not just on large rural properties.New homesteaders frequently underestimate infrastructure and development costs.Community relationships can be as valuable as land, tools, and equipment.A tornado that dropped over 100 trees on Aly's property became a lesson in gratitude and resilience.Calls to Action & ResourcesBook — Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You? (Available through Amazon and local bookstores)Instagram — Riddle Ridge HomesteadFacebook — Riddle Ridge HomesteadConsulting Services — Personal planning consultations for new and aspiring homesteaders available through the website.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/RiddleRidge 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.
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  990: A Mesquite Treasure Trove - A Rosie Replay 16.06.2026 35хв

  Harvesting, Milling, and Cooking with Arizona’s Native SuperfoodIn this episode we explore mesquites as a desert food source, hosted by Romey Romero & Farmer Greg. This episodes guests are Peggy Sue Creekmore and Mike Clow and we explore one of the Sonoran Desert’s most abundant and overlooked food sources: mesquite beans. The conversation covers how to identify quality mesquite trees, harvest pods safely, dry them properly, and turn them into nutritious mesquite flour using a community hammer mill. Listeners learn why mesquite has been a staple food for centuries, how it compares to conventional flour, and how to transform this free local resource into delicious baked goods, drinks, and snacks. The episode also highlights educational workshops, harvesting walks, and community milling opportunities.Key Topics & EntitiesMesquite bean harvestingMesquite flour productionCommunity hammer mill projectNative desert food systemsPeggy Sue CreekmoreMike ClowFarmer Greg PetersonSonoran Desert edible plantsPalo verde beansCarob podsIronwood seedsAflatoxin preventionBruchid beetlesUrban Farm mesquite milling eventsKey Questions AnsweredWhy is mesquite considered a valuable food source?Mesquite pods are highly nutritious, naturally sweet, gluten-free, and rich in protein. Indigenous peoples and desert communities have relied on mesquite as a staple food across the Southwest and northern Mexico for centuries.Do all mesquite trees produce good-tasting pods?No. While all mesquite pods are technically edible, flavor varies significantly from tree to tree. Some are sweet and pleasant, while others can be chalky or have an unpleasant aftertaste. Tasting pods before harvesting is essential.What does mesquite flour taste like?Mesquite flour has a naturally sweet flavor often compared to graham crackers, caramel, or malt. Many recipes require little or no additional sugar because of the flour’s natural sweetness.When is mesquite harvesting season?Mesquite pods typically begin ripening in June, although weather and elevation can shift timing earlier or later. Pods should be fully tan, dry, and free of green coloration before harvesting.How should mesquite pods be harvested?Harvest pods directly from the tree rather than from the ground. Many harvesters use a tarp and gently shake or tap branches to collect ripe pods.Why shouldn't pods be collected from the ground?Ground-harvested pods can develop mold and aflatoxins, which may contaminate community milling equipment and reduce food safety.How can harvested pods be stored properly?Pods should be dried thoroughly in shallow boxes, baskets, dehydrators, ovens, or even a parked vehicle. Moisture is the primary cause of spoilage and milling problems.What is a mesquite hammer mill?A hammer mill is a specialized machine that pulverizes entire mesquite pods, including seeds and pod walls, into flour. Traditional grain mills cannot process mesquite effectively because its natural sugars gum up the machinery.What can be made with mesquite flour?Mesquite flour can be used in cookies, muffins, crepes, breads, energy balls, beverages, and other baked goods. It works particularly well in low-temperature baking and gluten-free recipes.What happens to the material that doesn't become flour?The coarse material, often called "chunky bits" or chaff, can be used to make tea, brewing mash, and other food products.Episode HighlightsMesquite flour is naturally sweet enough to reduce or eliminate added sugar in many recipes.Flavor quality varies dramatically between mesquite trees, making tasting an important step before harvesting.A mature mesquite tree can produce more than 100 pounds of pods in a season.Harvesters should only collect pods directly from the tree to prevent mold contamination.Proper drying is the single most important factor for successful milling.The Urban Farm community hammer mill converts harvested pods into food-grade flour.Mesquite flour is gluten-free and requires binders such as eggs, chia, or applesauce when baking.Desert trees such as palo verde, carob, ironwood, and mesquite offer significant edible resources often overlooked by modern food systems.Calls to Action & ResourcesMesquite Harvesting Walks — https://urbanfarm.org/mesquiteMesquite Milling Appointments — https://urbanfarm.org/mesquiteUrban Farm Educational Programs — https://urbanfarm.orgDesert Food Tree Guide — https://learn.desertkitchen.net/treesVisit www.UrbanFarm.org/990 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.