Gardening is a basic principle in self-reliance.  Composting is at the root of a healthy sustainable cycle where life is nourished.  I like to call this part of the cycle an engine, because it powers the garden from below.

This is a picture of the compost 'engine' I built at Fuerza Hernandez.  The Hernandez family is courageously fighting to save their home from Fraudclosure.  The back yard garden is a source of hope and a great way to keep things positive.

Stay free!  Stay Healthy!

Jason

Edible Food Forest in Philadelphia

Check out what sustainability looks like in Philadelphia.  Gardeners and activists working in community to transform vacant lots into Edible Food Forests.  I am so grateful that I've had this opportunity to travel the country and see these kinds of urban gardens.  Keep growing!

Jason

Good Earth in Chicago

As I make my way across the continent, I've been constantly on the look-out for good earth.  I found some here in Chicago.  With the mighty Sears Tower looming in the distance, urban sustainability demands creativity and provides a place for the imagination to grow in the cracks of the concrete jungle.  Wherever you are, plant seeds of freedom!

Jason

How to Start Seeds Indoors-Good Earth

How to Plant Potatoes-Food Not Lawns Style

How to Make Good Compost-Part 1

Planting Seeds Late Summer San Diego

Ok...it's mid-summer and your San Diego garden is hopefully blossoming and bearing the fruits of your spring planting. Now is a perfect time to ask...What seeds should we start for late summer planting? I suggest:

Pole Beans (straight in the garden in any open spot you have)

Corn (same, plant in bunches, because they pollinate and grow better in groups)

Squash (start indoors, and transplant in hills of dirt)

Cucumbers (same)

Farmer's Almanac suggests these days in early August for planting:

3rd-4th

Good Days For Planting Aboveground Crops. Excellent For Sowing Grains, Winter Wheat, Oats, And Rye. Plant Flowers.
5th-7th

Plant Peas, Beans, Tomatoes, Peppers And Other Aboveground Crops, In Southern Florida, California, And Texas. Extra Good For Leafy Vegetables. Plant Seedbeds.

Full Moon: August 13th

Happy Planting!

Jason