Gretchen Kruesi

seed integrity

Preserving Seed Integrity: How Far is Far Enough?

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 25, 2026 / Comments Off on Preserving Seed Integrity: How Far is Far Enough?

Think the “perfect” seed exists? The true pure seed is a myth! There are best practices that any seed grower should keep in mind; but once you understand seed integrity, the real fun begins.

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lambsquarter

How to Use Lambsquarter from Root to Plant to Seed

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 24, 2026 / Comments Off on How to Use Lambsquarter from Root to Plant to Seed

Think twice before pulling out that lambsquarter! It is a “super weed” with many edible & medicinal uses. Discover the surprising benefits of lambsquarter!

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Ditch the Pots, Use Soil Blocks!

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 23, 2026 / Comments Off on Ditch the Pots, Use Soil Blocks!

Revolutionize your seed starting game! What’s a cheaper, easier, and surprisingly more efficient way to start your seedlings? Soil blocks! Find out how soil blocks work, how you make them, and what advantages they offer over traditional pots and trays. Ditch the pots and trays. Start your seedlings with soil blocks!

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kvass

Kvass: A Nourishing, Fermented Beverage

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 21, 2026 / Comments Off on Kvass: A Nourishing, Fermented Beverage

Introducing Kvass, a nourishing drink made with just a few simple ingredients! Ready to level up your fermentation game? Try making kvass, a nourishing drink that’s easy to brew. With only a few days to ferment and you’ll be sipping on this tasty tonic. Perfect for beginners or pros alike!

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agricultural seed

Agricultural Seed: A Short History of the Miraculous Seed

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 19, 2026 / Comments Off on Agricultural Seed: A Short History of the Miraculous Seed

The seed: our connection to the past, key to a sustainable future. They are the foundation of agriculture. The tiny but mighty seed is the connection to our agricultural past and holds the key to our future.

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Are you Team Duck or Team Chicken?

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 18, 2026 / Comments Off on Are you Team Duck or Team Chicken?

Thinking of adding a laying flock, but can’t decide? Backyard eggs, yes! But ducks or chickens?

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A Nourishing Recipe to Boost Seedling Growth

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 17, 2026 / Comments Off on A Nourishing Recipe to Boost Seedling Growth

Ditch the chemicals! Give your newly seeded beds a natural boost 🌱🌱 You don’t need to use chemicals to give your seedlings a boost. Just use seaweed, apple cider vinegar, and a few extras to create a blend for seedling growth. Your new go-to seed starter hack to grow healthy plants.

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4 Simple Recipes Using Homegrown Sprouts

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 16, 2026 / Comments Off on 4 Simple Recipes Using Homegrown Sprouts

Sprouts are amazing, compact nutritional powerhouses! What’s not to love? Get ready to supercharge your health with sprouts! Check out these recipes for new ways to cook with and eat all types of sprouts.

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plant grouping

Edible Forest Gardens: Creating A Plant Grouping

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 13, 2026 / Comments Off on Edible Forest Gardens: Creating A Plant Grouping

Dreaming of an edible forest garden? Start small by creating a plant grouping. By combining plants that thrive together, you’re one step closer to turning your backyard into a lush edible forest!

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Natural Yogurt: Using Kefir As A Yogurt Starter

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 11, 2026 / Comments Off on Natural Yogurt: Using Kefir As A Yogurt Starter

Yogurt making is having a moment! Join the fun and create your own natural yogurt at home. Try our simple recipe using kefir as a starter and taste the difference for yourself!

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planting site

7 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Planting Site

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 10, 2026 / Comments Off on 7 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Planting Site

Dreaming of a lush garden? Now is the perfect time to start planning your garden. The location of your planting site is key to a thriving garden and one of the first things to consider. Choose the right spot and watch your garden thrive!

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fieldwork

Simplify Fieldwork: Stop Working So Hard

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 9, 2026 / Comments Off on Simplify Fieldwork: Stop Working So Hard

Looking to simplify fieldwork on your farm or homestead? The key is to act like a tree: stop working so hard. Let nature do some of the work for you. Simplify your fieldwork and boost yields!

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Early Spring Captured in a Glass: Maple Sugar on Snow Cocktail

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 6, 2026 / Comments Off on Early Spring Captured in a Glass: Maple Sugar on Snow Cocktail

Vermont’s sweet tradition in a glass! This recipe is inspired by the classic maple taffy-like candy Sugar on Snow. Unlike flavor-neutral simple syrup, maple syrup’s contribution to cocktails isn’t just sweetness but also buttery, nutty & vanilla flavors.

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10 Easy-to-Grow Flowers for Pest Control

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 5, 2026 / Comments Off on 10 Easy-to-Grow Flowers for Pest Control

Ditch the chemicals and let flowers do the work! Planting certain flowers near gardens can be your go-to solution for keeping pests at bay. Plant these flowers for a pop of color & make pest control seem easy!

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OSGlead

Selecting Seeds: How to Choose the Right Seed Crop

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 4, 2026 / Comments Off on Selecting Seeds: How to Choose the Right Seed Crop

Seed savers raise your hands! Picking the right seeds can make or break your garden. Learn some easy tips on how to choose the best seed crop for a thriving garden.

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All Mushrooms are Magic: A History of Magic Mushrooms

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 3, 2026 / Comments Off on All Mushrooms are Magic: A History of Magic Mushrooms

Mushroom lovers, raise your hands! Ever get weird looks when you say you’re into mushrooms? “So, are you into magic ones?” But we know the truth: all mushrooms are magical. Discover the fascinating world of mushrooms!

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How to Plan the Best Garden Ever

By Gretchen Kruesi / March 2, 2026 / Comments Off on How to Plan the Best Garden Ever

Garden goals ahead! Planning is everything. Get ready to transform your outdoor space. Here are some tips on how to plan the best garden this growing season!

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nightcap mocktail

Calming Herbal Nightcap Mocktail to Mix Before Bed

By Gretchen Kruesi / February 27, 2026 / Comments Off on Calming Herbal Nightcap Mocktail to Mix Before Bed

Unwind with a twist! Ditch the booze and elevate your evenings with this delightful herbal nightcap mocktail syrup. Relax before bed or spice up your tea time!

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Seeds1

Seed Saving Tips: Dry vs. Wet Seeds

By Gretchen Kruesi / February 26, 2026 / Comments Off on Seed Saving Tips: Dry vs. Wet Seeds

Tips for Seed Saving · Ready to unlock the power of seed saving? You either have dry seeds or wet seeds. Proper drying & storing is essential so they can germinate months (or even years) down the road. Begin your seed-saving journey today!

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pick land

The Indispensable Family Cow

By Gretchen Kruesi / February 25, 2026 / Comments Off on The Indispensable Family Cow

Life just got a whole lot better with your own family cow . She will give you fresh milk, cream, butter, and cheese, build human health and happiness. Is this the simple life you’ve been dreaming of?

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The Buzz: Beekeeping for Beginners

By Gretchen Kruesi / February 24, 2026 / Comments Off on The Buzz: Beekeeping for Beginners

Get ready for a buzz-worthy backyard! Beekeeping has surged in popularity as more people set up backyard hives. Embrace the buzz and transform your backyard into a thriving haven for bees!

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mint salt

Mint Salt: A Fresh Take on Seasoning

By Gretchen Kruesi / February 23, 2026 / Comments Off on Mint Salt: A Fresh Take on Seasoning

Searching for a new way to utilize seasonings? Shake up your cooking routine with a fresh twist on salt and seasonings. Introducing… Mint Salt Recipe!

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mycelium

Below the Mushroom Cap: The Mycelium and Its Secrets

By Gretchen Kruesi / February 20, 2026 / Comments Off on Below the Mushroom Cap: The Mycelium and Its Secrets

Ever wondered how mushrooms grow? It all starts with the mycelium – a hidden network of fibers that holds the secrets. What is this mysterious web-like fiber? Discover the fascinating world of fungi beneath your feet!

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becoming a plant breeder

Seed Saving: Become A Plant Breeder

By Gretchen Kruesi / February 19, 2026 / Comments Off on Seed Saving: Become A Plant Breeder

Want to grow your own unique varieties? When you save seeds, you become a plant breeder. Start growing your own varieties today and taste the reward!

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Fire Cider: A Healing, Warm Tonic

By Gretchen Kruesi / February 18, 2026 / Comments Off on Fire Cider: A Healing, Warm Tonic

Warm up from the inside out with Fire Cider! Great for stimulating digestion and warming you up from the inside out, no matter the season. It can be prepared in water or tea as desired.

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