EXPLORING THE FEASIBILITY OF CULTIVATING COTTON IN MINNESOTA FOR SPINNING. WILL IT WORK?

While I was digging through a seed catalog last winter I unexpectedly stumbled upon seeds for growing cotton. The thought had never crossed my mind before, but the allure of cultivating such a unique crop ignited a spark of curiosity in me. After reading the growing requirements, I learned that cotton typically needs 60 degree or above temps to thrive and takes around 150 days to be ready for harvest. I timed my planting for late April, believing this would ensure a ready yield by the end of September. However, my calculations may have been a bit optimistic; as the weeks roll by, my cotton plants seemed to be stuck in limbo, not progressing as I anticipated. 

As fall approaches the temperature is set to dip into the 40s for the first time this season. Thankfully, the daytime warmth still hovers comfortably above 60 degrees which is perfect for the needs of my cotton plants. I've made it my routine to bring them indoors at night to shield them from the chill, then return them to their sunny spot outside during the day. With each passing day I hope that my efforts will yield some success, even if that means just a modest harvest this year. I realize that I might not gather enough cotton for spinning just yet, but I plan to save the seeds for another attempt next year.

If this experiment turns out to be a bust, it won't be the end of the world; I'm prepared to start again. Next I'll begin the process in February, allowing for an earlier start that could potentially lead to a more fruitful outcome. For now I await the magic of my cotton plants, hoping for tiny tufts of fiber to emerge. I remind myself that the journey is just as important as the destination, and regardless of the results, I'm excited to to grow, both as a gardener and as a curios soul.

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LEARNING ABOUT THE HEALING POWER OF NATURE

About 15 years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Lise Wolff at her elderberry tincture making workshop. Lise, a local registered clinical herbalist, possesses a wealth of knowledge in medicinal plants. With a Master's degree in Science in Herbalism from the Scottish School of Herbal Medicine, her expertise has made her a valuable resource for people in Minnesota. Every time I join her for a plant walk, along with my daughter, I am reminded of just how rich and ever-evolving the world of herbalism is. Today, we learned the beneficial properties of sow thistle and wood sorrel, two plants we hadn't explored before, and Lise's passion for teaching ensures that every outing yields fresh insights and new lessons.

One of the most captivating aspects of Lise's guidance is the treasure trove of stories that she shares about her experiences treating patients with plants. Her stories aren't just informative, they're also deeply inspiring, illustrating the profound connection between nature and healing. Each story highlights the practical application of herbs in real-life scenarios, motiving us to delve deeper into our understanding of plant medicine.

Herbalism is a never-ending journey of discovery. Each workshop and plant walk I attend with Lise reinforces my love for this ancient practice, as there is alway something new to learn and appreciate. Whether it's uncovering the medicinal properties of an unfamiliar plant or listening to the healing tales of those who have benefited from herbal remedies, I find that my enthusiasm for herbalism only grows stronger with time.

Wood Sorrel Oxalis stricta - Minnesota Native

Sow Thistle Sonchus oleraceus - Not Native to Minnesota

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THE JOY OF TOO MUCH

 

Every year, as the gardening seasons approaches, I find myself unable to resist the allure of planting seeds. What begins as a modest plan often spirals into an ambitious project. This year was no exception - I decided to plant abundantly, putting in about 14 seeds of each variety I chose. The gamble paid off better than expected; out of dozens of seeds sown, maybe only five didn't germinate. Before I knew it my deck was overwhelmed with a lush assortment of plants, creating a verdant jungle that feels both enchanting and chaotic. I carefully selected the varieties the deer won't munch on, which only added to the dense growth. However, as the plants flourished, I quickly lost track of what I had grown. initially I labelled each pot, but in the rush of transferring them to larger containers, I convinced myself I would remember their names. Spoiler alert: I don't. Now, I hold a pepper plant bewilderedly, debating whether it's a mild banana pepper or one of the fiery varieties I'd intended for my husband.

I've promised myself that I've learned my lesson this time around: next year, I'll scale back on planting and meticulously label everything. Yet deep down I know the truth - it's merely a hopeful fantasy. With plans of diving into cut flowers next season and the realization there are countless beautiful options to try, I can foresee my deck being just as overrun in 2025 as it is now. Instead of wallowing in the madness, though, I've entertained the idea of hosting a plant sale, offering my delightful extras to friends and neighbors. Perhaps by sharing my bounty I can reclaim a bit of order in my gardening chaos and bring joy to others in the process. Wouldn't that be great? After all, every gardener knows that with every season comes the promise of fresh growth, unexpected lessons, and (hopefully) fewer chaotic jungles in the future. 🤣

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BEAUTIFUL CHICORY

Driving to my doctor's office today, I was delighted to spot a long, vibrant row of chicory flowers blooming alongside the road. Their delicate blue petals stood out agains the backdrop of lush greenery, a charming sight not far from her farm/clinic in Wisconsin. Chicory is undeniably beautiful, and I find myself captivated by its aesthetic allure. Although it's not a native plant to Minnesota, its temping elegance has often made me consider adding it to my garden. The thought of those cheerful blooms brightening up my yard is enticing, yet I remain aware of the importance of promoting native flora.

Beyond its visual appeal, chicory is a plant rich in versatility and health benefits. The root of this remarkable herb serves as an excellent caffein-free coffee substitute, offering a robust flavor without the jitters associated with traditional coffee. Meanwhile, the nutrient dense leaves can enhance salads, contributing a slightly bitter but refreshing note to dishes. On the medicinal front, chicory is known for optimizing digestion and supporting bile production, making it a valuable ally for gut health. In addition to all of that, its properties for detoxification play a significant role in cleansing the blood, showcasing chicory's utility beyond just a decorative plant.

Chicory is a resilient plant, thriving in zones 3-7, which adds to its allure for gardeners like myself who are interested in cultivating a hardy, low maintenance plant. As I continue my journey, I can't help but appreciate chicory not only for its beautify but also for the wealth of health benefits it offers - an inspiring reminder of nature's bounty that surrounds us every single day. 

 

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EMBRACING YOUR SURROUNDINGS: THE JOY OF LOVING WHERE YOU LIVE

Sixteen years ago my family and I made the decision to move into our current home in Apple Valley. At the time I didn't fully grasp the significance of that choice or how perfectly it aligned with my desires and needs. For years I had dreamt of living in northern Minnesota, longing for the tranquility and beauty of the landscapes I had envisioned. However, fate had other plans, and despite various opportunities, each one seemed to slip away. It wasn't until we purchased a cabin in Ely in 2016, followed by a rough patch with my health in 2018, that I came to appreciate the hidden gem that was my Apple Valley home. The combination of recent struggles and the vibrant surroundings opened my eyes to the reality that this place - not Ely or any other northern haven - was truly my sanctuary.

Living in Apple Valley has allowed me to immerse myself in the breathtaking beauty of nature right at my doorstep. I feel as if I've stumbled upon a nature lover's paradise that I never knew existed. With each passing day, I find myself enchanted by the array of native plants and the abundant wildlife that graces our backyard. From capturing photographs of majestic hawks in flight to watching the lively antics of squirrels and rabbits (excluding that time the squirrel took up residence in my car)🤣, I've fostered a deep connection with the world surrounding my home. The deer, with their gentle presence, visit regularly to forage from our garden, and each summer, the does feel comfortable enough to leave their fawns in our yard, showcasing a delightful trust in our haven. I've also been thrilled to discover a remarkable array of native plants on my own property, more than I ever encountered in the wild. My entire backyard seamlessly blends into Alimagnet Park, a vast natural expanse that further enhances the beauty and significance of our location.

On days when my health feels overwhelming, the solace I find in nature is invaluable, During my illness, simply sitting outside watching the endless dance of wildlife or taking short walks through Alimagnet Park revitalizes my spirit. The presence of deer, birds, and other critters has become a source of strength as I continue to navigate my health challenges. I soon realized that I didn't need to escape to Ely or further north to connect with nature; the vibrant tapestry of life was thriving right here in my suburban backyard. Apple Valley, despite its population density, offers an extraordinary connection to the natural world.

Today Maya and I took a leisurely stroll through Alimagnet Park, eager to see what wild plants had begun to blossom this season. As we walked, I marveled at how much could be learned just by paying attention to the small details. Often, the hustle and bustle of life leads us to miss the wonders right in front of us, as we mindlessly wander through forests or parks, absorbed in our thoughts. I encourage everyone on their next walk to take the time to catalog the various plants encountered along the way. Discover which ones are native, learn about their properties, and unearth their potential uses, whether edible or medicinal. There is an entire world of fascinating information just waiting to be explored and appreciated in our immediate surroundings. 

Northern Bedstraw (Galium boreale). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

White rattlesnake-root (Prenanthes alba). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Allegheny blackberry (Rufus allegheniensis). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Some type of fungi. I don't know fungi well.

Early Meadow Rue (Thalictrum dioicum). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Wild Lettuce (Lactic canadensis). A native Minnesota Plant. Wild medicinal.

Some type of Fungi.

Canada Mayflower  (Maianthemum canadense). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

False Solomon's Seal (Maianthemum racemosum). A native Minnesota plant. Wild Medicinal.

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COME OUT AND SEE US THIS EARTH DAY WEEKEND

Maya and I will be at the Northfield Earth Day Celebration this Saturday April 27th from 12 noon until 4 pm selling our handmade soaps and knitted washcloths so if you are in town drop by and say hi, we'd love to see you. 

This is going to be a great eco friendly event with educational presentations and workshops.  Come out to make a birdhouse, seed balls, and a pollinator box. Learn about growing your own food, creating bee lawns, composting and much more. 

We hope to see you there!

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SPRING HAS SPRUNG, THE GRASS IS RIZ, I WONDER WHERE THE FLOWERS IS?

The flowers are coming 😊

Spring and autumn uniquely embody the beauty of transition and renewal, and they are, without a doubt, my favorite times of year. Spring, in particular, is a season that feels like a gentle awakening. As the world shakes off the sleep of winter, vibrant colors emerge in a lively chorus of blossoms and fresh greenery. It's a profound reminder of the cycles of life, and during this time I find myself bursting with creativity and inspiration. Last month I immersed myself in making handcrafted soaps and knitting washcloths, fulfilling my need to create tangible expressions of my passions. Now, as the days grow warmer, my focus has shifted to planting. I can hardly contain my excitement as I watch trays of seeds come to life under the grow lights in my home, with the delicate sprouts of chamomile being the first to break through the soil.

Just a few days ago, my husband Ulises and I embarked on an adventure - a 1.5 hour drive north to purchase a locally handmade potting table that I have been searching for over the past three years. The long hours of kneeling and bending during planting seasons have taken a toll on our backs, and we knew it was time for a solution. After much searching, I stumbled upon a beautiful potting table on Facebook Marketplace. It was not only affordable but also crafted with impressive skill using repurposed wood, making it both sturdy and attractive. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this find, knowing it would allow us to take care of our plants while standing comfortably. 

So far I've started the following:

Calendula (for my salves)

Banana Pepper (for food)

Celosia (for the dye)

Zinger Hibiscus (for tea)

Beans (for food)

Bunching Onions (for food)

Gomphrena (for soap decorating)

Mongolian Giant Sunflowers (for the birds)

Spinners Ivory (or my spinning wheel)

Broom Corn (to make a broom)

Bergamot (for the pollinators)

Hopi Black Dye Sunflowers (for the dye)

Echinacea (for tea and tincture)

Yarrow (for pollinators and skin issues)

German Chamomile (for tea to stabilize mast cells)

 

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LUFFA, LOOFAH, LUFA, LOFA, LUFA

Is there really a right way to spell luffa? 😂

It seems like a simple question, but one glance at the various spellings can spark debate. Perhaps it's spelled "loofah" in one corner of the internet, while "luffa" garners its supporters in another. Whatever the spelling, there's no denying the versatility of this remarkable gourd. I learned this firsthand when I tried my hand at growing luffas a few years ago with the intention of incorporating them into my homemade soaps. My quest quickly came to a halt, however, as Minnesota's brief growing season left me with little more than a dream of a succulent, homegrown luffas.

Fast forward to this year when I spotted a promising luffa at the Farmer's Market. Eager to finally experience the pleasure of crafting my own, I decided to buy it and dry it myself. It was green, which raised a red flag about peeling, so I sought guidance from a garden guru on YouTube.  Her oven-drying technique yielded decent results. While the skin slid off easily as she said it would, half of my luffa deflated. Not her fault - the luffa was bad. After washing it, it still had an odd greenish hue that made it look a bit funky. In the spirit of experimentation I decided to dry it anyway to see if was usable as an exfoliant in my soaps. (update: it became moldy). 

I'm determined now to return to the Farmer's Market for a second chance at getting this right. Then in January I plan to start seeds indoors, giving my future luffas ample time to grown, aiming for a bountiful harvest that I can let dry on the vine. Then I'll make sure they are vibrant and ready for my future soap creations. 

Exceptionally long luffa 🤣👀

I cut it up as instructed by YouTuber

 The two luffas on the left are no good. Completely deflated and mushy. The ones on the right look pretty good. I'll update once they are dry. 

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CONTAINER GARDENING: YES, PUMPKINS CAN THRIVE IN POTS

For the past few years, my quest to grow pumpkins on my deck has been nothing short of a comedy of errors. Initially, I tried my luck in the garden, dreaming of vibrant orange fruits adorning my space, but each time a wild critter - a mischievous squirrel or hungry bunny - would sneak in and devour my tender plants before they could even bear a single fruit. Frustrated, I switched to pot gardening, hoping that the elevated space would keep my crops safe. While the plants flourished and produced beautiful flowers, I was left disheartened as they failed to develop pumpkins. This year, however, my determination propelled me to conduct some research that revealed I had been underestimating the importance of pot size. I promptly upgraded to a larger container, and to my surprise, I found two pumpkins developing! My excited was palpable, but I faced a new challenge: I planted them far too early, meaning I needed to strategize on how to keep my pumpkins healthy and vibrant until Halloween - a goal that had been my inspiration from the very beginning.

Reflecting on this year's experience, I've gained valuable insights that I plan to implement in the future. One of the main lessons was that size truly matters; next year I will invest in a 10-gallon pot to give my pumpkin plants ample room to flourish. Perhaps this change will not only yield larger pumpkins but could also increase the number of fruits I can harvest. Armed with newfound knowledge and a hint of experience, I'm more optimistic than ever about pumpkin growing endeavors. With each setback I've grown a little wiser, and I can't wait to see what next season brings. For now, my two early pumpkins will be lovingly tended as I plot my strategy for a bigger, better harvest in the coming year.

Update in Sept. 2024. The two pumpkins kept for nearly one year in perfect condition in our cold basement. No treatments to preserve either one was needed. Just shy of a year the larger one developed a soft spot that became moldy.

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A VISUAL DIARY OF MY BIRD WATCHING ADVENTURES

When I first got sick in 2018, the world around me felt heavy and daunting. Each day was marked by physical limitations, and the simplest tasks became monumental challenges. It was during this time that I rediscovered the simple joy of watching birds. Having always appreciated their beauty and grace, I never imagined the depth of solace they could provide. As I sat on my deck, unable to walk, I turned my attention to the vibrant life fluttering in my yard. The cheerful chirping sparrows, the elegant swoops of the robins and the delightful songs of the thrusts created a soundtrack that eased my mind. In those moments as I watched them playfully flit about, I found a sense of contentment and calm that was desperately needed. 

Recently, as I venture back into the world, I find myself reflecting on those early days. I can hardly believe how far I've come, yet the connection I have forged with my wild bird neighbors remains strong. Each photograph I take is a testament to my journey - both the struggles and the healing. These images are filled with the laughter of birds flitting about, a stark contrast to the silence I felt when I was at my lowest. 

As I share these snapshots of my avian friends, I hope to convey not only my love for them but also the pivotal role they played in my recovery. They serve as a reminder that beauty persists, even in the toughest of times. 

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PLANT FOR THE GARDEN - PRICKLY ASH

Prickly Ash, scientifically known as Zanthoxylum americium, is a fascinating native plant of Minnesota that holds a special place in both ecological and cultural spheres. This unique plant is often mistaken for the ash tree due to its name, but it actually belongs to the olive family. My first encounter with its distinctive berries was like stepping into a new world of flavors and sensations. My daughter's playful curiosity led her to sample a berry first, igniting a series of reactions that left both of us in fits of laughter - her tingling lips and my eventual, intense experience of drooling and tingling sensations, taught us just how potent this little fruit can be.

Beyond its amusing effects, prickly ash is a significant contributor to our local ecosystem. Its fragrance flowers attract butterflies while providing birds with ample shelter, making it a haven for various forms of wildlife. Additionally, the indigenous people of the region recognized its potential long ago; they harnessed the plant's numbing properties to alleviate tooth pain by chewing on the fruit and bark. In contemporary herbal medicine, practitioners have embraced prickly ash for treating ailments such as arthritis and digestive issues, showcasing the enduring legacy of this remarkable plant.

Personally, I cherish prickly ash not just for its medicinal qualities but also for its delightful aroma. The crushed leaves and berries emit a refreshing lemon like scent, elevating my culinary curiosity. Although I haven't experimented with prickly ash in recipes yet, I've heard that many who have tried it incorporate its fascinating flavor into various dishes, including teas. With its intriguing sensory experiences and benefits, prickly ash has piqued my interest, and I look forward to exploring new ways to appreciate this native gem.

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LAWN BE GONE!

 In 2020 we removed a large portion of our front lawn and today we have just about 1/4 left to remove before it's all gone. We filled the empty space in with 90% native plants and have been very pleased with how it turned out. 

We aren't strangers to replacing non natives with natives. When we moved into our home nearly 16 years ago our entire backyard was buckthorn. It was an extension of the forest into Alimagnet park. Our first year we hired a company to remove all the buckthorn then after that we had to deal with flooding all the time so we had the yard regraded. After the regrading we bought a large sack of native wildflower seeds and spread them all over the backside of the house and within a year we started to see native grasses, goldenrod, Joe pie weed, daisies... Today we have so many natives growing back there I've lost count. The amount of wildlife that loves to be in our yard is what makes me the most happy. Frogs, toads, turtles, fox, rabbits, deer, snakes, wasps, hornets, bumblebees, hummingbirds, butterflies... We now see so many insects that we'd never seen before planting natives. We also stopped raking up our leaves in the fall and that has caused a boom in the firefly population around us. It's truly incredible and very special. 

Some people are surprised to learn that the adults of most firefly species are in fact pollinators. 

 

The honeybee isn't a native pollinator but it's a pollinator none the less.

Beautiful Monarch butterfly.

The bumblebee has some pollen on her legs.

When we removed a portion of our lawn in 2020. We did this on both sides of our driveway.

These are the plants we put in to replace the lawn. We have mountain mint, butterfly weed, bergamot, boneset, pearly everlasting... and many more.

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SPRING IS OFFICIALLY HERE!!

When you live in Minnesota there's that moment when you say to yourself that yes, spring is officially here.  Today is that day. 
Here is what's coming up in the backyard today.

Chives

Mint

Lavender

Lemon Balm

Bee Balm

Yarrow

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GARDEN TALK TIME

The garden is doing pretty good this year... in some areas.  Not sure what is up with the shallots and onions, I'm thinking it is poor soil quality, but everything else is doing great.  Since the backyard was regraded we've been spreading wildflower seed and planting a few things here and there and things are starting to really grow.  This is what it looks like right now:

The Joe Pye Weed is taking over and as much as I like JPW I need to get that sucker under control.

The great part about our backyard, with all the beautiful things growing, is that wildlife is loving it. Every day I can go outside and not only see deer like we usually do but daily we have rabbits, birds, squirrels, chipmunks, snakes, frogs, turtles, dragonflies, butterflies, bees, wasps, and a whole host of other things. The rabbits like hiding in the growth so each day we run into about 4 or 5 back there.  

So onto what else I am having success with.

German Chamomile

One of my favorite herbs. In the past I'd always keep a pot of chamomile inside but last year I planted some and forgot about it.  I was delighted to see it return this year so I planted some more. It is a zone 4 herb but our last harsh winter killed off things I thought were meant for this zone so I was pleasantly surprised when the chamomile popped up. 

Dill

Dill is hardier than I thought. Not only does it appear in odd random places around the garden, after planting a whole new bunch this year we let the Black Swallowtail caterpillar devour it all and yet from the nubs that were left it regrew.  Great, because I need it for canning :-)

Tomatoes

Someone please explain to me what is up with the tomatoes?  I purchased two heirloom tomato plants at the Friends Plant Sale this year and they've grown into these monstrous things (5 feet tall) but the fruits are all still green.  I've never had that experience with tomatoes before.  I'm not surprised about the growth as much as the fact they aren't red or turning red yet.  I am worried with the way the weather has been that the frost is going to appear before the tomatoes ripen :( 

Sweet Potato

Omgosh! Last years sweet potatoes didn't grow but this year they are doing great.  I am more of a "learn by trial and error" and not so much by reading so I have no idea when to harvest the potatoes or how long they take to grow but I have learned one thing and that is not to plant them in a garden box again.  They want to spread far and wide and the box is just too small for them.

Asparagus

Now this I don't want to do the trial and error thing with.  I am going to have to watch a few YouTube videos and read up on this delicious plant. I have been trying to grow asparagus for a few years and each time I'd plant the root something would come along and take it or eat it. I was at the Farmer's Market this spring and a vendor was selling itty bitty plants so I put 3 in the ground and they are growing great! Not sure what the next step is but I'll be staying on top of this one since this yummy plant is a perennial  :-)

That's it.  Anyone else have success or failures in the garden this year? Luckily we've not had any pests but the onions and shallots aren't coming along like expected, they are both itty bitty and so I think I need to do some type of crop rotation next year and amend the soil much better than I did this year.  If you have any thoughts on why the shallots are the size of marbles, please let me know.

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