ANOTHER YEAR AT THE FRIENDS PLANT SALE

Yesterday's Friends Plant Sale was a delightful experience, as usual. The weather was perfect for browsing the wide selections of herbs, flowers, and veggies, and we had a lot of fun choosing our garden lineup for the year. It seemed like the busiest season yet, but the event was incredibly well-organized, making the flow smooth and enjoyable. While the temptation to buy every plant was strong, I managed to stick to the essentials. Gotta save that money!! Now, I'm eagerly anticipating watching everything flourish and grow. I'm already thinking about eating those sweet peppers. 😊

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DISCOVERING THE BEAUTY OF SPRINGTIME

Wild Strawberries

There's just something magical about this time of year! Spring and Fall in Minnesota are my absolute favorites, and I'm currently riding that springtime high. Give me the crisp air and pumpkin spice of Fall, with those stunning colorful newly fallen leaves, any day. But springtime? It's like the world is hitting the reset button. Everything is bursting back to life, baby animals are popping up all over the place, and the birds are putting on a concert every morning. I love it! I practically bounce out the door like a kid, eager to spot the first signs of new life. Today, I even found an empty rabbit next - those little guys must have just hopped out because I didn't spot it yesterday. Can you believe mama rabbit chose to nest right next to the driveway? Risky move!! Now I'm plotting all sorts of botanical adventures with the emerging plants - dyes, baked goods, tinctures, you name it. This season is just brimming with beauty and possibility. All we need now is a little sunshine and warmth, and we'll be in paradise! What do you think, is springtime one of your favorite seasons too?

Rhubarb

Sumac

Gooseberry

Ramp

Wild Ginger

Chives

Yarrow

Bee Balm

Leftover fur from bunny nest

Empty bunny nest

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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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