Spring Has Finally Sprung!!!

And I have been eagerly awaiting it's arrival for months!!! It means warmer weather, new life, baby horses, etc. Most of all, I've been excited for all of the new things happening around the farm this year. Personally, I've just begun my Master Herbalist certification course which has prompted me to get serious about my herb growing. After researching permaculture, I've decided to use a new kind of bed called an herb spiral. Essentially it's a straight herb bed spiraled up like a conch shell or a rams horn.



I was lucky enough to have the brute strength of Erin's husband, Rory and my husband, Dave to hurk those rocks and pieces of petrified wood around for me. I had them place the larger pieces around to create the base. In the center, I placed 3 cinder blocks to make a triangle shape. This helps with stability and prevents erosion. I then connected 2 pieces of poly-tube with a 90 Deg. elbow and place that in the center so that I can later attach a sprinkler mount. After much shoveling and smaller rock arranging, I was the proud owner of 3 totally passable herb spirals!!

Now to plant. I planted the following seeds & starts (from our local greenhouse): Cilantro, Dill, Sage, Rosemary, Thyme, Lemon Mint, Spearmint, Peppermint, Lavender, Calendula, Chamomile, Epazote, Oregano, Basil & Aloe. I placed them according to their sun preference and size, full sun at the top and so on. One good watering and "Viola!";), I had planted herb spirals.

Barley as of May 31!!!

In my field plot, I chose to grow barley, oats and gourds. Unfortunately, my gourd germination rate was 0%!!! Bummer! After quite a bit of research, I decided to plant my oats and barley in rows 12" apart. I learned in Small Scale Grain Raising, by Gene Logsdon, that planting grains this way will result in equal or greater yields than broadcasting planting. I decided it couldn't hurt to try and I foresaw the benefits of easier weeding and using less seed too. So far they are both doing very well.  


I am so excited for what the future holds for our farm and our family. Be sure to check back frequently for updates. Knowledge is power!!


Meriah