The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson

Changing the world one podcast episode at a timeIn This Podcast: This is part two an extraordinary interview where Greg discusses personal permaculture beginnings with Scott Mann. In this episode we start with our signature questions and learn more about what he thinks his biggest failure is and how he overcame it, what his biggest success is, and what drives him. This conversation goes off into a great conversation and further into the meanderings of permaculture.Scott Mann is the creator and host of The Permaculture Podcast, the longest running podcast dedicated to Permaculture in the world. In more than a decade of producing this show, he has interviewed hundreds of practitioners, from authors and scientists to artists and educators, working to create abundant solutions that imagine a more beautiful planet for everyone and all life. When not sharing these messages with the world, as a way to spend time with and care for his growing family, you can find him cooking in the kitchen or playing games around the table, all while heavy metal plays somewhere in his home.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/permaculturepodcast for the show notes and links on this episode!744: Scott Mann on The Ripples of Permaculture Pt 2.www.urbanfarm.org/permaculturepodcastBecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.

Changing the world one podcast episode at a timeIn This Podcast: In an extraordinary two-part interview, Greg discusses personal permaculture beginnings with Scott Mann. After finally finding a permaculture design course that fit his schedule, Scott journeyed into a world of solutions was so impactful that it changed his life direction. He weaves a story for us that is both moving and inspirational, where he eventually lands, among other things, starting a podcast focused on permaculture and interviewing some amazing people along the way. Scott is the creator and host of The Permaculture Podcast, the longest running podcast dedicated to Permaculture in the world. In more than a decade of producing this show, he has interviewed hundreds of practitioners, from authors and scientists to artists and educators, working to create abundant solutions that imagine a more beautiful planet for everyone and all life. When not sharing these messages with the world, as a way to spend time with and care for his growing family, you can find him cooking in the kitchen or playing games around the table, all while heavy metal plays somewhere in his home.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/permaculturepodcast for the show notes and links on this episode!743: Scott Mann on The Ripples of Permaculture Pt 1.Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.

Using to bamboo to help address the climate crisisIn This Podcast:David Sands shares his journey from trying to be a better steward for the planet and how that evolved into him starting a business offering bamboo wood for building lumber. We learn why this is such a renewable resource and some of its unique aspects that can help as we seek solutions for the climate crisis.David is the Founder, Director and Chief Product Officer for Bamboo Ecologic Corporation and RIZOME. A company that is reforesting thousands of acres and producing laminated bamboo building materials. Their mission - Sequester gigatons of carbon by developing giant bamboo into a primary global building material. David also helped develop the first US building code standard for structural bamboo.As a side note Greg shares that he found RIZOME through an investment platform that he belongs to and has invested in the company!Visit www.urbanfarm.org/bambootimber for the show notes and links on this episode!David Sands on Bamboo in Construction.Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click here to learn more.

Soil: The Easiest Way to Get Great ResultsA Garden Chat with Zach BrooksLet's talk about the science and the beauty of the soil that our food grows in. Zach Brooks joins us to share his secrets on making organic, no-till gardening the laziest and easiest way to get great results. Zach's work at Arizona Worm Farm has given him a chance to experiment with a variety of soil building methods and he shares what he has learned. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.orgZach semi-retired from Healthcare Management at age 42 when his consulting company went public. And when his first of three grandchildren were born, he went back to Arizona State University to get a second Masters Degree, in Sustainability. Frustrated that most causes of climate change were not only fixable – but fixable with “off the shelf” practices and technologies, Zach set out to prove that an off-the-grid lifestyle could be every bit as comfortable as a wasteful lifestyle and have a positive impact on the environment. Five years ago he bought 10 acres in South Phoenix and began Arizona Worm Farm and started experimenting.Mentioned in this episode:Worm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discount

740: Companion Planting, a Seed Chat.A Chat with an Expert on Seeds.In This Podcast:This is the April 2023 class discussing seed and plant selection. Join Farmer Greg and Bill McDorman as they explore what it means to companion plant, and it depends on what you want to accomplish. From a permaculture perspective, can also be called the whole systems perspective, companion planting looks at every aspect of your ecosystem. This brings into play guilds, pollinators, planting things that thrive together and avoiding things that don't like each other and building ecosystems that work together. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23apr for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Mentioned in this episode:Worm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discount

Join Farmer Greg on his monthly segment on the Arizona Radio Show "Rosie on the House". What animals can you host on your urban farm? Let's start with Backyard chickens of course. Our friend Kari Spencer joins Greg and Romey in a discussion on which animals work in an urban setting and why. Kari is an amazing homesteader, master gardener, and author of City Farming and Vegetable Gardening Journal. "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares."On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * CompostingSmart Watering Tips * FruitTrees * Seed SavingSonoran Desert Weather *Permaculture TidbitsCome join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23apr forthe show notes on this episode and broadcasting information!Mentioned in this episode:Worm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discount

Edmund Williams on The Phoenix Backyard Garden Program.Changing the face of food in phoenix.Ed Williams joins Greg on the podcast to bring us up to date on the project he is tackling in the heart of Phoenix to transform the world of urban agriculture with one simple way of growing food. Ed has been working hard to create a system that will make a difference in reducing food deserts at a level that the individual gardener can reach, yet can be supported by cities anywhere. He goes further and explains what democratizing the food system.Ed is a civil engineer and urban agriculture innovator. He has developed a new method of gardening called a LEHR Garden, a garden system that combines 12 different methods and practices of gardening, soil creation, and ecosystem repair into one cohesive system that is designed to meet the unique challenges of urban agriculture. Between water struggles and the decline of urban farmland, Phoenix has an urgent need to develop a resilient food system. Like in most cities a massive, largely unused, land resource in the form of large backyards is available. As one part of the solution to food insecurity and resilience, the City of Phoenix is reviving the concept of Victory Gardens. Just as everything else has changed since the 1940s, gardening and farming have changed drastically. Phoenix is testing building gardens in backyards and LEHR Innovations is one of the partners. Ed is not just trying to figure out how to get people gardening, but KEEP them gardening, all through the power of living, regenerative soil. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/05/05/738-edmund-williams/ for show notes and links.Edmund Williams on The Phoenix Backyard Garden ProgramMentioned in this episode:Worm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discount

Worm CompostingSimplifying Vermicomposting And Making It Easy For Anyone To StartA chance encounter at a farmers market led Greg to meet Steve Churchill, the creator of the worm bag he had recently bought. In this interview, Steve explains the reason he designed a new worm composting bag and explains many of the ins and outs of vermicomposting. Steve Churchill is the owner of the Urban Worm Company, a vermicomposting-related blog, online store, and manufacturer of the Urban Worm Bag. Through the Urban Worm blog, social media, and e-mail interactions with his readers, Steve is a joyful promoter of vermicomposting as a means to turn household and commercial waste into a highly valuable soil amendment. Steve is also a retired military veteran and a pilot for Southwest Airlines.Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/05/02/737-steve-churchill/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Mentioned in this episode:Worm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discount

Encouraging every gardener to have some permaculture principles in their toolbox.Debra Knapke and Greg discuss the climate shifts they have experienced in different parts of the country. Learn how to take these shifts into consideration by incorporating some basic permaculture principles into your garden planning. Treat the earth with respect, and your garden will be healthier and more resilient.After two previous careers, in 1992 Debra turned her avocation of plant study and gardening into her full-time career. Debra is passionate about gardening, sustainable garden design and the natural world, and enjoys sharing knowledge through her writing, public speaking, and garden consulting in the private and public sectors. In addition, she has mentored the future of the landscape industry at Columbus State Community College for 24 years. Debra boasts an eclectic garden packed into two thirds of an acre.Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/04/28/736-debra-knapke/ for show notes and links.Debra Knapke on Climate Resilient Gardens

A chat with Emily Rockey and Greg Peterson. In This Garden Chat: Are you starting your first garden? Take heart!! Your First Garden is Your Worst Garden, and that means yes, you can experience a variety of challenges, setbacks, excitement, and successes too. Let's talk about these and what comes next. Join Emily Rockey and Farmer Greg as they explore the pitfalls of starting a garden anew.On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience.To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A

734: Seed and Plant Selection For Challenging Gardens.A Chat with an Expert on Seeds.In This Podcast:This is the March 2023 class discussing seed and plant selection. Join Farmer Greg and Bill McDorman as they explore all the magical places to grow your garden. Restricted by where you can plant your garden? How do you optimize difficult spaces to plant your favorite vegetables? We will help you navigate challenges with areas never targeted for beautiful eye-catching gardens. It is possible! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23mar for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

Join Farmer Greg on his monthly segment on the Arizona Radio Show Rosie on the House. What is an urban farm, anyway? Learn how you can level up your participation in the local food economy by growing your own food. Greg talks about how to get started, different methods of farming, and even ways to make a little cash, either as a side hustle or a full time profession. Wherever you are right now, grow some delicious food, name your space, and reap the benefits of having your own urban farm!"Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares."On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * CompostingSmart Watering Tips * FruitTrees * Seed SavingSonoran Desert Weather *Permaculture TidbitsCome join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23Mar forthe show notes on this episode and broadcasting information!

Homesteading Off The Grid.Join Aurora Rogers and Greg for a lively conversation about resiliency, home steading, low grid and becoming financially free. Aurora is a Venezuelan designer and process consultant devoted to creating resilient frameworks for every area of her life. Her usband of 24 years is Jason, who is an American engineer devoted to creating effective systems for growing food, generating fuel, and building sustainable homes. Aurora believes that the currency of the future are heirloom seeds and resilient living skills.Aurora Rogers and her husband, Jason founded Producing Freedom Academy for families and broadcast their Resilient Pioneer Podcast Livestream on Youtube where they interview their favorite experts and talk about off grid survival, primitive homesteading, and other related topics which encourage their audience to create healthy and vibrant ecosystems.Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/04/07/732-aurora-rogers/ for show notes and links.Aurora Rogers on Resilient Pioneering

Greg on Let's Get Growing with Enoch GrahamGetting a View of How Greg got to 'Urban Farmer'.On today's podcast I have a replay of my interview from the Let's Get Growing You Tube Channel. I am so excited to have joined Enoch, Aisha, Michella and Mark for an amazing conversation and exploration of my history around gardening and what I am up to in the world. The thing I love about their show is it is fun, educational and we had a blast. I would like to invite you to check out their you tube channel @TheUrbanGardner every Saturday midday for new guests and lots of great gardening information. Now let's get on with the show!Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/04/04/731-greg-peterson/ for shownotes and links.Greg on Let's Get Growing with Enoch Graham.

Samara Price on the Exceptional Elderberry Handcrafting a local berry into gourmet productsIn This Podcast:Greg speaks with Samara Price about a tiny berry with huge potential. Like many people, Samara became interested in elderberries for their health benefits and she began making syrup. But she has discovered there are so many other ways to use them! They also make delicious and healthy beverages, baked goods, and even condiments. Hear how her interest in this amazing food has grown into both a business and a passion.Samara Price is the founder of Brew Naturals, a gourmet elderberry company based out of Western Northern Carolina. Brew Naturals is a farm to table product that focuses on real ingredients, delicious flavor and full body wellness. For years, elderberry has been seen primarily just as wellness products, however Samara is committed to making the most delicious elderberry products in the region to showcase their versatility. She is passionate about saving this berry from obscurity by highlighting the culinary creativity it inspires!Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/03/31/730-samara-price/ for shownotes and links.

A chat with Janis Norton and Greg Peterson. In This Garden Chat: Join Janis and Greg as they discuss what is permaculture and how can we begin to integrate it into our lives. They start with a discussion of the definition of permaculture then dive into the 8 principles that are used in the Phoenix Permaculture Design Course or PDC.On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience.To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A

728: The Impact of Seeds and Planning.A Chat with an Expert on Seeds.In This Podcast:This is the February 2023 Seed Saving Class discussing the impact of seeds and planning. Bill and Greg Peterson give an overview of how to save some basic seeds and how to plan your garden for seed saving. No, you don't need acres of land, pollination bags or combines. Some simple concepts will help you plan for the next steps in your seed saving adventure. They chat through the latest things in seed saving and review the 5 easiest seeds to save. And as a bonus they chat about how to do a germination test. It is easier than you think. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.RegisterHere for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23feb for the show notes on this, and access to our full podcast library!

Join Farmer Greg on his monthly segment on the Arizona Radio Show Rosie on the House. In this episode Greg chats about how to create a food forest in your front and back yard, plus reviews the 7 layers of your food forest. He also explains how to set up zones in your space. You are not going to want to miss this one!"Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares."On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * CompostingSmart Watering Tips * FruitTrees * Seed SavingSonoran Desert Weather *Permaculture TidbitsCome join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rose23Feb forthe show notes on this episode and broadcasting information!

Restoring Planetary Health and Rebuilding After an ImpactIn This Podcast:This is the second part of Greg's interview with Rosemary Morrow, a member of the first generation of what we now call the Permaculture Movement. We reached out to some of our friends in the permaculture community and asked, “If you could talk to Rowe, what would you ask her?” Learn more about Rosemary's decades of experience teaching permaculture all over the world as she discusses the answers to these thought-provoking questions. Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Rosemary Morrow is a permaculture teacher, author, speaker, and agricultural scientist. She has spent decades travelling the world designing healthy living systems and applying permaculture as a practice to restore our planetary health. She has worked locally across Australia as well as globally with farmers and villagers in Africa, Central and Southeast Asia; people of war-torn nations such as Vietnam and Afghanistan; and communities experiencing the serious effects of climate change like the Solomon Islands. Rosemary's latest book, Earth Restorer's Guide to Permaculture, brings together 40 years of evidence-based approaches to guide us towards the regeneration of our Earth. Endorsed by the United Nations as a tool for their Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, this book shares how communities, cities, workplaces, and governments can collectively and positively shape our futures. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Rosemary Morrow on the Earth Restorer's Guide to Permaculture, Part 2.urbanfarm.org/Rowe

Restoring Planetary Health and Rebuilding After an ImpactIn This Podcast:In this very special episode, Greg talks with Rosemary Morrow, a member of the first generation of what we now call the Permaculture Movement. Rosemary has decades of experience teaching permaculture all over the world and she shares how that global perspective influenced her most recent book. Hear about her definition of permaculture, her philosophy on teaching permaculture, and her experiences teaching permaculture to people in many different countries. We are delighted to have Rosemary on our podcast! Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Rosemary Morrow is a permaculture teacher, author, speaker, and agricultural scientist. She has spent decades travelling the world designing healthy living systems and applying permaculture as a practice to restore our planetary health. She has worked locally across Australia as well as globally with farmers and villagers in Africa, Central and Southeast Asia; people of war-torn nations such as Vietnam and Afghanistan; and communities experiencing the serious effects of climate change like the Solomon Islands. Rosemary's latest book, Earth Restorer's Guide to Permaculture, brings together 40 years of evidence-based approaches to guide us towards the regeneration of our Earth. Endorsed by the United Nations as a tool for their Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, this book shares how communities, cities, workplaces, and governments can collectively and positively shape our futures. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Rosemary Morrow on the Earth Restorer's Guide to Permaculture.urbanfarm.org/Rowe

Appreciating the Variety of Pollinators That Visit Our GardensIn This Podcast:Phyllis Stiles is someone who loves to create a buzz about pollinators. She became fascinated with bees when she started keeping her own, and that led to an appreciation of and sense of responsibility for all pollinators. As she became aware of the problems they face, she decided to do something about it and created the Bee City USA program. The program certifies for cities and universities, but as Phyllis explains, there are also many things that individuals anywhere can do to help our friends the pollinators. Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Phyllis Stiles is founder and director emerita of Bee City USA®, which began in Asheville, NC in 2012. The North American Pollinator Protection Campaign named her “Pollinator Advocate of the Year for the United States” in 2015, the same year the sister program, Bee Campus USA, launched. To date, more than 330 cities and campuses in 46 states have joined the Bee City and Bee Campus USA networks. Phyllis has made well over a hundred presentations and published countless newspaper and magazine articles about pollinator conservation across the nation. She spent her career at universities and non-profit organizations serving communities from West Africa to the Mississippi Delta, in fields ranging from natural resource and farmland protection to fundraising.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Phyllis Stiles on the Bee City USA Program.urbanfarm.org/BeeCityUSA

723: Bodacious Garden.A Rosie on the House Radio Show.In This Podcast:This is the January 2023 show discussing how to grow your own BODACIOUS edible garden. Greg covers all the bases – sun, water, soil, and garden helpers. Plant your garden where it will get just the right balance of sun and shade by determining your garden's solar aspect and observing the light as it moves throughout your space each day and each season. Seek out every drop of water available to you. Before you default to the typical drip irrigation system, consider also harvesting grey water, rainwater and air conditioning condensate. The next, and most important component is healthy soil. You'll want to be sure it contains all five of the following: dirt, airspace, water, organic matter, and living organisms. Greg talks about how to improve soil that is lacking in any of these things. And last but certainly not least, he explains how chickens and weeds make fantastic garden workers. "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares."On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talkabout all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * CompostingSmart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed SavingSonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture TidbitsCome join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rose23Jan for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information!

Making a Little Side Income Growing Citrus in the Pacific NorthwestIn This Podcast:Do you wish you could grow citrus but live outside of California or Florida? Donna Balzer is growing lemons in Canada and she loves to teach others how she does it. She and Greg discuss all the juicy details, covering topics from the roots to the leaves. Donna explains how she cares for her citrus trees in the harsher climate using some unique methods to protect them from frost. In return, they give her a delicious harvest that is not easily found in her area, and even a little bit of income. Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Donna Balzer is the co-host of the internationally aired HGTV show “Bugs & Blooms", a regular guest on CBC radio in Alberta, a very popular and inspirational public speaker around gardening, and the bestselling author of No Guff Vegetable Gardening. She lives with her adoring husband in Qualicum Beach, B.C. with their puppy. She has two greenhouses, twelve grandchildren, three grand-dogs, four grand-cats and two grand-guinea pigs all spread across Alberta and B.C. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Donna Balzer on Growing Lemons for Profit.urbanfarm.org/DonnaBalzer

Teaching people of all backgrounds about sustainably growing food (at the Guelph Centre for Urban Organic Farming)In This Podcast:Mike Smith studied political science with the intention of changing agricultural policy and making a difference from the top down. As important as that s, he eventually discovered that he could make a bigger impact on the ground – literally, with his hands in the earth. Now he works at the Guelph Centre for Urban Organic Farming in Canada, actually growing food and teaching others how to do the same. In this episode, Mike talks about the positive impact this has had on his life and on the local food economy. Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Mike Smith manages day-to-day farm operations, including planning and preparing materials for the cropping season, at the Guelph Centre for Urban Organic Farming, a one-hectare (that is 2.47 acres) learning and research facility within the Department of Agriculture at the University of Guelph. Here he works with stakeholders, recruits staff, supervises interns and volunteers, and plays a key role in enhancing educational and outreach activities. Mike received his B.A. in political science with a focus in agricultural policy from McMaster University and post-graduate certificate in project management from the University of Toronto. His education and experience give him a solid background in organic vegetable production, from planting to post-harvest activities, which he is using to impact the community.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Mike Smith on A Demonstration Organic Farm.urbanfarm.org/Guelph

Having the right tools in the right condition for our farming jobIn This Podcast:Gardening can be hard work, but it doesn't have to be. Chris Sabbarese explains how the right tool not only makes the job easier, but it also makes it safer for you and your plants. He describes the difference between a bypass pruner and an anvil pruner, what to look for when choosing tools, and some easy things you can do to keep your tools in tip top shape. Chris also shares his gift for storytelling, taking this inspiring episode much deeper than the humble gardening tool. Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Chris Sabbarese is the marketing, communications and social media director for Corona Tools, a leading global brand and manufacturer of quality garden and landscape tools since 1928. He joined the organization in 2010, and manages the brand experience with end-users across all forms of digital & print media. Chris also serves as the executive director of GardenComm, a non-profit membership organization made up of green industry communications professionals. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Chris Sabbarese on Tools and Farming.urbanfarm.org/CoronaTools

Researching the Changes Occurring in Our Food SystemsIn This Podcast:The grocery aisle appears to provide a whole buffet of choices, but who are the companies behind those choices? Phil Howard has studied our current food system and discovered that there are a surprisingly small number of companies who are in control. Who are these companies? How much power do they have and what are they doing to keep it? More importantly, what can be done about it? Phil lifts the lid on the industry to reveal the fragility of our modern food system. Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Phil Howard is a member of the International Panel of Experts on Sustainable Food Systems and a professor at Michigan State University. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in Community, Food and Agriculture, and a graduate course in The Political Ecology of Food. Phil's research focuses on the “food system” which involves all of the steps required to produce food and get it to our plates–from farming and processing to distribution and consumption. He is the author of Who Controls What We Eat? (2021) published by Bloomsbury Academic.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Phil Howard on Who Controls What We Eat?UrbanFarm.org/PhilHoward

Picking the best indoor garden for your needsIn This Podcast:Angelo Kelvakis demystifies the hydroponic garden. The right garden can be a great investment in your health and wellbeing. Angelo helps take the guesswork out of choosing the garden that best fits your lifestyle. He'll teach you how to ask the right questions, identify the most important components, and research a system before you make a purchase, so you will continue to enjoy your garden and reap many benefits from it for years to come. Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Angelo Kelvakis is a graduate of Loyola University Chicago where he studied environmental science and published research on nutrient uptake for plants. During this time, he also managed the Eco-Dome lab where he ran the aquaponics system which supplied fresh produce and fish to the Loyola Farmers Market. After graduating, he worked for several indoor farm companies helping them get start up, and finally was an early employee of Rise Gardens where he works today. At Rise, Angelo is both the Director of Research and Development, and a Horticulturalist where he is in charge of the Rise Lab focusing on nutrient design, plant growth research, and algorithm development.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Angelo Kelvakis on Indoor Garden Systems.urbanfarm.org/RiseGardens

Growing and Saving SeedsIn This Podcast:Hassena Kassim returns to talk about the recent growth she is experiencing since moving from Arizona to North Carolina about 5 years ago. She explains how growing and saving seeds for Sow True Seeds led her to the Organic Seed Alliance seed school and what she learned from completing the program. Hassena admits to a newfound appreciation for beans as she shares interesting facts from their long and colorful history. Don't miss the fantastic seed resources mentioned in this episode!Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Hassena Kassim is a mother and a newish farmer in Hot Springs NC. She works the land with honeybees, chickens, dairy goats, gardens and several composting methods. Hassena is a grower of seeds for Sow True Seed in Asheville, North Carolina and has recently completed the Organic Seed Alliance seed school. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Hassena Kassim on Saving Seeds.urbanfarm.org/hassena

Staying Open to PossibilitiesIn This Podcast:In this special episode, Greg Peterson shares an update from his new home in North Carolina. There are lots of exciting possibilities created by starting from scratch in a completely new and different place and Greg is taking the time to explore them all. He also confirms that the Urban Farm programs are not going anywhere, and he replays the very first episode of the Urban Farm Podcast.Don't miss an episode!visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!The Future of the Urban Farm and 000 Relaunch.

715: What is Happening in the World of Seeds.A Chat with an Expert on Seeds.In This Podcast:This is the December 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing what is happening in the world of seeds. Bill recently returned from the 9th Session of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture in New Delhi. He shares what he learned about how the world is protecting the genetic resources of smallholder farmers in the global south who contribute so much to the diversity and genetic pool of our precious seeds. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABill McDorman is the co-founder of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Seedsave.org, Seed School and the Great American Seed Up. Bill has been teaching seed saving for decades and is dedicated to educating communities about the value of seed saving and local seeds as a foundation for a local food system. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22dec for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

Integrating the "P" Word Into Everyday Life In This Podcast: Doreen Pollack took a permaculture course nearly 20 years ago and she has never looked back.  In this episode she explains how those concepts learned so long ago still influence every part of her life today.  She points out the positive impacts, not only on her garden, but on her thoughts, her actions, and especially on her daily interactions with the earth and the community of people around her.  Always eager to expand that community, Doreen shares her nuggets of wisdom and gently encourages everyone she meets to experience permaculture for themselves.   Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Doreen Pollack has been a Master Gardener for over 18 years and has turned her urban lot in downtown Phoenix into a living example of what she teaches.  Her front yard now houses an edible garden where a bermuda grass lawn used to be.  Rainwater harvesting systems channel and store rainwater, compost piles supply needed amendments to harsh clay soil and creative plant locations maximize use of her urban lot. A Laundry to Landscape system uses washing machine output to water a 35-year-old grapefruit tree.  Doreen has taught hundreds of people about gardening through Master Gardeners, Mesa Community College, City of Tempe, and Rio Salado College, and has appeared on local news talking about gardening.  She loves to help people become better gardeners and stewards of the land. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Doreen Pollack on How Permaculture Changed Her Life. urbanfarm.org/Down2EarthGarden

Promoting Biodiversity in Our Gardens and Farms. In This Podcast: Kathy Jentz started National Seed Swap Day to officially celebrate and encourage something farmers and gardeners have been doing for hundreds of years – trading seeds.  She chats with Greg about the origins of the event, what happens at a modern swap, and what the many benefits are for both new and experienced gardeners.  (HINT: It's not just about the seeds!)  Kathy provides valuable information for anyone thinking of attending or organizing a seed swap. Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Kathy Jentz is editor and publisher of the award-winning Washington Gardener Magazine, based in Washington, DC.  She is also the editor of three plant society journals: the Water Garden Journal, The Azalean, and Fanfare, and she hosts the popular GardenDC Podcast, which was recently named Best DC Podcast.  Kathy is co-author of The Urban Garden: 101 Ways to Grow Food and Beauty in the City and has a new book, Groundcover Revolution coming out soon, which is available for pre-order now on Amazon.   Her mission is to turn black thumbs green. A life-long gardener, Kathy believes that growing plants should be stress-free and enjoyable. Her philosophy is inspiration over perspiration.   Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Kathy Jentz on National Seed Swap Day. urbanfarm.org/seedswapday

Managing a family-based, full-participation farmers market. In This Podcast: We meet Kathy Mortensen who manages a community market from an entirely different state. The health focused market in Naperville, Illinois is growing with big events, strategic booth placement, and fun vendor-involved themes. We find out what she is doing to make it a successful event for the local community. Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Kathy grew up with nine siblings and had family meals every night.  Her mom was very sustainable and on an extremely tight budget, yet only purchased meat from the local butcher; and fresh fruits and vegetables were the norm.  Kathy's husband started running the Naperville Farmers Market when the founder passed it on to him. Kathy took it over when he left his position at work, never expecting it to develop into what it is today. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Kathy Mortensen on Not Just Any Farmers Market. UrbanFarm.org/NapervilleFarmersMarket

710: Grain Culture. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the November 2022 class discussing Grain Culture! Heritage and ancient grains are taking center stage in all kinds of gardening programs and on tables across the country. Find out why these grains are easier on bellies, easy to grow and a lot easier to process than you may think. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Chat. Some links from this class: The Grain Bundle at GASU Breadlab.wsu.edu HeritageGrains.org Drip Tape Class - replay SeedSchoolOnline.com Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22nov for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

A chat with Greg, Janis, and Doreen.  In This Garden Chat: The holidays are just around the corner, and we all love to share gifts from our heart with our friends and family. Join us as we share our ideas for some cool gardening gifts both from and for the garden. This is sure to be an inspiration filled class. Our team members Janis Norton and Doreen Pollack joined Greg in this fabulous brainstorming session. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest (or two) to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest:Doreen Pollack is a member of the Urban Farm Team. She has been a Master Gardener for over 16 years. She has also turned her own urban plot in a downtown Phoenix Historic District into a living example of what she teaches.  Her front yard now houses an edible garden where a lush Bermuda grass lawn used to be.  Rainwater harvesting systems channel and store rain, compost piles supply needed amendments to harsh clay soil and creative plant location maximize use of this neighborhood lot. A Laundry to Landscape system uses washing machine output to water a 35 year old grapefruit tree. Editor's Notes: Check out our articles on Wicking Beds as this was a question in the chat tonight. www.urbanfarm.org/wickingbeds Please share your recipes, we will add them to our blog! Send them to Podcast@urbanfarm.org

Balancing the energies around us to create sanctuaries that we love. In This Podcast: Greg chats with Kathryn Wilking to discover how feng shui concepts can be used in our home and gardens to enhance and beautify our spaces. She introduces three core concepts of this practice that she uses to help people and discusses the five earth elements giving us examples on how to bring the energies in for positive results. Finding balance in our spaces is key to boosting our productivity. Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast  Since 2012, Kathryn has been working exclusively as a Feng Shui Coach helping homeowners and businesses take charge of their space and learn to thrive, not just survive! Author of Practical Feng Shui For the Office, and host of the podcast “Feng Shui Your Day!” she teaches that Feng Shui is easy and practical while helping us create function & flow, boost productivity, and find the work-life balance.   Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 709: Kathryn Wilking on Feng Shui in Our Spaces.

Using Nutrition To Prevent And Reverse Disease In This Podcast: ITP Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast  Joel Fuhrman, M.D. is a board-certified family physician, seven-time New York Times bestselling author and nutritional researcher who specializes in preventing and reversing disease through nutritional methods.  At his Eat to Live Retreat in San Diego, CA, and through his books, television specials, and virtual speaking engagements, Dr. Fuhrman shares his life-saving nutritional protocols with hundreds of thousands of people around the world seeking to recover from obesity, food addictions, diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, and other serious health concerns. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!  Dr. Joel Fuhrman on Eating for Life.   www.UrbanFarm.org/eatforlife

Simplifying Vermicomposting And Making It Easy For Anyone To Start In This Podcast: A chance encounter at a farmers market led Greg to meet Steve Churchill, the creator of the worm bag he had recently bought. In this interview, Steve explains the reason he designed a new worm composting bag and explains many of the ins and outs of vermicoposting. Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Steve Churchill is the owner of the Urban Worm Company, a vermicomposting-related blog, online store, and manufacturer of the Urban Worm Bag. Through the Urban Worm blog, social media, and e-mail interactions with his readers, Steve is a joyful promoter of vermicomposting as a means to turn household and commercial waste into a highly valuable soil amendment. Steve is also a retired military veteran and a pilot for Southwest Airlines. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Worm Composting. www.UrbanFarm.org/urbanwormcompany

A chat with Peter Burke.  In This Garden Chat: It makes sense to keep our herb gardens close to our kitchens for easy access, and for some people that means gardening indoors. There are a variety of culinary options to our inside gardens and this month Janis stepped in to chat with Peter Burke to get some useful and inspirational tips for practical gardening indoors - with a focus on growing a fresh salad in only seven days. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest:Peter has been teaching gardening classes since 2006 when he started presenting workshops on Indoor salad gardening. He also teaches about square foot gardening, extending the gardening season, and more and supports the need for specialized seeds for indoor salad gardening. He is the host of In The Garden on WDVE radio Vermont. He lives with his family in Calais Vermont and is the author of Year-round Indoor Salads.

705: How Do You Store Your Seeds. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the October 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing how to store your seeds. The most asked question we get in all our educational programs is “How do you store your seeds?” Our quick answer is the mantra: keep your seeds cool, dark, and dry. But there are a few other tricks of the trade to make sure that your seeds will germinate year after year and not necessarily what is indicated on your seed packet. We'll cover that as well so you can understand why seed packets have an expiration date of between 15 to 18 months.  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22oct for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

Growing food while overcoming droughts, record rains and floods, and catastrophic fires. In This Podcast: Clara is a 31-year-old Amateur Mycologist, mushroom grower, Beekeeper, and Chicken lady who is passionate about animals and the environment.  She is Hungarian-Australian and currently living in Australia, where she is President of the local Permaculture Central Coast group. Learn more at www.UrbanFarm.org/clara

Educating about soil and planetary health with peat free planting mix. In This Podcast: Justin “Jules” Giuliano may be a relative newcomer to the garden, but his love of the outdoors and his willingness to make mistakes have grown into a lifelong passion for the soil.  Combining that passion with his roots in education, he is a natural advocate for keeping our soils healthy.  Jules inspires us to carefully consider what we put into the soil… and what we take out.  Even his language is infused with his love of gardening! Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Justin "Jules" Giuliano is an organic farmer and educator with a background in vermicompost and natural farming. He is the lead soil researcher at Rosy Soil, a potting soil company based in Georgia. Prior to joining Rosy, Jules managed an urban farm in Atlanta, studied regenerative agriculture at the Rodale Institute and won a Cannabis Cup for his organic cannabis cultivation. In addition to Rosy, Jules manages the Tik Tok @SmokeYrGreens with over 250k followers where he educates his community about plant, soil, and planetary health. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Earth Friendly Potting Soil.

A chat with Christy Wilhelmi.  In This Garden Chat: Now is the perfect time to get a 'kick in the pants' on starting back into our fall gardening. Christy Wilhelmi, frequent Urban Farm Podcast guest and author of Garden Variety, joins us for this month's Garden Chat to help dig into different aspects about one of the best times to garden.  She details her garden planning process and tells us what she likes to plant and how she decides when to plant it.  Christy also has plenty of tips for taking full advantage of this prime growing season no matter where you live. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest:Christy Wilhelmi is the founder of Gardenerd, the ultimate resource for garden nerds, where she publishes her newsletters, her popular blog, top-ranked podcasts, and YouTube videos. She also specializes in small-space, organic vegetable garden design, consulting, and classes. Between 70-80 percent of her family's produce comes from her garden of less than 300 square feet. She is author of Gardening for Geeks, 400+ Tips for Organic Gardening Success, Grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden, and just released in February 2022 is her debut novel Garden Variety (William Morrow/Harper Collins).

701: Seed Starting Challenges. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the September 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing seed starting.  There is nothing more satisfying than getting a jump on the gardening season by starting seeds in flats or in the ground.  What do we need to know to be successful?  Soil composition, temperature, moisture and light all determine whether we are jumping for joy from our efforts or crying out in despair.  How many times have we started seeds only to realize we created a wonderful sprouted bounty for our feathered friends?  Get a good start to starting seeds with some simple information and ideas for success.  A little attention will go a long way in making sure you lengthen your garden season and end up with healthy vibrant plants you started from seeds!  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22sep for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

Helping People Share Seeds In Their Community In This Podcast: Rebecca Newburn's vision was to start seed libraries, not just locally, but all over the world.  To accomplish this goal, she created an easy roadmap for others to follow and then made it easily available to everyone.  Learn how important seed libraries are, how you can find one, and how you can make a difference by starting one in your community.  Rebecca generously shares her advice and offers us free step by step resources.  Check it out! Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Rebecca Newburn is the Co-Founder of Richmond Grows Seed Lending Library, a free seed exchange located in the Richmond Public Library in Richmond, California where she lives. The “create a library” template she designed has helped hundreds of seed libraries launch around the world. She is the webmaster for SeedLibraries.net and the editor of Cool Beans! Seed Libraries Newsletter, an international publication supporting local seed projects. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Creating Local Seed Libraries.

Raising Public Awareness About the Dangers of Gene Editing In This Podcast: Jeffrey Smith returns to the Urban Farm Podcast to talk about what he calls “GMO 2.0”, an easily attainable technology with the power to permanently change the genetic makeup of every living thing on earth.  The foods we eat are already being changed and we are already being affected in ways we don't yet understand, yet there are no controls in place to ensure the changes are safe.  Jeffrey illuminates the very real dangers we face and tells us how we can fight back. Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Jeffrey Smith is a bestselling author, award-winning filmmaker and celebrated public speaker. He has influenced the behavior and health of millions of people worldwide through his books like Seeds of Deception, and Genetic Roulette, and his podcast Live Healthy Be Well. Jeffrey is the founding executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology, which has started a global education campaign called Protect Nature Now with the documentary titled “Don't Let the Gene Out of the Bottle”, which won a Telly Award. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Protecting the Microbiome.

Creating a Hopeful Future Through How We Manage Our Water In This Podcast: Andrew Millison, an experienced and enthusiastic permaculture teacher, announces his upcoming online Permaculture Water Summit.  He spells out the serious problems facing the world today, then shares his passionate belief that quick action by individuals can turn things around faster than any government.  In some parts of the world, deserts are already being turned into lush forests!  Learn how to attend this free summit and become part of the exciting changes to come. Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Andrew Millison is an innovative educator, storyteller and designer. He founded the Permaculture Design education program at Oregon State University (OSU) in 2009. Andrew serves as an Education Director and Senior Instructor who offers 25 years of experience and a playful approach to regenerative design.  In October 2022 – just a couple weeks after the release of this podcast, Andrew is hosting a three-day Permaculture Water Summit; a free global summit created to share viable solutions for the water crises found throughout the planet. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! The Permaculture Water Summit.

A chat with Suzanne Bontempo.  In This Garden Chat: Bugs play a vital role in the health of an ecosystem, and with a little strategic planting, we can invite the "good" ones to join us in our own growing spaces. Join us as we talk with Suzanne Bontempo about planning ahead for bugs, how to recognize the difference between pests and beneficial insects, and how to encourage the ones we want for our garden ecosystems. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest:Suzanne Bontempo works as an environmental educator, teaching the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for sustainable, eco-friendly pest management around the home and garden. Suzanne, owner of Plant Harmony and program manager for Our Water Our World was recognized for excellence in her field winning the 2013 CA IPM Innovators Award. She has worked as a professional gardener for over 25 years. She loves teaching folks how to grow bountiful gardens that are also safe and healthy for you, your family, and the environment.

696: Cool Season and Warm Season Crops. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the August 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing cool season and warm season crops.  Do we plant cool season crops in the fall and warm season in the spring? How is it that cool season varieties get sweeter as the weather gets colder? Can warm season crops last through blistering heat? Can we strengthen the genetics of any crop through selection and adaptation? Come play with us and find out the answers to these questions and more with Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson on Seed Chat.  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22aug for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

Making Growing Fruit Trees Easy and Affordable for Beginners In This Podcast: Joshua Burman Thayer believes everyone can and should grow food, but with so much to learn, it is easy for a beginner to get overwhelmed.  Where do you start?  What do you really need?  Where should you spend your time and money to get the best harvest?  Joshua has used his experience with his clients to write the book he couldn't find… a book especially for beginners.  He shares some tips from the book and gives us a preview of his next book. Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Joshua Burman Thayer has always had his hands in the earth as he has traveled extensively working with communities around plants and food. He started out as a W.W.O.O.F. volunteer on organic farms throughout Latin America, worked as a laborer on organic C.S.A. farms back home in California, apprenticed and worked in ecological landscape design, and did native plant field research with renowned mentors. With all that experience Joshua has become a lead designer and advocate for uniting ecology with aesthetic, creating beautiful, productive natural systems that work with nature to foster bounty. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Food Forests for First Timers.

Making a Connection Between Jazz and Gardening In This Podcast: Like many people during the pandemic, Elizabeth “Lizzy” Shapiro suddenly found herself at home staring at an empty calendar.  To fill the time, she turned her attention to decorating the unattractive cement spaces outside her home.  One potted plant led to another and another, and they grew into a gardening obsession which, at first, seemed so different from her jazz roots.  But the deeper she dug into gardening, the more she discovered that nature held lessons that transposed beautifully into music.  Lizzy's garden changed not just the view outside her home, but also her view of the world. Don't miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast   Elizabeth "Lizzy" Shapiro is a screenwriter, actress and musician. As a screenwriter, she has created TV shows alongside Hollywood heavyweights like Ben Stiller and Joey Soloway, as well as creating and starring in "The Crossroads of History" which received 2 Emmy nominations. As a musician, she trained as an opera singer and is currently the front woman of Lizzy & the Triggermen. Dubbed "10-piece jazz sensations" by LA Weekly, the band's debut album, "Good Songs for Bad Times," hit #3 on iTunes Jazz Charts (just behind Miles Davis). Their music simultaneously transports you to a prohibition speakeasy while feeling arrestingly modern, thanks to the powerhouse vocals and songwriting of Lizzy. Their eerily prophetic original song, "Dance Song (for the End of the World)" garnered international press for its music video which featured dancers all over the world at the beginning of lock down. The band has been forging exciting new paths for modern big band and swing music: headlining some of the top music venues in the country, opening for the UK rock band Squeeze, and being selected as Official Artists of SXSW. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Discovering Music in a Container Garden.