Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Heirloom Seed growers unite!



by Katy Green
http://www.shoptobegreen.com/

As the colder months approach and we dig into our wallets to buy expensive fresh organic produce because it is better for our families - I wonder if there is a less expensive alternative?

There is a less costly way but it requires a bit of time in the beginning but by next summer your vegetable garden will be so robust that you won't need to buy expensive vegetables.

What are Heirloom Seeds?

Heirloom seeds exist only because of the heirloom seed movement.  True heirloom seeds are not available commercially.

These types of seeds are also referred to as heritage seeds, non-hybrid seeds, Non-GMO seeds, and open-pollinated seeds. The term “open-pollinated” means that the seeds are fertile and come back year after year true to type, looking like their parent plants because of no genetic tampering or severe inbreeding.

Community Garden

The seed movement specificially the Heirloom Seed Movement is not new and for the last two centuries and farmers and backyard growers have harvested their own produce.
 
According to the Heirloom Seeds website:
Most heirloom seeds date back hundreds of years to the early colonial period; however, an heirloom seed is any seed that was introduced before the 1920’s, before hybrid crops were first commercialized.
Heirloom seeds provide farmers and gardeners the freedom to save seeds and breed new varieties. Saving and sharing heirloom seed encourages genetic plant diversity which gives us reliable food security.
These types of seeds are also referred to as heritage seeds, non-hybrid seeds, Non-GMO seeds, and open-pollinated seeds. The term “open-pollinated” means that the seeds are fertile and come back year after year true to type, looking like their parent plants because of no genetic tampering or severe inbreeding.

I am sure your thinking...what time do I have grow seeds!

I don't even have time to even breathe much less start a garden. I think it can be done and you can start with herbs first and then graduate to vegetable. Growing herbs and vegetables is a fun project for you and your family and it will save you money. Apartment dwellers can also start a garden indoor so anyone can do it living anywhere.

Check out the following sites on growing seeds:

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Autumn Welcomes us with Open Arms....Outdoor Events for All!

by Katy Green
http://www.shoptobegreen.com/

Fall Foliage - Wisconsin

There is so much that can be said about Fall, the changing of the leaves, the smell of apple cider and pumpkin pie in the air.

Outdoor Powwow

Nothing beats attending outdoor Autumn festivals and exploration of nature and there are many ways to enjoy so I have listed some of shoptobegreen.com Top Five Best Sites for Fall Festivals and Outdoor Activities for your perusal and to keep. Visit us often for updates.
Apples picked from an Outdoor Festival

  1. Fall Foliage is more than the changing of seasons it is breathtaking so take a self guided tour solo or with family and friends. This site lists all states the are the best for viewing the change of nature. Click link for more: http://www.chiff.com/a/fall-foliage.htm
  2. Native American Indians are the indegenous people of the Americas and there are the forefathers of preservation and the organic movement because of their love of Mother Earth and nature and it is an important part of their culture. To attend an American Indian Powwow in your area, click link: http://www.crazycrow.com/events_nativeamerican/
  3. Looking for that unique gift, or want to sample a great pecan pie or fresh preserves, well the open markets are the best place to sample local foods and produce. The list created by Farmers Market Online is organized by state and sub region: http://www.farmersmarketonline.com/Openair.htm
  4. We love Festivals and although this website looks more like an advertisement page it really does list all the festivals locally and nationally (includes Art, Music,Vendors, Performers and People). See link: http://www.festivals.com/default.aspx
  5. There are so many outdoor activities in the Fall especially for those of you that enjoy camping outside in the brisk night air or if you are looking for things to do with the kids. Family Travel Files outlines the best things to do in Autumn in every region of the USA. For more info, click on the link Family Travel Files