Category Archives: foraging
Several factors determine quality firewood – You might be surprised
Some people burn wood to save a few bucks. Others relish the atmosphere of a crackling fire. Still others burn wood to rid their property of unwanted or blown down trees. Quality firewood is a loaded term. Many factors are … Continue reading
Many wild and commercial foods require processing – Have patience
I’ve always said that success is sweeter when you’ve had to work for it. The same is true with food. Convenience foods just can’t match the culinary quality of vittles produced with tender loving care. This is true with most … Continue reading
A productive garden depends on healthy soil
Winter is not a typical time to think about gardening. Usually the only thoughts involve ordering seeds for the upcoming season. However, soil often can benefit from winter care. Thus far this winter has been mild. Many people are already … Continue reading
Native yaupon holly makes a great landscape shrub and nutritious tea
Native landscape plants are gaining favor these days. Most people also desire shrubbery that requires little water and has few pest or disease problems. We also like plants that tolerate rough handling and improper pruning. Yaupon holly is commonly found … Continue reading
Navel oranges are a successful genetic accident
We’re approaching the season where many citrus trees are producing ripe fruit. Perhaps no orange cultivar has been more successful for the fresh market than the navel orange. Valencia oranges are used more for juice and juice is the biggest … Continue reading
It’s fall in eastern North Carolina but where’s all the color?
I love driving around and observing the fall colors. In most years the yellows, reds and oranges are spectacular. However, has anyone else noticed this is a subpar fall color year locally? Perhaps we should analyze the factors contributing to … Continue reading
Dwarfing fruit trees is an old and effective technology
It’s apple picking season. Like most other people I love fresh apples and nearly everything we make from them. Like many of you I also have a few in my backyard. Mine are semi-dwarf types. We can also purchase standard … Continue reading
Fortune Tea Olive has unmatched fall fragrance
Sometimes spotting the fragrant plant is easy. Magnolias and gardenias have very conspicuous flowers. Nobody could miss them. Fortune tea olive is different. Clusters of tiny white flowers are tucked among the foliage. They’re easy for our eyes to miss. … Continue reading
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