Here’s the video update from the GROWING DOME, as of a few days ago. An update on the FOOD FOREST is coming soon…
The chard plants are getting enormous..as you’ll see. I’m waiting for the seeds to mature…before I collect them. Have you read this book?? It’s such a great tool, if… you want to learn to save your own seeds or just for a good read..!! It’s packed with great historical references and useful info. Great book!
It says…that… “SWISS CHARD (Beta vulgaris) stalks can grow a seed stalk 4′ tall and are usually harvested when the majority of the seed clusters have turned light brown. These seeds have a different structure from other gardens seeds. Each seed is actually a group of flowers that is fused together by the flower petals. This forms a multigerm cluster which usually contains two to five seeds.” – Seed to Seed by Suzanne Ashworth
Here’s the cool thing. The chards in the Dome, are all heirloom varieties, which should have just pollinated each other…. because of the fans…and isolated environment…. resulting in some very cool new strains of
Shawn’s design, is what I aspire to create someday. He’s using his grey-water, directing it into ponds, and growing mushrooms on logs! Two things on my hit list!!
These videos have so much info in them…I’ve watched them a few times each, and am still picking up new insights. Love the way he uses all water to his advantage…!!
This is urban permaculture at its best!!
**Check out these first 3 videos from 2008….then look at the change…in the last 2 videos, a year later…in 2009.
One thing…I’ve applied from these videos, that’s really helped in plant/soil health…has been the use of straw mulch…or any good mulch…then, chopping and…. leaving in place, “green” plant material… to decompose. MULCH, MULCH, MULCH! It’s actually kind of fun…to help the cycle a long!!!
On my way to get more straw today…and scoop some fresh spring water… while I’m at it! Herb hunting season is here too…have a few in mind… I’m stalking this year!!!