In Defense of Weeds

by Laura Emerson, an Alaskan Master Gardener Chickweed overtakes this garden. Photo by Heidi Rader. Weeds get a bad rap.  But for the observant gardener, weeds can be a wonderful resource. Many offer clues to the condition of the soil before you buy that expensive plant that will not do well where you want it. Many deliver minerals to the vicinity of their growth or to your compost pile or to your pets and livestock or to you, if you choose to eat them. Many have or are reported to have Read More …

“Where grows it not?’ Locally Grown Foods in Alaska

A Lesson Plan for Gardening in the Classroom in Alaska, By Jessica Mulvey, An Alaska Master Gardener    “Where grows? Where grows it not? If vain our toil, we ought to blame the culture, not the soil.’ -Alexander Pope The Tanana Valley Farmers Market. Photo by Heidi Rader. Supporting local agriculture is not a ‘new’ idea in American history. For generations there simply were no other options, but within the last century Americans have distanced themselves — literally & figuratively — from local agriculture. As Joel Salatin points out, “the Read More …