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Reviving Ancient Grains in Sicily: A Victory Against Multinationals
Rediscovering Sicily’s Ancient Wheat Varieties Giuseppe Li Rosi, a dedicated Sicilian farmer, has successfully transformed 100 hectares of his family’s land by growing traditional local wheat varieties. Faced with the pressures of international agricultural markets dominated by French and Canadian wheat, Li Rosi and other local farmers have found an alternative path that preserves both…
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“Land is Medicine”: How Indigenous Practices Influence Modern Healing
The Overlooked Origins of Modern Medicine As the world recovers from various global health crises, advancements in medicine continue to shape our well-being and healthcare systems. Yet, the profound influence of Native American practices on the development of modern medicine often remains unnoticed. For centuries, Indigenous cultures have held a deep respect for nature, using…
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Cultivating Change: How a Lebanese Seed Farm is Revolutionizing Agroecology
A New Approach to Farming in Lebanon In the fertile lands of Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley, Buzuruna Juzuruna (BuJu) is reshaping the future of farming. This unique organic seed farm is part of a growing agroecological movement in Lebanon, aiming to empower farmers through seed sharing, communal education, and sustainable practices. Despite Lebanon’s location in the…
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Honoring Black Heritage at Black Seeds Urban Farm
A Celebration of Culture and Community Black Seeds Urban Farm, nestled in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, marks Black History Month as a period of celebration, education, and remembrance. Founded by Bobby and Derravia Rich, the farm aims to offer fresh, organic produce to neighborhoods with limited access to nutritious food, while also honoring the…
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Concordia College Introduces First Indigenous Medicinal Herb Garden
A Community Effort in Healing and Unity Introduction to the Cornucopia Garden On a hot mid-summer afternoon, Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, expanded its Cornucopia garden with the introduction of an Indigenous medicinal herb garden, marking a significant milestone for the institution. This garden, surrounded by wildflowers and the soothing sounds of wind chimes, is…
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Can Agriculture Overcome Its Plastic Dependency?
The Ubiquity of Plastics in Modern Agriculture Plastic has become an integral part of contemporary farming, enhancing productivity through various applications. Black polyethylene mulch film is laid around crop rows, clear plastic sheeting covers hoop houses, and farmers frequently utilize plastic seed trays, irrigation tubes, and fertilizer bags. These synthetic products can increase yields by…
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Year-Round Vegetable Planting Guide: Month-by-Month Tips for Sowing and Growing
Growing your own vegetables can be a highly rewarding and cost-effective way to ensure a steady supply of fresh, organic produce. This comprehensive month-by-month guide will help you plan your vegetable planting throughout the year, ensuring you make the most of every season. January: Planning and Early Sowing Start Planning January is a perfect time…
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Exploring the Rich Heritage of Native American Herbal Remedies
Introduction to Indigenous Botanical Medicine Native American tribes have long utilized the rich flora of their lands to create effective traditional medicines. The interest in these natural remedies has seen a resurgence as people seek holistic and historical healing methods. This exploration dives into the profound knowledge passed down through generations, particularly by tribes such…
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Thriving Greenhouse Gardening: Top Crops for Year-Round Cultivation
Introduction For gardeners facing the chill of northern climates, a greenhouse provides a sanctuary for extending the growing season into the colder months. A well-managed greenhouse not only combats frost but offers a cozy start for spring plantings. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, and regardless of your greenhouse’s heating setup, this…
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Cultivating Justice: Advancing Equity in Agriculture for a Sustainable Future
The Struggle of Black Farmers in the Face of Historical Bias and Climate Challenges Today, the United States is home to approximately 40,000 Black farmers, representing less than 2% of all farmers nationwide. This is a significant decline from the early 20th century when Black farmers operated one in every seven farms, totaling over 900,000….