The Urban Farm Podcast With Greg Peterson

837: BioDynamics 101 with Mike BiltonenIn This Garden Chat:Join Farmer Greg and Mike Biltonen, Exploring Biodynamics. Biodynamics is an advanced farming method that views the farm as a single, self-sustaining organism. It incorporates cosmic and lunar influences, along with organic farming practices, to enhance plant, animal, and soil health. Special preparations made from herbs, minerals, and manure are used to stimulate soil fertility and plant growth. Biodynamics also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living systems and seeks to create harmony between them..Our Special Guest:Mike Biltonen has a rich background in sustainable agriculture with decades of experience in orchards, vineyards and specialty crops. His work focuses on the integration of biodynamic principles into farming, which aligns with the with his commitment to ecological sustainability and farming practices. His involvement with the Josephine Porter Institute for Biodynamics and Know Your Roots LLC showcases his dedication to advancin

836: Seed Saving SecretsA Seed Chat with Bill McDormanIn this episode, Greg Peterson from Urban Farm U and Bill McDorman discuss the fundamentals of seed saving, techniques for collecting and preparing seeds from various plants, and the benefits of maintaining genetic diversity. They also address specific audience questions about harvesting and storing seeds, and the effects of cross-pollination. The conversation emphasizes the importance of home-based seed saving for adapting plants to local conditions and mitigating the impacts of climate change..Visit www.urbanfarm.org/836-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail

835: Growing Wild Food in Your YardA Rosie On The House Radio Show ReplayIn This Podcast: In this episode of Rosie on the House, hosts Romey Romero and Farmer Greg discuss growing wild food in in your yard. They emphasize the benefits of planting food-producing plants and using permaculture principles like composting, chickens and layering plants. Greg also highlights the importance of observing microclimates, proper water management, utilizing open-pollinated seeds and having chicken workers in your yard. Additionally, he touches on community involvement, local ordinances, and the Permaculture Design Course for creating sustainable, food-producing landscapes......Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/835-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode!Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat wi

834: Kirsten Simmons on Streamlining Farmers' Busy WorkShe is all about helping farmers in the back office.In This Podcast: We follow the journey of Kirsten Simmons. After experiencing farm failures, she co-founded Good Agriculture in 2022, a company that manages administrative tasks and provides financial, marketing, and grant-writing support for farmers. Kirstin shares how the company has grown, helped farmers become more profitable, and developed manual and automated tools to support farm operations. Good Agriculture aims to streamline back-office tasks, enabling farmers to focus on farming, with services tailored to small and large farms..Our Guest: Kirsten began growing mixed vegetables in 2016 in Atlanta, and currently focuses her growing efforts on Yupik strawberries.In 2022, she co founded Good Agriculture, where she and her team create products that manage the back offices for farmers..Book - First Generation Farming by Chris Newman - Available Digitally OnlyVisit UrbanFarm.org/GoodAgriculture fo

833: Jaron Lukas on Healthy Nutrition for Dogs.Why we need to stay away from highly processed pet kibble!In This Podcast: Jaron Lukas, CEO and founder of Yum Woof, a brand specializing in air-dried dog food, discusses his journey from tech to pet nutrition, driven by personal experiences with food allergies. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding dry kibble, highlighting the benefits of more natural dog food options for canine health and longevity. Jaron also delves into insights from his book The Canine Cocomega Effect, which explores the synergistic benefits of combining coconut oil and omega-3s in dog diets.Our Guest: Jaron Lukas is the CEO and founder of Yum Woof, the air dried dog food brand. He is also the author of the canine cocoa mega effect that explores 162 studies on which fats are linked to a longer lifespan in dogs.Previously, Jaron founded the VC backed fintech startup Coin Center, which he sold in 2016. He also started his career in investment banking at J. P. Morgan and graduated from Ric

832: Cindy Gentry on food co ops How they can change the food landscape.In This Podcast: Cindy discusses her extensive work in food co-ops, hunger prevention, and healthy food systems development. She shares her experiences in establishing the Phoenix Public Market and various farmers market programs to support local farmers and improve food accessibility. Cindy outlines the origins and goals of the Sun Produce Cooperative and its impact on local food distribution. Additionally, Gentry delves into her personal journey, reflecting on past challenges and successes in her mission to promote local agriculture and fair food systems.Our Guest: Cindy Gentry is a founding member and the current manager for Sun Produce Cooperative in Phoenix, Arizona, which was established in 2017.She brings more than 35 years experience with non profit hunger prevention and healthy food systems development. Cindy has worked statewide in Arizona to nurture local food production and distribution and to support local farmers markets,

831: Growing Gourmet Mushrooms with Michael JuddThe three easiest mushrooms to grow outdoors.In This Garden Chat:Join Farmer Greg and Michael Judd, an expert in edible and ecological landscape design, for a discussion on growing gourmet mushrooms outdoors. They discuss the three easiest mushrooms to grow: shiitake, oyster, and wine cap mushrooms, along with their preferred growing conditions and necessary preparations. Michael shares practical advice on sourcing the right wood, maintaining moisture, and utilizing permaculture principles for effective mushroom cultivation. He also offers insights into his mini course and other resources available for those interested in further learning.Our Special Guest:Michael has worked with agro-ecological and whole-system designs throughout the Americas for over two decades, focusing on applying permaculture and ecological design. His projects increase local food security and community health in both tropical and temperate growing regions. He is also the author of Edibl

830: Seed Starting Essentials ExplainedA Seed Chat with Bill McDormanThis is the July 2024 Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman discuss key aspects of nurturing seed starts for a thriving garden. They emphasize the importance of proper seed starting mediums, suggesting lightweight, aerated materials like perlite and cocoa peat over regular garden soil. They also highlight the need for adequate light, recommending artificial light setups if natural light is insufficient. Proper watering techniques are crucial, ensuring the soil remains moist without overwatering. They advocate for hands-on gardening and learning through observation and experimentation to achieve the best results.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/830-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed m

829: Extreme Tree Care for our Extreme WeatherA Rosie On The House Radio Show ReplayIn This Podcast: In this episode of Rosie on the House, hosts Farmer Greg and guests Derek Zellers and Anthony Dominguez from HyKreations discuss extreme weather tree care. They introduce their all-natural Wisdom product line, which enhances tree care during extreme heat periods by using ingredients like fish, kelp, and mined minerals. Their products, designed to support microbial life in the soil, help trees reach their genetic potential and produce larger yields. Various application methods, such as foliar and drench feeding, are detailed, alongside the benefits of feeding trees continuously. Visit HyKreations.com for more information.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/829-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode!Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analys

828: Scott Murray on Nurturing Future FarmersThe MESA program and Agricultural StewardshipIn This Podcast: Returning guest Scott Murray, with 50 years of organic agriculture experience, discusses his involvement with the MESA program on a podcast. The MESA program, approved by the U.S. State Department, hosts international agricultural interns to promote sustainable agriculture. Scott shares his experiences with interns from France and Kenya and highlights the value of global knowledge exchange. He also talks about his current projects, including a successful coffee farm in Southern California. The program provides a valuable opportunity for hosts in the U.S. to learn from agricultural practices around the world.Our Guest: Scott has 50 years of organic agriculture production experience in the United States and Mexico. He has served in a wide variety of roles within conservation, Food production and environmental leadership, including as an elected California conservation official for the last 31 years. Sco

Down on the Farm Chat with Judith, Wendi & GregAbout Steam Juicers, Chicken Juice and so much moreIn This Podcast: Join Judith Horvath, Wendi Bergin and Greg for a lively conversation about using a steam juicer for making chicken broth, a method new to Judith and Greg. Then they dive into composting techniques, pressure canning, and maintenance of kitchen equipment. The conversation also delves into their personal homesteading practices, experiences with gardening, and how they manage their respective farms. The energetic dialogue underscores their shared passion for sustainable living and continuous learning.Our Guests: Check out Judith at https://www.fairhillfarm.com/ and Wendi at https://joyfullyprepared.com/Visit www.UrbanFarm.org for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without th

827: Farmer Karl Ebling on The Declaration of Common Ground.Teaching self-sufficiency while strengthening community bonds through farming.In This Podcast: Farmer Karl, with 33 years of corporate experience, transitioned to farming to uplift communities by founding Eden Streets in 2020. He worked with women facing homelessness in Salt Lake City and now runs Grow Ogden Farm in Utah, integrating job training and social missions for vulnerable individuals. His initiative connects people with agriculture, fostering self-sufficiency and reducing homelessness. Additionally, through his Declaration of Common Ground, Karl aspires to unite global community-based farming efforts to address societal challenges.Our Guest: The “Mister Rogers” of farming, “Farmer Karl” is a compassionate leader who is dedicated to lifting lives by connecting individuals with plants, the soil, and others on the farm. With 33 years of international business experience as a consultant, teacher, and mentor, Farmer Karl’s specialty is his abili

826: Managing Heat Stress with your AnimalsA Garden Chat with Judith Horvath.In This Podcast: We chat with Judith Horvath, a former business executive turned regenerative farmer, focuses on helping new farmers and creating a resilient local food supply chain. They chat about managing summertime heat stress in various farm animals such as sheep, goats, chickens, and turkeys. Key practices mentioned include maintaining clean and cool water, using misting fans, providing loose salt and minerals, and using methods like cold watermelon to help animals stay hydrated and cool. The importance of observing animal behavior and routine for early detection of stress signs is emphasized. Additionally, Judith shares insights based on her experience and expertise in regenerative farming and offers resources for managing internal parasites in farm animals. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits

825: Selecting for Good Seed Stock.A chat with an expert on seeds.This is the June 2024 Seed Chat - In June’s Seed Chat, Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson delve into the art of cultivating optimal seed stock straight from your garden. Discover the satisfaction of hand-selecting seeds that thrive in your unique microenvironment. Bill and Greg explore the importance of observing characteristics of your plants for selecting what you want and looking for obvious factors such as disease and insect resistance. Learn how to enhance your garden’s resilience by selecting seeds adapted to local conditions in your garden or farm. Bill and Greg will present a green-thumb guide on curating seed stock that reflects your garden’s personality and promises seasons of success. Come Chat with Us!Visit www.urbanfarm.org/825-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Directo

Special Episode of The Urban Farm Podcast w/The Goddess and The Medicine Woman crew Sydney & MelissaIn This Podcast: Join Greg for this incredibly fun snippet from his interview on The Goddess and The Medicine Woman podcast.Visit The Goddess and The Medicine Woman for the full episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our

824: Matt Fritzmiller on Backyard Gardening in the Southwest.Building a homestead, southwest urban style.In This Podcast: Matt FritzMiller shares his journey of transforming his backyard in Chandler, Arizona, into an urban homestead with 20-25 fruit trees and multiple garden beds. Matt, the creator of Renaissance Dad, discusses his trial-and-error approach to gardening in the Southwest, the importance of deep fruit tree irrigation, and the joys and challenges of raising chickens. He emphasizes the health benefits, the satisfaction of growing fresh produce, and the involvement of his family in their gardening projects. The conversation also touches on composting, the practical aspects of gardening, and the rewarding experience of sharing homegrown produce with the community.Our Guest: Matt is the author of Renaissance Dad, a website dedicated to gardening, DIY, parenting, cooking, tools, and education. A lifelong educator, Matt enjoys being outside as much as possible, especially if it involves a fruit tree,

823: Getting Your Gardens WateredA Rosie On The House Radio Show ReplayIn This Podcast: Rosie on the House features Farmer Greg and Janis Norton discussing various methods for watering gardens. Key topics include flood irrigation, rainwater harvesting, stormwater, and gray water use along with the benefits of drip tape systems over traditional drip irrigation. The show also delves into soil types (sandy, loamy, clay) and their impact on water absorption. Practical advice is provided on setting up efficient irrigation systems, including the use of shutoff valves, pressure reducers, and chlorine filters.Our Guest: Janis Norton Manager all things Urban Farm and Farmer GregFor your own Drip Tape Starter Kit visit our General Store HERE.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/823-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode!Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard

822: Zen Honeycutt on Inspiring Moms to Change The World.Transforming health for generations to come.In This Podcast: We are chatting with Zen Honeycutt, the founding executive director of Moms Across America. Zen shares her journey of addressing her children's severe allergies and health issues, which led to the founding of a national coalition aimed at empowering moms and promoting healthy communities. She discusses the impact of GMOs and toxic chemicals in our food supply and the significant improvements in her children's health after switching to an organic diet. Zen also details the initiatives and successes of Moms Across America in advocating for better food standards and community health. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and learn how you can make a difference in your family's health and your community.--Our Guest: Zen is the Founding Executive Director of the non-profit, Moms Across America, a National Coalition of Unstoppable Moms with the motto "Empowered Moms, Healthy Kids." She is also an int

821: Chris Bowman and Danny Lundquist on Transforming Chicken Coop OwnershipIn This Podcast: Greg interviews Danny Lundquist and Chris Bowman, the entrepreneurial duo behind The Chicken Coop Company. They discuss their venture from different backgrounds, with Danny with tech sales and Chris with financial services and real estate, to improve the experience of backyard chicken keeping. They transitioned from corporate jobs into entrepreneurship (one of Greg’s favorite topics), founding their business with an eye on the importance of freedom through owning their own business.In our chat we explore the nuances of high-quality yet affordable chicken coops, which cater to urban chicken owners concerned about safety, convenience, predator protection, and aesthetic appeal. Key points include the benefits and drawbacks of purchasing chicken coops online, integrating customer feedback for continuous improvement, and professional life lessons learned from past business endeavors.Our Guests: Danny was raised in a fam

820: The Edible Landscape Project A Garden Chat with Joan Baron.In This Garden Chat:Join Farmer Greg and Joan Baron as they explore how Joan took an often overlooked area around her property and turned it into a lush garden. She transformed the alley behind her house into a lush garden that the city, neighbors and community are raving about. Listen and find out how you can do the same.Our Special Guest:Joan Baron is an environmental artist and community activist whose passion lies in exploring and digging deep into Earth's materials to design and build gardens. She conceived the Edible Landscape Project in 2008 as a response to seeing too many desert yards growing grass with no human engagement. The Food in the Alley initiative grew out of her desire to continue studying and experimenting with growing food in Arizona. Alleys have traditionally been unattractive and undesirable spaces. Joan saw her alley as an opportunity to grow more food for people, bees, and butterflies. Need a little bit of advice