Organic fruits and vegetables represent over 12 percent of fruit and vegetable sales in the U.S., yet total organic acreages remain below 1 percent of the country’s total acreage in crop production. The organic seed sector is even smaller. Many popular varieties of fruits and vegetables are bred conventionally. Without organic seeds available, organic growers … Read more
Before you can begin to plant your fruit, nut or berry orchard, much planning has already occurred. Site selection, water management, enterprise budgets, research on pest and disease management practices, marketing plans, soil testing and site preparation are all on the list of must-dos before even considering which varieties to grow. After you’ve worked through … Read more
One of the most understated joys in life is growing your very own herb garden. It’s a charming and useful occupation with many benefits. Whether you’re a green thumb who wants to take on the citrus family or simply someone who wants to learn how to grow orange trees in containers, this article is for … Read more
Researching the fruit’s health properties Mary Ann Lila, director of the Plants for Human Health Institute at NCSU, says blueberries contain a variety of phytochemicals that may help people with cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, to name a few. Mary Ann Lila has never met a blueberry she didn’t like. In fact, if she … Read more
Are you thinking about growing your own cherry tree plants? People grow this special tree for two reasons, either the delicious fruit, the beautiful blossom state during springtime. In either case, read on to learn more about cherry trees. Growing a Cherry Tree The cherry tree requires well-drained and fertile soil in order to thrive. … Read more