The Appalachian Growers Seed Collective w/ Shelby Mandonado and Leeza Chen

In this Episode Shelby Mandonado and Leeza Chen share the story behind the Appalachian Growers Seed Collective, a collaborative network of farmers producing and stewarding locally adapted seeds for the Southern Appalachian region. They discuss why regional seed production matters, how climate change makes local adaptation increasingly important, and how farmers can reclaim seed sovereignty by saving and sharing seeds. The conversation explores the practical realities of launching a seed collective, preserving heirloom varieties, and strengthening local food systems through collaboration rather than competition. It is an inspiring discussion about resilience, biodiversity, and the long-term power of community-grown seeds.

Our Guests: Shelby is a farmer, organizer, and mother with a passion for collaborative models of community building based around our shared love of the land. And

Leeza is a seed farmer near Asheville, North Carolina. She is inspired by the way seeds are both deeply personal and powerfully political, often leaning on them as a lens to understand our connection to the land, culture, and sovereignty.

Key Topics

• Appalachian Growers Seed Collective
• Shelby Mandonado
• Leeza Chen
• Southern Appalachian seed stewardship
• Bioregional seed adaptation
• Seed sovereignty
• Local food systems
• Community-based seed production
• Seed farming
• Climate resilience in agriculture
• Utopian Seed Project
• Heirloom and heritage crop preservation
• Farmer collaboration and shared equipment
• Seed saving as cultural preservation

Key Questions Answered

What is the Appalachian Growers Seed Collective?

A regional network of approximately ten farmers who collaboratively grow, steward, package, and sell locally adapted seed varieties while sharing equipment, knowledge, and resources.

Why are locally adapted seeds so important?

Seeds grown and selected in a specific region become better adapted to local climate, weather patterns, soils, pests, and diseases, improving reliability for future growers.

What is a seed farmer?

A seed farmer allows crops to complete their full life cycle, harvesting mature seed instead of edible produce, then cleaning, testing, and packaging seed for future planting.

Why has on-farm seed saving declined?

Commercial seed industry consolidation has led many growers to purchase seed annually rather than saving their own, reducing regional adaptation and local seed resilience.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic influence the collective?

Seed shortages during the pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the food system and highlighted the need for local seed production and regional seed independence.

How was the collective started?

The founders secured a grant, purchased shared seed-processing equipment, built a mobile processing trailer, and spent significant time developing trust, shared values, and collaborative systems before expanding production.

What makes Southern Appalachian seed production unique?

The region's humid climate presents challenges rarely addressed by traditional seed-saving literature, requiring local experimentation and farmer-to-farmer learning.

How can others start a regional seed collective?

Begin with trusted growers, define shared values and goals, develop a complementary seed collection, share resources, and grow at the "speed of trust."

How does the Utopian Seed Project support the collective?

The nonprofit evaluates diverse crop varieties through research and field trials, then shares promising selections with the collective for regional seed production and distribution.

What role does seed stewardship play in climate resilience?

Saving seed from plants that survive local stresses gradually builds populations better adapted to changing environmental conditions.

Can someone without a farming heritage become a seed steward?

Absolutely. Every seed saver can become the first generation of a new seed lineage by preserving, sharing, and passing seeds to future growers.

Episode Highlights

• The collective includes about ten farmers working together to grow, process, and market locally adapted seeds.
• Seeds are selected only after proving themselves through multiple growing seasons in Southern Appalachian conditions.
• COVID-19 seed shortages revealed how dependent local food systems are on distant commercial seed suppliers.
• Shared equipment, including a mobile seed-processing trailer, allows small farmers to access professional seed-cleaning tools.
• Trust-building, shared meals, and collaborative decision-making are considered just as important as technical farming skills.
• Climate change makes regional seed adaptation increasingly valuable for future food security.
• Every heirloom seed carries generations of cultural history, family traditions, and local knowledge.
• Anyone can become the first ancestor in a new seed-saving tradition by simply beginning to save and share seed.

Resources

Appalachian Growers Seed Collective Store — https://utopianseed.org/store

Utopian Seed Project — https://utopianseed.org

Real Seeds ZigZag Winnower Plans — https://www.realseeds.co.uk

Connect with Leeza Chen — [email protected]

Recommended Book - The Seed Garden by Jared Zystro

Follow Utopian Seed Project — Instagram, Facebook, and the Utopian Seed Project mailing list for breeding trials, research, and seed releases.

Visit www.urbanfarm.org/SeedCollective for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

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 or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In this Episode we have Landen Schaelling, founder of Sacred Soil Solutions, sharing how healthy soil biology transforms plant health from the ground up. Drawing on years of homesteading, regenerative soil research, and microscopy, he explains why bacteria, fungi, and other microbes are the true engine behind thriving gardens and farms. The conversation explores the science of rhizophagy, microbial ferments, compost quality, and practical strategies that gardeners and farmers can immediately implement to build healthier, more resilient soil. Landen also discusses how understanding living soil can reduce fertilizer inputs, improve plant immunity, and restore natural ecological balance.

Our Guest: Landen Schaelling is the founder of Sacred Soil Solutions. He is focused on bringing optimal and approachable microbial inputs to gardeners and homesteaders, while also teaching farmers in the American West how to implement soil-building solutions at scale. Landen has been homesteading through a permaculture lens in Northern Arizona for over a decade. In the last couple of years, he has devoted his focus to restoring holistic soil microbiology and using practical microscope work to verify and guide that process.

Key Topics

• Living soil biology
• Soil microbiome
• Rhizophagy (plant root feeding)
• Compost quality and fungal dominance
• Soil microscopy
• Symbiotic Antioxidative Microbes (SAM)
• Microbial ferments
• Compost extracts vs. compost teas
• Soil pH and alkalinity
• Water retention in arid climates
• Plant Health Pyramid
• Complete protein synthesis in plants
• Regenerative agriculture
• Homesteading and permaculture

Key Questions Answered

What makes soil truly healthy?

Healthy soil contains a balance of minerals, water, air space, organic matter, and abundant biological life. Understanding each site's history helps determine the best path toward regeneration.

Why are microbes so important?

Microbes drive nutrient cycling, improve plant nutrition, build soil structure, support water retention, and create resilient ecosystems that naturally suppress disease and pests.

What is rhizophagy?

Rhizophagy is the process by which plant roots actively absorb bacteria and yeast through root tips, consume them, and gain proteins, micronutrients, and growth-promoting compounds directly from living microbes.

Why does compost sometimes perform better than fertilizer?

High-quality compost delivers living biology rather than simply nutrients. Plants respond rapidly when beneficial microbes become available through compost or microbial ferments.

What's the difference between compost tea and microbial ferments?

Compost tea extracts microbes already living in compost, while microbial ferments grow stable populations of beneficial microbes that can be applied as foliar sprays or soil drenches.

Why is soil history important?

Past management practices—including flood irrigation, synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and previous crops—continue to influence soil biology, fertility, and plant performance years later.

How can gardeners encourage healthier soil biology?

Build mature compost, reduce unnecessary disturbance, increase carbon-rich materials, apply microbial ferments, mulch consistently, and maintain proper moisture.

Can healthier soil reduce pests and diseases?

Healthy plants with complete protein synthesis become naturally less attractive to many insect pests while beneficial microbes improve plant immune function against common diseases.

How does soil microscopy help?

Microscopy allows growers to directly observe microbial populations, assess compost quality, diagnose biological deficiencies, and monitor progress during soil restoration.

What common mistake delayed Landen's success?

Using feedlot cattle manure overloaded his soil with nitrates, producing vigorous foliage but poor fruit production and severe pest pressure, ultimately leading him to study soil biology more deeply.

Episode Highlights

• Landen left a traditional academic path after discovering permaculture and dedicated his life to regenerative homesteading.
• Healthy soil depends as much on living biology as it does on minerals and organic matter.
• Rhizophagy has changed how scientists understand plant nutrition, showing plants directly consume microbes.
• Compost quality depends more on microbial diversity than simply creating dark, finished organic matter.
• Acidic microbial ferments can help offset alkaline soils common throughout the American Southwest.
• Living microbes improve plant nutrition, reduce pest pressure, and strengthen natural disease resistance.
• Soil microscopy allows growers to verify biological activity instead of relying solely on assumptions.
• Taking action before knowing everything is often the fastest path to learning and improving soil health.

Resources

Book Recommendation

Regenerative Soil by Matt Powers

Learn More

• Sacred Soil Solutions School (Skool community)
• Sacred Soil Solutions educational resources on microbial ferments

Follow

• Facebook: Landen Schaelling
• Instagram: Sacred Soil Solutions

Email

[email protected]

Visit www.urbanfarm.org/SacredSoil for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

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 or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In this Episode Aly Nickling-Riddle shares her journey from personal tragedy and corporate life to building a homestead in Northern Ontario. After leaving everything behind to travel in a vintage RV, she unexpectedly met her future husband, and together they pursued a simpler, more self-sufficient lifestyle. Aly discusses the realities of homesteading, the emotional and financial challenges many aspiring homesteaders underestimate, and the inspiration behind her book Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You? This conversation offers a practical roadmap for anyone considering a move toward greater self-reliance.

Our Guest: Aly is a Canadian author, keynote speaker, McGill lecturer, and freelance journalist who brings a refreshingly honest perspective to modern homesteading and self-sufficient living. With a background in media, business, and more than a decade of professional writing experience, she helps people think carefully before making major lifestyle changes. Her book, Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?, encourages aspiring homesteaders to look beyond social media ideals and understand the real physical, financial, and emotional demands of rural life. Through workshops, lectures, and presentations, she focuses on practical planning, resilience, sustainability, and building realistic paths toward long-term self-reliance.

Key Topics

• Aly Riddle
• Riddle Ridge Homestead
• Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?
• Self-sufficiency and resilience
• Emotional challenges of homesteading
• Financial planning before buying land
• Community and neighbor relationships
• Rural versus urban lifestyles
• Infrastructure costs and land development
• Preparedness and disaster resilience
• Building realistic homestead plans
• Personal consultations for aspiring homesteaders
• Hurricane Helene recovery lessons
• The Encyclopedia of Country Living by Carla Emery

Key Questions Answered

Why did Aly choose the homesteading lifestyle?

After experiencing multiple personal tragedies and a divorce, Aly decided to rebuild her life from scratch. She left the corporate world, traveled in an RV, and eventually found a path toward a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.

What inspired the book Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?

Aly and her husband noticed many people leaving homesteading after only a couple of years because they entered the lifestyle with unrealistic expectations. The book was created to help people understand what they are truly signing up for before they buy land.

What makes this book different from other homesteading books?

Most homesteading books focus on skills and projects after purchasing land. Aly's book focuses on the planning, financial, emotional, and practical considerations that should happen years before purchasing property.

What is the biggest misconception about homesteading?

Many people believe homesteading is a slower, stress-free lifestyle. In reality, it replaces urban stresses with different challenges that require resilience, adaptability, and commitment.

How does Aly define homesteading?

Homesteading is any effort to become more self-sufficient and less dependent on systems that can fail. It can happen in rural settings, suburban backyards, or even urban apartments.

What hidden costs surprise new homesteaders?

Infrastructure expenses such as wells, septic systems, driveways, utilities, and ongoing maintenance are often underestimated. Many people also overestimate how quickly a homestead can generate income.

Why is community important for homesteaders?

Strong neighbor relationships provide support, skill sharing, trade opportunities, and resilience during emergencies. Community often determines long-term success more than individual effort.

What lesson did Aly learn from a tornado striking her property?

The experience reinforced that no amount of planning eliminates uncertainty. Gratitude, adaptability, and resilience become essential when nature disrupts carefully crafted plans.

What drives Aly's work today?

She is passionate about helping people move from dreaming about self-sufficiency to creating practical, realistic plans that can succeed over the long term.

Episode Highlights

• Aly rebuilt her life after personal tragedy by leaving corporate life and traveling full-time in a vintage RV.
• She met her future husband on the very first day of a work-camping opportunity in Florida.
• Their homesteading journey required far more planning and time than they originally expected.
• Emotional resilience is often more important than practical skills for long-term success.
• Homesteading can be practiced anywhere, not just on large rural properties.
• New homesteaders frequently underestimate infrastructure and development costs.
• Community relationships can be as valuable as land, tools, and equipment.
• A tornado that dropped over 100 trees on Aly's property became a lesson in gratitude and resilience.

Calls to Action & Resources

Book — Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You? (Available through Amazon and local bookstores)

Instagram — Riddle Ridge Homestead

Facebook — Riddle Ridge Homestead

Consulting Services — Personal planning consultations for new and aspiring homesteaders available through the website.

Visit www.urbanfarm.org/RiddleRidge for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

 Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?

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*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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Harvesting, Milling, and Cooking with Arizona’s Native Superfood

In this episode we explore mesquites as a desert food source, hosted by Romey Romero & Farmer Greg. This episodes guests are Peggy Sue Creekmore and Mike Clow and we explore one of the Sonoran Desert’s most abundant and overlooked food sources: mesquite beans. The conversation covers how to identify quality mesquite trees, harvest pods safely, dry them properly, and turn them into nutritious mesquite flour using a community hammer mill. Listeners learn why mesquite has been a staple food for centuries, how it compares to conventional flour, and how to transform this free local resource into delicious baked goods, drinks, and snacks. The episode also highlights educational workshops, harvesting walks, and community milling opportunities.

Key Topics & Entities

• Mesquite bean harvesting
• Mesquite flour production
• Community hammer mill project
• Native desert food systems
• Peggy Sue Creekmore
• Mike Clow
• Farmer Greg Peterson
• Sonoran Desert edible plants
• Palo verde beans
• Carob pods
• Ironwood seeds
• Aflatoxin prevention
• Bruchid beetles
• Urban Farm mesquite milling events

Key Questions Answered

Why is mesquite considered a valuable food source?

Mesquite pods are highly nutritious, naturally sweet, gluten-free, and rich in protein. Indigenous peoples and desert communities have relied on mesquite as a staple food across the Southwest and northern Mexico for centuries.

Do all mesquite trees produce good-tasting pods?

No. While all mesquite pods are technically edible, flavor varies significantly from tree to tree. Some are sweet and pleasant, while others can be chalky or have an unpleasant aftertaste. Tasting pods before harvesting is essential.

What does mesquite flour taste like?

Mesquite flour has a naturally sweet flavor often compared to graham crackers, caramel, or malt. Many recipes require little or no additional sugar because of the flour’s natural sweetness.

When is mesquite harvesting season?

Mesquite pods typically begin ripening in June, although weather and elevation can shift timing earlier or later. Pods should be fully tan, dry, and free of green coloration before harvesting.

How should mesquite pods be harvested?

Harvest pods directly from the tree rather than from the ground. Many harvesters use a tarp and gently shake or tap branches to collect ripe pods.

Why shouldn't pods be collected from the ground?

Ground-harvested pods can develop mold and aflatoxins, which may contaminate community milling equipment and reduce food safety.

How can harvested pods be stored properly?

Pods should be dried thoroughly in shallow boxes, baskets, dehydrators, ovens, or even a parked vehicle. Moisture is the primary cause of spoilage and milling problems.

What is a mesquite hammer mill?

A hammer mill is a specialized machine that pulverizes entire mesquite pods, including seeds and pod walls, into flour. Traditional grain mills cannot process mesquite effectively because its natural sugars gum up the machinery.

What can be made with mesquite flour?

Mesquite flour can be used in cookies, muffins, crepes, breads, energy balls, beverages, and other baked goods. It works particularly well in low-temperature baking and gluten-free recipes.

What happens to the material that doesn't become flour?

The coarse material, often called "chunky bits" or chaff, can be used to make tea, brewing mash, and other food products.

Episode Highlights

• Mesquite flour is naturally sweet enough to reduce or eliminate added sugar in many recipes.
• Flavor quality varies dramatically between mesquite trees, making tasting an important step before harvesting.
• A mature mesquite tree can produce more than 100 pounds of pods in a season.
• Harvesters should only collect pods directly from the tree to prevent mold contamination.
• Proper drying is the single most important factor for successful milling.
• The Urban Farm community hammer mill converts harvested pods into food-grade flour.
• Mesquite flour is gluten-free and requires binders such as eggs, chia, or applesauce when baking.
• Desert trees such as palo verde, carob, ironwood, and mesquite offer significant edible resources often overlooked by modern food systems.

Calls to Action & Resources

• Mesquite Harvesting Walks — https://urbanfarm.org/mesquite
• Mesquite Milling Appointments — https://urbanfarm.org/mesquite
• Urban Farm Educational Programs — https://urbanfarm.org
• Desert Food Tree Guide — https://learn.desertkitchen.net/trees

Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/990 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 with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In this Episode Beth Cole of Riverview Farms shares how local farms strengthen communities, preserve farmland, improve food security, and support healthier ecosystems. Drawing from her experience as a market gardener in Western North Carolina, Beth explains the value of Certified Naturally Grown certification, community-supported agriculture (CSA), farmers markets, and home gardening. She also reflects on lessons learned from Hurricane Helene, the challenges of starting a farm, and why growing food is one of the most important skills families can develop.

Our Guest: Beth Cole is a market gardener in Asheville, North Carolina. At their farm they grow a variety of certified naturally grown veggies and cut flowers, are passionate about preserving farmland in the region and growing real food that nourishes the community.

Key Topics

• Beth Cole
• Riverview Farms
• Market gardening
• Asparagus production
• Certified Naturally Grown (CNG)
• Local food systems
• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
• Farmers markets
• Hurricane Helene recovery
• Soil health and floodplain farming
• Garden plant starts
• Dirt Craft Living Soils
• Food security and preparedness
• Growing food in Western North Carolina

Key Questions Answered

What is market gardening?

Market gardening is small-scale intensive food production focused on growing a diverse mix of vegetables and flowers for local markets, restaurants, and consumers. Riverview Farms grows on roughly two acres while maintaining additional acreage for wildlife habitat, hay production, and floodplain preservation.

How does asparagus grow?

Asparagus is a long-term perennial crop typically started from crowns. Growers wait several years before harvesting heavily, with full production often beginning around year five. Well-maintained asparagus beds can remain productive for 15 years or longer.

What is Certified Naturally Grown?

Certified Naturally Grown follows standards similar to organic certification but is designed for smaller farms. The program emphasizes sustainability, biodiversity, wildlife habitat, and farmland preservation while relying on peer-to-peer farm inspections rather than third-party auditors.

Why does buying from local farms matter?

Purchasing from local farms helps preserve farmland, protect watersheds, support pollinators, strengthen local economies, and provide farmers with a sustainable livelihood. Local food purchases keep money circulating within the community.

What is a CSA?

Community Supported Agriculture allows customers to purchase a subscription to a farm's harvest. Members share both the risks and rewards of farming while providing farmers with critical early-season income.

What positive lessons came from Hurricane Helene?

Although the storm caused significant damage throughout the region, Beth observed that floodplain farmland acted as a natural sponge, reducing downstream impacts. In some areas, nutrient-rich sediments deposited by floodwaters improved soil quality and organic matter.

Why should gardeners buy plants locally?

Locally grown plant starts are better adapted to regional growing conditions and often outperform plants shipped long distances to big-box stores. Supporting local growers also strengthens the regional food economy.

Why do new gardeners struggle?

Gardening is a learned skill that requires time, observation, and experience. Success depends on understanding local conditions, improving soil health, and accepting mistakes as part of the learning process.

Why are farmers markets important?

Farmers markets provide the freshest possible produce, often harvested within 24 hours of sale. They create direct relationships between growers and consumers while supporting local agriculture.

What motivates Beth's farming work?

Beth is driven by concerns about chronic disease, declining food quality, and the disconnect between people and real food. She believes locally grown produce can improve both individual and community health.

Episode Highlights

• Beth transitioned from humanitarian work and Montana grain farming into market gardening in North Carolina.
• Riverview Farms shifted from primarily asparagus production to diversified vegetable and flower production.
• Asparagus requires patience, often taking five years before reaching full harvest potential.
• Certified Naturally Grown certification strengthens farmer-to-farmer learning through peer inspections.
• Buying local food directly supports farmland preservation, pollinator habitat, and watershed protection.
• Hurricane Helene highlighted the important role farms play in absorbing floodwaters and protecting communities.
• Local plant starts provide gardeners with healthier, more resilient plants adapted to regional conditions.
• Farmers markets offer unmatched freshness while building relationships between farmers and consumers.
• Soil quality is one of the most important investments gardeners can make.
• Gardening success comes from persistence, observation, and continuous learning.

Calls to Action & Resources

Certified Naturally Grown

https://www.naturallygrown.org

Riverview Farms NC

Facebook: Riverview Farms NC

Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP)

https://asapconnections.org

Dirt Craft Living Soils

https://dirtcraftorganics.com

Recommended Book

Grow Great Vegetables in North Carolina — A practical guide for understanding regional growing conditions, soil, weather patterns, and crop selection.

Visit www.urbanfarm.org/RiverviewFarms for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

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 or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

The Preserver's Garden: Featuring Staci and Jeremy Hill of Gooseberry Bridge Farm

In this Episode Staci and Jeremy share their journey from suburban living to operating an 11-acre farm in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri. What began as a small raised-bed garden evolved into a lifestyle centered on food production, preservation, agritourism, and self-sufficiency. In this conversation, they discuss how preserving food became a cornerstone of their family's food security strategy, why they intentionally grow crops for canning and freeze-drying, and how planning a "preserver's garden" differs from traditional gardening. They also share lessons learned from preservation failures, the economics of home food production, and the inspiration behind their book, The Preserver's Garden.

Our Guests: Stacy and Jeremy Hill are the owners of Gooseberry Bridge Farm, located in the Ozark Mountains of Southwest Missouri. They moved from the typical house at the end of a cul-de-sac in a subdivision to an 11-acre farm almost 10 years ago, and haven't looked back. In addition to producing and preserving as much of their own food by canning, freezing, dehydrating, and freeze-drying their garden harvests, they also operate a you-pick flower farm with different varieties of flowers throughout the year. Their goals are to share their farm with the community and to be as self-sufficient as possible within the boundaries of what is realistic in today's world.

Key Topics

• Gooseberry Bridge Farm
• Staci and Jeremy Hill
• The Preserver's Garden
• Food preservation strategies
• Canning and water bath processing
• Freeze-drying food for long-term storage
• Growing for food security
• Building a year-round pantry
• Preserving tomatoes, peaches, beans, and zucchini
• Family involvement in food production
• Agritourism and farm experiences
• Teaching lost homesteading skills
• Foxfire books and traditional knowledge
• Reducing grocery costs through food production

Key Questions Answered

How did Staci and Jeremy transition from suburbia to farming?

They began with a small raised-bed garden after getting married and gradually expanded their food production over two decades. After moving to an 11-acre property in Missouri, they increased their gardening, added livestock, and eventually turned the farm into their primary source of income through agritourism and value-added products.

What inspired them to focus on food preservation?

As their family grew, they became interested in preserving traditional skills they could pass on to future generations. Each year they learned a new preservation method, eventually mastering canning, dehydrating, freeze-drying, and food storage.

What does a well-stocked pantry look like?

A successful pantry is built around foods a family actually enjoys eating. Rather than preserving what is easiest, they recommend preserving crops you enjoy and grow well. Their pantry includes extensive stores of tomato sauce, salsa, green beans, soups, fruits, and freeze-dried foods.

What crops provide the biggest return for food security?

Their highest-performing crops include tomatoes, bush beans, zucchini, summer squash, and okra. They emphasize growing large quantities and "outplanting failure" rather than constantly battling pests.

Why do they freeze-dry food?

Freeze-drying dramatically increases shelf life, often up to 25 years, while preserving flavor and nutrition. It also expands the range of foods they can store compared to traditional canning.

How do they handle large harvests of tomatoes?

They harvest tomatoes at the blush stage, allow them to ripen indoors, process them in batches, and often freeze excess harvests for winter canning. This approach reduces summer workload and avoids heating the kitchen during hot weather.

Why was The Preserver's Garden written?

A publisher noticed a gap between gardening books and preservation books. The result was a book focused on planning a garden specifically for preservation goals rather than simply dealing with surplus produce after harvest.

How has preserving food impacted their household finances?

Despite having more children and growing teenagers, their grocery expenses have declined over the years while food quality has improved. Producing and preserving food has reduced their dependence on grocery stores.

What preservation failures taught them valuable lessons?

Experiments freeze-drying sweet hot sauce and banana puree resulted in spectacular messes due to sugar expansion during the freeze-drying process. These failures reinforced the importance of testing and learning through experience.

What advice do they give beginners?

Start small. Preserve one thing, grow one crop, and build confidence through small successes. Fear and misinformation often prevent people from getting started.

Episode Highlights

• Staci and Jeremy moved from a suburban cul-de-sac to an 11-acre farm in the Ozarks nearly a decade ago.
• Their farm now supports agritourism, a flower operation, livestock experiences, and food production.
• A surprise harvest of 300–400 pounds of peaches led to a week-long experiment with new preservation recipes.
• Their pantry functions as a personalized grocery store stocked with foods their family regularly eats.
• They grow approximately 100 tomato plants and harvest up to 30–40 pounds of tomatoes per day during peak season.
• Freeze-drying transformed their food preservation capacity and significantly expanded their pantry.
• Their children actively participate in gardening, food preservation, and homesteading skills.
• An Instagram post featuring their pantry went viral and helped inspire the creation of their book.

Calls to Action & Resources

Book: The Preserver's Garden — https://thepreserversgarden.com

Farm Website: Gooseberry Bridge Farm — https://gooseberrybridge.com

Instagram: Gooseberry Bridge Farm — https://www.instagram.com/gooseberrybridgefarm

Recommended Reading: Foxfire Book Series

Visit www.urbanfarm.org/PreserversGarden for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

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 or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Join our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.org

In This Podcast: In this monthly Seed Chat, Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman explore the global rules governing seed ownership, seed saving, biodiversity, and agricultural policy. The conversation dives into international treaties, plant patenting, farmers’ rights, and the growing tension between the Global North and Global South over control of genetic resources. Bill shares firsthand experiences attending United Nations treaty negotiations and working with Indigenous seed sovereignty issues through Native Seeds/SEARCH. The episode also highlights why everyday gardeners and farmers should become “seed citizens” by saving and sharing locally adapted seeds.

Bill McDorman is a renowned seed saver, educator, and advocate for agricultural biodiversity. He co-founded the Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance and has spent decades teaching gardeners and farmers how to grow, save, and share heirloom seeds. Through workshops, speaking, and mentorship, Bill inspires communities to strengthen local food systems, preserve regional seed diversity, and protect seed sovereignty for future generations.

Key Topics

• Seed libraries and locally adapted seed sharing
• International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA)
• UPOV and global plant variety protection laws
• World Trade Organization (WTO) seed policy influence
• Farmers’ rights and seed sovereignty
• Plant patenting and intellectual property in agriculture
• Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
• Nagoya Protocol and access-benefit sharing
• Digital Sequence Information (DSI) and genetic ownership
• Native Seeds/SEARCH and Indigenous seed stewardship
• Organic Seed Alliance and seed policy debates
• Global North vs. Global South agricultural power dynamics
• Seed banks and the Multilateral System (MLS)
• The importance of saving open-pollinated seeds
• The future resilience of local food systems

Key Questions Answered

What is the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture?

The ITPGRFA is a legally binding international treaty created to govern the conservation, sharing, and equitable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. It officially entered into force in 2004 and now includes participation from more than 180 countries.

Why do global seed treaties matter to everyday gardeners and farmers?

These treaties influence who can save seeds, who profits from plant genetics, and how agricultural biodiversity is preserved. The policies affect food security, seed availability, farmer independence, and long-term resilience of local food systems.

What is UPOV and why is it controversial?

UPOV is an international agreement that grants intellectual property protections to plant breeders. Critics argue that newer versions of UPOV weaken farmers’ traditional rights to save and replant seeds while strengthening corporate control over agriculture.

How does the WTO influence seed laws around the world?

According to Bill McDorman, countries seeking participation in global trade systems often adopt UPOV-style protections as part of WTO-related trade expectations, creating pressure on smaller nations to align with industrial seed systems.

What is the Nagoya Protocol?

The Nagoya Protocol is an international agreement designed to ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. It attempts to address historical exploitation of Indigenous and Global South biodiversity by pharmaceutical and agricultural corporations.

What is Digital Sequence Information (DSI)?

DSI refers to genetic sequencing data derived from crops and plant varieties. A major debate centers around who owns this information and whether communities that stewarded these crops for generations should share in the economic benefits created from their genetic data.

What are farmers’ rights in global seed policy?

Farmers’ rights include the ability to save, use, exchange, and sell farm-saved seed. These rights remain one of the most contested issues in international agricultural negotiations.

Why are seed libraries important?

Seed libraries help preserve locally adapted seed varieties while strengthening regional food resilience. They also create community networks for knowledge sharing and decentralized seed stewardship.

How did Native Seeds/SEARCH navigate Indigenous seed stewardship?

Bill shares stories from his time directing Native Seeds/SEARCH, including working with Zuni and Hopi communities to renegotiate relationships around seed stewardship, naming rights, and seed distribution.

Why does Bill McDorman encourage people to attend UN treaty meetings?

He believes participation in international seed policy discussions is critical for protecting biodiversity and farmers’ rights. Attending these events allows citizens, gardeners, and small farmers to directly engage with global agricultural policy.

Episode Highlights

• Bill discovers a seed library inside a small-town New Mexico library and reflects on the importance of locally adapted seeds.
• Greg and Bill explain how seed laws emerged alongside industrial agriculture and large-scale seed commerce.
• Bill breaks down UPOV, WTO policy, and how plant patenting transformed global agriculture.
• The conversation explores how Indigenous plant genetics were historically extracted and commercialized.
• Bill recounts receiving a cease-and-desist letter regarding Zuni bean varieties while directing Native Seeds/SEARCH.
• A deep discussion unfolds around Digital Sequence Information and the ownership of plant DNA data.
• Bill explains why small farmers across Africa increasingly believe they no longer have the right to save seeds.
• The episode concludes with a call for more “seed citizens” actively saving and sharing seeds locally.

Resources

Resource — Seed Chat Live Events — SeedChat.org

Podcast — Urban Farm Podcast

Organization — UPOV – International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants

Organization — World Trade Organization (WTO)

Organization — Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA)

Treaty — International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA)

Organization — Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

Resource — Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing

Community — Organic Seed Alliance

Organization — Native Seeds/SEARCH

Event — Great American Seed Up — First weekend in November in Phoenix, Arizona

Visit UrbanFarm.org/987 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 with Greg to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Raw Nutrition, Pawtrition, and the Future of Canine Health

In this episode, Greg speaks with entrepreneur and canine nutrition educator Ryan Cole about the hidden problems with highly processed dog food and the growing movement toward raw feeding for dogs. Ryan shares the personal story that launched his mission after rescuing a pit bull with severe allergies and discovering how dramatically diet impacted the dog’s health and quality of life.

The conversation explores kibble manufacturing, common ingredient red flags, raw feeding basics, portion control, canine obesity, treats, digestive health, and how personalized nutrition plans can improve a dog’s longevity. Ryan also introduces Pawtrition, an AI-powered dog meal planning platform designed to help dog owners create customized raw feeding plans based on breed, age, weight, and health goals.

Our Guest: Ryan Cole is an entrepreneur and founder of Lineage Premier, a canine-focused health and nutrition company dedicated to empowering dog parents with better feeding guidance and nutrition education. He is also the creator of Pawtrition, a Lineage Premier product and AI-powered dog meal planning app designed to help pet owners feed smarter with personalized nutrition plans tailored to each dog's breed, age, weight, and health goals. Through his work, Ryan bridges practical pet care with education, helping dog parents move beyond the guesswork toward informed decisions that support long-term canine health and vitality.

Key Topics & Entities

• Ryan Cole
• Pawtrition
• Lineage Premier
• Raw feeding for dogs
• Highly processed kibble and canine health
• Food allergies in dogs
• Pit bull rescue stories
• Canine nutrition education
• Personalized dog meal planning
• Bioavailable nutrients in raw diets
• Portion control and canine obesity
• Healthy dog treats and frozen fruit snacks
• Breed-specific nutrition
• Digestive health and stool quality in dogs

Key Questions

What inspired Ryan Cole to focus on canine nutrition?

Ryan’s journey began after rescuing a pit bull named Pops who suffered from severe allergic reactions to processed foods, shampoos, and synthetic materials. After switching to boiled chicken and rice and later researching raw feeding, Ryan saw dramatic health improvements that inspired him to dedicate his career to canine nutrition education.

Why does Ryan believe highly processed kibble is problematic?

Ryan explains that many kibble products are made from low-quality byproducts and heavily processed ingredients that are cooked at high temperatures, stripping away natural nutrients. Manufacturers then spray synthetic nutrients and fats onto the kibble after processing to improve flavor and nutritional labeling.

What ingredients should dog owners watch for on labels?

Ryan recommends paying close attention to the word “crude” on ingredient labels, especially crude proteins and crude fats. He also advises dog owners to read manufacturing warnings about cross-contamination from facilities processing allergens like nuts and grains.

What does a healthy raw diet for dogs look like?

A balanced raw diet includes raw meats, organ meats, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and oils. Ryan shares examples like chicken leg quarters, ground beef, chicken gizzards, green beans, duck eggs, and Alaskan fish oil.

How does Pawtrition help dog owners?

Pawtrition generates personalized 30-day meal plans based on a dog’s breed, age, weight, activity level, and health goals. The platform also includes budgeting tools, nutrition tracking, shopping assistance, veterinary checklists, and educational resources.

Are most dogs overfed or underfed?

Ryan says the bigger issue is often calorie-dense kibble rather than meal quantity itself. Because processed food is highly concentrated and less nutritionally bioavailable, dogs can gain weight even when owners believe they are feeding appropriate portions.

What are signs a dog’s diet may not be working?

Common warning signs include chronic itching, dull coats, digestive problems, inconsistent stool quality, scooting behavior, and excessive shedding or inflammation.

Should dog owners rotate proteins and foods?

Ryan recommends dietary variety whenever possible to improve nutrient diversity and prevent nutritional imbalances. Different proteins and vegetables offer different bioavailable nutrients and health benefits.

What treats does Ryan recommend?

Ryan prefers whole-food treats like frozen watermelon, blueberries, strawberries, and homemade fruit popsicles mixed with healthy fish oils instead of processed commercial treats.

What drives Ryan’s work today?

Ryan credits his mother’s work ethic and his lifelong passion for helping animals and people. He views Pawtrition and Lineage Premier as community-driven educational tools rather than simply businesses.

Episode Highlights

• Ryan rescued his first pit bull, Pops, at age 17 after his father passed away.
• Pops suffered severe reactions to processed foods and synthetic products before transitioning to a raw diet.
• Ryan explains how kibble manufacturing prioritizes shelf life and profit margins over nutrition quality.
• Greg shares a story about healing a rescued golden retriever through raw feeding after medications failed.
• Pawtrition creates downloadable customized feeding plans for dog owners.
• Ryan discusses why working breeds like heelers should remain lean to protect joints and hips.
• The conversation highlights the importance of observing each individual dog rather than following generic feeding advice.
• Ryan recommends the book The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom for its message about interconnectedness and purpose.

Resources

• Personalized canine meal planning — Pawtrition
• Raw feeding education and breed resources — Lineage Premier
• Follow Ryan Cole on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube under “Lineage Premier”

Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Pawtrition for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

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 or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A Rosie On The House Replay

In this episode Romey Romero from Rosie on the House and Farmer Greg sit down with Ashley McClure and Scott Brown of Phoenix Organic Feed to talk about raising backyard chickens in the summer heat. The conversation explores heat management, predator protection, organic feed, egg production, breed selection, and why chickens are one of the best tools for local food resilience. Ashley and Scott also share the grassroots story behind Phoenix Organic Feed and how a small community feed order turned into a regional network serving thousands of chicken keepers across metro Phoenix and the Verde Valley.

Key Topics

• Backyard chickens in desert climates
• Organic chicken feed and local food resilience
• Heat management for chickens
• Predator-proof chicken coops
• Egg production and breed selection
• Chickens as composters and pest control
• Food security through backyard farming
• Phoenix Organic Feed community distribution model
• Rhode Island Red chickens
• Leghorn chickens
• Raising meat birds vs. egg layers
• Electrolytes and hydration for poultry
• Victory Gardens and modern homesteading

Key Questions Answered

Why should people keep chickens in their backyard?

Chickens provide eggs, protein, compost, pest control, entertainment, and a stronger connection to food production. The guests describe chickens as a practical step toward food resilience and self-sufficiency.

Can chickens survive desert heat?

Yes. Chickens can adapt to desert climates when they have shade, cool water, ventilation, electrolyte support, and ways to cool their feet. Breed selection also matters because heavier feathered birds struggle more in extreme heat.

What are the biggest mistakes new chicken keepers make?

Underestimating heat stress, failing to predator-proof coops, and not planning for chick care are major mistakes. Baby chicks require supplemental heat, proper feed, protection, and clean water.

How do chickens help gardens and homesteads?

Chickens convert kitchen scraps, weeds, and insects into manure that improves soil fertility. They also reduce pests like scorpions and ticks while contributing to compost systems.

What breeds are best for egg production?

Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds are highlighted as strong egg producers, capable of laying close to 300 eggs per year under ideal conditions.

Do colorful eggs taste different?

No. The shell color does not change flavor, but presentation matters. Dark brown, blue, and green eggs create visual appeal and help backyard egg sellers stand out.

Why start Phoenix Organic Feed?

Scott Brown started the business after struggling to find affordable organic chicken feed in Phoenix. What began as a one-ton community order through a local permaculture network eventually grew into a distribution network serving over 3,000 subscribers.

What makes backyard eggs different from store-bought eggs?

The guests explain that backyard eggs often have darker orange yolks, fresher flavor, and come from chickens raised on higher quality feed and forage.

Episode Highlights

• Chickens help control scorpions, ticks, and garden pests naturally.
• Roosters protect hens from predators and help maintain flock harmony.
• Chickens cool themselves through their feet, making shallow water trays effective in desert heat.
• Frozen water bottles, fans, and swamp coolers can save chickens during extreme Arizona summers.
• Egg production drops during stress, overcrowding, and intense heat.
• Older hens often become the best foragers and flock teachers.
• Chickens naturally roost high off the ground to avoid predators.
• Backyard eggs with colorful shells and rich orange yolks can command premium prices.

Resources

Ashley & Scott's Website — Phoenix Organic Feed Website

Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/985 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 with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In this Episode: Abey Rae Scaglione has cultivated a deep understanding of the need for animals in our food system, layered upon her decades-long fascination with nutrition and self-sufficiency. After earning her degree in psychology, Abey worked as Pilates instructor in Los Angeles, eventually owning her own studio. Long interested in where our food comes from, it was in Northern California that she fell in love with growing vegetables and raising chickens. In 2021, Abey moved with her husband and two sons to Ruckle Heritage Farm on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia, Canada, where they raise sheep, cattle, turkeys and chickens. As a former vegetarian turned rancher, she has an incredibly intimate relationship with the complex realities of raising animals for food and the deep conviction that more can be done for animal welfare by supporting good farming practices, than by rejecting all animal agriculture.

Our Guest: Abey Rae Scaglione has cultivated a deep understanding of the need for animals in our food system, layered upon her decades-long fascination with nutrition and self-sufficiency. After earning her degree in psychology, Abey worked as Pilates instructor in Los Angeles, eventually owning her own studio. Long interested in where our food comes from, it was in Northern California that she fell in love with growing vegetables and raising chickens. In 2021, Abey moved with her husband and two sons to Ruckle Heritage Farm on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia, Canada, where they raise sheep, cattle, turkeys and chickens. As a former vegetarian turned rancher, she has an incredibly intimate relationship with the complex realities of raising animals for food and the deep conviction that more can be done for animal welfare by supporting good farming practices, than by rejecting all animal agriculture.

Key Topics

• Abey Rae Scaglione
• Ruckle Heritage Farm
• Regenerative agriculture
• Local food systems
• Animal welfare in agriculture
• From vegetarianism to ranching
• Self-sufficiency and homesteading
• Raising sheep, cattle, turkeys, and chickens
• Nutrition and food sourcing
• Small-scale farming realities
• Salt Spring Island farming culture
• Food resilience and sustainability
• Ethical meat production
• Family farming

Key Questions Answered

Why did Abey Rae Scaglione transition from vegetarianism to ranching?

Abey’s evolving understanding of nutrition, ecology, and food systems led her to recognize the important role animals play in regenerative agriculture. Her firsthand experiences growing food and raising animals deepened her perspective on ethical animal stewardship and sustainable farming.

How did her background in psychology and wellness shape her approach to farming?

Her education in psychology and years as a Pilates instructor gave her insight into health, behavior, and holistic wellness. That foundation naturally expanded into curiosity about food quality, nutrition, and self-reliance.

What changed after moving to Salt Spring Island?

Relocating to British Columbia in 2021 allowed Abey and her family to fully immerse themselves in farming life at Ruckle Heritage Farm, where they now raise multiple livestock species and participate directly in building resilient local food systems.

What does Abey believe about animal welfare?

She believes meaningful improvements in animal welfare come from supporting responsible and regenerative farming practices rather than rejecting all forms of animal agriculture.

Why are resilient food systems important?

Localized and regenerative food systems can strengthen communities, improve soil health, reduce dependence on industrial agriculture, and create more transparency between consumers and producers.

Episode Highlights

• Abey shares the surprising path from vegetarianism to regenerative ranching.
• A discussion about why animals are essential to healthy agricultural ecosystems.
• The realities of raising livestock ethically on a family farm.
• Insights into reconnecting consumers with where food actually comes from.
• Reflections on moving from Los Angeles wellness culture to rural farm life.
• Why supporting small farms can directly improve animal welfare outcomes.
• The connection between nutrition, ecology, and resilient communities.

Resources

Abey's Website —  radicalfarmbook.com

Abey's Book Recommendation - Milk Into Cheese, David Asher

Visit www.urbanfarm.org/RadicleFarm for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

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 or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In this episode, Greg Peterson sits down with DePhane Weaver, founding president of the Garden Exchange Stands organization, to explore how neighborhood seed and plant sharing can strengthen local food systems and reconnect communities. Inspired by family traditions of gardening and generosity, DePhane shares how a simple neighborhood exchange evolved into a nonprofit network with hundreds of garden stands across Arizona and beyond. The conversation dives into food sovereignty, community resilience, pollinator support, permaculture principles, and the joy of sharing seeds, plants, tools, and gardening knowledge. DePhane explains how Garden Exchange Stands helps neighbors connect through a global interactive map and volunteer-driven community network. This episode is a powerful reminder that growing food is about more than harvests — it’s about relationships, local resilience, and creating spaces where people can give, learn, and belong.

Our Guest: DePhane is the founding president of the Garden Exchange stands organization, inspired by family tradition of gardening and community service to FE champions, seed and plant sharings as a timeless way to connect neighbors, support wildlife and grow local food. Through a global map of exchange stands, the organization helps communities build gardens and a food sovereignty network.

Key Topics

• Garden Exchange Stands nonprofit
• Community-based seed and plant sharing
• Food sovereignty and local food systems
• Neighborhood garden exchange networks
• Pollinator-friendly gardening
• Permaculture-inspired community design
• Seed saving and seed stewardship
• Free garden exchange stands and seed libraries
• Building resilient neighborhood communities
• Gardening as a tool for connection
• Volunteer-driven nonprofit organizing
• Sharing herbs, cuttings, tools, and garden supplies
• Interactive global garden stand mapping
• Sustainable living and wildlife habitat gardening

Key Questions Answered

What is a Garden Exchange Stand?

A Garden Exchange Stand is a neighborhood sharing station where people exchange seeds, plants, herbs, gardening tools, books, and other garden-related items for free. Some are permanent outdoor structures while others are portable or seasonal.

How did Garden Exchange Stands begin?

The project started organically when DePhane hosted seed and plant exchanges at her home. Leftover plants and supplies were placed near a neighborhood bench for others to take, eventually evolving into a larger community-driven nonprofit network.

Why are garden exchange networks important?

They strengthen local communities, encourage food production, reduce waste, support pollinators, and create opportunities for neighbors to connect through gardening and shared resources.

How do people find exchange stands?

Garden Exchange Stands uses an interactive online map where users can search by city, stand name, or location to find participating stands and seed-sharing sites.

What kinds of items are exchanged?

Participants share seeds, seedlings, herbs, cuttings, tools, gardening books, shade cloth, baskets, aprons, painted rocks, and seasonal harvests.

Can people participate even if they live in an HOA?

Yes. Many participants create small movable stands or seed libraries that fit HOA guidelines while still serving their local community.

How does the organization support community resilience?

The network encourages local food production, seed saving, pollinator habitat creation, and community cooperation — all key components of resilient local food systems.

What role do volunteers play in the organization?

The entire network is volunteer-powered. Volunteers help moderate groups, maintain stands, move plants between locations, host events, and support educational workshops.

Why are herbs recommended for beginner gardeners?

Herbs are inexpensive to grow, easy to maintain, highly productive, and useful for cooking and wellness. DePhane especially recommends rosemary and basil for beginners.

What larger mission drives the organization?

The mission centers on reconnecting people through gardening, sharing abundance, supporting wildlife, and rebuilding a culture of local food production and neighbor-to-neighbor generosity.

Episode Highlights

• DePhane shares how her family’s gardening traditions inspired the creation of Garden Exchange Stands.
• The organization now supports hundreds of exchange locations throughout Arizona and additional stands across the United States.
• Garden stands operate similarly to Little Free Libraries, but for seeds, plants, and gardening supplies.
• Community members help maintain stands by watering plants, tidying displays, and redistributing excess supplies.
• The nonprofit promotes pollinator habitats alongside food production and seed saving.
• A Mother Earth News feature helped expand awareness of the movement into other states.
• Volunteers regularly transport plants and cuttings between cities to support gardeners across the region.
• DePhane explains how gardening creates lasting emotional connections between neighbors and communities.

Resources

Garden Exchange Stands

Arizona Garden Exchange Stands Facebook Group

Seed Library Network

Book Recommendation — The Complete Book of Herbs by Leslie Bremness

Visit www.urbanfarm.org/GardenExhangeStands for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

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 or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.

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 podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.