Changing landscape for food production - is your back yard ready

The Changing Landscape of Food Production: Is Your Backyard Ready?

In recent years, the landscape of food production has undergone significant transformation. Climate change, urbanization, and a growing awareness of sustainable living have prompted a shift towards more localized and personal food production methods. One of the most accessible and impactful ways individuals can contribute to this movement is by transforming their backyards into productive gardens. But is your backyard ready to become a miniature farm? Let's explore the trends driving this change and how you can prepare your own slice of the outdoors for food production.

The Drive Towards Localized Food Production

Several factors are contributing to the push for more localized food production:

1. Climate Change and Environmental Concerns: As the global climate becomes increasingly unpredictable, traditional farming faces numerous challenges. Droughts, floods, and extreme weather events disrupt crop cycles and reduce yields. Localized food production, such as backyard gardening, offers a buffer against these disruptions, providing a more controlled environment for growing food.

2. Health and Nutrition: There's a growing awareness about the benefits of consuming fresh, organic produce. By growing your own vegetables and fruits, you can ensure that your food is free from harmful pesticides and chemicals. This not only enhances nutritional value but also promotes better health.

3. Food Security: Recent global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains. Local food production can increase food security by reducing dependency on distant sources and ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce.

4. Sustainability and Environmental Impact: Transporting food over long distances contributes significantly to carbon emissions. By growing food locally, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

Preparing Your Backyard for Food Production

If you're inspired to turn your backyard into a productive garden, here are some steps to get started:

1. Assess Your Space: Evaluate the size of your backyard and the amount of sunlight it receives. Most vegetables and fruits need at least six hours of sunlight daily. Identify areas with good drainage and consider using raised beds if your soil quality is poor.

2. Plan Your Garden: Decide what you want to grow based on your climate and personal preferences. Consider starting with easy-to-grow vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, and herbs. Companion planting, where certain plants are grown together to enhance growth and deter pests, can also be a useful strategy.

3. Soil Preparation: Good soil is the foundation of a successful garden. Test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Amend it with compost, organic matter, and other necessary nutrients to create a rich, fertile environment for your plants. Don't worry about the testing this is for profeassionals, you will get there when the time is right.

4. Water Management: Efficient water use is crucial. Install a rainwater harvesting system or use drip irrigation to conserve water. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering. This can be a very expensive exercise if badly implemented.

5. Pest and Disease Control: Opt for natural pest control methods to keep your garden organic. Beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and bees, can help manage pests. Crop rotation and proper spacing can prevent the spread of diseases.

6. Seasonal Planting: Learn about the planting seasons in your region. Successive planting, where you plant crops in intervals, can ensure a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

Embracing the Change

The shift towards backyard food production is more than just a trend; it's a response to pressing global challenges and a step towards a more sustainable future. By transforming your backyard into a productive garden, you contribute to food security, promote health, and reduce your environmental impact.

Moreover, #gardening offers numerous personal benefits. It's a rewarding hobby that provides physical exercise, mental relaxation, and the joy of watching your efforts bloom into tangible, edible results.

So, is your backyard ready? With a bit of planning and effort, anyone can turn their outdoor space into a thriving source of fresh, nutritious food. Embrace the changing landscape of food production and start your backyard garden today. Your future self, and the planet, will thank you.

Embracing Sustainability: The Art and Science of Homemade Compost - Humus

In a world increasingly aware of the environmental impacts of waste, the practice of composting stands out as a beacon of sustainability. Homemade compost, in particular, represents a simple yet powerful way to reduce waste, enrich soil, and cultivate a healthier planet. It's a process that bridges the gap between our daily lives and the cycles of nature, turning kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments. Let's delve into the art and science of homemade composting and explore its myriad benefits.

The Basics of Homemade Compost

At its core, #composting is the decomposition of organic materials into a rich, soil-like substance known as humus. This natural process is facilitated by microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and worms, which break down organic matter into its basic components. These components include essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, all vital for plant growth.

Creating homemade compost is a straightforward process that involves layering organic materials, maintaining moisture and aeration, and allowing time for decomposition to occur. The key ingredients for successful composting include:

1. Brown Materials: This category comprises carbon-rich materials such as dried leaves, straws, and newspaper(not glossy). Brown materials provide the necessary structure and carbon for the compost pile.

2. Green Materials: Nitrogen-rich materials like fruit and vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and coffee grounds fall into this category. Green materials supply essential nutrients and moisture to the compost pile.

3. Water: Adequate moisture is crucial for microbial activity and decomposition. The compost pile should be as damp as a wrung-out sponge.

4. Air: Oxygen is essential for aerobic decomposition, which is why turning or aerating the compost pile regularly is necessary to maintain airflow. this can be done once a week.

Benefits of Homemade Compost

 1. Waste Reduction:

Homemade composting diverts organic waste from landfills, where it would otherwise release methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By composting kitchen scraps and yard waste, individuals can significantly reduce their ecological footprint and contribute to waste reduction efforts.

 2. Soil Enrichment:

Compost acts as a natural soil conditioner, improving soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient levels. It enhances soil fertility, leading to healthier plants with increased resistance to pests and diseases. Additionally, compost helps remediate contaminated soils and promotes biodiversity by providing a habitat for beneficial microorganisms.

 3. Cost Savings:

Producing homemade compost eliminates the need for store-bought fertilizers and soil amendments, saving money in the long run. By utilizing materials readily available in the kitchen and garden, composting becomes a cost-effective way to enhance soil health and promote sustainable gardening practices.

 4. Climate Mitigation:

Composting sequesters carbon in the soil, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. Healthy soils enriched with compost are more resilient to extreme weather events, erosion, and droughts, thereby contributing to climate adaptation efforts.

Tips for Successful Composting

1. Balance Green and Brown Materials: Aim for a ratio of roughly 2 parts brown materials to 1 part green materials to maintain proper decomposition and avoid unpleasant odors.

2. Aerate the Pile: Turn or aerate the compost pile regularly to ensure adequate oxygen levels for aerobic decomposition. This also helps prevent the pile from becoming compacted and anaerobic, which can lead to foul odors.

3. Monitor Moisture Levels: Keep the compost pile moist but not waterlogged. If the pile is too dry, add water; if it's too wet, incorporate additional brown materials to improve airflow and absorption.

4. Patience is Key: Composting is a natural process that takes time. Depending on environmental conditions and the composition of the materials, it may take several weeks to several months for compost to mature. Be patient and trust in the trans-formative power of nature.

In addition you can add the following component to your compost:

• Ash
• Cola
• Salt(not too much) and
• Sugar

Homemade composting embodies the principles of sustainability, resourcefulness, and stewardship of the environment. By harnessing the natural processes of decomposition, individuals can turn kitchen and yard waste into a valuable resource for soil health and plant growth. Whether you're an avid gardener, an Eco-conscious homeowner, or simply someone looking to reduce waste, embracing homemade composting offers a tangible way to make a positive impact on the planet. Start composting today and join the growing movement towards a greener, more sustainable future.

10 Tips for Growing the Best Fruit Trees in Your Backyard

Growing fruit trees in your backyard can be a rewarding experience, providing fresh, delicious fruit for you and your family to enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, here are ten tips to help you grow the best fruit trees possible:

1. **Choose the Right Tree for Your Climate**: Before planting a fruit tree, research which varieties are best suited to your local climate. Different fruits thrive in different conditions, so selecting a tree that is well adapted to your region will increase your chances of success.

2. **Select a Suitable Location**: Fruit trees require plenty of sunlight, so choose a location in your yard that receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day. Additionally, make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot.

3. **Plant at the Right Time**: The best time to plant fruit trees is during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring. This allows the tree to establish its root system before the onset of the growing season.

4. **Provide Adequate Space**: Fruit trees need room to grow and spread out, so be sure to plant them with enough space between each tree. Follow spacing recommendations specific to the variety you're planting to ensure proper airflow and sunlight penetration.

5. **Prune Regularly**: Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of fruit trees. Remove dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or overcrowded limbs. Pruning also helps shape the tree and encourages the growth of new fruit-bearing branches.

6. **Fertilize Appropriately**: Fruit trees require regular feeding to support healthy growth and fruit production. Use a balanced fertilizer formulated for fruit trees and follow application instructions carefully. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.

7. **Water Wisely**: Adequate water is crucial for fruit tree health, especially during periods of drought or hot weather. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture and suppresses weeds.

8. **Protect Against Pests and Diseases**: Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect fruit trees, such as aphids, scale insects, and fungal infections. Use organic pest control methods whenever possible and address issues promptly to prevent them from spreading.

9. **Thin Fruit as Needed**: To ensure that the remaining fruit develops to its full size and quality, thinning may be necessary, especially on heavily fruit-laden branches. Remove excess fruit when it is still small to reduce competition and prevent branches from becoming overloaded.

10. **Harvest at the Right Time**: Pay attention to the ripening times for the fruit varieties you're growing and harvest them when they are fully ripe. This may require regular monitoring and testing for ripeness, but the reward of enjoying fresh, homegrown fruit at its peak flavor is well worth the effort.

By following these tips, you can create a thriving orchard right in your backyard, providing you with an abundant supply of delicious fruit for years to come. Happy gardening!

Let's Plant and Reap Our Rewards: Embracing the Power of Gardening

 Sometimes planting is seasonal and sometimes is around the clock for all seasons depending on the crops and plants you are dealing with. With what started as a hobby, we hope to grow it into generational wealth. It all started with a seed form the fruit we just finished eating. We then decided to plant it and see what will happen after. Our aim was to eat fruits from our own yards. 2 weeks later when it starts to get out of the soil we then decide to plant more because we were so happy.

In an age marked by technological advancements and urban sprawl, the simple act of planting a seed and nurturing it to fruition holds a profound significance. Gardening, once an essential aspect of human existence for sustenance, has evolved into a leisure activity, a therapeutic practice, and a means of environmental stewardship. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, its trans-formative potential often goes unnoticed. It's time to rekindle our connection with the earth and rediscover the rewards of gardening.

The act of planting a seed is a declaration of hope—a belief in the promise of growth and renewal. As the seed germinates and breaks through the soil, it symbolizes the resilience of life itself. In nurturing our gardens, we nurture our spirits, finding solace and fulfillment in the rhythm of nature's cycles. Gardening offers a reprieve from the digital noise, inviting us to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse ourselves in the present moment.

Beyond its therapeutic benefits, gardening is a profound teacher of patience and perseverance. It reminds us that good things take time and effort. From the initial preparation of the soil to the careful tending of plants, each stage of the gardening process requires attention and dedication. As we cultivate our gardens, we cultivate virtues such as resilience, discipline, and mindfulness—qualities that serve us well in all aspects of life.

Moreover, gardening is a powerful tool for environmental conservation. In an era of climate change and ecological degradation, cultivating green spaces can make a significant difference. By planting native species, practicing water conservation, and composting organic waste, gardeners contribute to biodiversity conservation and soil health. Urban gardening initiatives further promote sustainable food production and reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation.

Furthermore, gardening fosters a sense of community and connection. Whether through sharing surplus harvests with neighbors or participating in community gardening projects, gardeners come together to support one another and celebrate the joys of abundance. Gardens have a unique ability to break down barriers and unite people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity.

In recent years, the resurgence of interest in gardening has been evident. From balcony herb gardens to sprawling urban farms, individuals and communities are rediscovering the joy and satisfaction of growing their own food. The popularity of gardening blogs, social media groups, and online forums reflects a growing desire to connect with nature and live more sustainably.

As we embrace the power of gardening, let us not forget its profound impact on our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Let us sow the seeds of hope, resilience, and community, knowing that the rewards we reap extend far beyond the boundaries of our gardens. In cultivating the earth, we cultivate ourselves, nourishing body, mind, and soul.

So, let's plant and reap our rewards—both literal and metaphorical. Let's heed the call of the earth and nurture the seeds of change. For in the act of gardening, we find not only sustenance but also solace, not only abundance but also purpose. Together, let us cultivate a brighter, greener future—one garden at a time!

As you know, self education is the best. We are learning about trees. On the other side we fall in love with the market. With that in mind, our products lines has increased to fruit trees.

In the event that the soil is so hard or nothing want to grow

In the event that the soil is so hard or nothing want to grow what do you do? As much as we know that tilling the soil need some knowledge. You need to be patient and love what you do because there so much which comes with the planting of plants in general. We are concern with the upbringing of fruit trees from the seeds on the ground or in pot. Do you prefer to keep buying even though you can plant your own trees? Just bear in mind that fruits are our medicines and trees cleans the air so that our environment can be habitable

My advice to NASA Mars mission, plant trees first on the planet Mars then people can go and live there.

Back to our passion. We need help on what to do in order to get our soil in good condition so that we can plant more trees and have more food for all of us. All tips and advices are welcomed.

Since we are in business you are invited to check some of our business at Bene Ba EL Holdings.Since it is that cold season what are you planting in Gauteng? As always we have the following fruit trees to add to your Orchards, gardens, yards and farms:

• Mango trees,
• Avocado trees,
• Guava trees,
• Naartjies,
• Granadilla/Passion fruit trees,
• Pawpaw,
• Apple trees and
• Moringa trees.

We are just a phone call away. Even on WhatsApp we are so active. Fill the form on the right we will call back.

NB: plant one tree a week, you will see the different in your bank balance.

Heat waves and cold waves

 Whenever is hot it is extremely hot and whenever is cold it is extremely cold. The way weather patterns goes we are in for something big that we can't control. We need to check and change our behaviour in order to see if we are the biggest contributors in this unbearable weather conditions.

Since our life revolves around money, food turn to be expensive because they are not grown the natural way. They have to be protected against the environment. What can you do in order to normalise the situation? On my side am trying to educate everyone I know to plant  fruits trees in their yards and to have vegetable gardens, by so doing I believe we will be able to normalise the current growing situation.

In the event that all our agricultural crops are grown in the format like the picture above we will then enter a catastrophic delima which can't be solved. Most of the animals will be phased out and their work in the ecosystem will cease, what then...?

We need to be part of nature by contributing to the way nature intended. The below picture is an ideal one which need to be promoted.

We are happy to have you so far. Let us keep our planet greener.

Life goes on, with or without.

Life goes on with you or without you. Today we are faced with something new, #lockdown! If you have to stay home and not been able to go to work, church, school and/or run your business, how are you going to survive?

Do you have plans in place? Do you have a garden? Can you produce your own food? Can you educate your children? Are you strong? Things will always take their own turn. Everything start at home. Don't mistaken lockdown as a weapon of ideas and lifestyle destruction. You need time to think and to implement your knowledge to the benefit of all life on earth plus the universe. New way of doing things is at our disposal. Whatever happens now has the potential to come back or to continue.

From fruits eaten on a daily basis you can have your own yard business and food supply. You must plant the seeds of every fruit you eat on that day in a 2 kg plastic bag. You don't have to buy plastic bags - use the once you emptied in your kitchen, the likes of samp, rice and so on. Money is everywhere you must grab it. By planting fruit trees you are doing a great deal in life. You keep our planet green, you add to the cleaning of air and you supply animals with shelter, foods and lots of stuff we don't know of. You also contribute to your wellbeing cause you will be getting fresh fruits from your own yard or garden.

Most of this fruit trees start yielding fruits on the second year. Below are some fruit trees which are easily grown from seeds and there is still more.

• Avocado trees
• Pawpaw trees
• Mango trees
• Granadilla trees.
• Apricot trees
• Peach trees
• Orange trees
• Lemon trees
• Plum trees
• Macadamia nuts tree (Wow is it a fruit tree?)

Anyway life goes on. Let us be part of it by embracing nature.

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