Tag Archives: compost

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Growing dirt

It was a beautiful November day today, perfect for growing dirt. The process is focused on plants we can eat. A few hardy plants are still producing.

Swiss Chard

Swiss Chard November 5, 2011

Kale

Kale (started from seed by Carol E.) November 5, 2011

The next step is the weeding, which only really ends when the weeds can’t be seen through the snow. I thought you’d like an larger view of the gardens rather than a closeup of the weeds.
Garden patches in front of barn

Gardens November 5, 2011

 The weeds are pulled and gathered into a bucket or wheelbarrow.

Weeds in wheelbarrow

Weeds in the wheelbarrow November 5, 2011

I’m happy to show you the detail after weeding!

Fall asparagus

Fall asparagus stumps November 5, 2011

The weeds go either into the compost pile or to the animals for power composting.

Compost pile

Compost pile November 5, 2011

The laying hens have already eaten most of the leaves on these weeds. It’s satisfying to provide weeds as a treat to the animals. Pigs are the most appreciative.

Laying hen with weeds November 5, 2011

Laying hen with weeds November 5, 2011

The most recent meat chickens haven’t been out on pasture and aren’t sure what to do with weeds.

Meat chickens with weeds November 5, 2011

I’ll let you fill in the next step in the process. Then, ta-da, there is nice dirt to supplement the gardens with.

Adding fresh dirt to the garden November 5, 2011

I’m looking forward to a great asparagus meals next spring!