Meet the Farmers Growing Christmas Trees

Everyone has their own traditions when it comes to the Christmas season. But there is perhaps no tradition more classic than going to a local farm to get your very own tree chopped to prop up in the living room, for all to see, and smell. While many may opt for a fake, pre-decorated tree from a hardware store, you just can’t capture the same old-fashioned charm that a Christmas tree farm can give.

Fortunately, if you decide to keep the tradition alive and choose your own farm-grown tree, Central Virginia is home to several plots of land dedicated to the Christmas custom.

Bedford Evergreen  Christmas Tree Farm 

1893 Robertson ROAd, Bedford, VA 24523

For Dan Young, growing and cutting Christmas trees is not only a tradition, it’s a legacy.

“I grew up in Prince Edward County, on a Christmas tree farm, near Farmville,” Young said. “So, I kinda grew up doing it.”

Dan bought a farm of his own in Bedford County about 16 years ago and started to grow trees of his own. Due to his long history in the field, Dan says he knows exactly how a tree should be cut and shaped, and that the quality shape of his trees is a trademark of his farm.

“We got it down to a pretty good art form,” he said.

 Bedford Evergreen also offers hayrides and will offer to cut and load your tree for you.

“For me, I grew up always getting a tree,” Young remembered. “The feelings that engenders are fairly powerful. Because it just becomes part of a tradition. In a way, by continuing to do this, I’m continuing a tradition that I grew up with.”

According to Young, shoppers should be sure to get their trees as early as possible. He says there is a shortage in Virginia, due, in part, to older growers retiring without new growers to take their places.

Season:
Begins Black Friday and will open the following two weekends.

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Dancing Hill Christmas Tree Farm

1401 Dancing Hill Road, Bedford, VA 24523

With a claim to having the longest run Christmas Tree farm in the area, Richard Miles started Dancing Hill Christmas Tree Farm in 1980, as a way to pay for his children’s college education.

Although the farm does not produce as many trees as it used to, Dancing Hill specializes in larger trees, mostly for commercial use, such as for businesses or church events.

“We’ve scaled way back from what we started,” Miles said.
“We used to be open for a month. We’re only open one weekend now and we sell everything we’ve got in one weekend.”

Miles says that running the farm for so long has produced some rewarding results.

“We’ve been at it for so long, we’re selling to people who came up as kids who are now adults with their own kids,”
he said.

Dancing Hills was the best option for Miles and his family after his retirement from the Department of Forestry. He figured his expertise was expansive enough to provide a great service to others.

Miles says that shoppers should get their tree early, and to call before coming to ensure they haven’t already sold out.

Season: 
Begins Black Friday and continues while supplies last

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Green Needles Christmas Tree Farm

1175 Yew Tree Lane, Coleman Falls, VA 24536

Jon Perdew is the third owner of Green Needles Christmas Tree Farm and has operated it for 18 years.

According to Perdew, the scenic mountain locale, the fresh hot chocolate, and the old-fashioned fun of tire swings make Green Needles a unique, and warm experience for tree shoppers.

Perdew admits there wasn’t a special reason he got into the Christmas tree business, he only wanted the land and had the prior experience of running apple and peach orchards.

Green Needles also makes and sells wreaths and even has food trucks for its guests. Much like his peers, Perdew advises that shoppers snag their trees as early as possible.

Season: 
Begins the Saturday before Thanksgiving and continues while supplies last.

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Joyful Tree Farm

16145 Forest Road, Forest, VA 24551

Although the Joyful Tree Farm began operation in 2019, the business has already found success. Mary Gribbin, a professor of the PA Medicine program at the University of Lynchburg, and mother of seven, owns and operates the business with her husband Bill.

According to Mary, Joyful Tree started as just a fundraiser for the PA program, where the students would provide and package trees for customers while enjoying coffee and ice cream from Rookie’s.

“We were looking to uphold that tradition of people getting together and being able to enjoy Christmas during Covid, and it kinda just blossomed from there,” she said.

Joyful Tree only works with Fraser fir trees, which Mary says do well in the local climate. While they do provide trees up to 10 feet, Mary says Joyful Tree also sells smaller, three- to four-foot trees.
Mary even teaches a wreath-making class.

Unsurprisingly, Mary suggests buying early.

 “So far, every year we’ve sold out,” she said. “I already have orders for more than 200 trees.” 

Season: 
Begins Black Friday and continues while supplies last.

These farmers are doing their part to make Christmas and the rest of the holiday season an unforgettable experience for families in Central Virginia. Be sure to grab some hot chocolate and support your local farmers this Christmas season.   

A Guide to Propagating Houseplants

Houseplants bring a touch of nature indoors, adding vibrancy and life to any living space. One of the most rewarding aspects of plant ownership is propagating new plants from existing ones. Propagation is not only a cost-effective way to expand your collection, but it also allows you to share the beauty of your plants with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting your green journey, learning how to propagate houseplants can be a fascinating and fulfilling endeavor.

Understanding Plant Propagation
Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. It involves taking a part of the parent plant, such as a leaf, stem, or cutting, and encouraging it to develop roots and eventually grow into a new, independent plant. Houseplants can be propagated through various methods, including stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, division, offsets, and even air layering.

Selecting the Right Parent Plant
Before you begin the propagation process, it’s essential to choose a healthy and mature parent plant. Look for plants with vibrant foliage, sturdy stems, and no signs of disease or pests. Healthy parent plants increase the chances of successful propagation and produce strong, thriving offspring.

Materials You’ll Need
Gathering the necessary materials before you start propagation can make the process smoother. Some common materials include:

1. Sharp Scissors or Pruning Shears: These tools are essential for taking clean and precise cuttings.

2. Rooting Hormone (Optional): A rooting hormone can encourage faster root development in cuttings.

3. Pots or Containers: Small pots or containers filled
with a well-draining potting mix or water will be needed for
planting the cuttings.

4. Water Mister: A water mister helps maintain humidity levels for the cuttings, promoting successful root growth.

5. Transparent Plastic Bags or Domes: These create a
mini-greenhouse environment that keeps humidity high
around the cuttings.

Common Propagation Methods
1. Stem Cuttings: This is one of the most popular propagation methods. Select a healthy stem from the parent plant, usually a few inches long with a few nodes (areas where leaves attach). Make a clean cut just below a node and remove any lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant it in a pot with moist potting mix. Place a plastic bag or dome over the cutting to maintain humidity. Alternatively, cuttings can be placed in water with a few drops of liquid fertilizer and after a few weeks roots will begin to form from the nodes. Replace the water once a week or when the water becomes cloudy. Once the roots reach at least 3” the cuttings can be planted in soil.

2. Leaf Cuttings: Some plants, like succulents, can be propagated from individual leaves. Gently twist or cut a healthy leaf from the parent plant and let it callous over for a day or two. Plant the calloused end in a potting mix, keeping the leaf slightly above the soil surface. Over time, a new plantlet will sprout from the base of the leaf.

3. Division: This method is suitable for plants with multiple stems or clusters. Carefully remove the parent plant from its pot and separate the roots and stems into individual sections. Each section should have its own set of roots and stems. Replant these sections in separate pots.

4. Offsets: Some plants naturally produce offsets or “pups” that can be separated and grown into new plants. Gently remove the offset from the parent plant and plant it in its own pot with well-draining soil.

5. Air Layering: This method is used for larger plants with woody stems. It involves creating a small wound on a healthy stem, applying rooting hormone, and wrapping the wounded area with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it in place. Over time, roots will develop within the moss. Once the roots are well-formed, cut the stem below the rooted area and plant it in a pot.

Nurturing the New Plants
After planting the cuttings or divisions, it’s crucial to provide the right care for their successful growth. Place the pots in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch delicate new growth. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mist the cuttings or use the plastic bag/dome to maintain high humidity, which aids in root development.

Patience and Persistence
Propagation is an art that requires patience. Not all cuttings will succeed, and it’s important not to get discouraged by failures. Some plants may take several weeks or even months to establish roots and start growing. Keep a watchful eye on the new plants, and as they grow stronger, gradually acclimate them to normal indoor conditions.

Propagating houseplants is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to connect with nature on a deeper level. It’s a journey of discovery, nurturing, and growth. As you explore different propagation methods and learn about the unique needs of each plant species, you’ll gain a greater appreciation for the intricate beauty of nature. With the right techniques, materials, and a sprinkle of patience, you can successfully propagate houseplants and contribute to the lush greenery that transforms your living space into a thriving indoor oasis.  

Fall Gardening and Prep for a Successful Spring and Summer Season

Aaahhh, autumn in Virginia.

Before you pull your mittens over those green thumbs, there are a few things you can do to get ahead of the game and be in top shape for the arrival of spring. 

First of all, the growing season doesn’t have to come to a screeching halt. In fact, I LOVE winter vegetable gardening. So many cool weather crops grow well here in our region, and with fewer weeds and less humidity, it makes for a more pleasant gardening experience.

Now is a great time to get your fall/winter brassicas established. To give your cool season garden a head start, you can often find already-established plants at local garden centers and skip the process of starting from seed. Broccoli, kale, kohlrabi, and others grow very well in the fall, and even in frost and snow!

In fact, they sweeten with the colder temperatures. Other options like carrots, parsnips, and even tender greens can grow through the fall and winter, especially with the help of a hoop house or cold frame. In fact, sweet and snow peas will grow through the fall as long as you protect them from frost. Many of these veggies are quick to mature, so plant in succession as long as the weather allows. 

There are lots of simple, cheap options for plant protection on bitterly cold days. A quick Google search on DIY hoop houses, cold frames and mini green houses will turn up plenty of results, and you may have the necessary tools and materials just lying in your garden shed! 

As for your non-edible landscape, a little attention now will serve you well when warm weather returns. September is a great time to plant trees and shrubs. Gentle pruning is also recommended this time of year. Take some time to remove the dead and brittle branches, and shape up your canopies and bushes. For the rose gardeners, now is a good time to give your roses their last feeding of fertilizer and allow them to harden off. You can, of course, continue deadheading and think about collecting those rose hips (if your shrubs produce them) for later use in herbal teas, hand-made soaps, and other fun crafts.

A favorite fall gardening activity for many people is, of course, planting bulbs. There are so many options for fall planting that will provide bright bursts of color in the earliest days of spring. A few regional favorites include daffodils, tulips, alliums, lilies, hyacinth, and crocus. Bulbs are great fun for those who enjoy landscape design. Consider using different colors and flower heights to create interesting patterns. It will be exciting to see your hard work popping up after along winter.

These are just a few things you can do to clean up your landscape and dive into the fall gardening season. It’s also a good time to pull any unwanted weed invaders, separate crowded perennials, and give your lawn a little love by testing and adjusting your pH levels (between 6.2 and 6.5 is desirable), dethatching, and aerating.

We wish you happy gardening and a lovely fall season!  

Summer is here! If you like hosting backyard barbecues, pool parties, cocktails on the back patio, or generally entertaining family and friends outdoors, you’re probably thinking about giving your exteriors a good spruce.

The process of elevating your outdoor spaces, landscaping, and hardscaping isn’t as daunting as it may seem—with just a few simple steps you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful outdoor space that you can enjoy all summer long.

1.  A Good Scrub Goes a Long Way!

“Don’t underestimate the power of a good cleaning,” said Rebecca Mahanes with LandTech, a landscaping and pool contractor serving Central Virginia.

If your hardscape is looking a little dingy from red clay stains (thanks, Virginia!), moss, or mildew buildup, you should start your spruce with a power washing. And you don’t need to spend a lot of money renting a high-powered gas power washer, either.

“Hardscape power washing tools are available at most garden centers and department stores, and they do the job just fine,” Mahanes said. “You can use the same tool to give your wood surfaces, like porches and decks, a good thorough cleaning as well.”

2.  Get Down to the Details

The next step is to address the little things that can make a big difference. If you have a patio or walkway made of stone pavers, it’s time to refill the joints with polymeric sand and make sure your edging is firmly in place so those stones don’t begin to slide and spread. This will help prevent weed growth between the pavers, and make your stonework look fresh. If you have cracked or broken mortar in your hardscaping, remove and replace it. You can DIY this project, or call a mason to come and help you out.

3.  Deck the…Deck!

After a long, damp winter, wooden decks and porches can begin to look weathered and splintery, even if they are structurally sound. Touch up those spots where the paint or stain has faded or chipped. For the deck boards, there are special products available at home and garden centers for making wood surfaces look good as new—or better! They’re a little thicker than paint, and fill in the cracks between the wood grain, smoothing over any rough areas and creating an improved walking surface. 

“When it dries, it can even be power washed for easy future cleaning!” said Mahanes. 

4.  A Bright, Fresh Look

You may consider replacing your patio furnishings for a quick but impactful splash of color. Check out the new seasonal options for pillows, cushions, umbrellas, and outdoor throw rugs. There are plenty of fun colors and patterns to choose from that are sure to be instantly eye-catching. 

Looking for something a little bigger? Think about adding a fire pit! You can build your own or purchase ready-to-go backyard fire pits and fireplaces of all sizes and shapes.

5.  Perfect Plantings

Simply adding a few patio pots with brightly colored annuals can really liven up an outdoor space. If you’re looking to take it a step farther, new edge plantings like shrubs and flower beds can really add variety, color, and elegance to your landscape. 

Looking for plants that the deer won’t eat? 

“For shrubs, plant boxwoods,” Mahanes said. “For deer-resistant perennials, plant daffodils, iris, peonies, hellebores, lavender, foxgloves, ferns, and heuchera, to name a few.”

It’s worth noting that for some of these, the deer don’t eat them because they are toxic, so do a little research before planting if you have young kids or pets.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to refresh your hardscape this season. Any one of these little improvements can make for a great outdoor project and go a long way in sprucing up your backyard. So fire up the grill, get the marshmallow sticks ready, call the neighbors, and let the good times roll!  

Grow Your Own Apples By Grafting!

Who doesn’t love snapping a juicy bite off a crisp fall apple? For me, it’s one of the luxuries of autumn in Virginia. Right now, the United States produces about 200 different varieties of apples, ranging in color, size, sweetness, and purpose. Some are best for pies and baking, others for applesauce, some are great for cider and pressing, and, of course, many are great for snacking. However, at one time there were more than 20,000 varieties of apples!

It may surprise you to learn that you cannot just pluck a seed from your favorite apple, plant it, and produce a tree that bears the same fruit. You’ll get an apple tree, but the apple it produces could bear no resemblance to the one you got the seed from. This is because apples are “open pollinated.” This just means that the flowers of the apple tree are pollinated naturally, by pollinating insects, wind, etc., which can get pollen from any other apple tree. So, if you get a seed from a Red Delicious apple and plant it in the ground, the fruit that the seed produces will be 50-percent Red Delicious, and 50-percent something else. Naturally over time, each new generation of apple tree produces something further and further away from its parent. 

So how do we ensure the preservation of specific apple varieties, and control the genetics of our apple seeds so that they continue to produce the exact apple we want? The answer lies in a process dating back several thousand years called grafting. 

To learn more from an expert, I spoke with local orchardist John Hoskins, who has been successfully grafting trees for many years. He has over 800 individual trees and 40 different varieties growing in his orchards. He explained that apple grafting starts with two essential things: a root stock, and a scion.

The root stock is, of course, the lower part of the tree that includes the roots. It doesn’t matter what type of apple tree the root stock comes from. Root stock is chosen for qualities such as drought resistance, anchorage (how stable is it in the ground), and disease resistance. The root stock also determines how high the tree will grow. 

The scion is the top part of the tree. This is the part that will bear fruit and contains the genetic makeup of its parent. Orchardists select the scion solely on what type of apple they wish to produce. 

According to Hoskins, anyone can learn to graft apple trees. The process is straightforward, and simply requires practice to master. It goes something like this:

STEP 1: The root stock will need to be ordered in advance from a nursery. In the old days, crabapples were often selected for root stock because their qualities were desirable, and they were easy to come by. This is also an option if you would prefer not to go through a nursery. Your root stock should be about the diameter of a pencil, or only slightly larger.

STEP 2: The scion wood can also be ordered from a nursery, collected from a tree you wish to preserve, or from a tree that bears the type of fruit you want to grow. It’s best to collect the scion wood in winter while the tree is dormant. You’ll want to take a cutting with only about three buds above the cutting and, again, about the diameter of a pencil. After collection, store the scion cutting carefully by wrapping the cut end in a damp paper towel, placing the paper towel end into a plastic bag, and saving it in the refrigerator until spring. 

STEP 3: Early spring is the best time to graft your tree. With a grafting knife, carefully take two angled slices about an inch long off the bottom of the scion wood, so that you have two flat cuts coming to a point. 

In the top of the root stock, make a downward slice directly into the center of the wood, about an inch deep. 

Then, like a puzzle, you will slide the point of the scion wood into the gap that you cut into the root stock. The cambium, or the very edge of the live wood, just under the bark, of the two trees should line up. The place where they join is called the “graft union.”

STEP 4: You’ll need to care for your new tree until it is strong enough and ready to be planted. It is important to prevent the wood from drying out. Wrap the graft union in freezer tape to lock in moisture. 

New trees should be stored out of direct sunlight. The root stock should be placed in damp peat moss and wrapped in a plastic bag until the buds above the graft union begin to show growth. Any new buds below the graft union should be quickly removed so that all the energy from the roots is directed to the tree above the graft. Once new growth can be seen, the tree can be transplanted outside!

You need at least two apple trees to produce fruit, but the more you have, the better chance you’ll have of thorough pollination and a good harvest!  

WHY GRAFTING IS IMPORTANT TODAY

Apple grafting is a critical part of preserving heirloom apple varieties and developing new ones. Many people use it as a means of preserving a tree they loved in childhood, from a grandparent’s farm. Earlier, we said that America produces about 200 apple varieties, but at one time, there were more than 20,000. So, what happened?

Well, apples were not really produced for eating until the 1920s or ’30s. Before then, apples were produced for sugar and fermented cider. During westward expansion in the 1800s, settlers were offered 100 acres of land if they would commit to establishing homesteads and settlements on it. In most cases, they were required to plant fifty apple trees over the course of three years to prove that they were established. About this time, an enterprising man named John Chapman, who you may know as Johnny Appleseed, began planting hundreds of acres of apples across the unexplored west, selling the seedlings, and even selling land planted with apple trees, to frontiersmen. They would cultivate apple orchards and, as new apples were discovered with desirable qualities, nice colors, etc., they would be preserved. 

But in the 1920s and ’30s, as apples became popular for eating and mass production and nationwide shipping fell into popular demand, large companies began selectively growing only a few types of apples that kept well in storage and didn’t bruise easily. Countless varieties of heirloom apples were lost. 

Orchardist John Hoskins says that there has been a push back against mass production with the return of small farmers, apple grafting workshops, and a growing community of heirloom apple enthusiasts. Now, “Fruit Explorers” (that’s really what they’re called!) are out there searching for hundred-year-old apple trees to collect cuttings and preserve varieties. They conduct research to try to identify the tree, and as a result, long-lost apple varieties are coming back into popular cultivation, and the art of apple grafting is being rediscovered.

A Kansas City, Missouri, native, Shana Gammon has been around irises her whole life and the familiar has become her passion. Gammon is the owner of Stormy Weather Iris Gardens, a private house garden that sits on a quarter acre within Lynchburg City limits.

Consisting of five beds and 200 different varieties of tall bearded iris, the garden officially opened to the public in 2017.

“I started doing floral photography in 2006 or 2007,” Gammon said of how the garden got its start. “I exhibited nationally and worked with hospitals around the country,  providing photos for their galleries and so on. With four children, it was easier to grow what I wanted to photograph rather than travel around to shoot. Irises were one of the flowers I started growing at that time and they became one of my favorite flowers.”

Stormy Weather Iris Garden grows irises in every color and color pattern, from Plicata and Broken Color irises to Amoena and several Space Age varieties.

“All are tall bearded, but each is different,” said Gammon.

As if walking among a sea of multicolored irises weren’t special enough, Stormy Weather Iris Garden is also one of two Historic Iris Display Gardens in Virginia, with the second being Tufton Farm at Monticello.

“I love history, so joining the Historic Iris Society was a perfect fit for me,” explained Gammon. “One of the requirements is that you have to have at least 15 historic iris varieties in your garden and the garden should be open to the public. We have more than 15 historic varieties but we also have many newer introductions.”

To qualify as a historic iris, the iris must have been introduced to the American Iris Society 30 years ago or earlier. 

For Gammon, sourcing which irises to grow in the gardens is one of the highlights of operating a historic iris garden.

“I’ve worked hard over the years to establish a collection that is unique and something you won’t see anywhere else in Central Virginia,” she said. “My collection is from private and commercial growers from around the United States. We have some varieties from well-known hybridizers, but I also like to reach out to hybridizers within local clubs around the county and collect their varieties as well. They haven’t received as much recognition nationally, but their varieties are beautiful.”

Last year, Gammon obtained varieties from a hybridizer in New Mexico and, in the previous year, she obtained several varieties from a hybridizer in Wisconsin—varieties that are unique to their collection and that won’t be found anywhere else in the area.

Home gardeners looking to expand their own iris gardens or dip their toes into planting irises for the first time can look to Stormy Weather Iris Gardens for their rhizome purchases. Their annual rhizome sale is the third weekend in July, which runs on Etsy.

“Each year we have sold out within a few hours,” Gammon said. “This year will be the first year we will be shipping nationwide, so order early!”

Stormy Weather Iris Gardens is state licensed and inspected for rhizome delivery, and their Etsy shop can be found on Etsy by searching “Stormy Weather Iris”.

To visit Stormy Weather Iris Gardens, simply email stormyweatheriris@yahoo.com to schedule a visitation time. They will begin scheduling in the first week of April and visits are free. Irises usually start blooming toward the end of April and their Open House runs the first two weekends in May with peak bloom typically around Mother’s Day.

Rainwater becomes plant fuel with rain chains

utters and drains along a roof are one of the most important elements to maintain and take care of in a home. When water is effectively guided to the ground, your home’s roof, attic, or interior can be spared from damage. While most homes in the United States have a metal downspout that carries rainwater away from the home, there are additional downspout options that can be implemented on your home that are functional, beautiful, and effortlessly water your garden.

The History of the Rain Chain
Rain chains originated in Japan and are still used in many Japanese homes to keep water runoff away from roofs and foundations. Originally called kusari-doi, rain chains attach to gutters and guide rain down to the ground or to a water harvesting receptacle like a rain barrel. 

Rain chains can be DIY-ed by feeding a weather-resistant chain through copper or aluminum cups that have had holes added to them for drainage. They can also be store-bought, are incredibly affordable, and can be found in a number of different designs—from simple cups to pineapples to owls. Either way, they add a unique charm that “regular” metal downspouts just can’t offer.

Why Choose a Rain Chain?
If you’ve been considering harvesting your rainwater or have plans for a zen rock garden in your backyard, a rain chain can effortlessly guide rainwater to your desired location. 

If you don’t harvest your rainwater, you can use a rain chain to guide the water to a rock garden, planter, or fountain. Rain chains also work well as added garden components if you don’t want to entirely redirect the rain flow. Decorative rain chains can channel water into a large planter for the thirstiest plants in your garden.

Store-bought rain chains come in a variety of colors and finishes, though most are made of copper or metal. This level of customization will allow you to add a tiny pop of color or whimsy to your home.

Best yet? A rain chain could be added along the gutter channel without removing the existing downspout. Of course, your home’s unique gutter system will determine if that’s actually possible. However, many rain chains can be added by simply using tin snips to open a small hole in the gutter where the rain chain can be hung. 

There’s something to be said for the steady trickle of rain down tiny copper barrels to make you instantly feel like your home is an oasis.  

The Herbs and Flowers You Need to Create a Stunning, and Healing, Medicinal Garden

Herbal medicine predates written language and recorded history. Archaeologists have found evidence of herbal medicine usage as far back as 60,000 years at research sites in present day Iraq. Now, we have chemically synthesized medicines that, without a doubt, save lives and cure disease, however, our modern medicine doesn’t nullify the value and importance of natural medicine. In fact, some of our most powerful drugs are still derived from plants! Did you know that two common drugs used in fighting childhood leukemia come from Madagascar periwinkle?

The plant has been used by indigenous peoples for ages to treat diabetes, however it was discovered to have cancer-fighting properties in the 1950s. We have not yet figured out how to synthesize these chemicals, so we still use the plant extract itself to make these life-saving medicines, reminding us that science is amazing, but sometimes you just can’t beat nature.

As a matter of fact, there are MANY modern medicines that come from plants, or that were developed because of our understanding of plant science. And traditional herbal medicine is still practiced today in much of the world. But you don’t have to be an expert or consult a mysterious medicine woman to add herbal medicines to your cabinet. Here are a few safe and simple herbs you can incorporate into your health and wellness routine:

For Insomnia: Chamomile, Lavender, Valerian Root
All three of these herbs have long been used to reduce tension and settle the mind and body in preparation for sleep. Valerian Root is especially trusted as a natural sleep aid. Drinking a hot tea in the evening of any one or more of these herbs is a great way to treat yourself to a little R&R.

For Pain: Feverfew, Ginger, Turmeric
If you suffer from chronic pain or frequent headaches, or deal with muscle soreness after a workout or a day on your feet, these options may help to relieve your discomfort. They’re great options to try for anyone looking to lessen their use of over-the-counter pain medications. Ginger is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as a host of other health benefits. Feverfew, as you might guess, is used to reduce fever, but also helps curb pain from rheumatoid arthritis and toothaches. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and has shown in some studies to be as effective as Ibuprofen in pain relief. It’s also easily incorporated into the diet in juices, smoothies, soups, or curry.

For Energy: Ginseng, Peppermint, Ashwagandha
All three of these herbs have been shown to improve energy, brain function, focus, and physical performance. Peppermint is probably the easiest to grow in your home garden and is great when used as an essential oil in a diffuser, as studies suggest that simply inhaling the scent of peppermint sharpens your focus and enhances your mood. Ginseng is popular for athletes and is commonly found in supplements and beverages. Ashwagandha is truly ancient and has continually proven to have a powerful effect on cognitive function, alertness, and even reaction time.

Powerhouse Herbs to Keep on Hand

There are a few herbs that are just good to have around, as they can address all sorts of ailments and issues. This is only a short list. In fact, most medicinal herbs have more than one use, and it’s a good idea to get an herbal guide or do some research if you’re interested in knowing more!

Ginger is one of them. I have frequent migraines, and I keep ginger in my kitchen, purse, and my desk at work, to deal with the resulting nausea. It’s also known to be hugely helpful for expectant mothers dealing with morning sickness. I prefer to eat dried ginger (you can find it at almost any grocery store), ginger chews, or cook with fresh ginger. But it is also available in supplements and teas. Even my kids enjoy the chews and get one any time they complain of an upset stomach.

Echinacea is very well-known and is used for building up the immune system. If someone in your family is already sick, giving this to other household members may help prevent them from catching the bug. The root of the plant is especially powerful. It’s also good for relieving a sore throat.

Oregano is not only delicious, but it’s also a great herb to grow in your garden, as it is antimicrobial, meaning it fights fungal, viral, and bacterial germs. It’s also high in antioxidants.

Bee Balm/Bergamot is charming in the flower garden and is also a wonderful herb with many benefits. Like oregano, it is antimicrobial. It also soothes cough, skin irritations, and stomach cramping. 

There are so many more valuable herbs that can play a role in your family’s health. Don’t be afraid to give nature a try! Afterall, it has sustained us for thousands of years.

As spring approaches, it’ll soon be time to get your herbs in the ground! Visit the medicinal garden at Old City Cemetery for inspiration as you plan and plant your own medicinal garden at home.  

Please note: While the above herbs are generally considered safe, allergic reactions and drug interactions are always possible. It’s important to consult with your doctor and conduct your own research before adding an herbal regiment to your wellness routine.

Learn the Ancient Art of Tree Tapping for Syrup

The cold seasons may feel like a time of stillness—a pause in life and production. Our gardens are often bare, the ground is hard, and the winter hues of gray and brown may dampen our motivation to get outside. But here in Central Virginia, the trees are soon to be ripe for the harvest. No, not the fruits or nuts of summer, but of sweet, sticky syrup.

Humans have been tapping trees and harvesting sap to make syrup (“sugaring” as it has been called) as a food and medicine source for centuries. As spring approached, Native Americans would venture out and establish “sugar camps,” where they would wait for the sap to start flowing, and then harvest it to make maple sugar. The sugar was used as a food source, but also as a valuable trade commodity.

The best time for tree tapping is February and March, when the trees are moving energy (in the form of sugar) up and down their trunk in preparation for spring growth. Ideally, temperatures rise above freezing during the day, but drop below freezing overnight.

All trees produce sugar, but not all of it is good for syrup, or even human consumption. Of course, there is the maple (the Acer family), famous for the table syrup we buy at the grocery store and enjoy on our breakfast pancakes. But in Virginia, several tree species can be enjoyed for their sugary syrup production. Birch, pecan, and walnut trees are just a few other popular choices for tree tapping.

The Process

Thanks to Mother Nature and gravity, tree tapping is a simple, straight-forward process that can be enjoyed by the young, old, and in between. All you’ll need is a drill, spile (a small metal spigot), hammer and collection bucket (ideally one with a lid to keep hungry critters out).

You’ll want to drill a hole into the tree at a slight upward angle, using a drill bit big enough to fit your spile or tap. Most spiles are about 3⁄8 an inch in diameter. Drill a 2.5-inch-deep hole into the tree at a comfortable height for you.

The shavings when you pull the drill out should be light brown in color. If they’re dark, it could mean that the sap wood in that spot isn’t healthy, and you should consider relocating your drill hole. Traditionally, the south side of the tree is considered best for tapping, and results in higher yields, especially if you can place your spile under a large branch. But don’t worry too much about the exact location. If you choose to tap the same tree every year, you’ll need to move the tap at least six inches to the side of last season’s hole.

Using a hammer, tap the spile gently into the hole. You can order a spile online, or use something you have around the house, like clean metal tubing. However, the spile is the ideal tool for the job, and provides an easy way to hang your collection bucket. Once the spile is in place, you may see the sap flow immediately!

Hang your collection bucket from the spile or place it on the ground to catch the dripping sap. You can use just about anything, from five-gallon buckets to milk jugs.

Collection and Syrup Making

The next step is refining the sap into syrup. It’s easy! You’ll just need a pot, a good thermometer, and something to put your syrup in when it’s all done.

Simply boil the sap until the water evaporates and it reaches seven degrees above the boiling point. Of course, your boiling point changes depending on your elevation, so you may need to look it up. Here in Lynchburg, the boiling point is about 210.65-degrees Fahrenheit. Boiling the sap can produce a lot of moisture, so many people like to boil the sap outside on a grill or fire. It should take around three to four hours to boil down.

When you’re ready, pour the syrup into canning jars, or whatever vessel you’ve chosen to store it in. Nothing to it!

Sugaring is a great skill to add to your list of practical homesteading knowledge. Everyone in the family can participate, and when all is said and done, you get to enjoy a sweet treat passed down through the ages.

If you’re interested in learning more, do a little research on tapping other tree species! For example, birch tree sap is also used for sugar and syrup, but more commonly for beverages, glazes, and marinades, and medicinally as an antioxidant and great source of vitamins and minerals.

Take a walk down Pierce Street and you will find some pretty remarkable history. You may also find some gardeners and fresh produce.

At 1301-1303 Pierce St., the Pierce Street Community garden sits behind the old Calloway Store.

The garden is part of the Pierce Street Gateway, an organization that is seeking to preserve the history of Pierce Street and renew the community and neighborhood. The garden has become an integral part of the Pierce Street Renaissance District.

The two blocks of Pierce Street hold the homes and stories of many brilliant people. As the smallest of Lynchburg’s seven historic districts, it is recognized more for the people that resided there than its historic architecture.

At its start, an old Civil War hospital was run out of Pierce Street. The district was also the home of Anne Spencer, the renowned Harlem Renaissance Poet; her son Chauncey E. Spencer, a pioneer of the Tuskegee Airmen; and C.W. Seay, the first Black city council member and vice mayor of Lynchburg. There are so many others who left a mark not only on Lynchburg history, but on our nation as well.

Ghislaine Lewis, the director of Pierce Street Gateway and a founding member of the garden, knows that Pierce Street consisted of more than just the famous people.

“What you find on Pierce Street, if you look at housing records, is a lot of people who were educators and a lot of people who were seamstresses and businessmen and women who really helped to shape the African American community here in Lynchburg,” explained Lewis.

The Pierce Street Garden exists for the current residents of Pierce Street, while the Pierce Street Gateway exists to honor the residents of the past.

The idea for the garden began to take shape when Lewis spoke with Nina Salmon, a Pierce Street board member, about the gateway’s strategic plan. Salmon said they really wanted a garden.

Starting the garden became part of Lewis’ Lynchburg Leadership project. She was joined by six other members to form Team Big Hearts and, in 2021, the team established the garden behind the Calloway Store, one of the first Black-owned grocery stores in Lynchburg.

Currently, there are no grocery stores near Pierce Street, making it a food desert. This means that people do not have access to fresh, affordable produce—but with the garden they do.

“Food options are becoming really limited in the neighborhood. One of the big impediments when you’re talking about poverty is always access to food, particularly access to fresh food. It’s really important that people have access to fresh food,” Lewis said.

Before anything is planted, neighbors are asked what food they would like to see grown. Once grown, fresh produce is distributed to the neighbors’ houses every Saturday, and they can come into the garden at any time to get what they need.

On Saturday mornings, neighbors and volunteers—those who are charged with the ongoing garden maintenance—can be seen weeding and watering. Whitney Chauta, volunteer and head gardener, says there is a lot that goes into maintaining the garden.

“You have to decide what plants would do well in this setting, how much you should grow, making a schedule of when to start seeds and when you can move plants outside, and how to make the most of the space by doing some companion planting,” Chauta detailed.

According to Chauta, gardening is a very rewarding process, too.

“There’s a feeling of satisfaction when you work with your hands and can see the effects of that growing in front of you. Gardening is a never-ending learning experience.”

Eventually, Chauta would love for one of the neighbors to take over.

“I want it to be a true community garden. I want the people that live nearby to take charge of it and make it their own,” she said.

Both Lewis and Chauta expressed that one of the greatest pleasures of the garden is simply seeing the neighbors enjoy it and take part in it.

“I think the biggest joy is if you pop by on a Tuesday and you see someone getting something from the garden. Or if you come in on a Saturday morning and realize that there’s stuff that’s gone. That means somebody came. Somebody’s come in or a family’s come in and taken food. That’s been really important for us,” Lewis explained.

Chauta told a story of how she was in the garden and saw some strawberries that needed to be eaten before they went bad, so she offered them to a man passing by.

“His face lit up and he told me this story from when he was a little boy and he got into his aunt’s strawberry patch and ate all of them and how she wasn’t too happy about that. That’s the sort of thing I love—the history of a place, and the stories of a neighborhood that continue living on in the people still there. I think it’s a really positive place, in the way that it reminds people of good memories.”

Lewis conveyed that the goal of the garden and the Pierce Street Gateway is for the memories and history of the people of Pierce Street to continue to grow.

“We want to be able to create a hub to be able to tell the stories of Pierce Street—not just the stories of the famous people, but the stories of the ordinary people.”

To learn more about the Pierce Street Gateway, garden or make a donation visit www.piercest.org.

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Photos Courtesy of Ghislaine Lewis