As Midwesterners and people elsewhere search for the silver lining to our recent frigid temperatures, some have pointed to a decline in the pest population, specifically insects. This report from Minnesota Public Radio notes that the extreme cold is beneficial to the state’s ash trees, as it could kill off a large percentage of emerald […]
Registration opens for Winter Gardening ...
With the wind-chill at 50-below zero, this might not seem like the ideal time to think about gardening. But really, there is no better time to dream about what the summer may hold when you have the clean slate that an Iowa winter brings. The Linn County Master Gardeners’ Winter Gardening Fair provides that perfect […]
Practical Farmers of Iowa conference is ...
The Practical Farmers of Iowa annual conference later this month will highlight farm management and budgeting to improve fruit and vegetable farmers’ profitability, along with much more. Among the speakers that will interest many fruit and vegetable producers are veteran vegetable farmer Laura Frerichs of Hutchinson, Minn., and high tunnel expert Adam Montri of Bath, […]
Local foods and time-honored traditions ...
BY CINDY HADISH HOMESTEAD, Iowa – Andy and Lalanya Bodenbender aren’t intentionally trendy. What some perceive as the latest craze — from their tattooed wedding bands to the hearty kale they grow — the Bodenbenders embrace as their way of life. That goes for the local foods emphasis at their store, Henry’s Village Market, too.
Another “yes” for New Pioneer Food Co-op
IOWA CITY – New Pioneer Food Co-op will be moving forward with plans for a new site in Iowa City, following a decisive vote from its members. The cooperative, which specializes in local, natural and organic foods, is looking to relocate its Iowa City store. It has already announced a site for a new store […]
Produce vendor soon ending its run at Ne...
CEDAR RAPIDS – One of the most visible vendors at NewBo City Market is closing its market booth. Morgan Creek Produce Market will end its run at NewBo on Jan. 1, 2014, said Bill and Robyn Rieckhoff, who operate the stand with Robyn’s father, Bob Vanous. Because the market is only open on Thursdays, Saturdays […]
Homegrown Holidays: scenes of the season
No holiday can be picture-perfect, but even with Iowa’s bone-chilling weather, we can find reasons to be grateful. From the last few weeks, here are scenes of the season that make me appreciate being a homegrown Iowan. During the holidays and into the New Year, may you find joy in all of the little things […]
Your favorite holiday plants – poisonous
We’ve all heard how toxic poinsettias are, but is that the reality? The California Poison Control compiled the following safety tip sheet about the popular holiday plant and others:
New owner on board for Mount Vernon’s Li
MOUNT VERNON – Lincoln Cafe owner Matt Steigerwald appeared almost relaxed on the popular restaurant’s closing day. Maybe because he knows the cafe will be in good hands for the foreseeable future. Steigerwald, 47, just completed the sale of the restaurant to Rachel Sauter, a former employee who still has family in Mount Vernon. “It’s […]
Buy local: where to find those last-minu...
I really hope this weather clears so I can make it to one of my favorite winter farmers markets this Saturday. Before Thanksgiving, I stocked up on local produce at Mount Vernon’s winter market and found everything I needed for several dishes, including sweet potato curry. The curry turned out quite well for my first […]