🌱 Exciting Updates Coming to Plant Share For All! 🌱

As our indoor hydroponic growing expands and we gather more seeds, we'll continuously update our plant list! 🌿

Soon, you'll find direct links to information on each specific plant in our "As We Grow" series within Plant Share For All. This is a work in progress, and it will take time to build out details for all the plants we're cultivating and as we gain access to new seeds.

Stay tuned for more updates as we grow together to provide accessible health and wellness for our community! 💚

Plant Name

1. Arugula
2. Bee Balm
3. Beet Detroit Dark Red
4. Borage
5. Broccoli Calabrese
6. Cabbage Golden Acre
7. Cantaloupe Hales Best Jumbo
8. Carrot Nantes Coreless
9. Cauliflower Early Snowball
10. Cayenne Pepper
11. Cherry Tomato
12. Chicory
13. Chives (Perennial Herb)
14. Cilantro
15. Common Mallow
16. Curly Dock (Yellow Dock)
17. Dandelion
18. Dill Mammoth Long Island
19. Dwarf Jewel
20. Echinacea Purple Coneflower
21. Eggplant Black Beauty
22. Florence
23. Garden Bean Burpee Stringless Green Pod
24. Garden Bean Cherokee Wax
25. Garlic
26. Garlic Chives
27. Goldenrod
28. Green Sprouting Broccoli
29. Holy Basil
30. Lamb's Quarters
31. Lemon Balm
32. Lettuce Black Seeded Simpson
33. Lettuce Buttercrunch
34. Lettuce Parris Island Cos
35. Mint (Mentha)
36. Mullein
37. Onion Green Scallion
38. Oregano (Perennial Herb)
39. Pacific Beauty Mix Calendula
40. Parsley Dark Green Italian
41. Peas Little Marvel
42. Peas Sugar Snap
43. Pepper Keystone Resistant Giant
44. Pepper New Mexico 6 Chili
45. Peppermint
46. Plantain Broadleaf
47. Plantain Narrowleaf
48. Radish Early Scarlet Globe
49. Red Cabbage
50. Red Rubin Basil
51. Red Salad Bowl Lettuce
52. Ruby Red Swish Chard
53. Sage Broadleaf Italian
54. Sage Common Kitchen Type
55. Spinach Bloomsdale Longstanding
56. Squash Early Prolific Straightneck
57. St. John's Wort
58. Sweet Basil
59. Sweet Corn Country Gentleman - White Open Pollinated
60. Sweet Corn Golden Bantam - Improved 12 Row
61. Sweet Grass
62. Thyme (Perennial Herb)
63. True Lavender
64. Turnip Purple Top White Globe
65. Wild Bergamot

Have an amazing time as we grow for the benefit of all!

Grow Fresh Food Year-Round With Items You Already Have

Hydroponics doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a few basic recycled materials and a little DIY effort, you can grow healthy plants right from home, whether you’re starting seeds or growing them to maturity. Below is a simple guide using materials you can easily find or repurpose.

Materials You’ll Need:

• 1 large (4l) water bottle with cap – often used for distilled or spring water

• 3 smaller (300–500 ml) plastic bottles with caps

• 1 aluminum pie plate (medium or regular size)

• Clay pebbles (preferred grow medium) — OR small clean stones/gravel

• Blue or white paint (to block light and prevent algae growth)

• Utility knife and scissors

Tip: If gathering gravel from natural sources like rivers or streams, ensure the area is unpolluted. Always sterilize natural materials before use to kill any pathogens.

Why Blue or White Paint?

Painting the outside of your large bottle prevents light from entering the water, which can cause algae to grow.

• Blue is ideal for blocking light.

• White works as a backup and also reflects heat, keeping the water cool.

• Avoid black, as it absorbs heat—roots prefer cooler temperatures for optimal growth.

Step-by-Step Build Instructions:

1. Prepare the Large Water Bottle (Reservoir)

• Find the ring or crease about 1/3 down from the top.

• Cut along this ring to remove the top dome of the bottle. Set it aside—this will be used later during seed germination to retain moisture.

• In the lower section (the reservoir), cut four tabs about ½ inch down from the rim. These will help hold the aluminum plate in place.

2. Modify the Pie Plate (Plant Holder)

• Use a cap from the small bottle to trace 3 circles spaced evenly in a triangle shape.

• Carefully cut the holes just slightly larger than the caps so the small bottle tops can sit snugly.

• Cut small slits near the rim of the pie plate to align with the tabs from the large bottle, helping it sit securely.

3. Prepare the Small Bottles (Net Cups)

• Cut each small bottle at the first visible ring from the top.

• Remove the cap and cut an X-shaped slit into the center of it. Bend the triangles slightly inward.

  • This lets water pass while keeping your pebbles or stones in place.

• Reattach the cap and flip the top upside down.

• Fill with your grow medium.

These small tops act like net pots, allowing roots to wick up water from the nutrient reservoir below.

Putting It All Together

1. Fill the lower part of your large bottle with a basic nutrient solution.

2. Place the aluminum plate over the top, aligning it with the four tabs.

3. Insert the small bottle tops into the 3 holes.

4. Use the removed top dome of the large bottle as a humidity dome while germinating seeds. Simply place it over the setup to trap moisture.

5. Remove the dome once seeds sprout and true leaves appear.

Scaling Up and Custom Setups

• If you're growing larger plants like tomatoes or peppers, consider using an additional 4L bottle to extend root space.

• For mature plants, try setups that hold 4–5 gallons of solution and use support systems like wire cages.

• We also experiment with different container sizes (shorter for germination, deeper for full growth) to maximize space.

Coming Soon: Templates & Measured Instructions

We’re currently perfecting multiple prototype builds and will soon offer:

• Printable templates

• Step-by-step guides with exact measurements

• Tips to avoid common mistakes (like getting your net pot holes spaced correctly!)

In the meantime, this basic version should help you get started.

Support Through ILFJL Collective

If you’re part of the ILFJL Collective, you can access:

• Free seed and nutrient solution packs through Plant Share For All

• Community help for troubleshooting and education

• Tips and plans to help grow your own health and wellness options

LIFE – Love Is For Everyone. Let’s grow something good, together.

As We Grow:

Sowing the Seeds of Wellness with the ILFJL Collective's FIFE Initiative

Embarking on an exciting journey within the ILFJL Collective's FIFE (Food Is For Everyone) initiative, As We Grow is just beginning to sprout. Our vision is clear: to cultivate health and wellness for all through the incredible power of plants. Recognizing the deep connection between our well-being, the health of our cherished pets, and access to nourishing resources, FIFE's As We Grow project is taking its first tender steps.

We are thrilled to announce the initial stages of cultivating over 30 different plant types, each with unique potential to enhance our lives. While our garden is currently small, with just a few varieties taking root, we are filled with anticipation for the abundance to come. In time, we envision a diverse tapestry of greenery, offering a wealth of natural benefits for our community.

Following FIFE's core values of accessibility and community support, As We Grow is meticulously documenting the entire cultivation process. From the very first seed nestled in the grow medium to the eventual harvest and the saving of seeds for future growth, we will share our journey. This transparent approach aims to educate and inspire others to join us in this empowering endeavour.

Inspired by personal experience, the foundation of As We Grow lies in the understanding that access to nutritious food and natural remedies should not be a privilege. Having navigated a personal health journey that underscored the vital role of diet, the desire to make these resources accessible to everyone within the FIFE framework is paramount. As We Grow is our way of sowing the seeds for a healthier and more equitable community.

Even in these early stages, we are exploring the potential of these initial plants – how they can nourish our bodies, contribute to the well-being of our animal companions (in alignment with FIFE's holistic view), and even enhance our living spaces. As part of FIFE's commitment to environmental consciousness, we are learning about the air-purifying qualities of indoor plants, recognizing the interconnectedness of our health and our environment.

As We Grow is a tangible expression of FIFE's commitment to breaking down barriers. We understand that financial constraints can severely limit access to healthy options. Therefore, as we nurture these first plants, we are simultaneously developing systems for sharing our future bounty freely within the Not Just A Food Program. Our vision is to create a sustainable cycle of growth and sharing, ensuring that the benefits of these plants are accessible to all, regardless of their financial circumstances.

As a budding component of the FIFE initiative, As We Grow is fueled by the ILFJL Collective's overarching mission of fostering love and compassion within our community. We believe that by empowering individuals to cultivate their own well-being, we are nurturing not just plants, but also hope and a stronger sense of collective care. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey, tending to these initial sprouts with the promise of a healthier and more vibrant future for everyone within the reach of FIFE. The seeds of change are being planted, and with time, As We Grow will flourish.

🌿 Natural Bug Repellents You Can Grow – Safe, Simple & Local

Bug bites can turn a peaceful evening into a scratchy, uncomfortable mess. The good news? You don’t need chemical sprays or a huge backyard to keep pests away. With a little creativity and hydroponics, you can grow powerful, natural bug repellents right inside your home.

We grow all of our plants indoors using hydroponic systems, and they thrive beautifully—no soil, no mess, just clean, efficient growth. Below are some of our favorite bug-repelling plants, along with easy, safe ways to use them.

🌱 Bug-Repelling All-Stars from Our Plants

1. Peppermint & Mint (Mentha spp.)

Repels: Mosquitoes, ants, flies, spiders

How to Use:

• Rub fresh crushed leaves directly onto skin
• Plant near windows, doors, and outdoor sitting areas
• Make a simple spray: steep leaves in hot water, let cool, strain, and bottle

2. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Repels: Mosquitoes and gnats

How to Use:

• Crush fresh leaves and rub on skin
• Infuse leaves in hot water to make a calming spray
• Grow in containers to control spreading

3. True Lavender / Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Repels: Mosquitoes, fleas, flies, moths

How to Use:

• Dry flowers for sachets in drawers or by windows
• Make a floral spray infusion for skin or fabric
• Rub crushed flowers or leaves on pulse points

4. Basil & Holy Basil (Ocimum spp.)

Repels: Flies, mosquitoes

How to Use:

• Rub fresh leaves on exposed skin
• Plant near doors or patios
• Steep into a basil tea and spray on clothing or outdoor gear

5. Wild Bergamot / Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa & M. didyma)

Repels: Mosquitoes

How to Use:

• Rub crushed leaves or flowers on skin
• Create a plant border around seating areas
• Dry flowers for use in sachets

6. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Repels: Mosquitoes, flies

How to Use:

• Burn dried sage bundles outdoors
• Rub fresh leaves directly onto skin
• Make a sage tea wash for quick application

7. Garlic (Allium sativum)

Repels: Mosquitoes, aphids, fleas, mites

How to Use:

• Plant throughout your garden to protect neighboring plants
• Crush cloves with water to make a strong garden spray
• Rub on socks or clothing edges to help repel ticks

8. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) – Pacific Beauty Mix

Repels: Aphids, whiteflies, beetles

How to Use:

• Plant among vegetables and flowers to deter garden pests
• Dry petals for use in skin-soothing salves or teas

🌼 Other Plants with Gentle or Indirect Bug-Repelling Uses

• Chamomile – Calms irritated skin after bites
• Goldenrod – Attracts beneficial insects that control pests
• Mullein – Soothes skin and respiratory irritation
• Echinacea, Plantain, Lamb’s Quarters, Dandelion, Chicory – Great for skin and immunity but not direct repellents
• St. John’s Wort – Useful in infused oil for minor skin irritations or bug bites

🧪 Simple DIY Herbal Bug Repellent Spray (No Witch Hazel Needed)

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh or dried peppermint, lemon balm, and lavender
• 1–2 cups boiling water
• Clean spray bottle

Steps:

1. Add a generous handful of herbs to a heat-safe jar or bowl
2. Pour boiling water over herbs and cover
3. Let steep until completely cool (30–60 mins)
4. Strain and pour into a spray bottle
5. Store in the fridge and shake before each use

Use within 3–5 days for freshness. For a stronger scent, you can add a few crushed herbs directly to the bottle.

💡 Tips for Best Results

• Reapply natural sprays every 1–2 hours, especially after sweating
• Crush leaves just before using to release more oils
• Combine different plants in your garden for broader protection
• Test any rubs or sprays on a small patch of skin first

⚠️ Safety & Side Effects

While these plants are natural, they aren’t risk-free. Everyone’s skin is different, so it’s important to take a few precautions:

• Patch Test First: Apply a small amount of any herb-infused product to your inner arm. Wait 24 hours to check for irritation.
• Avoid Eyes, Mouth, & Broken Skin: Essential oils and natural compounds can be harsh on sensitive areas.
• Peppermint & Mint: May cause a cooling sensation or irritation in sensitive individuals.
• Lemon Balm: Can interfere with thyroid function if overused internally.
• Lavender: May not be suitable during pregnancy or for people with hormone-sensitive conditions.
• Holy Basil: Could affect blood sugar—use cautiously if you’re diabetic.
• Bee Balm (Monarda): Related to mint—some may experience irritation.
• Sage: Not for use on open wounds; avoid internal use during pregnancy.
• Garlic: Strong—can cause skin irritation or burning if used in excess.
• St. John’s Wort: Can increase sun sensitivity; best applied at night or under clothing.

When in doubt, check with a healthcare provider or herbalist—especially if you have underlying conditions, are pregnant, or are using other topical medications.

🌎 Grow Your Own Protection

By planting just a few of these natural bug-fighters, you can create your own green defense system. Whether you’re lounging in the backyard or heading on a hike, your homegrown herbs can help keep you and your loved ones bite-free—gently, simply, and naturally.

Brewing Wellness:

Cultivating Health and Hope Through Tea with the Not Just A Food Program

At the heart of the ILFJL Collective's efforts lies a deep understanding that true support extends beyond simply providing food. Health and well-being are integral to the journey of recovery and empowerment for everyone we serve. Recognizing this, the Not Just A Food Program is cultivating a unique initiative centered around the power of herbal teas, offering not just flavor, but also potential health and wellness benefits to those within our programs.

We believe that access to nourishment that supports overall well-being should not be a luxury. While many community food programs focus on addressing immediate hunger with readily available produce (often seasonal) and shelf-stable items, a consistent and balanced intake of essential vitamins and minerals is crucial for long-term health. Sadly, some readily accessible and affordable food options can inadvertently contribute to deteriorating health conditions.

Our approach within the Not Just A Food Program aims to create pathways for individuals who actively choose to work towards improved health. By providing education and the means to cultivate their own wellness, even in small spaces and year-round, we are fostering a sense of agency and self-care.

One exciting aspect of this initiative is the provision of free plants, carefully selected for their potential health benefits when brewed as teas. Our current selection offers a diverse range of flavors and properties. We strongly encourage everyone to embark on their own journey of discovery, learning about each plant and understanding its potential effects. It is also paramount to consult with a healthcare professional regarding the interaction of herbal infusions with any existing medications or health conditions. While some doctors may have limited familiarity with herbal remedies, seeking guidance from a trained herbalist can be invaluable in achieving personalized health and wellness goals.

To make this accessible to all within our programs, we utilize innovative growing methods, including hydroponics and small-space gardening techniques, allowing us to cultivate a variety of plants year-round, even in limited environments. Our commitment to sustainability extends to producing our own seeds, ensuring quality and reducing costs for future plantings. This self-sufficiency is a cornerstone of our vision for long-term growth and expanded support for those most in need. Furthermore, we actively seek opportunities to repurpose recycled materials in our growing efforts, minimizing our environmental impact.

Recognizing that not everyone has the knowledge or capacity to grow their own plants, we are developing ways for individuals to participate and contribute regardless of their experience. We envision a community where those who are able to cultivate these beneficial herbs can not only enhance their own well-being but also share their harvest with others within our programs who may be unable to grow for themselves. All it takes is a willingness to learn and embrace new possibilities – the very foundation upon which our own growing expertise has been built.

We are excited about the potential of this initiative to foster a growing network of support, where individuals improve their own health and wellness while simultaneously contributing to the well-being of others. This creates a powerful win-win scenario for our community, cultivating not only physical health but also deeper connections rooted in love and compassion. Together, we believe we can achieve remarkable results, fostering a community where care and well-being are accessible to all.

Keep an eye out for more updates from our 'Growing Plants to Support the Not Just A Food Program' initiative. We're continuously expanding our growing options, adding more and more plants to our efforts. This project, which began with growing options for my own personal health and recovery following a major stroke and open-heart surgery, has now evolved into a mission to share knowledge and provide diverse nutritional resources for all. This is more than just a program; it's an embodiment of LIFE - Love Is For Everyone. It's not simply a belief but a way of living, a continuous journey of learning and exploring the multifaceted meaning of love for all