Growing More, Sharing More: Updates from Our Indoor Garden

On November 18, 2024, we took big steps forward in our indoor gardening journey, all from our kitchen! With newly created space to start more seeds, we conducted several tests and moved seedlings into new containers to explore different growing methods.

Reducing, Reusing, Recycling

Sustainability is at the core of our efforts. For this round of testing, we repurposed coffee jars, cutting holes in the lids to allow the containers with seedlings to easily transition into jars filled with nutrient solution. One of the setups includes a glass jar, which doesn’t require a modified lid. Glass jars offer additional stability for larger plants as they grow, reducing the risk of tipping.

What’s Growing?

Here’s a look at the plants currently thriving in various stages of growth:
🌱 Plantain
🌱 Curly Dock
🌱 Dandelion
🌱 Lettuce
🌱 Sweet Grass
🌱 Garlic
🌱 Cilantro
🌱 Mullein
🌱 Basil
🌱 Chicory

We’re also preparing to start more seeds using recycled plastic water bottles. These bottles are transformed into seed-starting containers by cutting off the tops, slitting the necks, and inverting them to create a reservoir system. Filled with clay pellets, these containers retain moisture while providing excellent drainage. The clay helps ensure seeds stay hydrated without overwatering, while excess water collects in the bottom of the container.

With regular misting 2-3 times a day, the seeds germinate and the roots naturally grow toward the water. Once the roots and true leaves develop, the seedlings are moved to the next growing stage, freeing up space for new plantings.

Testing Second-Stage Growing Methods

As seedlings mature, each plant type requires a tailored approach:

• Some plants will stay in humidity domes for extended growth.
• Others will be transferred to final containers with nutrient solutions to mature for harvest.
• Certain plants will grow to full maturity for seed production to support future efforts and sharing.

Preparing for Holiday Giving

We’re excited to share that some of the basil we’re planting tomorrow may be ready to share just in time for the holidays! Fresh basil and herbs are a wonderful addition to meals, and we’ll be offering these plants and containers for free to our members.

Here’s the plan:

• Each member receiving free basil will be asked to take two plants: one for personal use and one to be harvested later for our Not Just A Food Program.
• Harvested plants will help prepare food or make spices for those without safe spaces to grow their own herbs.

With fresh basil often costing $5 per plant, this initiative allows us to provide valuable resources while fostering a community of sharing and sustainability.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning! As our plant production expands, we have plans to share more plants, seeds, and knowledge in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates as we continue testing, growing, and giving.

Until then, have a beautiful day, and remember: LIFE - Love Is For Everyone!