What You Need to Know About Selling Plants on Etsy

 This last springtime I learned something about Etsy - that there are many people who want to buy garden plants at that time of year to maximize their growing season. 

"What is THE GROWING SEASON?" you ask, in disbelief.

Well it turns out that Northeners, often referred to as Yankees, can only grow plants outside in the late spring, summer, and early fall. So they are just going outside as we are just returning to the inside in a kind of opposite effect.

I was reminded of this fact when I decided to try to sell some of my extra papyrus plants on Etsy this last March and April. By March and April, my water gardens were overflowing and plants were literally bursting out the sides and bottoms of their pots. Forehead smack, that ruins my pots! So I took many photos and listed the yellow cannas, which bloom first, the taro, and the papyrus.

Turns out that no one really wants to buy taro and cannas, likely because they are available at box stores most everywhere, but boy did the papyrus sell! I sold 9 sets of three rooted plants each at a very reasonable price, all within the span of two weeks. It was so fast that Etsy literally held my payments because they thought I had been frauding people somehow. But I did sell the plants so they eventually paid me.

One more thing about selling plants on Etsy - I have sold about 20 to 30 plant sets now, and in those orders have had two people whine and complain that the plants they received were not what they ordered. So...I am going to have to raise prices to make up for the bad apples. Just like Walmart. I mean, where do you think I learned that from?

Duckweed versus Water Hyacinth, Which is Right for Your Homestead?

Duckweed and water hyacinth are two aquatic plants that are increasingly being considered as potential sources of livestock fodder. Both of these plants are able to grow rapidly and prolifically in water bodies, making them attractive options for farmers and ranchers looking for cost-effective, sustainable feed sources.

In this blog post, we will compare and contrast duckweed and water hyacinth as potential fodder sources, looking at their nutritional value, ease of cultivation, and other important factors.

Nutritional Value

One of the most important factors when considering any feed source is its nutritional value. In this regard, both duckweed and water hyacinth have a lot to offer. Duckweed is rich in protein, with some species containing as much as 45% protein by dry weight. It is also a good source of essential amino acids, as well as vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, and calcium.

Water hyacinth, on the other hand, is high in fiber and also contains significant amounts of protein (up to 15% by dry weight). It is also a good source of minerals such as potassium and phosphorus. However, it is important to note that water hyacinth can accumulate toxic compounds such as heavy metals, which can make it unsuitable for consumption in certain areas. (They both bioaccumulate, though less research has been performed on duckweed and azolla for that purpose. It would be wise not to consume or allow animals to consume any plants that may be contaminated with large amounts of heavy metals.)

Ease of Cultivation

Another important factor to consider when comparing duckweed and water hyacinth as fodder sources is their ease of cultivation. Duckweed can be grown in a variety of water bodies, from small ponds to large-scale wastewater treatment systems. It requires relatively little maintenance, and can be harvested multiple times per year. However, it is important to note that some species of duckweed can be invasive and may require careful management to prevent them from spreading to other water bodies.

Water hyacinth, on the other hand, can also be grown in a variety of water bodies, but requires more maintenance than duckweed. It grows best in warm, tropical climates and can be sensitive to changes in temperature and water quality. Additionally, because of its potential to become invasive, water hyacinth may require more careful management than duckweed.

Environmental Impact

Both duckweed and water hyacinth have the potential to provide a number of environmental benefits in addition to their use as livestock feed. Duckweed, for example, has been shown to be effective at removing excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater, reducing the risk of algal blooms and other water quality issues. It can also provide habitat for a variety of aquatic species.

Water hyacinth, on the other hand, can help to prevent soil erosion and reduce water evaporation in areas with high temperatures and low rainfall. It can also provide habitat for a variety of aquatic species, including fish, turtles, and birds. However, as mentioned earlier, water hyacinth can also become invasive and may require careful management to prevent it from spreading to other water bodies.

Cost and Availability

Finally, when considering duckweed and water hyacinth as fodder sources, it is important to consider their cost and availability. Duckweed is relatively easy and inexpensive to cultivate, and can be harvested multiple times per year. It is also available in a variety of forms, from fresh to dried, and can be fed to livestock as a supplement or as a complete replacement for other feed sources.

Looking to buy some live duckweed to try out at your homestead? Look no further than this excellent Etsy store, run by Knotty Pots.

Water hyacinth, on the other hand, may be more difficult and expensive to cultivate, depending on the location and water quality. It is also less widely available than duckweed, likely because it is illegal to buy/transport in some areas, including Florida. Water hyacinth may require more effort to harvest and process for use as livestock feed, as it is larger and heavier.

In conclusion, both duckweed and water hyacinth have the potential to be valuable sources of livestock feed, depending on a variety of factors such as their nutritional value, ease of cultivation, and local and regional laws.

Tradescantia pallida: A Versatile and Easy to Care for Edible for Your Florida Garden

Tradescantia pallida, also known as Purple Heart, is a beautiful and versatile plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It is native to Mexico and has a trailing habit, making it perfect for potted planters or ground cover. Tradescantia pallida is also relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginner plant owners.

Description

Tradescantia pallida is a perennial plant that grows to be about 6 inches tall. It has thick, fleshy stems that are covered in purple leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip. Tradescantia pallida produces small, pink flowers in the summer.

Cultivation

Tradescantia pallida is relatively easy to care for. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. Tradescantia pallida can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. In colder climates, it can be grown indoors as a houseplant.

To water Tradescantia pallida, water the soil deeply when the top inch of the soil is dry. Tradescantia pallida does not need to be fertilized often. However, you can fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Prpagation

Tradescantia pallida can be easily propagated from stem cuttings or from divisions. To propagate from stem cuttings, take cuttings that are about 4 inches long and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-drained soil. To propagate from divisions, simply divide the plant into two or more pieces.

Benefits

There are many benefits to growing Tradescantia pallida. It is a beautiful plant that can add color to your garden or home. Tradescantia pallida is also relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginner plant owners. It is edible to rabbits and ducks. Additionally, Tradescantia pallida is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used as a ground cover, in hanging baskets, or even as a houseplant. 

Problems

Tradescantia pallida is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects can all damage the plant. Additionally, Tradescantia pallida can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.

Conclusion

Tradescantia pallida is a beautiful and versatile plant that is easy to care for. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors and has a variety of uses. If you are looking for a plant that is both beautiful and easy to care for, Tradescantia pallida is a great option.

Duckweed: The Tiny Plant with Big Benefits for the Environment and Beyond

Duckweed, also known as Lemnoideae, is a type of aquatic plant that is found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It is a tiny floating plant that can grow to be just a few millimeters in size. Despite its small size, duckweed has a range of benefits, making it an important part of many ecosystems.

One of the most significant benefits of duckweed is its ability to remove excess nutrients from the water. As a floating plant, duckweed is able to absorb nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from the water, which can help to reduce the levels of these nutrients in the surrounding environment. This is particularly important in areas where there is excess nutrient runoff from agriculture or other human activities, as this can lead to harmful algal blooms and other negative environmental impacts.

Duckweed is also an excellent source of food for a variety of animals, including fish, turtles, and waterfowl. The high protein content of duckweed makes it a nutritious food source, and it is often used as a supplemental food for livestock and poultry. Think of skimming some off the top of a wastewater pond and feeding it to your chickens, rabbits, and ducks, as I do. They love the taste, and I love the extremely low cost of this nutrition source.

In addition to being a valuable food source for animals, duckweed can also be used as a source of biofuel. Researchers have found that duckweed is a promising source of renewable energy, as it can be converted into bioethanol and other fuels.

In addition to its environmental and economic benefits, duckweed has also been found to have a range of medicinal properties. Studies have shown that duckweed contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, making it a potential treatment for a range of health conditions. For example, duckweed has been found to be effective in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to a range of chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Due to duckweed being grown in freshwater, it should be cooked to reduce the possibility of contamination from harmful pathogens that are endemic to our environment, such as E. coli.

One of the most exciting potential uses of duckweed is in wastewater treatment. Because duckweed is able to absorb nutrients from the water, it has the potential to be used in wastewater treatment systems to remove excess nutrients and pollutants from the water. In addition, because duckweed is able to grow rapidly and reproduce quickly, it can be used to treat large volumes of wastewater in a relatively short amount of time. This could be particularly beneficial in developing countries, where access to clean water is a major challenge. Here in Florida, I have found it extremely helpful in managing the duck slough, as it sucks up the manure and clears the water for other garden uses.

Despite its many benefits, duckweed is often considered a nuisance by pond owners and other water users. This is because duckweed can grow quickly and form dense mats on the surface of the water, which can limit the amount of light and oxygen that reaches the aquatic ecosystem below. In addition, dense duckweed mats can interfere with recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

However, there are a number of strategies that can be used to control the growth of duckweed and minimize its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. One approach is to use mechanical methods, such as raking or skimming, to remove excess duckweed from the water. Another approach is to introduce natural predators, such as ducks or fish, that will feed on the duckweed and help to keep its growth under control.

In conclusion, duckweed is a tiny plant with a range of benefits, from its ability to absorb excess nutrients from the water to its potential as a source of food, fuel, and medicine. While it can sometimes be considered a nuisance by water users, there are a number of strategies that can be used to control its growth and minimize its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. With its many potential uses and benefits, duckweed is a plant that deserves further study and exploration. With its low initial coat (buy some from me at my Etsy store) and ease of maintenance, it is a perennial that should be evaluated by any permaculturist or homesteader.

Shibataea kumasaca, Ruscus Bamboo

     I'm not even sure how I got this plant. . I don't think I bought it, or did I? No, I think I would remember if I had bought a dwarf clumping bamboo, because it's very cool -

now that I know it's not a weed trying to take over the lemon tree. 

     Indeed, bamboos are cool. I have another larger grass that I quite enjoy because it's beautiful and grows well. And more importantly, it's edible to the rabbits.  These grasses can be very helpful in their ability to displace weeds. They are also easy to harvest and bring to the rabbits.

Duck Potato, Sagittaria platyphylla, Delta Arrowhead

     I once stole this plant from a ditch at the community College. No really,  I really did do that. I wasn't arrested either. It almost tops the time I took cattail from the ditch at the hospital. I wasn't arrested then either. 

     Actually I didn't know what this was until it made a pretty white flower, and now I love it. I had wanted to buy duck potato because I had read that it's edible to, well, ducks. Possibly rabbits? Not sure. But now that I have this plant, all I have to do is propagate it, and I will have unlimited duck food! Mwa haha.

     Supposedly the underground tubers are eaten by ducks and snapping turtles. It sounds like a great plant to grow. Supposedly it can be propagated by transplanting the tubers. Also supposedly, it was a major food source for the Native Americans that lived in the Okeechobee area. 

Do Ducks Eat Tradescantia Purple Heart?

 

    Things are so expensive. A bag of plain chicken food without the additives to promote egg laying is about $20. When you factor in the cost of the baby duck food I have already given them, at this time I have spent about $40 in nothing but feed for these ducks. That makes them kinda expensive if I was owning them for meat. So any supplementation that I can give them from my plants would be a good thing.

     Between the corn sprouts and the water hyacinth, I have learned that they will eat Spanish Needle, but they won't eat Papyrus. And today I covered their splash ponds in Tradescantia Purple Heart, also called Moses in a Boat. It's a lovely succulent that grows in deep shade and is used often around here as a groundcover. Previously I had determined that the rabbits do indeed like it.

     Covered the splash ponds in Purple Heart, and then went on to do the next chore. By the time I turned around they were eating everything in sight, including the Purple Heart.

     That day they didn't finish their chicken crumble food or the corn sprouts because they filled up on healthy plants.

     Ducks love water hyacinth.

Spiderwort, Spring 2022

 

     Every Spring, around Alban Eilir, all the Spiderwort start blooming. The flowers are open in the very early morning, and as the sun rises they appear to be glowing 🟣. They are amazingly beautiful, and one of the few plants of early spring that is native to this area and edible. 

 

    Every year I transplant seedlings from the mowed areas to safer areas of my place. And every year I have more and more beautiful color in the spring. One year I used the flowers to color eggs, by sticking them to the egg and then boiling the egg in a wrapper. It came out amazingly.

Cannas

     If you've met me, you probably know that I gush over cannas, my favorite root vegetable. And I have never eaten a single one other than the green leaves. 

    I was introduced to the fun and ease of growing bulbs and tubers when I briefly lived in Michigan, and the love of it has stayed with me with cannas, amaryllis, and taro. Cannas are my best, they have amazing flowers for months on end.

     Sadly, over the years my canna collection has been dying down, mostly due to neglect and cold winter weather. Im not going to pretend that I am a perfect person. I have three kids and a job, trying to fit in exercise and watering the plants has been rough.

     They absolutely need water in the summer to survive. The native Florida cannas, which I have none of, grow in boggy areas at the edges of ponds and lakes. I havent ever seen any growing in a river. Mine are in pots sunken into my ponds, many of which I built primarily for canna and water hyacinth culture. And yes, the rabbits love to eat cannas!

     My mother bought me these bright pink beauties for my birthday last year. Maybe I had told her how much I loved the pink ones with the big flowers. And these, like my few other pinks, appear to be dwarf cannas, not climbing the 8 feet like the nondwarf variety.

    Somehow these have not just survived, but thrived in the location that I placed them, chosen mostly for safety. They have been blooming since March, and its now almost June. The tubers are growing so large they have nearly broken the plastic pot holding them. The leaves have been yellowing, notbsurebif thats from packnof nutrition, the heat, or fromndyingbdownnat the end of the season. I want to divide the pinks and repot, but when I get a few minutes to take care of it I realize that they have sent up yet another flower. Which begs the question:

     Do tropical bulbs need to be separated after flowering is completed, or can you separate them and transplant at any time?