Cyperus papyrus

Uses : Textile, Ornamental. Native to : Egypt
     The history of this plant is long and well-known, but did you know that it has become an exotic invasive in Florida? Once, long ago, someone planted one of these in the shady part of our yard underneath several Cherry Laurel trees, and years later there is still 3 or 4 stalks surviving.
     It is known to grow in areas like ditches and swamps, where abundant moisture can be found.
     Historically, the young shoots can be roasted and eaten much like bamboo. I have fed the stalks and leaves to the rabbits, and they aren't dead yet, so I must be doing something right.
     Unfortunately wildlife seem to have no interest in this unusual plant. It flowers in the spring, but the flowers are green and right in the middle of the big green fan fronds, so kind of easy to miss.

You can cultivate Papyrus like I do, as in, with abandon. Since they are in the grass the family they are very forgiving. What I like to do with them is put a bunch of dead leaves and mulch in he bottom of a 1 gallon pot, then put the piece of plant in, then put mulch and leaves all around the sides of the plant to hold it up. Then stick the whole thing into one of my mini ponds because papyrus loves water. I have literally grown papyrus in rocks in pondwater before. I stopped using rocks because they became annoying when it was time to divide up the papyrus stems and roots.

This plant is part of my master plen to take back the front of my yard, which is a great big mess. But papyrus is sweet and beautiful, and the rabbits like to eat it so I'm going to keep this well-haved permaculture fodder source around as much as I can.

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.

Red Mulberry, Morus rubra

The Red Mulberry, also known as Morus rubra, is a tree species native to North America. It belongs to the mulberry family, Moraceae, which includes over 1000 species of plants. The Red Mulberry is an important tree species in many ways, as it provides a range of ecological, economic, and cultural benefits.

Ecological Benefits

The Red Mulberry is an ecologically important tree species, as it provides various ecological benefits. The tree is well-suited to a wide range of soils, from sandy loam to heavy clay, and can tolerate a range of pH levels. The tree is also tolerant of flooding, making it an important species in riparian zones, floodplains, and other wetland areas.

The Red Mulberry produces large quantities of fruit, which are eaten by a range of wildlife species. The fruit is rich in nutrients, including vitamin C, iron, and calcium, and is an important food source for many bird species, including blue jays, robins, and cedar waxwings. Other animals that feed on the fruit include squirrels, raccoons, opossums, and deer.

The Red Mulberry also provides important habitat for a range of insect species. Many butterfly and moth species rely on the Red Mulberry as a host plant for their caterpillars. The tree also supports a range of other insect species, including beetles, wasps, and ants.

Economic Benefits

The Red Mulberry is an economically important tree species in North America, as it has a range of commercial uses. The tree is grown for its fruit, which is used to make jams, jellies, pies, and other food products. The fruit is also used to make wine and other alcoholic beverages.

The wood of the Red Mulberry is also valuable, as it is hard, dense, and resistant to decay. The wood is used to make furniture, flooring, and other high-quality wood products. The bark of the Red Mulberry is also used in traditional medicine, as it has been shown to have antiviral and antimicrobial properties.

Mulberry trees are easy to propagate and make an excellent fodder source.

Cultural Significance

The Red Mulberry has a rich cultural significance in North America. The tree has been used for centuries by indigenous people for food, medicine, and other purposes. The Cherokee people used the bark of the tree to treat fever, while the Iroquois used the inner bark to make a tea to treat coughs and colds.

The Red Mulberry also played an important role in the Underground Railroad, as it was used by slaves escaping to freedom. The tree provided important cover for escaping slaves, as well as a source of food.

Duckweed: The Versatile Homesteading Crop with Multiple Benefits

Homesteading, or the practice of living self-sufficiently off the land, has seen a resurgence in recent years as people seek to reduce their reliance on commercial food systems and live more sustainably. One plant that has the potential to be a valuable addition to any homestead is duckweed. This tiny aquatic plant has a range of benefits that make it an ideal addition to any homesteading operation.

One of the main benefits of duckweed for homesteaders is its ability to be grown as a high-protein feed source for livestock. Ducks, chickens, and other poultry will happily eat duckweed, which is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. In fact, some homesteaders have reported that their ducks and chickens will actively seek out duckweed when given the opportunity. This makes it an ideal food source for homesteaders who are looking to raise their own livestock and reduce their reliance on commercial feed.

In addition to being a valuable food source for livestock, duckweed can also be used as a natural fertilizer for crops. Duckweed is able to absorb nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from the water, which can then be used to fertilize plants. This makes it an ideal addition to any homestead garden, as it can help to increase soil fertility and improve crop yields.

Another benefit of duckweed for homesteaders is its potential as a source of biofuel. Duckweed is rich in oils, which can be extracted and converted into biodiesel. This makes it an ideal crop for homesteaders who are looking to produce their own fuel and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

Duckweed is also an excellent source of compost. Because it is rich in nutrients and breaks down quickly, it can be added directly to compost piles to help speed up the composting process and create a nutrient-rich soil amendment.

Another way that duckweed can be used on the homestead is as a natural insect repellent. Studies have shown that duckweed contains compounds that repel insects such as mosquitoes and flies. This makes it an ideal addition to any homestead pond or water feature, as it can help to reduce the number of insects in the surrounding area.

Despite its many benefits, duckweed can be challenging to grow, particularly in colder climates. Duckweed requires warm water temperatures and plenty of sunlight in order to grow and thrive. This is why it is a superior option for Florida. However, with the right conditions, it can be a valuable addition to any homestead operation.

One approach to growing duckweed on the homestead is to create a small pond or water feature specifically for growing duckweed. This can be as simple as a plastic container filled with water and placed in a sunny location. Duckweed can be added to the container and allowed to grow and multiply, providing a valuable source of food for livestock and a natural fertilizer for crops.

Another approach to growing duckweed is to use an aquaponics system. Aquaponics is a system of agriculture that combines hydroponics (growing plants in water) with aquaculture (raising fish). In an aquaponics system, fish are raised in a tank and their waste is used to fertilize plants that are grown in water. Duckweed can be added to the aquaponics system as a natural filter, helping to remove excess nutrients from the water and improve the overall health of the system.

In conclusion, duckweed is a valuable plant that has a range of benefits for homesteaders. From its ability to provide a high-protein food source for livestock to its potential as a natural fertilizer and source of biofuel, duckweed is a versatile crop that can help homesteaders become more self-sufficient and sustainable. While it can be challenging to grow in colder climates, with the right conditions, duckweed can be a valuable addition to any homestead operation.

Want to try out duckweed at your place? You can pick up some from me from my Etsy store here

Discover the Delicious and Nutritious Indonesian Drink: How to Make STMJ

STMJ is a traditional Indonesian drink that is known for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. The name STMJ is an acronym for the four main ingredients that make up the drink: susu (milk), telur (egg), madu (honey), and jahe (ginger). This popular beverage is commonly consumed for breakfast or as a pick-me-up throughout the day, especially during cold weather.

To make STMJ, you will need to start by boiling a piece of fresh ginger in water until it becomes fragrant. Then, you will need to strain the ginger water into a blender or food processor along with a raw egg, honey, and condensed milk. Blend the mixture until it is frothy and smooth. You can also add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Serve the STMJ hot or cold, depending on your preference.

STMJ is not only delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your health. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, while eggs provide a good source of protein and healthy fats. Honey is a natural sweetener that is rich in antioxidants, and milk is a great source of calcium and vitamin D. This drink is a perfect way to start your day off on the right foot or as a nutritious snack anytime you need a quick energy boost.

The Ultimate Tuna Potato Salad Recipe

Tuna potato salad is a classic dish that is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. It is made with simple ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores. The salad is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice. It is also relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. It can be made inexpensively with many pantry staples such as potatoes and canned tuna.

Tuna potato salad is typically made with canned tuna, potatoes, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and dill. However, there are many variations of the dish. Some people like to add hard-boiled eggs, chopped pickles, or relish. Others prefer to use a different type of mayonnaise, such as olive oil mayonnaise or light mayonnaise. There is no right or wrong way to make tuna potato salad, so feel free to experiment until you find a version that you love.

To make tuna potato salad, simply combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Serve the salad on its own or on a bed of lettuce. You can also use it as a sandwich filling or a wrap filling.

Tuna potato salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It is a great option for a quick and easy meal, and it is also a good choice for picnics, potlucks, and other gatherings. So next time you are looking for a delicious and nutritious dish to make, be sure to give tuna potato salad a try.

Here is a recipe for tuna potato salad that you can try at home:

Ingredients:

2 cans of tuna, drained

4 medium potatoes, cooked

1/2 cup of mayonnaise

1/4 cup of celery, chopped, optional

1/4 cup of onion, chopped (half an onion)

3 tablespoons of dill, dried is all right

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and dill.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy!

History of Tuna Potato Salad

Tuna potato salad is thought to have originated in the United States in the early 1900s. It is believed to be a variation of the classic potato salad that was popular at the time. Tuna potato salad quickly became a popular dish, and it is now enjoyed all over the world.

Variations of Tuna Potato Salad

There are many variations of tuna potato salad. Some of the most popular variations include:

Tuna salad on a bed of lettuce: This is a lighter option than the tuna salad sandwich or wrap. Simply serve the salad on a bed of lettuce and enjoy.

Tuna salad as a side dish: This is a great option for picnics, potlucks, and other gatherings. Simply serve the salad on its own as a side dish.

Tips for Making Tuna Potato Salad

Here are a few tips for making the best tuna potato salad:

Use high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the taste of the salad.

Use fresh mayonnaise. This will also make a big difference in the taste of the salad.

Don't overmix the salad. Overmixing will make the salad mushy.

Serve the salad immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tuna potato salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. It is made with simple ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores. The salad is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice. It is also relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Tuna potato salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It is a great option for a quick and easy meal, and it is also a good choice for picnics, potlucks, and other gatherings. So next time you are looking for a delicious and nutritious dish to make, be sure to give tuna potato salad a try.

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.

Beautyberry, Callicarpa americana

     Known for its edible small purple berries. I have eaten the berries raw, and they don't have much flavor. Popular for creating jams/jellies - sugar and pectin will have to be added.

    Usually you see the brightly colored magenta berries for months in the summer. I was finally able to get a picture of the flowers themselves.

The New Port Richey Garden Club

     Found this at one of the local libraries. New Port Richey is a lot of things, but I have never thought of it as overly friendly or inviting to gardening, not like Hernando or Polk. Pasco doesn't even sport a community garden or a botanical garden. But here I am, wrong again. 

     I bet they're all really nice people.

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.