

Cité Écologique
The largest ecovillage in Quebec
Located in Ham-Nord, in the Bois-Francs region, the Cité Écologique is a... View more
Feed Yourself
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Feed Yourself
Guys, I just wanted to point out how amazing and important is to grow your own food.
What you are doing there is amazing, a real example and something we can all start doing from our homes.
Here is an article I found on how to actually do it:
Growing your own food can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Here are some steps to help you get started:
1. Plan your space: Determine how much space you have available for gardening. It could be a backyard, a balcony, or even just a small corner indoors. Assess the amount of sunlight your space receives throughout the day to choose suitable crops.
2. Select your crops: Consider what types of fruits, vegetables, or herbs you would like to grow. Research their specific requirements such as sunlight, water, and temperature. Beginners often find it easier to start with plants like tomatoes, lettuce, herbs, and radishes, which are relatively low-maintenance.
3. Prepare the soil: Clear the area of any weeds, rocks, or debris. Loosen the soil using a garden fork or tiller. Add organic matter like compost to improve soil fertility and drainage. It’s also a good idea to get your soil tested to determine its nutrient levels and pH balance.
4. Start with seeds or seedlings: Decide whether you want to begin with seeds or seedlings. Seeds offer a wider variety of choices, but they require more time and attention. Seedlings, on the other hand, allow you to start with more established plants. You can purchase seeds or seedlings from nurseries or online stores.
5. Plant and care for your crops: Follow the instructions on seed packets or the guidance provided with seedlings for planting depth and spacing. Water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater. Mulching around your plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Monitor for pests and diseases, and take appropriate measures to protect your plants.
6. Provide proper sunlight and water: Most plants require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure your plants receive adequate sunlight or provide artificial grow lights if you’re gardening indoors. Water your plants regularly, typically when the top inch of soil feels dry. However, be cautious not to drown your plants by overwatering.
7. Maintain and fertilize: Keep your garden free from weeds, as they compete with your plants for nutrients and water. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pests or diseases. Use organic pest control methods whenever possible. Additionally, consider using organic fertilizers or compost to provide essential nutrients to your plants.
8. Harvest and enjoy: Once your crops are ready, harvest them at their peak ripeness. Follow the specific guidelines for each plant. Enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor by incorporating them into delicious meals or preserving them for later use.
Anyway, gardening is a learning process, so don’t be discouraged by any initial setbacks. Experiment, ask for advice from experienced gardeners, and enjoy the journey of growing your own food.
I strongly advice everyone to go out there and start doing it, maybe learning about it in one community that does it with agroecology principals.
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