A galaxy of small, white Edison bulbs sparkled overhead. Bowls of roses, dahlias and other blossoms made a low, flowery hedge down the center of the long table. As if on cue, the early October moon rose in a cloudless…
All Posts by Michael Stewart Leach
Figs, off-beat fruits welcomed at small farm
Plant it, and they will come pick the fruit. This is what Tim and Beth Malinich discovered with elderberries, currants and other “orphan” crops they adopted and grow at their u-pick farm near Nova, in rural Ashland County. Some Hearthstone…
Farm work may help autistic individuals bloom
When given the opportunity to plant, water and weed at two small greenhouses and a field of vegetables, some people with autism blossom. “Our goal is to find out what’s in their hearts and souls and makes them go. Once…
Poulson wins inaugural Golden Owl Award
Teachers may never know what impact their classes have on students, but for northwest Ohio agricultural educator John Poulson, he has actively witnessed students following in his footsteps in the state and abroad. The winner of the inaugural Golden Owl…
Asparagus lady takes a bow
The “asparagus lady” of Champaign County farmers markets comes by her unofficial title naturally. She grew up with this vegetable that’s been a foodie favorite since the days of ancient Rome. Three generations of Beth Harrigan’s family have worked with…
Cooperage brings new life to old plant in Jackson
Like a fine blended whiskey, Speyside Bourbon Cooperage in Jackson represents a mix of nature, people, technology and millennial tastes. It’s a combo putting grains into a unique international market. Except as yard planters, whiskey barrels weren’t on Jackson’s radar…
Painter celebrates farm life, OFBF centennial
Appearances really can deceive. Take the richly detailed paintings of Dave Barnhouse for instance. These seem to be the work of a lifelong artist, not a steel mill worker who taught himself to paint.
Uncorking Ohio wine
Ohio wineries were as rare as soy lattes in 1975, when 13 wine producers decided to form an association to promote their product. The initial kitty was $750. Had you told them that by 2018 some of Ohio’s 285 wineries…
Heirloom plants for the garden
Gold pocket watches, delicate china and heavenly scented flowers are among the heirlooms passed along from one generation to the next. Gardeners especially treasure the plants, even those without fragrance. “They remind you of your heritage,” said Judy Gray of…
Tips for finding the best location to plant garden vegetables
In real estate — and home gardening — one thing to remember is location, location, location. The ideal garden spot offers all-day full sun, well-draining but moisture-retentive soil and easy access to the hose for the inevitable dry spells. Just…