The Urban Farm Podcast With Greg Peterson

Our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: Greg and Bill McDorman explore why seed saving virtually disappeared. They reveal how, historically, seed saving was an integral practice for gardeners and farmers, promoting more resilient and adaptable crops. However, the industrialization of agriculture and commercialization of seeds in the 20th century led to a decline in this practice due to economic pressures and the introduction of laws favoring seed patents and protections. Bill recounts the historical developments, including the idea of patenting of plants in the 1930s and the eventual patenting of seeds in the 1980s. The conversation also highlights success stories like the revival of Sonoran White Wheat in Arizona, demonstrating how communities can reclaim and share seeds to build local resilience. They encourage listeners to engage in seed saving and participate in seed libraries to foster a sustainable and abundant agricultural system.Visit UrbanFarm.org/894 for the show notes and links on thi

A Rosie On The House ReplayIn this episode of Rosie on the House, Romey Romero and Farmer Greg welcome Brad Lancaster, a renowned expert in water harvesting. They discuss Brad's journey in water harvesting starting from his childhood in Tucson, the practices he developed over the years, and the techniques mentioned in his book. Brad elaborates on practical methods to harvest rainwater efficiently in urban settings, including the creation of basins, curb cuts, and the use of rain gardens. He shares his experiences from global travel, particularly from Zimbabwe and Saudi Arabia, which influenced his work and techniques. Brad also highlights the profound community and ecological benefits of rainwater harvesting, such as creating food forests, improving local climates, and revitalizing neighborhoods. The episode underscores the importance of making the most out of minimal rainfall, even in desert areas, and offers practical advice for homeowners and communities. Brad Lancaster is the author of Rainwater Harvesti

Barnyard Gothic, Hilde's Goat Adventures.In This Podcast: Greg speaks with Hilde Festerling, a storyteller and small holder goat farmer, about her unique podcast, the Goat American Novel. The podcast is a Barnyard Gothic series inspired by Hilde's experiences with her goat herd and farming community. Hilde shares a compelling story about a challenging kidding event that led her to create the podcast. The conversation delves into the artistic and familial collaboration behind the podcast, the importance of storytelling, and the fascinating dynamics of goats. Hilde also discusses how her work aims to reconnect urban audiences with farming life and the potential for communal goat farming in urban settings.Our Guest:  Hilde Festerling is a storyteller and a small holder goat farmer. Her goat herd, and her farming community, are the inspiration for her current project, The Goat American Novel, a barnyard gothic podcast for families. In contrast to the superficial ways goats are often treated in popular media, Th

Building the Homegrown Collective.In This Podcast: Hayden Caraway shares his initiative, Homegrown Collective, a platform aimed at transforming the food system by connecting consumers with responsibly grown and locally sourced food. Hayden, who faced health issues due to processed foods, was inspired by food practices in places like Costa Rica and Italy. Through this nonprofit platform, local food producers can gain free online exposure and sell directly to consumers, making it easier for them despite limited marketing budgets. The platform is both a website and a mobile app, designed for user convenience and community support. The conversation covers the platform's development, its reception, upcoming plans, and Hayden's personal journey and motivations. Listeners are encouraged to quiet their minds, focus on their goals, and support local food systems.Our Guest:  Hayden Caraway is 31 years old and has been challenged with digestive and immune health issues. After much blood work and research, he realized i

Celebrating 50 Years of Seed Saving.In This Podcast: Greg interviews Mike Bollinger, the Executive Director of Seed Savers Exchange, discussing his journey and work there. Mike shares his path from running a certified organic vegetable farm, to being involved with Seed Savers Exchange in various capacities since 2003. They delve into the history and mission of the organization on its 50th anniversary, which started in 1975 by Diane and Kent Whaley. Seed Savers Exchange focuses on preserving heirloom and open-pollinated seeds by fostering a community of gardeners dedicated to saving and sharing seeds. Mike explains the various initiatives, including their Exchange platform, seed bank, catalog, online store, and educational programs. They also explore the significance of seed diversity for food security and adaptability. Mike highlights their efforts to engage urban gardeners and the broader community, and shares a touching story about the preservation of Glen Goodall's Italian Bean. They conclude with Mike's

A Garden Chat with Don TitmusThis month Greg from Urban Farm and Don Titmus from Bee Oasis discuss the principle of working with nature rather than against it. They cover various permaculture techniques, such as building soil organically, harvesting rainwater, using polyculture, and incorporating animals for land management. The conversation highlights the importance of seed saving, biological pest control, and the benefits of a permaculture design course. They also share personal experiences and insights on creating sustainable and resilient ecosystems.Our Guest: Don grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. From there he continued landscaping in his hometown until he moved to Arizona in 1981, where he worked in landscaping and then starting his own business in garden maintenance. In 2003 he attended a Permaculture Design Course, which was life-changing for Don. He knew right away that this was the path he’d been waiting for,

A Rosie On The House ReplayIn this reply episode of 'Rosie on the House', Romey Romero and Farmer Greg host special guest Cactus Kelly, a master gardener and foraging educator. We explore foraging native edibles in Arizona, highlighting various plants like Palo Verde beans, mesquite, and Ironwood. Cactus Kelly shares valuable insights on how to harvest, prepare, and consume these native plants, often found in urban environments. We also delve into the uses of weeds, cacti such as prickly pear and barrel cactus, and other native flora. We dive into foraging techniques, the nutritional benefits of these plants, and how they support local ecosystems. The segment aims to educate and encourage sustainable harvesting practices while introducing traditional uses and modern applications of native desert plants. Cactus Kelly is a master gardener, a foraging educator at the Desert Botanical Garden, and the owner of Cactus Kelly Urban Foraging Institute. Her specialty is low desert plants around Phoenix, Arizona, where

Join our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: In this discussion Greg and Bill navigate the evolution of seed ownership and its impact on biodiversity. They highlight how, historically, seeds were predominantly grown locally, fostering diversity. However, today, four major companies dominate the global seed market, resulting in a significant loss of agricultural diversity. This shift has made the food system vulnerable to diseases and climate change, which were traditionally mitigated by seed diversity. Efforts to preserve genetic diversity through seed banks are underfunded and face operational challenges, raising concerns about future accessibility. The conversation emphasizes the importance of local seed saving and sharing initiatives as a means to reclaim control over seeds. Resources like Seed Up Saturday and organizations such as goingtoseed.org are promoted as vital tools for increasing seed diversity within communities. The session concludes with encouragement for individuals to active

Exploring the importance of organic fertilizers.In This Podcast: Tony shares his background in the nursery business and the accidental discovery that led him to develop his organic fertilizer, Tony's Magic Mix. He discusses the ingredients and scientific principles behind the fertilizer, focusing on soil health and balanced plant nutrients. Tony recounts success stories, such as record avocado harvests and thriving gardens in harsh climates like Phoenix and emphasizes the importance of promoting a healthy soil biome with organic fertilizers. Tony also talks about his personal journey, including past business failures, the success of his current business, and the support from his family. Tony concludes with a recommendation for spending time outdoors and enjoying the magic of nature.Our Guest: Tony has been in the nursery industry starting in his father’s business at the age of three. He was destined to be a horticulturist.  He started working in a nursery as a teenager and studied marine biology and c

Getting the Most Seed Diversity to the Most PeopleReplay of Seed Up Saturday 2025Hosted by Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson, focusing on increasing seed diversity and local seed stewardship. Sponsored by GreatAmericanSeedUp.org and SeedUpInABox.com, the event encourages community-based seed saving efforts. Guest speakers include Julia Dakin of Going to Seed, Rebecca Newburn from Richmond Grows Seed Lending Library, and Bevin Cohen of Small House Farm. Topics covered include the importance of seed diversity, the role of community seed saving, seed libraries, and sustainable agricultural practices. The session also introduces 'Seed Up in a Box', an initiative to distribute bulk, inexpensive, open-pollinated seeds. The event concluded with a discussion on maintaining engagement in seed saving, and various practices to promote local seed diversity.Useful links from this eventBevin Cohen - https://www.SmallHouseFarm.comJulie Dakin - https://GoingToSeed.orgRebecca Newburn - https://www.SeedLibraryNetwork.org A

In This Podcast: Greg interviews Michael Olson, a returning guest and influential figure in the food system. Michael shares his background as a Montana farm boy, Vietnam veteran, and author of Metro Farm. Then they jump into Michael’s 'Three Laws of the Food Chain,' which include: 1) Agriculture is the foundation upon which we build all our sandcastles, 2) The farther we go from the source of our food, the less control we have over what’s in our food, and 3) Cheap food isn't cheap. They discuss the evolution of local food movements, the impact of farmer's markets, and the importance of understanding where our food comes from. Michael emphasizes the value of local, nutrient-rich foods and the historical precedent for sustainable, small-scale farming seen in Asian cultures. The episode concludes with a call to action for consumers to seek out food with its farmer’s face on it, underscoring the profound impact of food on human well-being.Our Guest: Michael Olson is a Montana farm boy and Vietnam veteran with a

A Garden Chat with Don TitmusJoin Farmer Greg Peterson and Don Titmus, a horticulturist and permaculturist as they reflect on their 20-year friendship and shared journey in permaculture. They outline the fundamental principles of permaculture. They introduce the concepts from permaculture of elements, zones and stacking functions, where each element in a design performs multiple roles, using chickens as a primary example. They look at how zones and sectors work in permaculture design, emphasizing the importance of understanding the external elements and how they impact the property. Greg and Don also mention the Permaculture Design Course (PDC) they offer, tailored for different climatic regions, and encourage in-person attendance for enriched learning. They conclude by encouraging contributions to support their educational efforts and thank viewers for participating.Our Guest: Don grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. Fro

Growing Self-Sufficiency Through Seeds - A Seed ChatOur monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: In this months Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman, explore how saving seeds fosters independence, self-sufficiency, and better food production. They delve into the conversation that by saving seeds, gardeners can create a diverse and resilient plant community adapted to their local conditions. The conversation includes personal anecdotes, such as Greg's successful basil seed saving, and highlights the benefits of community gardening and seed sharing. They underscore the importance of growing food locally to combat the decline in nutritional quality associated with industrial agriculture and long-distance food transport. The hosts also mention the Great American Seed Up initiative to encourage widespread seed saving and promote food security..Visit UrbanFarm.org/883-seed for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or ga

A Rosie On The House ReplayIn this episode of 'Rosie on the House,' hosted by Romey Romero, Farmer Greg is joined by Erin Erickson and her mother Elise Pitterle, who run a small urban farm in South Tempe called Tempe Garden Girls. Motivated by food scarcity during the COVID era, they expanded their gardening efforts into a full-fledged urban farm, growing various vegetables, flowers, and maintaining fruit trees and poultry. Greg & Romey chat about their journey, the challenges faced, and the learning process of adapting to Arizona's unique climate. They also highlight the importance of community, educational outreach, and providing season-appropriate plant starts to help others succeed in urban farming. The episode underscores the critical role of local farmers in creating a sustainable and self-sufficient food system.Erin and her husband, Todd raise their three daughters, maintain a thousand square foot garden, and care for various poultry. Erin grew up on a vineyard in Oregon, and loves passing on her

In This Podcast: Greg Peterson from Urban Farm Fruit Tree Program and Tom Spellman, a seasoned nursery expert with Dave Wilson Nursery, discuss the intricacies of managing fruit trees in a changing climate. They provide an educational overview of effective fruit tree planting and maintenance techniques. Key topics include the importance of proper planting mix, establishing adequate basins with woody mulch, painting trunks for heat protection, and using cover crops like cow peas and sweet potatoes to maintain soil health. They also emphasize supplemental irrigation during high heat periods, the significance of rootstocks, and managing wind stress with natural windbreaks. The session includes practical advice on insect management, the benefits of companion planting, and ensuring optimal nutrient supply tailored to tree growth stages. The wrap with announcing the launch of Tom's new YouTube channel, 'Growing with Tom Spellman,' and a motivational note on personalizing one's garden space.Sign up for our monthl

Little Lighthouse Farm's Big ImpactIn This Podcast: In this heartfelt interview, Rachel Opio shares her journey from a career in HR tech to becoming the founder of Little Lighthouse Farm, an urban farm in Phoenix. She discusses her background in data analytics, her mother's inspiring legacy as an educator and gardener, and how her mother's battle with cancer spurred her shift to farming. Rachel details the challenges of urban farming, the benefits of regenerative agriculture, and her commitment to providing nutrient-dense food to her community. She talks about the importance of accessibility, community engagement, and her future plans for expanding her farming efforts across Phoenix. Rachel also opens up about her recent struggles and successes with beekeeping and shares her love for educating children about gardening. Her story highlights the transformative power of connecting with the land and nurturing a sense of community..Our Guest: Rachel Opio is a regenerative urban farmer, educator, and advocate b

Exploring Nature's Herbal Bounty.In This Podcast: Greg welcomes returning guest Bevin Cohen, an award-winning author and owner of Small House Farm, to discuss Bevin's new book, 'Herbs in Every Season.' The conversation delves into Bevin's holistic approach to herbs, focusing on their various uses throughout the year—from medicinal to culinary applications. Bevin shares behind-the-scenes stories about writing the book, choosing which herbs to feature, and the fun yet intense experience of photographing the herbs and recipes included. The episode touches on specific herbs and their seasonal roles, such as parsley in spring and sunflower in autumn, as well as the versatile nature of herbs like mint and oregano. Bevin also recalls vivid personal anecdotes, including a touching story about canning tomatoes with his grandmother. The episode concludes with practical advice for listeners to get out and grow something, highlighting the accessibility and benefits of herbs.Our Guest:  Bevin Cohen is an award-winning a

Let's change how far our food travels.In This Podcast: Host Greg Peterson interviews Matthew Geldin, head farmer at Farmscape in Southern California, about creating sustainable neighborhood food systems. Farmscape is the largest urban farming company in California, specializing in food-focused landscaping for various scales including backyard gardens, commercial campuses, and multi-family communities. Matthew shares his journey from landscape architecture to urban farming, explaining the challenges and successes of integrating food production into urban spaces. He emphasizes the importance of community-supported farms and discusses their work on notable projects like Levi's Stadium. Then he reflects on overcoming challenges such as urban tree root intrusion, the evolution of community farming, and the significance of designing spaces that are both productive and beautiful.Our Guest:  Matthew Geldin has been the farmscape's head for farmer in Southern California since 2014, overseeing the weekly maintenance

A Garden Chat with Don TitmusJoin Farmer Greg Peterson and Don Titmus, a horticulturist and permaculturist dive into month 2 of their yearlong discussion of the principles of permaculture. They discuss foundational aspects of observation, protracted and thoughtful observation (PATO), and the importance of understanding local environments. They also highlight their 'Garden Chats' available at gardenchat.org and urbanfarmpodcast.com, where listeners can learn more about permaculture ethics and principles. Additionally, they emphasize the need for in-person courses to build a strong community and offer practical examples of challenges like managing pests, weather patterns, and optimizing plant growth. Finally, they encourage documenting observations and naming one's farm to cultivate a sense of ownership and community engagement.Our Guest: Don grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. From there he continued landscaping in his ho

A Rosie On The House ReplayIn this episode we explore the concept of wicking bed gardens, hosted by Romey Romero & Farmer Greg, our guest is Ray Jess, a Master Gardener and hard goods manager of the Urban Farm Fruit Tree Program Store. Ray explains his journey from traditional gardening, which he has practiced since childhood in Central California, to discovering wicking beds during his Master Gardener training. He details the construction and benefits of wicking beds, which water plants from the bottom up, saving 40-50% of water, reducing nutrient loss, and requiring less frequent watering. Ray also describes the materials needed for building a wicking bed, and the principles behind its operation, including capillary action, evaporation, and condensation. The episode also touches on the suitability of different plants for wicking beds, the importance of garden bed orientation, and the process of succession planting.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/876-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode!Need a litt