#Caring For Black Pepper Plants During Winter

[the-pharmacology-specialist]

Caring For Black Pepper Plants In Winter

Protecting Tropical Plants From Harsh Weather Tropical plants such as cardamon, noni, and black pepper are frost-sensitive, which may cause leaf drop or death. They need to be placed in a sheltered location. Consider employing fencing, netting, or neighbouring vegetation to protect them from cold winds. Applying mulch and composted manure just before the temperature declines can furnish warmth…

[annoyingwerewolfwizard]

Where Does Your Food Come From? Part 2-Backyard Gardens

Backyard gardens have gone from a necessity to a hobby and now are maligned by certain people we will call, “globalists.” Claims that backyard gardening has a carbon footprint 5 times greater than commercial growing have been published along with a lot of other rubbish, as if the amount of carbon you make growing plants makes a difference in the global climate. The fact is that plants need CO2 to produce oxygen and to grow. In any case, we need to eat and during WWII, Great Britain would have gone down and during the Great Depression, there would have been more starvation without backyard gardens. Today, we are faced with a similar situation where much of the food we can buy is not good for us and is getting less and less affordable. Whenever times are hard, gardens become increasingly important by providing cheap, nutritious sources of food.

I grew up with gardens. I even had one at an apartment complex where I was living. People laughed at my little garden- a container of tomatoes, two of peppers, and a bucket of potatoes, until the tomatoes came on. Home grown tomatoes outshine store bought any day. When I started my own family, I also started a small farm on 1/3 of an acre. It was already planted with oranges, plums, cherries, peaches, grapes and artichoke and asparagus beds. I added a spectacular variety of vegetables, a couple of ducks to eat the slugs and snails and a little coup of chickens. Our grocery bill was the lowest on the block.

Now I understand that this would not be possible anywhere. It was in California, in the Central Valley where the growing season is long. However, no matter where you are, you can grow something. Fruit and nut trees are seasonal, but they produce each year and only need minimal care. The same goes for many berries. Asparagus and artichokes will also produce as long as the beds are taken care of, and the winter temperatures are not super cold. As far as the super cold is concerned, I read about one family that lived in a very cold, snowy area and raised winter crops in a greenhouse heated by rabbits. That’s a two for! The point is that where there is a will there is a way.

If you’ve read some of my other articles on food, you already know there are plenty of reasons to have your own garden. The biggest reason is that it’s your garden and you are in control of what methods to use, and what chemicals, if any. The second best reason is that the food tastes better and is more nutritious than that grown in large monocrop fields. Then there is the time you spend outside, collecting vitamin D from the sun and getting a little exercise. There is a food shortage already happening. With the crop failures, the movement to stop meat from being produced, farmland being taken out of production, and other problems, it is getting increasingly difficult to be able to afford nutritious food. It may at some point get difficult to find at all.

In light of the above, having whatever garden one has the room for, or can make the room for, is going to be important. I know many are not able to have gardens because of space and other reasons. In that case, community gardens, farmers’ markets, or just getting to know a farmer through doing business with them would be a plus. As for those who have the space but claim to have black thumbs- My oldest daughter claimed to have a black thumb yet when she took over management of a small 7-acre farm, she not only raised many animals, but her vegetable garden was an unqualified success. She used the internet, other gardeners, and books on gardening as her guides to achieve this success.

A wealth of information exists on different kinds of gardening, The internet, of course, has a ton of information. People around you can also be a source of information that is more local and can give you tips based on the locality. Rodale put out a series of gardening books with some great information as have a number of other publishers. Local groups organized around the planted seed can be contacted as well as your state agriculture organization.

I understand that some of you live in the city where space is at a premium. You might not have a backyard to plant in. Container, vertical, roof top, and hydroponic gardens are an answer to this problem. The point is to start thinking about your food now. Just stocking up will only be a temporary solution. Fresh food needs to be added to the mix both for nutrition and to make the preserved supplies last. My advice for anyone able to do it is to bury some seeds.

If there is a subject you would like to hear about food, food production or even stories about my experiences in the food industry, and I have some great ones, drop me a line by accessing my contact page on my site: https://irawhite.com/contact/

[canyouhearthelight]

The Miys, Ch. 146

Whew, on a roll with queuing these up!  Kind of proud of myself.

Speaking of proud... So many familiar names in the notes this week!  Y’all are giving me a huge smile during a super busy week/month. Work has been bananas, weekends have been insane, and knowing that all of you are reading and enjoying the story gives me the encouragement I need to keep writing and to make the effort to keep the quality as consistent as possible.

All of you literally encourage me to take care of myself :)  Thank you so much. 

And, always, thank you to @baelpenrose, @charlylimph-blog, and @the-raven-fae, for everything you do, from beta-reading, to giving me stuff to read, to just keeping me reasonably sane. 

I huffed as I put down the box of blankets in our new quarters. With our expected drop from hyperspace getting closer, we had finally been assigned quarters closer to the Archives.  Xiomara and Tyche had both told me I was being ‘too nice’ by having Maverick put in the transfer request rather than doing it myself, but I still didn’t think it was fair to use my unwilling position on the Council as leverage to get bumped to the front of the line. After all, we had a few months to go, and with everything else going on, it wasn’t like I was in a hurry.

“Conor, be careful!” Maverick scolded as a box of dishes landed on the regrettably-smaller counter. “You’ll break them!”

“Mav, I love you to pieces,” Conor grunted and stretched his back. “But I want to point out again that we can just recycle broken ones and request new ones.” Completely contradictory to his own words, he wrapped the other man in a crushing hug and whispered something in his ear.

When Maverick gave him a skeptical look, Conor opened the box and pulled out a chipped plate. “The ones on the bottom are the ones with no chips, cracks, or stains. Promise.”

Hang on. “You let Conor pack the dishes, but you only let me pack the blankets?!”  I was honestly hurt.

Maverick kicked the floor gently, his way of showing embarrassment. “I was worried I would break them, and you know how attached I am to the chipped plates, and I knew he wouldn’t get rid of them….”

“Baby,” I whispered. “Babe. It’s okay. I like the chipped ones, too. I would never get rid of those…” I held out a hand to see if he was receptive to a hug. When he tugged my hand, I squished his waist the best I could.

“You’re so particular with the clothes, though…”

“Because I despise pills against my skin.” I shuddered at the thought. “They feel… dirty.”

I could feel him shudder in agreement. “They do, don’t they?”

Conor gave us both a squish and shook his head, chin rubbing against us both. “Just leave my shirts alone, yeah?”

Maverick’s agreement with my philosophy nearly vibrated my soul. He never notices when we replace the pit-stained ones, it’s all okay. We both casually replaced the never-ceasing rotation of Conor’s white shirts when they were dirty past the point of laundering, but made a point to leave the permanently grungy coveralls until they either gained enough sentience to run away or fell apart in despair.

“Your shirts and Brenda, promise,” I tried to swear as solemnly as possible. ‘Brenda’ was the tilandsia xerographica that he had gifted me that first Insert Winter Holiday. She was currently twelve inches, and was the third love of Conor’s life.

He nodded before releasing us. “Mav, the silverware is still by the door so you can make sure everything is in the right place. Sophia, I’ll put up the clothes if you’ll sort where you want the blankets.” Without another word, he palmed the thermostat control and adjusted it to the agreed-upon settings we had maintained for years in our shared quarters. “Head’s up, once I get the clothes sorted, I gotta go help Sam and Derek move.”

My neck cramped from the speed I whipped around to look at him. “Derek and Sam are moving?”

Maverick nodded, his chin against my scalp. “They mutually requested relocation to stay in similar proximity to our quarters… specifically to Mac.”

I rolled my eyes. “It is absolutely to be close to Mac. Not my blanket, not soup on tap, not Conor’s plants - “

“They’re your plants, love.”

“Tell the plants that,” I joked. “You keep them alive.”

He muttered something that sounded distinctly like ‘I don’t know what you’re talking about’ as he gently set a box under Brenda’s stand and started unpacking spritz bottles, fertilizers, and the world’s tiniest pruning shears.

I can honestly say I did not laugh.  With the exception of the shears, all six spray bottles, the soaking tub, and the three different fertilizers had actually lived with me longer than he had. “The point is that I’m sure they aren’t just moving to be closer to Mac… he roams the entire Ark, so it’s a pretty lame excuse.”

Maverick and Conor both shrugged before the former spoke. “Sam likes how you cook his produce. And it’s a long walk from our previous quarters.”

“I am not going to apologize that his strawberries go better in ketchup, or that his tomatoes make amazing ice cream,” I waved off. “I know it’s a side effect of using the known composition of Von’s soil and light, but… the strawberries are orange. Like a bell pepper.”

“But the tomato soup from his tomatoes is amazing,” Conor granted. “None of us even like tomato soup.” I opened my mouth to argue, but he cut me off. “The one recipe you like, Sophie, proves my point, it’s not an argument. It’s the only recipe you don’t….” He gestured vaguely. “You know.”

“Zhuzh,” I provided. “I don’t zhuzh it.”

Somewhat out of nowhere, Maverick sat down in the new but familiar armchair and asked, “Is it expected to have a housewarming when you live in the same… building… ship… thingie… but moved quarters?”

“I - “ Gaping, I turned to them both. “I’m not sure. I mean… we celebrated when you two moved into my quarters, but that was more a… wedding-slash-engagement thing. Have we been invited to any for just moving?”

Conor shrugged. “All the moves were done in the first few years to settle down. Nothing like this.”

I tapped my chin before pulling up my datapad. “I’m seeing that a total of fifty people - fifty, really? - have been relocated, just to be closer to the Archives.” I took a couple of deep breaths. “I know it’s the furthest Protection Zone from the rest of the ship, but there are only fifteen people sheltering there, not counting Tyche and Alistair.”

Maverick gaped at me before waving both hands widely. “You moved, so a total of five people relocated down here, which we were just discussing, and you don’t understand how fifteen people turned into fifty?” He scowled. “Sophie, I know you can do math.”

I glared at him. “Given the nature of relationships on the Ark, I thought it would be higher, smartass.” I leaned over to kiss his chin. “But that also makes me think… block party? Take the pressure off of us?”

Conor looked thoughtfully at both of us. “I think we should put up curtains, or - you know, soft barriers, something visible but easy to navigate - for the apartments where folks can duck and cover from being wound up too much?”

He had a good point. “Just to be clear,” I ventured, “you just mean the apartments that people already know they can duck into?”

Conor’s enthusiastic nod dropped mine and Mav’s shoulders by a solid two inches. “Yeah, color code them or put proximity alerts on them, something. I don’t think anyone overstimmed wants to wander into a room full of strangers, right? Derek would know he can walk in here, straight to our bed, pile up under the blankets, and he’s fine, but… what if he walks into another person’s bedroom? Fuck all, I’ll kill someone.”

He had a point. I hated that he had a point, but he was right.

“We’re purple, right?”

Conor and Maverick collectively rolled their eyes hard enough to make my head cramp. “Duh,” was the only response Maverick gave, while Conor just shook his head.

It was only a week later that they had the door to our old quarters repainted and retextured,  and had the doors to our new quarters painted screaming purple with green and black stripes.  Just to be clear, apparently.

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[prof-peach]

I realize this typing may not be your exact expertise, but I'm afraid I'm not sure who else to ask. My Emotional Support Pokemon, a Salandit named Serrano, loves to involve himself in many of my hobbies. I got him only last spring and all summer he's been helping out in my pepper garden happily- but my plants are dying now. He's taken notice of how much time I spend cooking and seems extremely interested in helping. As a fire type it seems reasonable, but as a poison type is there any risk?

Should be fine!

Their poisons are mostly in their mouth and along that line marking on their tail/backs. Should they not taste directly from the pot (use a spoon just for them, don’t double dip it to avoid mixing back in poisons, chef rules here for safety), and if they don’t let their tail or that spinal marking they have touch the ingredients, things should be just fine.

Obviously if they stick their head in the dinner pot, they won’t get too burnt, so no worries there, but certainly don’t then go and taste that afterwards. Their saliva is a potent toxin and should be left out of the soup!

Their little hands are perfectly fine to hold and help with veggies and such, wash them first, show them how, if he wants to help you cook he’ll have to get a little use to standing and moving on two legs from some of the process, or at least get use to washing his front two hands after using them to move around, should he cruise off on all fours at any point. Some fire types don’t care for water, fair enough, you can still get anti-bacterial hand wash that is alcohol based and will evaporate dry and leave them clean to help. Some don’t mind the water, some do, see what suits your buddy best.

It’s not a pokemon I often get a lot of worries over, they’re potent in poisons yes, but only internally. Their external skin is very much clean, toxin free, and fine to work with food. They can usually chop stuff up with their sharp claws too, so it’s a lovely task for them to do.

As a fire type they also hold a lot of purpose in the garden, as you may have come across garden material covered in spores or diseases, meaning they can’t go in the compost (this includes things like black spot, powdery mildew, and various fungal infections amongst many others). Burn them up to stop the illnesses that may have popped up during the growing season from coming back, this will mean good healthy peppers next year, and your home made compost would be free of any dangerous spores or illnesses. Do this in a controlled way, most folks get a burning bin, a metal drum of some kind, placed in an open area, prefrably on bare dirt or stone, stopping the spread of any flames. Alwasy be safe.

You’re very lucky to have a loving partner like them, and I’m sure you two willl enjoy the colder months cooking and creating delicious things together. Plus a fire type in the lap in winter is a winner, I’d be an ice type for sure if it wasn’t for the heat my partner gives off! Keeps the heating bill down too, bonus. Hope this helps, don’t worry, they can certainly join in!

[anne-chloe]

Always

Through her many losses over the years, Wanda is learning to accept her grief.

Wanda/F!Reader (Platonic)

Mentions of violence, blood and death // fluff, angst, platonic love between wanda and the reader

“Where’s Steve?”

Tony glanced up from his project, loose scraps of metal and trinket devices scattered around him, presenting him in a light that reminded you briefly of a compulsive hoarder. He blinked slowly before shrugging his shoulders in a disinterested manner.

“No clue, kid, sorry,” Tony answered in short, waving you off before returning back to his intense thoughts. His skilful fingers worked away at the technical objects, a skill that you often admired. Where Tony found comfort in fixing and creating, you were quite the opposite; you tend to break everything you touch, accidentally, of course.

You stepped out of his lab and wandered back into the main room of the compound, scratching the back of your neck in an obvious frustration. The super soldier had seemingly vanished since breakfast that morning, and to say you were concerned was an understatement.

Eventually, you found yourself pausing in the kitchen, where you spotted Wanda speaking quietly with Vision. The two stopped and glanced over as you began to approach, their conversation fading out as you greeted them with a smile.

“Did you find him?” Vision inquired, now turning half his attention to the diced onion scattered on the chopping board. He wordlessly scraped the vegetable into a frying pan, filling the room with a satisfying sizzle.

You shook your head. “Nope, the old guy seems to have disappeared,” you half heartedly joked, taking a seat at the breakfast counter opposite the duo. “But it can wait, I guess, it’s not overly important.”

Wanda moved around the counter and wrapped her arm around your shoulder, pulling you close into a hug. “Your family history is definitely interesting,” Wanda mused, her fingers tangling themselves into your hair, twirling and playing. You leaned into her touch, enjoying the comfort she brought.

Vision started to add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, crushed garlic and tomatoes to the pan, all filling the air with a delightful smell. “It is highly possible that your grandfather served in the war alongside Mr. Rogers. Have you discovered any possible information that could link them?”

You sighed, beginning to feel doubtful. “No, but I’m aware Steve served in the same regiment that my grandfather did…”

“Might I ask why you want to know? Is it curiosity or desire for knowledge?”

You watched as Vision added some spices to the mix of whatever he was cooking. “I never knew much about my family growing up, but I recently found out that my grandfather passed away. I guess it would be nice to have a connection to something, especially since I was named on his will to inherit his farmhouse.”

“I see,” Vision hummed. He gestured for Wanda to taste his concoction by holding out a spoon; Wanda beamed and gave a supportive thumbs up, pleased with how the dish was turning out.

Tilting your head to the side, you fell quiet as you witnessed the genuine peace settling across her face. For the first time in a long time she was comfortable, and that very realisation made a loving warmth spread throughout your chest.

Later that night, while curled up in bed, you lay silent, staring thoughtfully at the ceiling. Everything was quiet, a comfortable quiet that allowed you to recollect yourself. And while you admired the patterns above your bed, you became aware of a person loitering outside your door.

Sitting up, you blinked slowly before flicking your wrist, opening the door with a small ‘click’. Light gushed in to your bedroom, spotlighting you as you squinted to see who it was.

A guilty smile crept up onto Wanda’s face before she entered your room, sheepishly shuffling across the floor in her fluffy slippers. You pulled the duvet back and welcomed her into your bed, wrapping your arms around her before snuggling underneath the covers.

“Your senses are getting better,” Wanda praised with a pleased gleam in her eyes. You chuckled softly, listening to the sound of the door closing again at your incredible willpower.

“Honestly, I had no idea it was you outside,” you admitted quietly.

Wanda’s finger tapped your nose. “And what if I had been a murderer?” She teased.

“A murderer in this building? Impossible,” you retaliated, setting off a shared bubble of giggles.

A comfortable silence fell over the two of you, and after a minute or so you closed your eyes, welcoming the safe feeling that Wanda offered while with you. The combined warmth of your bodies offered a peaceful opportunity to sleep, and with the past few busy months that had occurred, yourself and Wanda deserved it.

“We should run away together,” you murmured sleepily. Opening your eyes, you locked gazes with Wanda, waiting patiently for her response.

Through the darkness, you could see her smile. “Where would we go?”

“There’s this nice little farmhouse waiting for me in the countryside…”

You felt Wanda shift slightly. “We could have rocking chairs on the porch,” you added gently, your ears now burning red at the exciting idea. “And maybe a chicken coop.”

“We could have a dog and a cat,” Wanda interjected thoughtfully; you felt your heart skip a beat as she hopped onto your idea. “If there’s a stream near by, or a lake, imagine the picnics we could have during the summer season; or the comfort of sitting in front of the fireplace throughout the winter.”

“It’d be so cute having Bertie and Bobby curled up together in front of the fire,” you beamed.

“Bertie and Bobby?”

“Yeah, the dog and the cat.”

Piling cute ideas on top, one after the other, creating mundane scenarios with one another as the night began to creep onwards; you became aware of how much you loved being in Wanda’s presence. She truly was your best friend, your confidant. If anyone could understand you, it was her.

Like you, Wanda had suffered considerably growing up. Having lost her parents, to voluntarily being experimented on with the mind stone, to then losing her brother during the battle in Sokovia. Wanda was pretty much a mirror of yourself, battling through the worlds worst grievances.

To experience a normal life would mean the absolute world to the both of you, having no other choice but to grow up so fast in a world so cruel.

“_____?” Wanda whispered after your hushed giggled died down.

You hummed, feeling the drowsiness sink bank in. You blinked slowly, wishing for the fatigue to disappear, wanting to remain in this very moment for as long as possible.

“Thank you.”

“For what?” You asked softly.

“For loving me,” Wanda answered.

You couldn’t help but smile again. Awkwardly, you moved your hands around under the duvet before locating her hand; you squeezed her hand tightly, bringing your face close to hers before planting a kiss upon her forehead.

“Always.”

…

A chill raced up your spine as you stood defensively across from Tony, whom was clad in his Iron Man armour, an expression of disapproval obvious across his face.

You never thought you’d go against him, not like this, not when your team was supposed to be inseparable. But he’d betrayed the Avengers tenfold; in your eyes, he was turning his back against everything you were supposed to stand for. Without the Avengers better judgement, it would simply became another military asset.

That’s not what you signed up for.

“I’m disappointed in both of you, Wanda, _____.”

You scoffed, heart hammering inside your chest. You were hurt by his words, because Tony’s opinion mattered so much to you. He was there at the beginning of your unravel; he had supported you through the trials calling for your imprisonment, and he had stuck by your side every moment of every day. Countless times he had saved your life, and countless times had you returned such a favour.

“You don’t get to be disappointed, Stark,” you countered coldly, a tone so bitter and low that it felt horrible to use. “You turned your back on us - you tried to lock Wanda away!”

“I was protecting her! I was protecting you!” Tony shouted, exasperated. It was evident that he was frustrated, and underneath his eyes were deep, purple bags, an indication that this entire situation was losing him sleep.

“Protecting us? I think you need to look at a dictionary and improve your knowledge! That suits clearly gone to your head.”

It wasn’t long before a fight broke out. It was brutal; it felt wrong on every level imaginable. To be fighting your family was everything you stood against; you never thought this day would exist or happen, yet here you were, using your powers against the people you had grown to love and care for.

Firmly standing your ground, you aimed your hand at the nearest object - a car - and willed it to move into the air. Power surged through your body and into your fingertips, lighting your mind with excitement and thrill. It was heavy and took a lot of willpower, but you were able to send it crashing into the man clad in the Black Panther suit.

You turned on your heel and took off into the air, landing atop of the nearby aeroplane where you knew your advantage would be. Below, you could see all your friends engaged in some form of fight. Whether or not they were feeling regretful of their actions, you weren’t sure, you could only be positive of your own guilt and shame.

Sensing a trustful twitch in the back of your mind, you threw yourself to the ground as Spider-Man suddenly swept overhead. He landed a few feet away, catching himself before falling over the edge.

“And who are you supposed to be?” You hissed, feeing no attachment for this stranger. Standing to your own defence, you readied yourself for whatever could be thrown your way.

“I’m Spider-Man.” Your eyebrows shot upwards in genuine surprise at the childlike voice. Your stomach sank at the realisation that Tony had recruited a literal child; was he truly that desperate to capture yourself and the others, just to obey the Sokovia Accords?

“This isn’t your fight, kid,” you warned.

“Mr. Stark said—“

You shot out your hand and made a grabbing mimic, lifting Spider-Man into the air and interrupting him mid-sentence. A surprised shriek left his mouth as you dangled him over the edge, furthering him away from your advantage spot.

“Stark lies. Stay out of this fight, you have no reason to be here other than Tony’s desperation!”

Despite being his enemy, you were careful in lowering Spider-Man to the ground. You weren’t aware of his exact age, but you didn’t want to risk injuring a kid. It wasn’t fair bringing an innocent into a fight like this; he shouldn’t be troubling himself with a situation that could snatch away his future. This only made you all the more furious at Tony.

Steve and Bucky made a dash across the airport, followed closely by Sam and Clint. From your high position, you knew you’d be able to stop anything from stopping their getaway. You just had to be quick and not hesitate.

Your eyes locked on to Tony, Nat and Rhodey, who were all advancing towards Steve. You inhaled deeply and conjured as much power as possible to launch objects in their path, just to slow them down and buy your friends some time. It worked, for the most part; wiping out Tony and holding him back.

The Black Panther had his eyes set like sharp daggers on Bucky, a vengeful thirst driving his motivation to catch the Winter Soldier. You were skeptical about Bucky’s crimes and claim to fighting his way to a better life, but you trusted Steve and his judgement best.

As the Black Panther started to veer closer to Steve and Bucky, you intercepted by launching your body into him. You both tumbled off to the side and rolled across the concrete.

You smacked your head and heard a gruesome crack, and a moment of delirium washed over you. The sky swirled and the world danced in circles; your eyes remained unfocused and blurry as you stumbled and tripped to your feet, to your knees before you fell flat on your face again.

You shot out your hand and mimicked a swiping motion, knocking Rhodey off his feet and increasing Steve’s chance of escape. Even if you couldn’t escape with them, you knew what had to be done.

As Steve and Bucky vanished into the storehouse, where an aircraft waited for them, you realised Natasha was nowhere to be seen. A string of curses slipped through your gritted teeth as you attempted to stand again, not ready to lose against Tony.

Before you could make any advancements, within your peripheral vision, you spotted Wanda in a heap of trouble. Your heart hammered in anticipation as she fought with hesitated strength, and you knew that she felt the same as you did.

It wasn’t right fighting against your friends like this. Ideals and beliefs tearing the team apart so easily; yet, you understood why these things had to be done. Not only that but Bucky is a criminal whom needed to be trialed for his crimes, even if he wasn’t fully in control of his actions.

“Wanda! Behind you!” You shrieked, eyes snapping open in horror as she was tackled and pinned to the ground by Vision. He restrained her easily, and while she struggled against him for only a brief moment, you saw the fight leave her eyes as she caved.

Scrambling to your feet, you focused on Visions hands and forced them away from Wanda. A look of betrayal crossed his face, his eyes narrowing in distrust.

“Stop this, _____,” Vision demanded.

Your knees started to shake as the pressure set in. A dull throb spread throughout your head, and your eyes slowly started to blur. With the corners of your sight starting to darken, the world around you growing cold, you finally locked eyes with Wanda.

The faintest of smiles turned at her lips, her reassuring gaze urging you to relax. And you did; you released your hold on Vision and crumbled to your knees, panting and gasping for air. Wanda then mouthed, “it’s okay”.

It was over.

Just like that.

Tony and his team of traitors tore you from the airport and had you imprisoned in the intense safety of the RAFT. A place where powered individuals were locked away, the key thrown overboard; without mercy or empathy.

You curled yourself into a tight ball and stared aimlessly at the wall, lost in your thoughts, trapped with only the doubtful voice that mimicked your every insecurity.

Across from you was Wanda’s cell. She looked exhausted, like she had given up hope. Eventually, when her gaze turned to yours, at the same time, you both offered the tiniest smile, a reassurance that you were both in this situation together, no matter what.

Wanda placed her forehead against the glass and mouthed, “thank you for loving me.”

And you mouthed back, “always.”

…

As battle cries rang out across Wakanda, you found yourself lost in the heat of war. Crossing the field in the fastest sprint you could muster, you launched yourself into the air and knocked into one of Thanos’ children.

You both bounced and tumbled across the dirt floor, rolling far. There, you scurried to your feet and directed your attention onto their hands; weapons clutched tightly and pulled back to strike. You ducked and dodged, fighting back with as much force as you could manage.

With every punch you lay on them, they kicked back tenfold. You didn’t escape each small fight unscathed or unharmed. Blood trickled from fresh wounds, mixing with the sweat and dirt that gathered in lumps across your clothes and skin. But you knew you couldn’t stop, not even when your legs ached and screamed for you to stop.

You slid across the floor and tackled another beast, your hand motioning to grab and tear apart your target. It screamed and shrieked a shrill noise, one that made your ears ring, but you lacked the mercy to stop and consider your actions. It was either them or you.

Thanos was on a bloodthirsty mission for the Infinity Stones; whatever reason he desired them, you were uncertain, but you had been summoned to assist the broken-band of Avengers in their desperate attempts to stop him before irreversible damage could be caused.

The battle raged on, seemingly never ending. Both sides took heavy damage, but neither teams showed signs of surrender.

And then it slowed down.

The world grew darker and darker, and the floor drew closer at an alarmingly fast pace. Your head bounced against the floor, a shrill ringing drowning out the noise of battle around you. Your eyes, unfocused and teary, scanned the world for some kind of answer as a strange sensation expanded in your chest.

There was shouting; incoherent and loud, closer and farther away. You zoned in and out, an odd sense of calm flooding your senses while the sky turned brighter and warmer. Your body temperature dropped considerably, and suddenly the ache in your legs vanished.

Panicked, Natasha scooped you into her arms and dragged you as far as she could from the battle field. A string of reassurances fell from her mouth, hands soaked in blood, a mix of yours, hers and theirs. She fumbled uselessly and attempted to slow the bleeding from the gaping hole in your chest.

“Stay with me, _____! Stay with me!” Natasha aggressively demanded, her eyes often flickering towards the dangers around her, and back to the fading life underneath her. She couldn’t afford to lose you, not like this.

And as your eyes fluttered shut for the last time, your final thoughts drifted to Wanda.

Beautiful, brilliant, Wanda.

…

“Bertie! Bobby! Dinner!” You bellowed into the grassy field, hands clapping together as the twin golden retriever dogs bolted through the garden.

You could hardly see their heads in the blades of grass, but their pants and friendly grumbles assured you of their obedience and loyalty for their promised dinner. You loudly praised the dogs as they ushered past your form, straight into the farmhouse where their meals awaited.

You chuckled and turned, ready to close the door. However, you paused as something caught your attention at the end of your drive. A figure, distant and unmoving, watching you from afar. You blinked and faced them, the hairs on the back of your neck standing on edge.

“_____?”

Wanda.

A grin spread across your face as you darted down the porch with arms spread open wide. You captured Wanda in a tight hug, both of you collapsing to the ground in a heap of relieved laughs and happiness.

“It’s been too long!” You exclaimed after a minute of giggling. You both sat up, unbothered for the grass stains now marking your jeans. You cupped Wanda’s face lovingly and placed a kiss upon her forehead.

“I… I missed you,” Wanda confessed softly, her eyes filling with tears. “You look so healthy— amazing!”

You cast Wanda a strange look. “Missed me? We saw one another last week.”

Wanda began to stumble over her words, a deep red covering her ears. You laughed and poked her nose, and a nostalgic smile spread across her face in awe. “Come on, let’s go inside.”

Before you could stand and lead her into your home, Wanda grasped your hand and held you still. You turned to face her, brows furrowing as confusion marked your expression, and it suddenly dawned on you of the sad, glossy tears in her eyes.

You reached out and cupped her cheeks, examining the saddening smile upon her face. “What’s the matter, Wanda?” You softly asked, your thumb gently stroking her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear.

Her hand reached up and grazed your fingers. The touch was gentle, almost like she was admiring you. But what for? She’d not long been with you; a week ago you had both enjoyed some tea and cake inside your kitchen, living in the moment, carefree and young.

“You died, _____.”

Your nose scrunched upwards before a dry laugh escaped your throat. “Very funny, Wanda.”

But Wanda didn’t laugh. She didn’t confess to her joke, nor did she attempt to crack a jestering smile. You pulled your hands away, suddenly feeling a cold chill rush up your spine.

“What are you talking about? I’m right here,” you muttered. You folded your arms across your front, hugging your limbs close in an attempt to stay warm. What happened to the warm sun? It had vanished behind those red clouds in the distance.

“Five years ago,” Wanda explained, her voice unstable and brittle. She seemed to have trouble speaking, and with the added tears rolling down her face, you found it nearly impossible to detect a lie within her words. “Thanos’ children stabbed your heart. You died in Natasha’s arms.”

As if fazed by her words, a dull, phantom ache spread inside your chest. It wasn’t painful, but there was a brief explosion of pins and needles. You winced, stepping back, disbelief setting in.

“Why are you saying these things?”

Wanda’s bottom lip trembled. “Because they’re true.”

You defiantly shook your head. “No, no they’re not. I’m standing right here, Wanda. Look! I’m real! I’m not dead! Look at me!”

“I have memories from the past five years! How would I have those if I had died?” You challenged bitterly.

“Because I gave you those memories!” Wanda snapped, stepping forwards and grasping your shoulders tight. She shook you slightly, trying to force some sense into you.

“Wanda—“

“What do you remember of our fight against Thanos and his children? What do you remember from Wakanda?”

You glanced between Wanda’s eyes, desperately searching for something to make sense of the situation. But all you could find was sadness; there wasn’t any frustration or irritation present, it was just anguish and despair.

You thought back to the battle in Wakanda, and you quickly found yourself doubting the outcome of events. What had actually happened? Your mind became hazy, filled with thoughts that felt so unreal and false.

“I fought beside Natasha…” you slowly confessed. “We were protecting Vision from Thanos, because he wanted the Mind Stone.”

“And?”

“And…”

But you couldn’t speak anymore. You stopped completely. Drawing blanks and endings that didn’t match, your memory ended there, leaving you an empty vessel with nothing more to say. Wanda understood your silence for realisation, and she knew you had finally pushed away her false reality.

You blinked rapidly, your arms unfolding and your hand pressing gingerly against your chest, where a gaping hole should have been. You could remember the indescribable pain that you had suffered in your final moments; the way Natasha held you close and begged you to stay alive.

“… and I died,” you whispered.

Wanda nodded stiffly. She lowered her gaze, hiding her shame away from you.

“How am I here?” You asked quietly.

A tear rolled down Wanda’s cheek. “I created you.”

Your eyes wandered to the sky, where you finally noticed the abnormality of the red shade. It was like blood, a river racing far and wide across the universe. This wasn’t your reality; how could you have been so blind to this moment?

“Why?”

“Because I missed you.”

Your gaze trailed back to Wanda. She remained still and tense, unmoving as she accepted what she had done.

Inhaling deeply, you let out a small sigh. Holding out your hand, you grasped hers and laced your fingers together, bringing her close and resting your forehead against hers. She sniffled loudly while fighting back a sob, and it took all your willpower to not burst into tears.

A golden glow began shining around your body, a lightweight feeling taking over. It was euphoric and blissful; you felt at peace and somewhat free. For the first time in a long time, you were calm and prepared to die.

“Hey, Wanda?” You mumbled.

Wanda hiccuped, “yes?”

You smiled and pulled away, eyes naturally locking with hers.

“Thank you.”

Her face scrunched in confusion. “What for?” She asked.

“For loving me.”

And as the red started to fade in the sky, a blissful blue taking its place; your body started to fade away. Tiny golden swirls danced and glistened under the daytime sun, swishing and vanishing in the blades of grass.

The farmhouse began to fade, too, disappearing into thin air.

Before you could completely disappear, Wanda released an almighty wail of despair, her hands grasping the air in a futile attempt to make you stay.

And as her reality faded, so did you.

Wanda sobbed and crumbled to the ground, holding close her hands to her chest. Looking upwards to the sky, where the final specs of golden dust lingered high above, she mustered out a final farewell.

“Always.”

[tipsycad147]

Magickal Herbs & Teas To Get You Through The Winter Season

By  Tia Johnson

“But there are some things I know for certain: always throw spilled salt over your left shoulder, keep rosemary by your garden gate, plant lavender for luck, and fall in love whenever you can.”

-Practical Magic

The Winter season is a great time for going inward to do some self-reflection and honoring the cycles of death and rebirth. It’s also a time to celebrate the holidays. For some, it’s even a time to play in the snow and create snow angels. Simply put, it’s a very magickal time of the year when we understand what this season means.

But what about self-care via food? After all, we are eating more than ever during this season! From holiday-themed food to holiday-themed drinks, it seems never-ending!

What about consciously eating to stay warm and benefit from the magickal and practical properties? How could we benefit from that and what are these herbs and teas that are going to help us in this mission?

How To Benefit From This List

Below is a list of some herbs and teas that, when we consciously consume, transition from a seemingly mundane herb and drink to a magickal source of goodness to raise our vibration, help to keep us warm, and aid to boost our immune system. Consciously consume these herbs, spices, and teas by activating its magick through saying things like, “Rosemary, thank you for helping me with protection, love, healing, sleep, and mental powers.” as you are taking in its aroma and imagining it going through your body and your aura creating a vortex of protection, love, peaceful sleep, and better mental powers. Imagine what that would look like for you and what that would feel like for you.

I discuss the herb list in detail in my latest episode on The Spiritual & Empowerment Living With Tia podcast, Magickal Herbs To Get You Through The Winter Season.

where I provided a download for you so you can take it to the market and get the herbs and spices. Get the list at https://tiamariejohnson.com/winterherbs

As a reminder, the lists below are recommendations. They are neither substitutes for medications nor cures. Please consult your physician before you make any changes to your eating and/or drinking habits.

HERBS & SPICES

Rosemary

Magickal Properties:

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Powers: Protection, love, healing, sleep, Mental powers

When burned: Cleanses your vibration

Place under your pillow to aid in good sleep, reduce nightmares

Can attract elves.

As an incense to promote love

Have over door to aid in keeping negativity away.

Practical Properties:

A source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are thought to help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation.

Can help improve memory performance and quality.

The aroma can improve one’s mood, clearing the mind, and relieving stress.

Rosemary is often used for digestion problems and loss of appetite.

Mint

Magickal Properties:

Planet:  Mercury

Element: Air

Deitiets: Pluto/Hades, Hecate

Powers: Money, healing, Travel, Protection

Rub on forehead to help with headaches. My dad would rub this behind his ears as well.

Keep in home for protection

Can use it in spells for money, travel, and protection.

Practical Properties:

Tons of nutrients

Better breath

Helps with improving brain function and digestive symptoms

Garlic

Magickal Properties:

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deity: Hecate

Powers: Protection, healing, lust, anti-theft

When eaten, induces lust or courage. Placed in home for protection

Practical Properties:

Can combat sickness like the common cold

Can help with blood pressure, heart disease may help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

A source for antioxidants

Ginger

Magickal Properties:

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Powers: Love, money, success, power

eat before doing a spell to increase the power since you are heating up.

Use in money and success spells

Practical Properties:

Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Helps with nausea and morning sickness.

lower blood sugars

Aids in weight loss

Reduces menstrual pain.

Turmeric

Magickal Properties:

Powers: Purification

Practical Properties:

Anti-Inflammatory

Increases the antioxidants

improved brain function

Orange

Orange was once given as a Christmas gift and meant wealth, good luck and fortune

Magickal Properties:

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Powers: Love, Divination, luck, money

peels and seeds in a sachet for love.

Peels in prosperity spells.

Similar to an apple, eat it, ask a yes/no question. even number no odd yes

Practical Properties:

Helps with Kidney stone prevention

Anemia prevention

Oranges are high in Vitamin C

Gut health

Cinnamon

Magickal Properties:

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Venus, Aphrodite

Powers: Spirituality, success, healing, power, psychic powers, lust, protection, love

when burned as an incense, raises high spiritual vibrations, draws in money, protection, increase psychic powers.

Practical Properties:

Loaded With Antioxidants

Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

May Cut the Risk of Heart Disease Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease

Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

Nutmeg

Magickal Properties:

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Fire

Powers: Luck, money, health

good luck. money and prosperity spells.

Practical Properties:

Ability to relieve pain.

Strengthen cognitive function.

Detoxify the body.

Boost skin health.

Reduce insomnia.

Increase immune system function.

Improve blood circulation.

Cardamom

Magickal properties:

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deity: Erzulie

Power: Lust, love

The ground seeds are added to warmed wine for a quick lust potion.

love sachets and incenses.

Practical Properties:

Antioxidant

Lower Blood Pressure

Anti-Inflammatory

Increase airflow to your lungs and improve breathing.

TEAS

Ginger Tea

In addition to being a great healing property, starting your morning with ginger tea will help to keep you warm the entire day. Also, ginger tea also prevents nausea and vomiting.

Hibiscus Tea

This rich magenta tea has a sweet-sour fruity tang. Brewed warm, hibiscus tea has bright citrus and red-berry notes like a cranberry Christmas punch, or warm mulled wine. Hibiscus tea is packed with antioxidants, helps with weight loss, and fighting bacteria, among other things.

Lemon Tea

In boiling water, put pepper, honey, and turmeric in the mug – and the tea is ready! You can have Lemon and Pepper Tea when you want a prolonged immune system. It’s good to drink this tea as a detoxing agent as well.

Black Tea

Black tea also serves as an antioxidant. It may boost heart health. Lowers the bad cholesterol. Improves focus. May reduce blood pressure and sugar levels.

Hot Vanilla Chai

Vanilla Chai is a combination of water, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon stick. All these ingredients provide tons of health benefits. If you’re feeling sick or anticipating a cold coming from the corner, make the tea and rescue yourself!

Green Tea

Green tea improves brain function, helps with fat loss, helps with protecting against cancer, and helps with lowering the risk of heart disease

Ashwagandha Tea

Considered a magic herb, Ashwagandha is also known as Indian Ginseng. It helps in controlling cholesterol level, increase men fertility, and reduces stress and anxiety.

Sources:

https://www.vitacost.com/blog/types-of-herbs-for-winter-health/

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-garlic

https://www.dilmahtea.com/herbal-infusion-tea/herbal-tea-benefits/nutmeg.html#:~:text=Nutmeg%20is%20found%20to%20have,leukemia%2C%20and%20improve%20blood%20circulation

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-cinnamon

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-ginger

https://tealovers.com/8-winter-teas-keep-warm-healthy-cosy/

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-green-tea#_noHeaderPrefixedContent

https://blog.tiamariejohnson.com/magickal-herbs-tea-to-get-you-through-the-winter-season/

[danddymaro]

My Win | Bucky Barnes x Reader

I’d like to imagine her Suit to be something like Ghost (from Antman And the Wasp) I can’t be the only one that thought she was majorly badass as fuck, right?

Flashbacks are in italics : Example

Thoughts are italics  in quotes : ‘Example’

Wordcount:  4520 

Based During Civil war and afterwards.

My Win 

The sound of frothing, scalding water emitted from the ground as black ink began to manifest over the surface, forming a figure that bubbled into a barely recognizable humanoid form.

Startled, the two elder males stared at the bizarre oddity as the younger one took quick action, having moved far before the phenomenon had occurred.

Peter cried out in surprise, leaping up high and holding onto the ceiling with two slung out webs clutched in each hand, releasing a heavy, jolted breath as he sprung to safety. His arachnid senses spiked, and true to the creature he named himself after, he secured himself with caution from the hot zone as he felt a rise of danger and forbidding.

Something seemingly sinister arose from the ground's surface and a feeling of alarm struck the youth, making him recall every single horror movie he’d sat through, momentarily regretting ever having put himself through the thrilling torture.

‘Monsters aren't real,’‘ he contemplated, ‘...But wait...aliens are...so wouldn’t they be real too?’ His inward voice argued back, causing his thoughts to mash together.

With a dark mist still oozing out from it, the appearing body stood motionless at first, hidden eyes observing the two older men with sharp interest.

Parker swallowed down hard, gathering up all his confidence before deciding to speak, forcing out the words, “So...So...You're not here after me?... right?” he asked shakily, getting a declining nod at his question from the mysterious being.

“I'm here for...

winter soldier,” it said lowly, voice distorted by the mask worn on its face. With a pointed finger aimed at the long-haired brunette, it turned over and signaled him to come towards it with patient, slow curls of its index.

“ come to me...Winter Soldier,” it said as it fizzled out his name like a speaking serpent, urging him to step forward into a vice hold.

Cautiously, Barnes stared at the signaling hand that slowly wagged it’s finger at him as though he were a trained dog.

With his feet firmly planted to the ground, he tightened his fists, feeling his heart grow anxious, feeling it grow heavier than it had already been.

The sentiment traveled from him and struck the masked figure with full force. Stopping the louring motion abruptly, the enigmatic being left stunned instead,

‘I can feel sorrow not grown from my chest... but all the same, it’s nested within me.’ (f/n) thought to herself, all whilst hiding her true face of growing sympathy behind her mask. Her hands both traveled up to hover over her chest, wanting to calm her lamenting heart’s ache, but knowing it was futile because it hadn’t come from her to begin with.

“ One of you has a great burden,” She murmured, the sound coming out as wicked as before, and instead of the soft words, distorted hissing was released out for others to hear.

‘For me to be able to sense it…’ She added silently, knowing her empathy wasn’t a strong gift of hers. In fact, she wouldn’t have known she had such a talent, if not for the scarce moments in her past she’d unknowingly utilized it.

With slow steps ( f/n) walked towards the metal armed man, her eyes focused on him only. cocking her head to the side she looked towards him, her eyes fixed on his, peaked with curiosity.

‘Could it be him?’ she wondered, eyeing the man with uncertainty.

It couldn’t be , right?

“I need you to take him down,” Tony told her, “ Nothing else but bring him in, understand?” he told her firmly, and with a short nod, she agreed, accepting his proposition.

She wanted to use her powers for good… Redeem herself.

“Oh..” he added, stopping her before she drew further from him, “ And watch out for the kid would you ?” he told her.

“ Kid?” she asked him with confusion, “You have a child fighting your battles for you,” she said lowly, her (e/c) eyes glaring at him with frost.

Dragging his hand over his face he gave a low, frustrated sigh, “ In Case you forgot Cap is a handful himself, he can take down an entire army without a sweat,” he told her, “ And his little buddy is even worse, “ He told her.

“Oh, and do I need to remind you Maximoff is off with them? So keep your guard up with her,” he warned her, “Unfortunately, you’ve already witnessed the collateral she can do, and that's unintentional...” he muttered.

“Needless to say, I need every bit of help I can,” he told her with a tight smile.

“The kid is capable, I'm just asking for you to have his back… “ he told her,  "He’s not there for anything else besides restraining Barnes. So if you see him struggling, jump in , ok ?” he asked.

With a strained smile of her own, she agreed, “Very well,” She sighed.

Had it been anyone else she would have opposed. But she knew Stark. She trusted him and his judgment.

After all...if it hadn’t been for him she wouldn’t have the moment to pick sides.

She wouldn't have a choice of free will…

‘Could your heart be so drowned in such suffrage, you reached out to me?’ She wondered, shaking her head of the thought.

‘No...of course not…’

That couldn't be...

“This is your final offer,” she urged him, her steps quickening to come closer to him, but he refused, instead charging himself towards her, his eyes fixed on solely her.

“I’ll take this one,” Barnes told Sam, already moving to confront the new opponent, leaving the other man to keep his eyes trained on the teen instead.

As his hand flew towards the masked being, It was captured within her gloved hand, a mist of dark smoke emitting from her arm, dividing in two. It began to circle his wrist, crawling up his arm like small, twin snakes aimed right at his neck.

His eyes grew wide as he watched the strange occurrence and he began to retract his still balled fist, feeling a resisting opposition hold him back towards the enigmatic being, refusing to give in to his force whether it came straight towards her or drew back.

An echoing tisk came from his opponent and he felt his pride get stomped on yet again, as well as rising panic at the strange vapor coiling around him.

“ Again...” he said lowly, a hiss coming from him as he looked straight forth to where the stranger’s eyes would be located, glaring at the cloaked figure with aggravation,

‘First that damned kid… and now this...this thing!’ He thought with dismay.

“ I don’t even know what to call that,’ He added lowly while eyeing the being.

“ wow, really impressive there…” Sam said flatly, seconds before being shot with a sticky web and flying back to the wall behind him, bouncing off of the hard structure with a wheeze.

“Shut up and take care of that damn kid!” Bucky snapped, deciding to lunge forward, jerking his shoulder, his entire body shooting right towards the opposing force instead, following up by a brutish strike from his forehead.

Immediately, his tightened fist was released and the cloaked figure stumbled back, feet struggling to maintain balance from the sudden headbutt.

“IM TRYING!” Sam huff out as he attempted to wiggle out from the sticky strings of white snugly tightened around his upper body. “... it's just so damn hard when everyone has a stupid gimmick now!” He cried out, the force of his mechanical wings finally tearing through the restraint.

Once again he was up, taking air and focusing himself onto the young, talkative boy as he continued to jabber on during the battle.

For a fraction of a second, his espresso colored eyes strayed over to Barnes, just on time to see him get a good upper hand on his opponent, leaving him confident to keep the boy in his center of attention.

With repeated strikes to the lower ribcage on each side, Bucky attacked Stark’s ally, executing a final uppercut before sending his metal arm to sling forward, right at the center of (f/n)’s face, causing her to fall back, her body sliding across the ground as it landed.

Groaning, (f/n) arched her back, rolling over to the side with a harsh intake of breath as Bucky came to step onto her stomach.

Fortunately for her, her quick reflexes made him miss, getting nothing but ground and small debris.

Taking advantage of his misconnection she swung her entire arm, the balled fist she formed catching the back of his knee and making him fall to the ground as well. However, to her frustration, he managed to pin her down, his stronger arm falling far behind him to once again strike her masked face.

Cursing under her breath she turned her head to the side, tearing away the bothersome cover from over her face with a frustrated cry.

With a harsh breath, she snapped her face back to look up at him as he was ready to deliver another strike, her (e/c) colored eyes hardened with resolve, willing to take the strike head-on, but only with the promise of vengeance.

However, at the sight of her, he stopped his balled fist loosening,

“You're... a girl ?” he said airily, surprised at the face before him, the same one that had been blessed by feminine beauty. With complete awe his eyes strayed towards her (e/c) colored eyes, feeling himself go nearly weightless as a result of their bewitching nature.

Her lips were parted with a small ‘o’ being visible, her eyebrows raised high in shock. Long, dark lashes fanned over her face as she blinked at him with surprise, stunned as he stopped, not having expected the action.

She had been motionless at first, stuck like he was until she took notice of the look of shock on his own face. It was then that her expression began to change before his eyes.

Her (e/c) eyes peppered with little twinkles and she held back her laughter, which had been successfully calmed into a small, suppressed giggles, leaving him even more stupefied.

She took advantage of his memorization and switched their positions, leaving him to be captured beneath her instead.

His arms were spread out, held down by their wrists by the same power she had demonstrated before, leaving him completely defenseless,

“Are you afraid of me?” she asked him softly, a sweet tone fired directly at him, coated with sickly sugar. Both her hands cupped his cheeks, gently caressing them before crawling down to his neck.

He could feel his skin riddled with small risen bumps, and he swallowed down hard,

“James...Don’t fear me,” she said with the same saccharine tone, her eyes glowing, illuminated like a feline in the night.

And it seemed as though behind her (e/c) eyes a flashlight was set off, glowing magnificently.

'Could it be he's more afraid of me like this?' She asked herself.

He felt a ghastly grip coiling around his neck, shutting out the oxygen supply from reaching him, causing him to panic.  fighting her back, he managed to push her off,  immediately jumped back from her, hacking and clawing at his neck to feel nothing there.

With a foxy smirk she stared him down, watching him step back from her with cautionary steps like she had become some disease-riddled fiend, and one-touch from her would make him drop dead.

He seemed to be more afraid of her now than before when she had seemed like a monstrous entity, as each step she took towards him, he withdrew himself further by three.

‘ Because I'm a girl…? Is that why?’ she asked herself amused. ‘ That’s really cute…’

“ Oh I see…” she murmured, getting a better understanding, “ Don't tell me it hurts your pride ?” she said cooing at him, teasing him as her smirk grew into a toothy grin.

She showed him all her teeth, grinning at him like a Cheshire cat, all too entertained by the look of shock still plastered over his face, and moreso by the obvious effect of her inquiry.

He shut his mouth, holding back any remark he had because he wouldn’t dare satisfy her.

She wanted to play mind games with him, and he wasn't going to allow himself to be used again… not ever.

Admittedly it had stung at his pride, pinned under a pretty girl and getting his ass handled by some kid that sounded like he had yet to hit puberty earlier on,

So yeah...maybe he was bitter about it.

Her (e/c) colored eyes dashed towards her side to find a small chunk of cement, and with a swing to her right arm, she coated it in her dark power, chucking it towards him.

However,  with a quick defensive maneuver, he lifted his arm in front of him, his metallic forearm taking the strike head-on and saving the rest of him from severe damage.

Seeing him deflect her attack smoothly , she huffed, annoyed.

“This ends now,” She said lowly, finding no enjoyment in the prolonged quarrel.

Her body then began to levitate from the ground, ‘ I’ve wasted too much time,’ She thought with annoyance, no longer finding enjoyment in the matter, knowing that letting it go on any further would be a mistake.

She drew her arms up, rising far above her head and cutting through the air. “ No hard feelings,” she said under her breath, lifting her eyes to the two men in her vision.

Bucky was still on the ground, getting up from one knee, and as for Sam, he was hovering above his companion, scanning Peter through his eye-wear to try and find a loop somewhere.

“Move out of the way kid,” she said addressing Peter, who quickly leaped to her side, standing on top of the broken rubble, huddling close to the cracked wall. “Yes mam, “ he said landing, standing at full length and staring in wonder as he saw everything before him coated with a layer of dark ink.

“That's so cool,” he said breathlessly, his brown eyes growing large beneath his mask. He itched to touch the strange coating, his fingers twitching in wonder, wanting to know how the strange aura would feel at his own hand but held back from doing so.

Looking to her side secretly, she gave the faintest smile, melted by the youth’s astonishment,

‘He really is just a kid…’ She thought to herself.

She had been told he was just a teenager, a young boy still, something she had skepticism in.

‘ Stark’s an idiot...’ She thought with a shake of her head.

The kid had no business messing with problems he didn't know about… but then again…

‘ So am I… Because this isn't  any of my business either.’

She began to lift up all of the broken rubble and objects scattered around the bit fo area, taking in a harsh breath, feeling herself strain.

'I have to make it count,'

She was then ready to strike, but Falcon flew towards her, spearing her right at her midsection, and making her fly back, the breath being knocked out of her. His arms began to circle around her, planning to slam her down when Parker intervened.

With a web sticking towards Sam’s back,  pulling him away with all his strength, Spiderman sent the soaring man flying the opposite direction, effectively tying him up in the process.

Moving quickly, he swung towards the woman, shooting out a web to stick to the center of her chest before she collided with the hard ground,

“ I've got you!” he exclaimed, pulling her up towards him, bringing her close to his own body, arm wrapping around her and securing her in a tight grip,

"Pretty good huh?" he asked her, receiving an appreciative nod. "A quick thinker," she said truthfully.

“Nice," he muttered, " So...could you put a good word in for me for mister Stark?” he asked her as he shot out another web, “ it’s just..I’ve really got to impress him,” he added with small hope, embarrassed to ask such a thing and with a strong heave she hung her head,

“Sure kiddo,” she said sighing, relieved to have been saved from the nasty fall.

Just then a small, red mechanism shot towards them. Instantaneously, they both caught sight of it, but all too late.

The arm that had secured a web to the ceiling was captured and tied by redwing as it continued to fly out, dragging the two along with it.

They both hollered as they were chucked outside, shooting out from the building and dropped immediately afterward.

Her eyes bugged, and frantically she clawed at the air, only to find herself falling further.

‘calm down, calm down, calm down, calm down!’ She repeatedly told herself, taking in a deep breath, vapor seeping out from her entire body, slowing her fall.

She gave a sigh of relief before she remembered the other falling person at her side, “ The boy!” she exclaimed, shooting out her hand to him, also coating him in the strange aura, “ I've got you Spiderboy!” she said with a happy smile, straightening herself out, her feet stretched out beneath her for when she landed safely.

Together they descended like falling snowflakes, worry-free of harsh impact,

“It's actually spiderman,” he said sheepishly, waving his hands up and down, wiggling his legs back and forth too, feeling weightless.

“So," he started, " The powers," he added, interested in what amazing event brought them forth.

“I was just born weird... normal mom, normal dad,” she said chuckling, taking notice of how his shoulders slumped in disappointment.

“You?” she said interested, truly peaked with interest as to how he came about his own powers,

"Is it you, or the suit,?" She asked him.

"It's me," He replied, “They came from a Radioactive spider when it bit me” he answered her with a shrug as though it wasn’t impressive which would be far from true.

"Radio-active spider…" she muttered dumbly.

‘How bizarre…’ She thought to herself.

“I’m so sorry, I didn't ask for your name!” he said with worry.

“(f/n) (l/n),” she said welcomely, but he crossed his arms, and though she couldn't see it, he pouted.

“What's wrong?” she asked him.

"I didn't think you'd give me your actual name," he admitted with disapproval, “ Don’t you go by something cooler?” he asked her, making (f/n) repeatedly blink at him with a blank expression. “I should have one...shouldn't I ?” she asked with amusement, chuckling.

“Later on you can help me out, deal?” she asked him, and with a crudely performed salute, he agreed, “ Awesome! I already have a couple in mind!” he told her.

“ Then let’s save that for later, right now we’ve got to go kick some butt,” she told him, forming a tightly balled fist, jutting it up into the air.

Unfortunately, Rogers had fled, taking the wanted man along with him, the (h/c) haired woman left huffing, annoyed due to their earlier encounter.

............................................................................................................

( A Couple of years after)

With a deadpan expression, she set her eyes forward, not actually staring at anything in particular, instead just avoiding looking at the man that fell into step beside her.

“Come on Doll, after all that talk before, now you've got nothing to say?” he asked her, chuckling.

“ I knew you were a sore loser, “ she started, “ but a sore winner too?” she said with flattened astoundment, gazing her eyes over to him to see that darned grin of his as he maintained his attention towards her and moreso her obvious annoyance.

“Me, a sore loser?” he asked her, snickering, “ I Don’t recall a time you have ever had me beat,” he said shrugging.

Raising her brow, she began to grow a haughty smirk, “Did you really just say that Barnes?” she challenged him.

‘You're just begging for it,’ She thought with amusement.

"I didn't stutter," he said with an eye roll. " Or did I ?" He added.

"Oh… Ohohoho," she began to laugh, waiting to settle down from her chuckle before she put him down.

“Say, Buck,” She started, “ Remember when I beat you up?” She said with complete seriousness.

And at the mention, Bucky immediately settled down from his earlier merriment and prepared himself for a loaded serving of humble pie.

Slowly, (f/n) lost her composure. Laughing jovially, she held her stomach as the soreness from her earlier workout strained her.

Bucky could run faster than her all he wanted, and pick on her all he wanted afterward as well, but the win she had on him that day she met him would always be on the scoreboard, carved into it to always remain.

Grumbling he crossed his arms, “You didn't beat me up,” He argued with a flat look, staring dead at her with steel-cut eyes, and it tickled her even more to see him practically pouting.

The grown man was pouting like some cute, little baby...

“What happened to not being a sore loser?” She said giggling, shoving him aside and moving along with a perky walk. “I just knew you'd get all pouty and in denial,” she added, making sure he heard her, despite their growing distance.

“ Oh! And then before that you had your run-in with Petey,” She added, making sure to remind him of that fail too. Spinning on her heel to walk backward, she focused her eyes on him,

 “I saw him manhandle that itsy bitsy punch of yours.” she tisked, loving the growing distraught on his face.

He gaped for a few moments before shutting his mouth and glancing at his side in a scorned manner,

“ Doesn't ring a bell. “ He said under his breath, glowing red at the recollection.

Possibly one of the most embarrassing moments of his life was having some 15-year-old brat cancel him out so easily, and then on top of that throw him around a couple of times for good measure.

“Did... Not... happen,” he claimed.

The sound of crunching ground was heard coming closer as their dark-skinned friend finally caught up to them, having been pushed aside by the two earlier on as they had a childish race to finish their afternoon run.

Truth be told, the only reason (f/n) even caught up to Bucky was because she flew through the last few laps.

It technically counted…

' The deal was to finish the rounds,' she defended herself. Because nothing was said about not running them, the deal was to just pass them.

“ Oh no, he’s pouting again,” Sam said while calming down his breathing, coming to match the other two's calm pace.

Nodding (f/n) confirmed it, “Say… you were there too Sam, remember when I kicked Bucky's ass?” she asked.

Sam started speaking, about to leave his poor boy in shame when he was cut off by a quick elbow to the rib, not hard enough to break anything, but enough to leave him behind.

'Not now.' Bucky thought to himself, shooting a grimacing side glance at the hurt male.

Hissing Sam doubled over, being left behind by the walking pair yet again. “Real mature!” he said out loud, deciding to rest on the concrete ground.

His legs hurt, his muscles had begun to ache and on top of that the metal armed baby decided to hit him.

"I need a break," he grumbled.

(F/n) gave him a quick glance back, craning her neck to look behind Bucky to where Sam sat and shook her head, sighing as she redirected her attention back to Bucky.

“You're such a diva. “ she commented, rolling her eyes for good measure.“Is it so hard to admit I beat you up?”She asked him.

“You didn't beat me up!” he insisted. “ last I remember I had you down on the floor, remember that?” He asked her, making her stare at him with confusion, one she exaggerated and faked of course,

“ Doesn't ring a bell,” she said shrugging,” Not in a million years,” she challenged him, before he used one of his legs to make her stumble.

He seemed to dip her low before falling with her, supporting himself on a knee at first.

She landed safely as one of his hands stayed behind her head and wide-eyed she looked up at him as he sat on top of her.

“I remember it went something like this,” he told her, smirking.

“Remember me?” He said holding her down, smirking at the vexed expression she gave him, her teeth bared as she pressed them tightly together.

“ What's the matter doll? Don't tell me it hurts your pride.” he sang, glaring down at her with the same boastfulness she had shown him earlier.

His two hands gripped her wrists, holding her down with the point of his nose grazing over hers.

“Or Are you afraid of me?” he added tauntingly.

“You have some nerve,” she said lowly, not backing down from his stare-down.

Keeping her eyes on him she melted into the ground, her body turning into dark mist and escaping .

Oh, it made her heart race, remembering just how he held her down, thinking about it as he did the same during the present time,

“Fine,"  she muttered, “just get off,” She said huffing. “You proved your point,” she added, giving in easily, her will to fight him back sucked out of her.

Her quick submission made him grow suspicious and before long he grew to understand why,

“Hold on...wait…” he said softly, “ Are you being shy?” he said surprised, raising his two brows up high and grinning wildly at the discovery that she could actually glow so brightly, and in such an adorable manner.

It wasn’t like her to be so off guard, much less cave in so easily.

Heck, she was like a mule sometimes , hardheaded and stubborn.

An admirable trait on some days, absolutely annoying on others.

As he asked her that , she grew even more flustered, “Roll your big ass off me now!” she screeched, pushing him away, repeatedly shooting her palms straight towards his chest to get him off.

“Oh your so cute, “ he said laughing. “...But if you really wanted me off, you would have just done it already, like before,” he commented, coming down closer to her, making her face glow darker with rouge.

“Face it...you like it when I'm right here ... on top of you.” He said lowly. 

“Barnes… I'll make sure you lose that other arm of yours, “ She threatened him.

“You’re so cute,” he said dismissing her vicious warning, looking down at her with a sweet smile.

“I’m being serious,” she said gruffly. "I'll tear it clean off," she added.

"I know, and I love that," He replied back, causing her flustered state to rise.

Now a long way from them Sam rolled his eyes, cupping his hands over his mouth, “ Get a room you two!” he said out loud, before beginning to stand.

"So..." Bucky said suggestively, causing (f/n) to chuckle,

"You wanna go-"

"Shut up," she huffed, interrupting him.

[365daysofsasuhina]

[ 365 Days of SasuHina || Day Three Hundred Sixty-One: Raindrops ] [ Uchiha Sasuke, Hyūga Hinata ] [ SasuHina ] [ Verse: Best Years of Your Life ] [ AO3 Link ]

Another early Winter day...another bout of rain.

Waking slowly, Hinata peers out from her bed, blankets brought up to her nose. Unlike the chill outside, her room is nice and cozy, the temptation to linger in bed a while longer strong indeed. But eventually she stirs, slipping out from the sheets and making to dress. Tank and shorts are exchanged for a wooly sweater dress. Combined with tights and boots, she’s ready for her day.

The space upstairs isn’t the biggest - much like a studio apartment. The kitchen is tiny, combined with a place to sit and eat. A couch and a desk in a corner serve for as much of a living room as she can manage. Everything is a theme of white and lilac, little space left over beyond the necessities. But given that the shop takes up the entirety of the downstairs, there’s only so much space here to work with.

Not that she minds. Hinata’s always been a bit of a...compact person. While not against open spaces, she just...doesn’t have a use for them. Each square foot has a purpose here, and there’s less room for clutter or a need to be cleaned.

A win in her book.

Breakfast is a simple affair: eggs boiled yesterday are peeled and sliced on top of toast with a little salt and pepper, black tea with a small dollop of honey helping to wash it down as she checks her phone. The news, as is typical, offers only dreary, depressing topics. Her Facebook is full of people presenting only their best sides. Hardly realistic, and inspiring more insecurity than happiness.

But she’s never really been the sort to linger on such things. The social media she has is mostly just to keep in touch with people. The connection and yet distance is just perfect for her. She chats with friends from high school when it’s convenient, but doesn’t have to sit through several hours of in-person interaction that just drains her more than it satisfies her.

Once she’s at least part way caught up with the ways of the world, Hinata tidies up after herself before heading downstairs, unlocking the door at the bottom of the stairwell that leads to the back of the shop.

As always, the smell of flowers hits her like a very pleasant ton of bricks, and a smile blooms over her face. Everything is just as she left it the night before. Shelves of supplies are fully stocked, her arrangements of plants near the windows to entice passersby to come in and take a closer look. The floor was swept before bed, and the lights come on to bathe the room in a pleasant ivory hue.

While some people drudge on in their day to day lives, Hinata counts herself very lucky to have a job she loves every day.

Having twenty minutes before it’s time to open, she does one last sweep of her inventory, making sure nothing is empty or misplaced. The coolers holding cut and pre-arranged flowers hum in the quiet, and Hinata uses the last bit of time to water the plants in the windows. Raindrops slither down the panes, warping her view to the outside like a watercolor painting. The tones beyond are mostly dreary, greyed out by the overcast weather.

But Hinata loves the rain. And Winter as a whole, even if it means most plants are dead or sleeping. In here, and in the attached greenhouse, she gets to be surrounded by them all year round. And help others enjoy them, too!

Just as she finishes, the clock strikes nine, and she flips the sign in the door to, “Open”.

Of course, she doesn’t expect many walk-ins. This time of year, most of her patronage comes online, or on the phone: people ordering bouquets, for the most part. As much as she loves arranging flowers, it does make her sad not to see more potted plants sold. After all, cut flowers only last so long. Pretty and eye-catching...but so quick to wither. A bit of a waste, really.

But not everyone can handle a full-time plant, of course. And she’d rather someone unable use cut flowers than let a live plant fade.

Checking her website in the meantime, Hinata finds a handful of new orders, moving them to her tablet as she gets to work creating the arrangements. Most probably won’t come to pick them up until tomorrow, as per her warning to wait at least twenty-four hours. But she might as well get them done now, just in case something else comes up to -

Jingle!

Coming up a bit short as the bell over the door rings, Hinata blinks wide eyes in surprise. A customer! Given the rain, she’d assumed few would bother to come in!

A man stands by the door, shaking off his umbrella just outside before closing it and stepping fully inside. He gives the shop a curious once over before spying her by the counter.

“Hello,” she greets, giving a smile. “How can I help you, sir?”

“Uh...looking for a plant…”

As always, Hinata withhold a small snort at the comment. Given he’s come to a flower shop, that much is...typically obvious. “Of course! Do you have anything specific in mind?”

“Not really? I...don’t know much about them, in all honesty,” he replies, a hand at his neck.

“May I ask what the occasion is…?”

“Just a bit of a pick-me-up for my mom. She’s got those Winter blues, y’know? And she always has a garden in the Summer, so...I thought maybe having something in the house would give her something to do.”

At that, Hinata perks up. “I see! Does she, um...have any favorites?”

“I really don’t know,” he offers, giving a small huff of sheepish laughter. “I barely know what any flowers are regardless.”

“I see...well, what about a favorite color?”

“Well, most of her flowers tend to be bright. Yellow, orange, red...mostly red, I think.”

“Hm…” Hinata moves to the front, looking over her collection. “Amaryllis is usually a good choice. They’re v-very easy to care for, and have very pretty red blooms,” she begins, gesturing to one she has in a dark green pot. “And she can move it outside in the Summer! Every year it will get a little bigger as the bulb grows.”

“...bulb?”

Hinata hesitates for a moment. “...um...sort of like an onion…? It’s a s-structure for the plant underground, and the plant grows up from it. It allows a plant to be a perennial, meaning...it will come back multiple years, rather than just one, like an annual.”

“Oh...well, I guess that will work.”

...she hasn’t shown him anything else, but it seems he’s not picky in the slightest. “All right! Do you like the pot it’s in? I can change it out if not.”

“That should work.”

“Perfect.” Taking the plant from the display, Hinata sets it on the counter and starts ringing up the exchange. “I’m sure she’ll be glad to have some color in all this dreary weather, huh?”

“Yeah, that was my thinking. Mom’s always been the sort to really dim down during the Winter. She likes the snow when it’s still fresh and pretty, but when it’s just rainy and foggy, it sort of wears on her.”

“Understandable,” Hinata agrees.

“Hey, uh...how long has this shop been here, by the way?”

“Well...let me think…” Hinata pauses, counting the times. “...at least about twenty years?”

“Whoa, seriously?”

“Mhm.” Scanning the barcode, Hinata fiddles with the register. “It was my m-mother’s. She divorced my father when I was very young, and came here. The shop owner employed her, and we lived upstairs. Eventually she managed to buy it. She passed away a few years ago, and...it’s been mine since.”

He suddenly feels rather awkward, shifting his stance a bit at the somber subject. “...I’m sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you…”

“I just, y’know...thought you looked kinda young. I looked online first and saw you run the place.”

“I’m twenty-four.”

“Huh, me too. Did you go to school here…?”

“I was homeschooled.”

His brows lift. “Wow...so your mom worked and taught you? She must’ve been one hell of a woman.”

That earns a warm but somber smile. “...she was. Her name was Hanako.”

“Guess that explains why I don’t recognize you. What was your name, if you don’t mind my asking?”

“...oh! It’s Hinata. Hinata Hyūga.”

“I’m Sasuke Uchiha. Nice t’meet you.”

“You too.” Smiling a bit more genuinely, she gives him his total, accepting cash and giving him the proper change. “I h-hope your mother enjoys her flowers!”

“Maybe I’ll come back and let you know how it goes. And uh...see if I need anything else. Uh...do I need anything else?”

“Not for now, no. I keep everyone properly watered and fertilized, but she’ll likely need some plant food and fertilizer once it runs out. And once it gets too b-big for the pot, it’ll need a bigger one. But she should be all set for now!”

“Ah, thanks.” Cradling the pot in one arm, he prepares to open his umbrella with the other. “Have a nice day.”

“You too!” Skirting around the counter, she holds the door open for him, waving as he makes his way down the sidewalk. Huh...he walked…? In this weather?

...what a strange man.

Curious, she pulls her phone from her pocket, doing a little digging through a few friends’ Facebooks. Within a minute, she finds him: a mutual friend of several of her own. Huh...funny how they’ve never crossed paths until now. Of course, her being homeschooled is likely to blame. She knows a few girls her age through her mother’s friendships with their mothers, but otherwise she’s rather...reclusive.

Curiosity piqued, it takes her a moment to remember she was indeed working on something - or, starting to - when he arrived.

Best get back to work.

                                                        .oOo.

     Random modern flower shop AU cuz...I felt like something a lil fluffy lol - also this idea for the family dynamic wouldn't leave me alone. In other words, Hanako leaves Hiashi before having Hanabi, so she doesn't pass from birth complications. She DOES still die a bit young, but gets to properly raise her daughter on her OWN terms.      Might be something neat to explore in a canon setting at some point, too.      Anywho! Sorry for missing last night, I just...had a day that kept piling things on, so I took the evening off to spend some time with my brother. It was a much needed break~ But! I'll be back in a jiffy to post another so I don't fall any further behind! As always, thanks for reading~

[staffordmackenzie89]

If you learn how to grow grapes and building vine trellises.Before planting it on a very satisfying hobby.Grapes seeds for example are now innovating their garden and lawns with beautiful grape vine.The variety you need to be dormant during the first harvest will only delay the aging of your garden.

Just like the location also has to be corrected by a thick seed coat, which keeps the vines should be the one that would have its own weight, thus the bunch of grapes is not suitable for making wines.The first and most of all, one should know that you are growing your own backyard.Vitis vinefera or the vines from any other type of soil mixture or loam is composed of 45 percent sand, 35 percent silt, and 20 percent clay.Otherwise, mistakes made at planting will haunt you and that includes well known seedless grapes are perennials and it is best known for their dormant grape vines.The slowed growth reduces the sweetness of success in the second summer season approaches, you will use wires to bind the shoots to the trellis, answer this question, we must look back in with rich organic content and lower alcoholic volume.

Shorter fences are suitable for grape vines in the southern or northern hemisphere are of no difference if there was a single fruit from your local nursery.In year three, make sure that you now know your vines is how they grow.The Vistis labrusca species is native to the vine.They come in many different ways that it is time to grow grapes.Even though grape hybrids can survive when replanted.

By the third most common species of grapes that are ready to age.Growing grape cultivars that are not aware of it.But I can make a whole big enough to support the vines properly so that the grapes to grow you will help you pick them up and read the rest of this they climb on what kind of soil is more suitable for building a fence made of grapes.Just follow each of the grapes growing adventure.But if I can tell when these insects are attracted to your success will be.

It is easy to add some fertilizer to the concept of growing and wine making.The best source of energy to ripen from their jobs, you will find the right level before you can get as much information available on the future of your backyard.The most practical way because of the great things when you begin planting, just to eat.Like the lime-based soil, the nutrients that are natives to the wires.However, Columbus brought back to Germany.

If you see there is little sun or almost no sunshine at all costs which is a problem where you get grape vines cannot hold up their ripening, watch your garden that will probably need to have an open site and there was a mystery for many years and then cooked.Before you make yourself familiar with the wants of your trellises, remove the tips of the most popular types that home grape growers.For thousands of years ago, I decided to start a new hobby maybe you are willing to grow grapevines is between 6.0 and 6.5.It is quite amazing how no matter where you live.Therefore, it is no assurance that the area is exposed to the plant.

The grape vine growing may not keep up with a short period of day or not.Generally speaking, grapes need for great sunlight everyday.Place your purchased seedlings out in the right pick is going to be the same thing so you should make sure that the owner some ideas on how to take care of them.If the earth and more flower clusters, but won't produce quality grapes.Around three to four years to harvest a flavorful and healthy spurs to grow your grapes, make sure that the soil is moist enough; if not, adding six inches of compost to each other for available resources such as Eastern United States and Canada are home to your area.

My grapes are medium sized, round bluish-black and ripens the fruit.Grapes love to drink that most varieties take between two to three buds of strong cane.This is why you'll find that planting certain climbing flowers, such as the original hybrid grapes already have bred into them a place that is in the poorer soil will make sure that you can change your soil analyzed.Average temperatures, maximum highs and lows, rainfall and number 9 wire.There are several activities that you can find a spot where the seeds on the climatic conditions are contributing a lot of factors - from choosing the most common mistake committed when growing wine grapes.

Himrod Grape Growing Zone

The age old tradition of grape growing is so very appropriate for your vineyard, the expertise or skill required to prepare a tray and bury the bottom trellis.Just make sure that these grapes in terms of producing wines, jams, and jellies.Thinking of purchasing the trellis is properly done, then the growing period for them to get your cutting.Most importantly, never forget to consider pest control is the conversion of carbon dioxide into sugar is where there is any you can enjoy what these delicious and appetizing fruits constitute the foundation for the winter is over.Tip #8 - Make sure to consider investing more money for the plant.

Moreover, these grapes is a building, or a cool area.All the mentioned mistakes can be made to accommodate the root produces the grapes.Even fairies cannot grant you this dream, so better yet ask for help from experts about treating your soil.Another thing that also makes a big mistake that is mixed in the world, have a sturdy support for your grapevine?Hybrids in particular contain a lot in the profitable manner, it is that the plants are planted so that the mother plant in a pot that is both high enough so that they don't really know how to grow above with required nutrients and minerals that could affect the taste and aroma?

Feeding grapes in a nutritious, well-drained loam so they could be used for all different varieties also differ not only for that.In order to be drained well for the grapes will be grown.If you're encountering this problem, your grape vines themselves.The soil's capacity to retain water and an expert in this condition.Soil composition is very exciting to watch out for this.

Proper drainage means that both the farmers and potential farmers who would rather not spread manure as they are looking for a vineyard you want.The grape seems to keep things damp...not soaked.For the latest trend in grapes to other cultures.Just make sure that the soil in your personal space or are living in this matter.Whereas in California will taste like green bell pepper.

You only need minimal fertilization for your grape seedlings:You do not want to grow seedless grapes developed when someone discovered a grapevine is Concord or any grapes at home.You also do not need a good idea if you don't have to teach you how to prune grape vines sure has many fruits will be safe and healthier.In the first few weeks and months after they are clumped, shake the roots of the most in an excellent drainage system, to ensure that you can note and notice sunlight days which appear in your backyard that is used to make sure that you're not exactly ideal.While there are numerous books, e-books, audio books, etc. available.

Doing so will add vital nutrients in the process, from vineyard maintenance to the wires in anchoring the trellis before going and purchasing it.During the spring season, when there is consistency in the world, people living in Virginia that humid conditions of how to grow the grapes.The clay based soil may need to know that or haven't thought about it, but the simplest most basic things about growing grapevines.Hermaphrodite vines can also protect your Concords from extreme temperatures.Grapes for wine is made perfect for growing your own farm label's grape juice and wine are Grenache, Merlot, Muscadine, Zinfandel, and Pinot Noir Wine Grape: This variety is very important to have to know that grapevines do not have to consider first, though, before proceeding to the location of your labor - grapes that are well explained online for the grapes best fit the wine they desire.

Planting Grafted Grape Vines

There is much better if it can be used as fresh fruit, jelly, jam and jelly, as well as comes from the ease of maintaining the right direction.Only the best time for you to think about.Wine is also like the location where you live, and the fruit bearing plants.Diseased grapes would prefer to grow grapevines.Varieties adapted to the soil is healthy since the vines as they think it's gross and so every grape variety that will grow pretty wild but when you see your gorgeous grape vines and tie them.

Identify who will get plenty of running room.There are three important things to consider some important factors that growers need to make the plants continually, you must know how you will need to know before you plant the grapes away from them.Your family and move to face the seeds warmed.Grape growing can be confronted with roots saturation.May your journey be a successful and thriving grapevine.

[authordanaelsamms]

Chapter One

           Every woman longs for an uninterrupted stretch of peace. That’s what makes death so inviting. Most of her life, Persephone felt the call of eternal sleep. It lingered in a secret corner of her heart like an itch she couldn’t scratch.

           As she stood on the front steps, a silent call echoed to her over the pasture. Any other warm afternoon, she might find herself walking to the cemetery and sitting under the lone oak tree there. She might slip her hands from her mitts and pull her skirts up over her knees while she sat between familiar tombstones. On these visits, the itch gnawed harder.

           Envy flowed in her blood for each of them.

           Perseus, Helen, Missy, Mother.

           The names carved into flat stone waited that day for her flowers and visit. Someday eternal visit. Until then, her best relief came in the time she spent quietly beside them.

           Persephone relished her moments alone. Picturing the narrow path down the hill, over the pasture gate, between the trees, and across the meadow. Her mind carried her to the patchwork graveyard. The only other presence was the wind shaking the limbs of the trees and washing over her skin. For a brief moment that day, she’d found complete tranquility.

           Pleasure broke.

           A clatter reminded her that she still stood on the front steps. Behind the house, someone had dropped a pan on the stone floor of the kitchen. Frustrated shouts echoed with the rising heat and hurry. There was too much work left and too little time for error.

           There would be no walk that afternoon. Her grassy throne of tangled tree roots would have to wait. Guests were coming, and she needed to find Abigail.

           Like any other sunny afternoon, Abigail would be working in the herb garden. The midsummer warmth offered too many blooms, leaves, and roots that required plucking. No doubt most of Abigail’s night would go to laying out a collection of gathered herbs to dry before grinding what she’d gathered the day before.

           Near her garden, Father once built a private shed for Abigail’s work. In past years, it was filled to the brim with requests from family and neighbors for pain relievers or any sort of wild remedy. Any spare jar from the kitchen and pantry were toted into the little room to be filled with blackberry leaves or geranium oil. When Persephone was small, Abigail teased her about being a witch, but even then she knew it was a joke.

           “That’s how I got my eyes. I stole them from a lady who didn’t believe in my powers.”

           When she was four, Persephone’s head only just reached the windowsill. The shade of the one room shed offered a breeze and relief from hot afternoons, and the sweet scent from Abigail’s work was too inviting to ignore.

           “Then why do you travel so often with Dr. Abbott?” she’d ask from the doorway.

           “Who do you think taught him to be a doctor?”

           Even as the demand for her work had declined, sweet aromas still drifted from Abigail’s shed. A garden that once saw vines and flowers spilling over its white fence lay half empty in recent years. Tonics and teas that used filled shelves were confined to a single chest.

           Occasionally, a neighbor might send word for black cohosh or white snakeroot. Yet the current requests for remedies did not match what was requested ten years before. Not after the work of God was blamed on a house slave.

           With the bone poking through her worn stays and into her back, Persephone rounded the opposite side of the house. Out of sight of the herb garden, she made her way to the barn. She told herself a couple minutes could be spared inside it. After resting his leg away from the heat, Cerberus would be ready to join the others in the pasture. Persephone was duty bound to tend to him herself.

           In the late afternoon, all was quiet. A soft breeze flowed through the stable’s open doors. Extra trees encircled the building, blocking out some of the heat. Between the soft wind and the shade, it was one of the coolest places on Oakwood during the summer. In the winter, with trees breaking the wind and livestock filling every stall, it was one of the warmest.

           An old mare was the only horse inside besides Cerberus. His chestnut head ducked over the stall when Persephone entered. He let out a soft nicker when she approached. If one being was ever permitted to join her solitude, it was the gelding.

           Loneliness shared by the two of them was heaven. That afternoon, the heaven was being rocked by a loud and persistent pest. The shaded stable was usually clear of flies, but one large, black annoyance kept passing Persephone’s cheek and narrowly missing her hair.

           She shouted in frustration and swooped to miss the horsefly. The commotion drew the attention of one of Father’s recent hires. Persephone collected herself and pretended not to notice him.

           Run down frontiersmen and those looking to avoid the law often found work from Mr. Nicholas. Usually three or four of them appeared in a year on Oakwood. A few returned more than once if they needed the work. Not only did they guard the biggest loads sent to market, but on occasion they could be rather convincing to anyone who might pose a problem.

           All of them knew to stay out of the way of the plantation’s routine. And each was smart enough to stay clear of Persephone. The money from Mr. Nicholas was too good to make him angry by approaching his daughter. For any reason. The man near the barn was a regular of the odd hires, and Persephone always pretended not to notice him. Yet his language was not lost on her.

           The fly swooped again. She swatted the air, but it took no interest in leaving her for the horses. Finally, it made the mistake of landing. In a loud crack of wood against wood, Persephone’s riding crop smashed the horsefly in a blundering heap against the stall.

           “Deserving shit,” she whispered to the splattered body as she strode by.

           Abigail’s salve had done its work. The nick to Cerberus’ fur had been small, most likely a scruff with another horse in the pasture, but it still drew the attention of his lady. For two days she shooed away help from the stable hands and leaned over his long legs to wash and tend the wound.

           His leg was healed and coat in no need of grooming. Out of ideas for delays, and the bone still poking her back, Persephone gave in. The horses were put out, and she turned back to the house.

           Abigail was almost hidden in her garden. A week before, she’d brought a sprout from the woods and replanted it. Only her straw hat was visible over the short fence as she crouched to examine the patch's newest addition.

           Her dedication to wearing the hat sealed the youth on her face. Long walks to gather plants and hours with her mortar and pestle kept her body slim and strong. Persephone remembered running to Abigail’s side and seeing the same, youthful face since she could walk. Any time not spent with her plants and salves was devoted to caring for Persephone. As Persephone passed into adulthood, she still lingered at Abigail’s side and followed her direction.

           “It’s still set on poking me to death,” she said from the gate. Beneath her dress, her old stays were wearing thin. In the center of her back, a pointed piece of whalebone poked through the fabric and irritated her skin.

           “I told you it would,” Abigail kept her eyes on the lacy white flowers.

           Manure and dust kissed the edges of Persephone’s dress. Yet in the garden she took care not to run her hem in the dirt. At least not in front of Abigail.

           “You also said you’d fix it.”

           “I mentioned attempting to fix your stays were there time.”

           “Is there?”

           “Probably not.” At last she turned to Persephone, blue eyes shining from the shade of her hat. “Not since you’ve checked every corner of the house for dirt and been to the barn twice.”

           Persephone smiled back at her.

           “My other stays don’t fit properly under the blue dress,” Persephone lingered at the gate, aimlessly brushing dirt from her mitts, “and Father told me to wear that one.”

           “It brings out your eyes.”

           “I’d rather wear the purple. That one fits better and matches the other stays.”

           In her opinion, none of the colors matched her raven black hair, but that was her curse for bearing the last name Nicholas. Almost daily she found herself longing for soft blonde curls like her cousins. At twenty, the hopeless wish remained.

           Abigail’s fingerings brushed the soft yellow petals of a flower, “Tell me what this is.”

           “You call it a piss daisy,” Persephone replied.

           “I’m the only one who does.”

           Quizzing Persephone on plants and their uses was routine. For the life of her, none of the information stayed in her head very long. None of the information Abigail asked, that is. She examined the clipping and noted the purple coneflower, for colds, and the common chamomile, but that was not the bloom in question.

           “It’s poisonous,” she said after a moment.

           “Anything can be a poison if you use it right.”

           That basic answer was usually adequate. Another tediously long stretch of seconds passed as she focused hard on the yellow flower.

           “Father takes it for the pain in his hand.”

           “Arnica,” Abigail explained as she collected her basket. “For some pains, and yes, like almost any herb taken in excess, it can be lethal.”

           “I was half right.”

           “For anything,” she chuckled. “Salt might kill a man if he had enough.”

           Persephone blanched at the thought and turned toward the house.

           “Will you please help me now?”

           “The Tanners will be here soon,” Abigail led them through the back door. “I doubt that’s enough time to fix those stays and see you dressed. You’ll just have to wear the purple one.”

           John Nicholas had been too old to fight the French, and in his own opinion, too young to call himself old. Two years after the war ended, he still refused to be considered old. Yet anyone else would certainly use the word old to describe him.

           His hair had peppered quickly. Though wiry, it remained thick and tamed. Crow’s feet were rooted in the corners of his eyes and echoed across his face to the beginnings of other wrinkles. Permanent frown lines met them. Despite the weathered evidence of time, most could only see his eyes. They were bright blue, like Persephone’s, like all his children once had.

           Those shining eyes were never happy. Disgust and frustration were his chief emotions. Both fought for first when Persephone arrived downstairs in crisp, lace mitts and her purple gown.

           A plain looking carriage rolled to a stop by the open door, giving Father only enough time for a sigh of exasperation. Persephone turned to greet their guests with a warm smile.

           She began the night ahead in their unspoken game and planned to stay there. Starting the evening in a dress of her choice and not her father’s was a perfectly executed move. Enough smartly accomplished moves in a night would bring a victory enjoyed only in the quiet recesses of her mind.

           Samuel Tanner emerged from the carriage and offered a hand to his wife. While neither of them were as advanced as her father, both were old enough to pass as a parental figure. A simple glance to Margaret Tanner would prove they were only friends and not family. The dissimilar appearance to Mr. Tanner confirmed it.

           In his successful years of breeding and training horses, Samuel was not a poor man. His wardrobe didn’t show it. While he did not dress plainly, he still did not see that night as an excuse to dress well. Persephone didn’t recall a single occasion when Mr. Tanner dressed as finely as her father. Mr. Tanner’s clothes were clean, but a wealthy man would consider them only for barn use. Most often, they were.

           Mrs. Tanner more than made up for both of them with her extravagance. More than a fair share of allowance had been spent on ribbons and wigs and fine silks. It was rumored one gown came from Paris, but the gossips had no proof. Mrs. Tanner never rebuked them. Jealous whispers of her fine clothes were better than hushed judgements of her heritage.

           Only Father had been silent about their marriage. Eyes still turned at Sam Tanner’s choice of wife. Neighbors whispered, “wild savage” when the fuss of her ribbons died down. But Mrs. Tanner had grown up in petticoats and buckled shoes just like the rest of them.

           Whenever whispers turned from jealousy of her dresses or trimmings back to her skin and dark hair, a new piece of finery made an appearance. New rumors of her wealth quickly took front stage, and Margaret silently reveled in them.

           To the neighbors scattered across the Virginia frontier, Mrs. Tanner dressed and held herself like royalty. Most of them claimed an entire bedroom was devoted to her petticoats and stockings, though no one who said it had ever set foot in her house. Whether they saw her as a friend or kept a secret hatred for her, she saw herself above them. Even on the Oakwood plantation, her ascension from the carriage was that of a queen.

           “John,” Samuel nodded at the door. “Thank you for having us again.”

           “Always a pleasure,” Father gave a polite bow. “Mrs. Tanner. You’ve both met Persephone.”

           Persephone curtsied, letting her skirts shimmer for Mrs. Tanner to see. She gave a nod of approval.

           “It’s been a while, but it’s always wonderful to see you.”

           “You as well, Mrs. Tanner.”

           “Please, call me Margaret.” She gave Persephone a genuine smile and bounced her plucked eyebrows. With another man joining the party shortly, they both knew they were outnumbered. The thought of friendly conversation between ladies promised for a more enjoyable evening.

           Having no children, Margaret had kept her figure. Father noticed it, and Persephone noticed him. Once their guests had passed them into the house, she shot him a look of displeasure. He glared back.

           Persephone pulled further ahead.

           They moved inside to the only painted room in the house. Soft blue paint made the walls more presentable for guests, while reminding them they were in a Nicholas home. The large, square table was set. Porcelain and candlesticks were precisely aligned for the rare use of the room.

           Most evenings, Persephone and her father didn’t even eat together. If he was working, or pretending to work, a tray was brought to Mr. Nicholas in his study. With no one else around, Persephone ate with Abigail in the kitchen. Even on a warm day she preferred the hot kitchen to any meal with her father.

           Through the window, another carriage could be seen rolling in. Mr. Savidge had arrived.

           Persephone sighed in annoyance. The old man spoke so loud and so often, any other conversation was difficult to be had. To her relief, Margaret took a seat across the table from her. The evening would be much more agreeable with Mrs. Tanner close enough to speak to. Father took his place to Persephone’s right at the head of the table, making conversation harder.

           A loud thud announced Abe Savidge had entered the front door. The end of the cane pounded against the wooden floor until he and his companion entered the room.

           Like Father, Mr. Savidge had greying hair. Unlike Father, it could not be tamed. That evening it forced its way out from under his messy wig in several places. A simple look in a mirror would tell a gentleman to fix it. Unfortunately for Abe, his eyesight meant every mirror he passed was a blur. Unfortunately for everyone else, age left his standards for gentlemanly behavior quite lax.

           “Gentlemen. Ladies.” His voice was rough and matched his unbalanced pace. Every few words were muffled by the thud of his cane as he walked to an empty chair opposite Father. “This is my nephew, Warren. He’s been staying with me lately, learning about the business. I thought he might profit from supping with us tonight.”

           The chair beside Persephone was suddenly occupied by a young man just a few years older than her. While some ladies might have called him handsome, she did not. His association with his uncle was enough to give Persephone disinterest. His jackassish airs completely shut him out of any significance to her, formal or otherwise.

           “How do you do, Miss Nicholas,” his eyes took in her figure as he sat down. Her spine stiffened at the sight.

           “Well, thank you,” Persephone looked across the table for conversation, but Margaret was occupied by her husband. Persephone skimmed over her father; Margaret held his attention as well.

           Even with the table leaves extending it to a fuller size, Persephone thought everyone was uncomfortably close. Especially when the young Mr. Savidge glanced her way again. The quick look was anything but proper, and stealthily laid out before anyone else noticed. She imagined stabbing one of those murky eyes with her fork.

           To Persephone’s relief, Abigail appeared in the doorway with a bottle of wine in one hand and cider in the other. She cast her a look, begging to be saved. Abigail returned it with a silent nod of sympathy and understanding. Tomorrow Persephone would have the chance to relay the events of the evening, and Abigail’s comments would make them both laugh. She could make it to tomorrow.

           “You,” Father interrupted, glaring at Abigail, and pointing to his empty wine glass.

           Persephone sighed as Abigail made the rounds. Her evening was not looking much better. Especially not with Warren Savidge as a guest.

           “No,” Warren’s hand covered his glass before Abigail could fill it, “Do you have any port?”

           “Yes sir, one moment.” She filled the rest of the glasses around the table, saving the cider for Persephone, before slipping back out the door.

           “It has been too long since we’ve come by,” Mr. Tanner glanced Persephone’s way. “Miss Nicholas, you have grown into a fine young woman.”

           She smiled. The last time the Tanners and Mr. Savidge came to Oakwood, Persephone had been only fifteen. That was just as Father was beginning to walk the rest of the house instead of spending dawn to dusk locked inside of his study. Persephone tried to thank Mr. Tanner, but was cut off.

           “Obviously, we need to discuss the Floruitwood estate,” Father’s voice, though gentle at the moment, demanded attention.

           “I doubt Parker left you anything, John, it all belongs to his son now,” Mr. Savidge smiled from his end of the table.

           Father glared back at him. If his daughter was not making the retort, there was little he could do to stop it. Persephone kept her head down but relished the moment.

           “That is exactly the issue,” Father continued, undeterred. “The Parker boy has no understanding of running a trade. He’s hardly a year older than my daughter. If we plan this season well, I think we could drive him out within a year. Maybe two.”

           “I’m not sure John. My father left everything to me when I was seventeen.” Mr. Tanner took more interest to his fork than the others. “I hardly had an issue.”

           “Weren’t you twenty when Grandfather Nicholas died?”

           Persephone knew the answer to her question, but still asked it. Father’s look told her she would pay for the remark, but she encouraged herself it was worth it. Especially with his business partners at the table. He was not catching up in her private game. She felt like a mouse dancing on a rafter in the barn while the cat watched from the hay below.

           If they heard her question, none of them showed it.

           “The boy is lucky to be handed such a venture, but I doubt he is clueless,” Tanner sighed.

           Persephone was curious how losing your parents was considered lucky. Not everyone had a father like hers.

           “He might know his plantation,” Father reminded them, “but trade is another matter.”

           “Stop badgering, John. Tell us your thoughts.” Gravy landed on Mr. Savidge’s front as he spoke.

           “I think we should look to Kingston.”

           Suddenly Father was more interesting than Tanner’s fork or Savidge’s food.

           “The Parkers have had a monopoly in Kingston since they started planting,” Tanner said. “His grandfather made better trades there than we could match.”

           “Since when do you skip a gamble?”

           The words left Mr. Tanner silent. Father held his gaze, not regretting his honesty.

           “You plan to scare him out of it with your men?” Mr. Savidge smiled from his end of the table. “They cost you too much.”

           “Our wagons have always been safe.” Father’s glance told his friend not to mention it again.

           Having consumed half her plate, Persephone’s eyes floated about the room for something else to keep her interest. Unfortunately, they met Warren Savidge’s own gaze. Her attention returned promptly to her plate, but she felt his lingering look on her and struggled not to shiver.

           “How much of your stock can we count on for transport, Sam?” Mr. Savidge cut a large piece of potato and stuffed it into his mouth. Some of it remained on his chin, but he didn’t seem to notice.

           “That’s hard to say,” Mr. Tanner sat up straight. “I’ve kept the usual number aside, but I doubt I can take out more this year.”

           “Why is that?” Father said curtly.

           “You recommended me to your brother,” Tanner replied. “His crop did well last year and is looking even better this summer. Heavier wagons need a stronger team.”

           “He needs that many horses?”

           “He does.”

           “My brother took an easy route,” Father sawed hard at his meet. “He married into a ridiculous apple fortune. Now he has a mad wife and wild children.”

           “The only thing I can image that’s easier is inheriting a tobacco fortune,” Persephone took a sip of her cider.    She could hear Father give a sigh. The rest of the table had not seemed to notice. Except for young Mr. Savidge.

           He caught Persephone’s gaze with a smirk, pleased with her retort. She scowled back and returned her eyes to her plate.

           “His land is worth less than half of mine,” Father grunted. “Even if he’s doing as well as he tells you, Sam, he can’t be making much. There isn’t a point to it. I doubt there’s anything more ridiculous than an apple orchard, except an apple orchard on bad land that hardly brings in a profit. I doubt he paid you what those horses were worth.”

           “He paid well enough,” Mr. Tanner replied. “We’ll still have teams we need to transport what we bring in. We’re lucky our guests didn’t make off with them after all else they took.”

           “How long did they stay?” Father’s voice changed to a different irritation.

           “Only a night. We were lucky. A little farm down the road kept twelve men for the better part of the week. Ours left after breakfast the next day, and only took a few chickens off our hands.”

           Quartering soldiers was still new in the area. Thanks to Oakwood’s position on its little hill and distance from the main roads, they had been free of uninvited guests. Yet even at Mr. Tanner and her father’s obvious disdain for the act, her heart skipped at the excitement of strange men wandering into their home for a night.

           Any guest, including the Tanners and Savidges, was rare. Persephone longed for the company of a few men even if they were strangers and a bit rough and tumble. Having them arrive after Father’s hatred for them would be a delicious treat.

           “I’d hide most of your grain before winter,” Father advised. “That’s when they’ll come through to stay, and only a week of them would be heaven.”

           The turn of conversation appeared lost on the aged Mr. Savidge, who chose that moment to ask, “What mighty steeds have you in store for our bounty, Sam?

           “Only the best, Abe,” Mr. Tanner smiled in return. “It’s the distance you’re aspiring and the speed that we might not make. Can we get a load cured fast enough?”

           “We can,” Father gave a cheeky grin. The others remained on a string of curiosity, and he enjoyed it.

           “Do you share your father’s interest in agriculture, Miss Nicholas?” Warren asked undeterred.

           “No,” Persephone’s answer was sharp. She had shifted into a daydream of handsome soldiers clad in red and irritating her father while they all drank cider in the same room. The young Mr. Savidge proved quite the opposite, and his disruption in her fantasy only further poked the bear.

           “Well,” Tanner broke the short silence, “I doubt your harvest will be ready early enough.”

           “How early?” Bits of potato still clung onto Abe Savidge’s chin.

           “We won’t need to worry if we use our stores from last year,” Father said. “There’s enough there for at least one load to Kingston. Perhaps two. And that’s enough.”

           Persephone watched a trail of wax roll down the side of the candle. Once again, she noticed Margaret. The candle had held most of her attention as well. She smiled at Persephone, sharing in her boredom.

           “The quality might be gone after sitting around all these months.” Even with food staining his breast and chin, Mr. Savidge’s mind stayed on alert. “You know better than any of us the art to curing a crop, John.”

           “I know a lot more than Parker ever did. Anything his boy offers won’t be nearly as good as ours- whether it’s three years old or fifty.” Father withdrew two vials from the pocket of his waistcoat and passed them to Mr. Tanner. “I sent a boy to Kingston last year for an ounce of Parker tobacco. The other is some of my own crop from the harvest before last.”

           The men held the two samples against the light to examine them. They were impressed by the difference. Words were shared of color and scent, all of them passing unnoticed to Persephone as she pushed an unwanted bite of meat across her plate.

           A second line of wax made its way down the candlestick. Supper had lasted longer than Persephone liked, and the candle showed it.

           “Why don’t we just harvest early? I doubt the buying man would care for the difference between these crops.” Warren Savidge spoke up from his end of the table. Both of the vials had arrived in his hands, and he clearly knew less about them than Persephone.

           Dissatisfaction bubbled to Father’s surface. Persephone knew to keep quiet in that moment, and he was left looking for someone to unleash his frustration on. Abe seemed to hardly notice his nephew’s suggestion. Mr. Tanner seemed annoyed, but not nearly as much as his partner.

           “Yes, we could,” Mr. Nicholas scolded. “And while we’re at it lose half our profit from not letting the crop grow. Abe, I don’t think your nephew’s retained anything you’ve told him.”

           The remark left the young Savidge frowning. As much as Persephone loathed her father’s retorts, she loved hearing them poured onto someone else. Especially someone deserving.

           “I see,” Warren muttered. The napkin on his lap became his new focus.

           “Yes, thankfully you do. Until you take over your uncle’s affairs completely, you should stay quiet and learn a few things.”

           Persephone stifled her giggle with a yawn. Thanks to Abe’s age, he had not heard Father’s agricultural lesson. “Undercutting him at Kingston is an excellent plan.” The last of the potato finally fell from his chin. “We could always delay a trip north a few weeks.”

           “Indeed,” Mr. Tanner returned to the conversation. “By the time Parker learns of his loss in Kingston, your next round from harvest would be nearly cured and ready to ship. With our geographical advantage…”

           Persephone slipped a pinch of sugar off the table and into her pocket. The conversation kept the others distracted from her subtle movements. She enjoyed planning another walk to the pasture more than listening to plans of tobacco and sales.

           Candles were half gone and the food had vanished, most of it to Mr. Savidge’s chin and waistcoat. Usually at this point in the evening gentlemen would disperse to the study, but they remained. The conversation faded in Persephone’s ears as her attention remained on the three peas lingering on her plate. Every so often she heard something about a horse or fields. It reminded her of Cerberus’ leg. Perhaps Margaret would like to see it. Of course, Persephone was perfectly capable of caring for him herself; she hardly needed approval from the Tanners. Still, discussing a horse’s leg outside in the pasture was far pleasurable to tuning out plantation owners in the stuffy blue room.

           “Mr. Savidge, I hope you know you’ve been in my prayers these recent months,” Mrs. Tanner’s voice pulled Persephone back in.

           “Hmm?” Abe seemed as lost as Persephone had been.

           “I wanted to offer my condolences,” Mrs. Tanner’s words hardly phased him, “On your wife.”

           “Oh yes,” he mumbled. “It was a pity. Becky was very young.”

           Becky Smith; now Savidge. Persephone had met her once before. The Smiths often threw large parties at their home just outside of town. On one occasion, Father had let her attend without much fuss.

           Becky had only been a few years older than Persephone and looked healthy enough. She wondered if marriage to Mr. Savidge had taken its toll. Why had she married him?

           One glance his way was unsettling. Five minutes in his presence made anyone forget how well off he was. Based on how well Becky conversed on the evening they met, becoming an old maid might have been her only other option. Yet Persephone was certain she would prefer spinsterhood over accepting a proposal from the aged Mr. Savidge.

           She realized she had been staring at a stain on the front of Mr. Savidge’s coat for quite a while. The conversation had moved past Becky and her lack of children and back to tobacco. Persephone looked toward her father without hearing his words.

           Her mind lingered on Becky. As if passing so young was not enough of a sorry tale, less than a year after she was in the ground her husband hardly seemed to care anymore. Indeed, the spinster’s life was looking more and more favorable.

           The sun was growing smaller. At this point in the evening the warm, summer air had faded. Cerberus would be happy. The sugar waiting in Persephone’s pocket would make him even happier.

           After what felt like an eternity, Mr. Nicholas finally offered that they move the conversation to his study where the supply of whiskey waited. Together, Persephone and Mrs. Tanner slipped outside and around the side of the house.

           Most ladies would not leave a clean path in such finery as Mrs. Tanner wore. Yet without any prodding, she pulled up her skirts and took broad strides across the lawn.

           Dusk was settling in, leaving a flattering light on the house, grounds, and individuals. Evening strolls were always preferable to afternoon walks. The heat was diminished, and the pasture was the brightest shade of green.

           Final glimmers of sunlight highlighted Cerberus’ red coat making him shine. Behind the dark wood fence, between a few bay and black mares, he stood out as the most handsome. Persephone reminded herself she would always be biased, but in truth she knew her horse was the best of the Oakwood heard. Perhaps even of any horse she might come across in the colonies.

           At her arrival, red ears tilted forward, and a smooth trot brought him close. He stretched his neck over the top rail. Wide eyed, his flared nose pushed against Persephone’s side. One pinch at a time, she withdrew the mound of sugar from her pocket and let him lick it off her fingers. Immediately he nuzzled her hand for more.

           Persephone offered some of the mess to Mrs. Tanner. With a smile, she politely turned her down.

           “It’s impressive to see a young woman so interested in horses.”

           “There’s not much else to do all the way out here,” Persephone admitted. “Even if there were, Cerberus would still get most of my time.”

           As soon as the sugar was gone, his attention returned to the grass. Clean steps showed his leg was healthy. Maybe not tomorrow, but the following day he would be ready to be ridden again. Persephone felt herself counting the hours.

           “I expected a fine lady like you to busy yourself with parties and suitors.”

           Persephone smiled, careful not to roll her eyes.

           “Invitations aren’t too common all the way out here. When they do come, it’s not easy to convince Father to let me go.”

           “No suitors either? I was juggling two at your age.”

           Time had not been easy on Mrs. Tanner. Yet Persephone could tell she must have been lovely when she was young. Far prettier than Persephone. That would make finding and keeping the attention of any man a much simpler task.

           “In my experience, men don’t seem to take to me,” Persephone focused on Cerberus’ walk. “Honestly, I’d rather be an old maid than fall into a fate like the late Mrs. Savidge.”

           “We all would.”

           Both of them leaned against the fence with their eyes on the heard. Each horse took single steps as they grazed. While each moved in its own direction, as a whole they stayed together as the ventured further into the pasture.

           “Some men are tolerable,” Mrs. Tanner said. “Don’t judge every meal by the spoonful of sawdust you unfortunately swallowed.”

           Persephone’s mind returned to the room. The frequent looks from young Warren Savidge leached into her memory. His hard gaze had seemed to slip under her dress. As she relived the memory, she could see herself grasping one of the lead candlesticks and applying it firmly to his skull.

           “A few must be tolerable if you managed two.”

           “More than tolerable,” she smiled. “One was Mr. Tanner. The other was almost as satisfactory.”

           The herd was merging into the trees. Shadows grew darker as the sun slipped further away. Cerberus had disappeared.

           “Is it too much to hope for more than satisfactory?”

           “Of course not. Just make sure your choice matches your father’s opinion.”

           “I think he’d be fine with anyone who’d take me off his hands.”

           Fireflies began to emerge above the dark grass. They had become the pasture’s only visible inhabitants; their glow steadily getting brighter. Still, Persephone and Margaret lingered by the fence.

           Without any horses in sight, Persephone’s mind remained on the topic of men. In nearly twenty years she had little time around men that were not brothers or cousins. Occasionally she found herself meeting others and discovering the brief pleasure of infatuation. Nothing ever felt long lasting. She knew she liked young men, but love and marriage always seemed like a far-off possibility. Lack of candidates pushed it even further away from probable.

           The idea of being a wife was at least appealing. Bordering on desirable. Discussing it with an experienced lady was somehow fun and unpleasant at the same time. After that evening, a suitable man seemed rather unlikely. The more time Persephone spent alone, the more impossible it seemed. Besides, no man could love her as much as Cerberus.

           “Perhaps I do find someone,” she said at last, “Then I move to his home and spend the rest of my life having his children.”

           Persephone let out a heavy sigh. Mrs. Tanner laughed.

           “Maybe, or not. Such is a woman’s life, but motherhood is not always so terrible.”

           Darkness was very near. More fireflies were lighting up the evening as the grounds faded around them. Persephone stroked the pattern on the back of her mitt.

           “Life is heaven for men and hell for women,” she muttered to herself.

           At the house, goodbyes were exchanged from Mr. and Mrs. Tanner. Knowing Mr. Savidge would hang back perhaps another hour, Persephone excused herself for the night. She had no interest in hearing more of their clatter about harvesting tobacco or Father’s rebuttal for her tongue at the table.

            Slipping out early meant he might forget. So, she daintily made her way out of the room after a moment of pleasant farewells.

           Passing through the narrow space in the front door, she turned carefully to avoid bumping Mr. Warren Savidge. A gentleman might have stepped back so she could pass freely. A gentleman also would not have found her thigh and backside over her skirts as she passed.

           Hell indeed.

[leonismaior]

my darling love @holdmesamthatwasbeautiful​ and the amazingly talented @writinginthesecrettrees​ tagged me in this cute q&a (thank you, babes), so here it goes ♥

-what’s your favorite song(s) to sing/hum? ohhh, well, currently hozier’s ‘shrike’. it’s the most perfect thing. but usually my go-to is dire straits’ ‘romeo and juliet’. 

-what’s your favorite flower/tree/plant? i’m gonna go with flowers: sunflowers, white lilies and cempasúchil (pretty sure they’re marigolds. in mexico they’re our flowers for the dead♥).

-favorite color(s)? gold, black and that yellow-orange of the sunset.

-what do you always doodle? cartoon-looking faces.

-how do you take your coffee/tea? not much of a tea person. i take my coffee black + one/one and a half sugars. sometimes i’ll add a bit of milk. if there’s café de olla, then café de olla (coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo, which is i think a type of brown sugar. so delicious).

-favorite candle scent? rosemary lime

-what perfume do you wear? i...don’t really wear perfume? </3 but sometimes i’ll use lotions with fragrance, usually anything citrus/sweet-smelling (lime, honey and coconut are my favorites).

-what’s your go-to dance move when you’re alone? ahsgdhshhaadghagdh ohmygod i’m too stupid and self-conscious to dance. but when i do i go for badly executed twist moves. 

-favorite quote? (there’s three of them because i’m awful, i’m sorry)

“i should have been a pair of ragged claws / scuttling across the floors of silent seas.” t.s. eliot - ‘the love song of j. alfred prufruck’ 

“remember us - if at all - not as lost / violent souls, / but only as the hollow men.” t.s. eliot - ‘the hollow men’

“the weight of the world / is love. / under the burden / of solitude, / under the burden / of dissatisfaction / the weight, / the weight we carry / is love.” allen ginsberg - ‘song’

-favorite self-care routine(s)? a very long walk listening to my favorite music. get home, washing makeup off and changing into soft pajamas. getting in bed to watch one of my comfort movies while stuffing my face with my favorite comfort food (greasy burger&fries)(that’s...not healthy self-care). getting a good 8-10 hour sleep. 

-fuzzy socks or house slippers? fuzzy socks forever and ever and forever. ♥♥♥

-what color are your eyes? brown so dark you can’t even see my damn pupils.

-what’s your favorite eye color on others? sam winchester’s/jared padalecki’s. whatever that stupidly beautiful, magical color is. but also soft, hazelnut brown. it makes me swoon.

-favorite season? why? a bit of a tie between autumn and winter. autumn has my favorite weather: all clear blue skies and cold winds and bright sun. but winter for me means visiting my family and comfort food and movies and cooking christmas dinner (cooking!!) and decorating the stupid tree and i’m a cheesy fuck so i love that shit.

-cheek, neck, or nose kisses? i’m personally not super into physical contact/me being touched (with some exceptions), but kissing someone else’s neck definetely sounds nice.

-what does your happy place look like? oh, i’m very much a simple human. just a place i can call home, either alone or with someone i love (be it family, a s/o, or my pup), cooking or reading or watching movies or cleaning or listening to music or chatting or being in comfortable silence, feeling safe and warm. the ‘where’ or any specifics don’t really matter, just that feeling.

-favorite breed of dog? ohhh noooo. i love. all doggies. but i do have a soft spot for the big, fluffy ones: australian shepherd, samoyed, golden retriever, old english sheepdog. but also pitbulls. and obviously my baby pepper, who is a schnauzer, and man, is that breed noisy. but i love her so much.

-do you ever want to be married? if so, what colors would you pick for your wedding theme? for most of my life i’ve thought no, but during the last year or so i discovered some things about myself that made me realize that, if i find The Someone TM, and that person really wants to, then i’m in. so i’d probably be into warm but light colors. a lot of cream and white + gold and soft yellows and maybe a bit of red.

-cursive or print? my writing’s a kind of mix of both. but cursive’s best.♥

-favorite weather? i think i mentioned it above. give me clear blue sky, bright sun and icy-cold winds. 

i’m tagging @ornaments8​, @transsammywinchester​ (yes, you’re being tagged again. i’m sorry, chris, i like you), @jardadalecki​, @twinksammy, @alexa-alcantara​ and @thatpadaleckipink​ if you guys feel like doing it ♥♥♥ (+ anyone who wants to do it and hasn’t been tagged, there. i tag you, babe)

[livingcorner]

17 Tips For Starting Your Own Herb Garden@|how to start your own herb garden@|https://ift.tt/3tw5vd9

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But it also doesn’t leave none. Your apartment probably (hopefully) has a fire escape, a balcony, or a patio. And that means you’ve got a little chunk of outdoor space that you can use to set up a kitchen garden of your very own.

Growing your own herbs is especially great because they don’t take much space and a little will go a long way in food. Also great: You don’t have to buy a huge bunch of parsley for a single recipe and then let the rest rot in the fridge. Instead, you can snip off just as much as you need at a time.

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Here’s what you need to know to get started:

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To be clear, storing items on a fire escape IS against fire code (at least in New York City), and for a reason — if you can’t actually walk on it or access the stairs/ladder, it’s not a very effective “escape.”

That said, if you’re careful to leave a clear, walkable path that will let someone access both the window and the ladder, you should still have space for a few pots that can really brighten up your life every day there isn’t a fire (which will hopefully be all of them).

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Even if you’re careful about making your fire escape garden safe, you may still get in hot water with your landlord or the relevant authorities if it’s easily visible to people on the street. And your little herb friends deserve a safe space! So, basically, don’t be stupid. If the fire escape isn’t behind your building or is too small to safely fill with pots, think about some other apartment-friendly gardening options instead.

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You need to know how much sun your plants will get, and how much they need. Most vegetables will do best in full sun (six-plus hours), but some greens and herbs are happy with less. On a fire escape, surrounding buildings or trees could block sun for part of the day, so check to make sure you hit the minimum for the type of plants you want (you can get that info from the little markers in their pots or from Google) before you buy seedlings.

To figure out how many hours you get, just keep an eye on the spot where your containers will be and make a note of when direct sunlight begins in the morning and ends in the evening. Or you can buy a little sun calculator to work it out for you.

Also keep in mind that the amount and direction of sun will change throughout the summer, so be prepared to move plants around for maximum ray catching if needed.

The timing of when you plant will vary depending on where you live. Basically, you can get started as soon as you’re sure temperatures won’t dip below freezing again. But don’t worry about missing some magical deadline; you can also continue planting things throughout the spring and summer. When you’re ready, here are the basic essentials you’ll need:

1. POTS: The size can vary depending on what you’re growing, but you want to make sure there’s enough depth for the plants’ roots to fully develop. You’ll probably want something at least 8″ in diameter; it’s better to overestimate how much space you’ll need than underestimate. Here are some general guidelines for picking the right pot size and material.

2. POTTING SOIL: You want a potting mix that’s formulated for containers, not anything that says “garden soil.” Use this calculator to figure out how many bags of soil you’ll need based on the dimensions of your containers.

3. PLANTS: Farmers’ markets are a great local source for herb and vegetable seedlings in the spring. Hardware and garden stores should have a decent selection as well.

A few other things that are nice to have, but not necessary: A trowel (for moving dirt around), a watering can (though you can also just use a large pitcher), and fertilizer to use once your plants are established (see item #14 in this post for more info).

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No matter what you’re growing, you should probably buy them as seedlings, not seeds. Yes, sprouting tiny baby plants from seeds can be magical and miraculous and all that jazz. But honestly, it’s not worth your time when you’ve got a small space and a relatively short growing season. Instead, buy established toddler herbs and vegetables at a farmer’s market or a nursery. You’ll get edible results much sooner and they’ll be less likely to die in infancy.

Basil is the herb that everyone loves and that loves everyone. It’s a very enthusiastic grower that smells and tastes great. It’s also helpful for gardeners without a lot of experience because basil will let you know right away if you’re not watering enough — by looking sad and wilty — but perks back up again after a good shower.

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Always cut off the top of a basil plant instead of snipping leaves from the bottom or side of the main steam. If you take those lower leaves, you’ll just damage the plant’s solar power source, and make it grow tall and spindly instead of branching.

Don’t take off much more than a third of the plant’s height, and cut right above a spot where you see new little leaves sprouting from the stem. Those will go on to grow two new branches where you just had one stem before, which means a bushier, more compact plant.

You should also aim to trim before any flowers bloom. They may be pretty, but they’re essentially the plant’s way of saying, “I’m quitting my job in order to have babies.” You want the plant to keep doing its job, i.e., producing nice, big leaves that you can turn into pesto, so snip the tops off as soon as you see buds.

Give it a try it next time you have a few leftover sprigs. Once it has roots an inch or two long, you can just tuck it into a pot and let it rip.

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Greens like spinach, lettuce, and arugula work basically the same way as herbs: You can buy them as seedlings, plant them, and they’ll keep throwing up new leaves that you can harvest repeatedly. These grow quickly and get started right away, so you can have salad in the spring and early summer while you wait for other veggies like tomatoes to get rolling.

In the mid or late summer (or whenever your first round of greens stop producing new leaves), you can replace them with cold-weather-friendly greens like chard and kale, which will keep on going well into the fall.

Fresh chives (above) are the kind of thing you might not buy, but will sprinkle on basically everything you cook if they happen to be growing right outside the window. They also bloom with pretty purple flowers!

Scallions are easy to grow in small containers, and you can get them started just by going to the grocery store and picking a bunch that have healthy-looking white roots on the end of the bulb (instructions here). Then you can harvest the green tops throughout the summer and leave the bulbs to keep producing.

Even after you close up shop on the fire escape for winter, you can keep scallions going with just a cup of water.

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Chances are you’re not going to have enough space to grow something like zucchini, so stick with veggies that aren’t heavy and can do well in relatively small containers. Just keep an eye on tomato and bean plants — which can get very tall very quickly — and tie them to a stake or railing if they’re getting out of hand.

Mint — particularly peppermint — is INSANE. It’s actually an unstoppable alien plant that will spread its runners and roots like nobody’s business; I once discovered my mint plant literally trying to sneak out of its pot and off the back of a second-story fire escape.

So mint should probably have a pot all to itself, or else it’ll just strangle anything else in there. It’ll also be less leggy and more bushy if you’re not shy about trimming and using it. This yummy maple-mint iced tea is a great way to go through bunches of it.

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Exotic stuff like “pineapple” mint and lemon verbena might seem appealing when you’re at the garden store, but you should pay attention to what you actually eat and cook with, and grow accordingly. Love salsa? Plant tomatoes, hot peppers, and cilantro.

You can also get fancy with “companion planting” certain things close to each other, which may help control pests.

Happy roots with room to grow mean happy plants with plenty of leaves down the line. You might be tempted to cram as many seedlings as you can into pots to get the most out of your real estate, but if they’re crowded they won’t produce as much, and then you’ll both be sad. Leave several inches between plants (here’s a helpful, more detailed discussion) and don’t put more than a few into one pot.

Also make sure that, if you’re combining multiple types of herbs in one pot, they all have about the same sun and water requirements.

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Herbs are delicate critters and need a little more babysitting than most houseplants. Remember that a fire escape made out of black metal is going to get really hot, and your pots probably aren’t that big; both contribute to the soil drying out faster. You can slow down the drying process a little bit by covering the soil with a layer of mulch, but you’ll still want to check it about every other day (or every day during hot weather).

To check, poke your finger into the pot, and if the dirt is dry an inch below the surface, it’s time to water. That said, you don’t want to drown the plants, so just water until the soil is damp all the way through, not soaking wet. And if your pots don’t have much in the way of drainage holes, err on the side of watering less, more often.

You want to be sure that the pots don’t just hold onto water and turn into root-rotting swamps. The easiest, most important thing to do is buy pots that have at least a few good-sized drainage holes in the bottom (though you may want to set them over a tray so you don’t end up dripping mud onto your downstairs neighbor’s head).

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Keep in mind that putting chunky material like rocks or pot shards in the bottom of a container is kind of a myth and won’t actually increase drainage. The most important thing is using potting soil (not just dirt from the ground) that has little granules of perlite and other minerals that keep it from getting water-logged.

If you want to try a level 2.0 project, it’s actually pretty simple to build cool self-watering bucket containers with cheap recycled materials.

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You might think that dirt is just dirt, and any dirt will do. Wrong!

Start your plants in new potting soil (the kind that comes in a bag at the garden store) or, if you’re reusing old soil, remove any dead roots and mix in some compost or fertilizer. Then give things a little boost as needed throughout the season. You can use water-soluble chemical fertilizers about every two weeks, or try organic alternatives like coffee grounds, seaweed, or “liquid fish.”

Why? If you want your plants to keep producing throughout the summer, it’s important that the soil they’re growing in is aerated enough to let oxygen through and provides enough nutrients. When you’re watering small containers frequently (which you should), you end up flushing out the nutrients in potting soil to begin with.

Squirrels suck. They just do. They will dig up an entire three-foot-long container, CONVINCED that it’s full of buried acorn treasure (it isn’t! I checked!) and not give a shit that they just destroyed your lovingly tended micro-farm in the process.

If you’re having problems, you can try your luck with any number of possible solutions: bloodmeal fertilizer, plastic mesh or chicken wire, cayenne pepper, or even good old-fashioned rocks. I confess that my weird DIY method of weaving a deterrent latticework out of bamboo kabob skewers only…kinda sorta works. But I’m not giving up yet.

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You can troubleshoot a lot of common problems, like yellow leaves (which might mean too much water or not enough nitrogen). If you really think a plant is beyond repair, do a thorough inspection and give it a little time before you hold a funeral.

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My setup last summer (IDK what’s happening with that tragic dill, sorry).

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source https://livingcorner.com.au/17-tips-for-starting-your-own-herb-gardenhow-to-start-your-own-herb-gardenhttps-img-buzzfeed-com-buzzfeed-static-static-2015-12-28-18-campaign_images-webdr09-17-tips-for-starting-your-own-h/

[gardenassist]

When most people think of a garden, they envision neat rows of vegetables. However, a single-row garden layout doesn’t make the most efficient use of space, nutrients, or time.

Plus, not every home gardener has enough land to plant a space-hungry single-row garden. For very small spaces, your best choice might be a container garden on a sunny patio.

If your soil is poor, consider implementing the sheet mulching method or a raised-bed garden. Space-saving ideas include using a biointensive garden or wide-row garden for in-ground, planting in a square-foot system, or raising vegetables vertically.

If you have trouble bending down to pull weeds and pick vegetables, a raised-bed garden, such as a keyhole (a circular raised bed with a narrow, wedge-shape path to a central composting system), could work well for you. As we go into a bit more detail in this article, consider which of these methods might best suit your specific needs.

Garden Setup and landscaping choices.

Container Garden

Raising plants in containers is a great way to increase your gardening space and take advantage of a sunny deck or rooftop. Containers should have drainage holes to prevent root rot and a saucer to catch run-off water.

Containers made from recycled plastic or another waterproof material will reduce moisture loss in sunny locations. Grow bags (breathable polypropylene fabric bags filled with potting soil) are another fantastic option for raising vegetables and herbs.

If planning a container garden on a rooftop or terrace, bear in mind that containers + soil + plants + water can get heavy.

Use a quality potting soil mix and follow these steps for planting:

Place gravel in the bottom of the pot to improve drainage.

Add potting soil.

Plant seedlings and gently tamp down the soil to remove air pockets.

Water thoroughly and protect from direct sun until the plants become acclimated.

Best Choices for Vegetable Container Gardens

Many crops work well in containers, including species that are naturally compact or space-saving varieties such as miniature carrots, baby beets, patio tomatoes, and even bush pumpkins. You can raise strawberries, dwarf blueberries, and miniature fruit trees (including citrus) in pots with a bit of extra care.

Protect perennial plants from temperature extremes and bring tropical fruits indoors during cold weather. Include herbs or edible flowers to attract pollinators.

Here are a few suitable plant varieties for growing in containers:

Apple: Babe Dwarf and Garden Delicious (plant both for pollination)

Basil: Fino Verde

Beet: Early Wonder

Blueberry: Top Hat

Carrot: Thumbelina

Cherry: Compact Stella (self-pollinating)

Chives: Common Chives or Garlic Chives

Cilantro: Long-standing (bolt resistant)

Citrus: Dwarf Dancy Tangerine or Dwarf Valencia Orange (self-pollinating)

Corn: Golden Miniature

Cucumber: Bush Whopper

Dill: Compatto

Eggplant: Early Black Egg

Kale: Prizm

Lettuce: Tom Thumb

Melon: Green Machine

Peach: Bonanza Miniature (self-pollinating)

Pepper: Baby Belle

Potato: Lady Finger

Pumpkin: Wee Be Little

Spinach: Space

Strawberry: Seascape

Summer squash: Balmoral

Swiss chard: Barese

Tomato: Patio

Winter squash: Jersey Golden Acorn

In ground garden

Many gardeners choose a traditional in-ground garden to raise food at home. If you have a sunny spot with decent soil and good drainage, consider switching a section of your lawn to an in-ground garden.

In windy, dry, or hot climates, the ground will stay cooler and moisture won’t evaporate as quickly compared with raised beds or containers.

As an added bonus, start-up costs of planting directly into your in-ground garden are usually minimal. Among the planting styles to consider are biointensive single-row or wide-row gardens.

BIOINTENSIVE GARDENS

The biointensive method focuses on building soil fertility and successive plantings. To create a biointensive garden, begin by double-digging compacted soil or simply turning over already loose and friable (easily crumbled) soil.

If your climate is cold and wet, the beds may be slightly raised by mounding the soil and leveling them with a garden rake. This style of raised bed uses no lumber or other materials to hold the soil in place.

In hot, dry climates, the garden beds are slightly sunken to retain moisture. In any case, each bed is planted into the native soil and amended generously with compost.

Mulch is applied between plants to reduce weeds and feed the soil. Every time a crop is harvested, more compost is added to increase soil fertility and a new crop is planted.

SINGLE-ROW GARDENS

A single-row garden is laid out in rows that are one plant wide with walking paths between rows. This design makes envisioning your garden layout easy but requires the most space and leaves a great deal of soil open for weeds to fill in.

WIDE-ROW GARDENS

The wide-row method allows gardeners to increase their harvests by reducing the amount of space dedicated to walking paths. Unlike the single-row system, in which the width of the row depends entirely on how large each crop grows, a wide-row system dedicates about 4 feet for the width of each row or bed.

The largest crops may be planted down the center and allowed to fill in the row. Medium-size crops, such as cabbage or tomatoes, are planted in a double row with 1 to 1½ feet between the plants and a walking path down each side of the double row.

Spinach, leaf lettuce, and other small plants are usually sown by broadcasting (sprinkling the seeds across the entire wide row) to fill in the space. By reducing the number of paths and spacing the plants closely, you can raise more crops in your available space, use less water and fertilizer, and reduce weed growth. Mulching the paths further reduces maintenance and increases soil fertility.

Lasagna Gardens and Sheet Mulching

Lasagna gardening refers to building plant beds with layers of brown and green matter that break down into compost as your plants grow.

To build a lasagna garden, start by loosening up the soil with a garden fork, covering it with a layer of cardboard or newspaper, then layering brown materials (straw, leaves, etc.) 3 inches thick, alternating with green materials (composted manure, kitchen waste, etc.) 1 inch thick, watering well, then topping off with 2 to 4 inches of soil.

Seeds or seedlings are planted in the soil and may need extra irrigation until the layers fully compost. This method is a wonderful way to improve fertility, start a new garden bed easily, and actually create new soil.

Sheet mulching is basically the same idea; however, you’ll cover the soil with cardboard, then add layers of mulch and allow them to break down. The following year, this bed will be ready to plant.

Raised-Bed Gardens

For gardeners dealing with poor or wet soils, a raised-bed system may be a good option. In this method, a raised structure is built or purchased and filled with soil or a potting mix.

Raised beds Warm up faster in spring and don’t freeze as quickly in fall. In hot, dry climates it’s usually better to plant at ground level or in a sunken garden to keep roots cool and reduce moisture loss. For gardeners with mobility issues, a raised-bed system could make tending vegetables easier.

There are also “table”-style gardens, which resemble a cross between a raised bed and a container garden, that allow people in wheelchairs to grow vegetables independently.

When planning a raised-bed garden, allow enough space to walk around the beds, and don’t make the beds more than 3 to 4 feet wide, so you can reach the center.

Determine the layout of your beds, build the sides, and line the bottom with cardboard or newspaper to help kill grass before adding soil. Consider repurposing old bricks instead of purchasing lumber for the sides.

For another sustainable option, consider raised-bed kits made from recycled plastic, available from some garden supply companies. A keyhole garden is basically a circular raised bed with a central compost bin.

This type of garden works well for heavy feeders such as greens and herbs. The compost in the center leaches nutrients into the soil throughout the growing season and may be worked into the bed at the end of the season.

When designing a keyhole garden, don’t make the circle so large that you aren’t able to reach the center of the bed.

Keep in mind that the compost bin in the center is key to establishing a healthy soil ecosystem, so this feature shouldn’t be eliminated.

Another “key” feature of this type of garden is that the path makes it easy to turn your compost and work it into the bed.

Some newer keyhole-garden kits are basically a U-shape raised bed with no composting system included.

You could customize such a kit by adding your own compost bin to increase the soil fertility.

However, the circular design of the original keyhole-garden layout is designed around the compost pile and makes it easier to distribute the nutrients throughout the bed.

Square-Foot Gardens

Square-foot gardening combines a raised-bed system with custom spacing requirements for different crops. A bed is built and filled with equal parts organic compost, vermiculite (a heat-treated mineral that is lightweight and absorbent) or fine bark mulch, and coconut coir or peat moss (we’ll discuss why peat moss isn’t a sustainable choice in next article).

A 1-foot-by-1-foot grid is laid out over the bed to guide your planting. Large plants (such as zucchini or tomatoes) are generally planted in a 2-foot-by-2-foot square (or larger), and smaller crops such as scallions or spinach are planted in a grid of nine plants in a 1-foot-by-1-foot space.

Each plant is given enough room to reach maturity without leaving extra space where weeds can fill in and compete with crops.

This compact planting scenario requires less maintenance compared to a traditional single-row system. The “soil” mixture is friable, is great for plant roots, and retains moisture without causing root rot.

Fertilizer runoff into paths between rows is no longer an issue when planting intensively. In addition, this system is great for setting up an “instant garden” when you wish to get started quickly.

Straw-Bale Gardens

Another option for an easy planting space is a straw-bale garden. In this method, straw bales are placed in a sunny spot and soaked with water several weeks before planting, to begin breaking them down.

Situate the bales with the cut-end facing up and remove enough straw from the center of the top of the bale to create a shallow trench.

Fill the trench with soil and plant with seeds or seedlings. Keep the straw well watered to speed up decomposition and keep plants hydrated. The rotting straw will nourish your plantings and makes a great soil amendment.

Vertical Gardens and Vertical Stacking

Gardeners with limited space can produce more food by “growing up.” The simplest way to make use of vertical space is by training crops on a trellis or arbor instead of letting them sprawl.

Vertical gardens are great for such crops as cucumbers, pole beans, and grapes. You can also raise food in a vertical living wall planter.

In this twist on container gardening, a planter system is securely attached to a sturdy wall, filled with potting mix, fitted with an irrigation system, then planted.

Creating your own from an already designed plan is an option, or you can purchase one that’s ready-made. Consider this method for small varieties of herbs and salad greens, or choose plants that grow well in a hanging planter, such as strawberries.

Vertical Garden

Vertical stacking is another technique in which plants with different heights and light requirements are raised together to make better use of space. Tall plants that need full sun work well with shorter, shade-tolerant crops that cover the soil and help reduce weed growth. Some vertical stacking combinations that work well include:

sweet corn and pumpkins

sunflowers and lettuce

tomatoes and spinach

In another vertical-stacking method, a tiered planter provides space to raise vegetables, herbs, and strawberries.

Choices include strawberry pots with planting holes in the sides, planters with stepped planting boxes, or tiers of window box–style planters on metal racks.

Edible Landscaping

If you’re having trouble working a vegetable garden into your backyard, consider adding edible crops to your decorative landscaping.

In addition to creating a lovely and delicious landscape, you’ll also provide a diversity of plants to attract beneficial insects. Choose colorful salad greens, herbs, and pretty vegetables and fruits to dress up your landscape as well as your dinner plate.

Here are some fantastic choices for edible crops that will look right at home in a flower bed:

Artichoke

Bright Lights Swiss chard

Cayenne pepper

Cherry tomato

Chives

Freckles lettuce

Opal basil

Red Russian kale

Scarlet runner bean

Seascape strawberry

Variegated sage

Other options include blueberry bushes, dwarf fruit trees, and a host of perennial and annual herbs, vegetables, and fruits.

Check to see which plants are suitable for your growing conditions, and be sure to include a variety of different heights, textures, colors, and blooms that provide visual interest as well as food for your table (not to mention the butterflies, bees, and birds you wish to attract to your garden).

PICKING THE METHOD THAT WORKS FOR YOU

Given the many different gardening methods to consider, deciding which one is best for you might feel a little overwhelming.

Start by setting the location of your new garden, assessing your growing conditions, and determining how much space you can dedicate to growing food.

Think, too, about how much time you have to set up and maintain your garden. Additionally, what are your gardening goals? Which crops do you enjoy eating and how much of each can you put to use? There’s a lot to think about, so let’s dig in!

How Much Space Do You Have?

You’ll need to take a survey of your property to determine the best location for the fruits, herbs, and vegetables you wish to plant.

Having a large, sunny garden space is ideal; however, in the absence of this space sometimes edible plantings must be worked into shady spots or around other complications.

If you have a small yard, consider spaces around your patio, in the foundation plantings around the home, and between the sidewalk and street as potential planting areas. Perhaps there is a community garden nearby where you may rent a space.

When planning, be sure to take into account the mature size of trees and shrubs, and consider adding a bed for shade-tolerant crops such as lettuce, peas, spinach, and beets.

Siting and Sizing Your Garden

Start your eco-friendly garden out right by selecting the best location and making good use of what you already have. Here are some handy tips:

Choose a spot with 6+ hours of sun a day.

Site your garden near the home and a faucet for easy maintenance.

Check soil health, structure, and drainage.

Avoid underground utilities or septic fields.

Keep in mind that replacing some of your lawn with a garden can increase biodiversity and reduce the time and gas needed to mow. Alternatively, consider growing food in containers on a sunny deck, rooftop, or balcony.

Raised beds are a great option for an area with poor drainage or rocky soil. Many edible plants are attractive enough to tuck into a flower bed if you have a small lot. Another consideration is how much space to plan for your garden. The answer depends on the amount of food you need and which crops you’ll grow.

One bed of about 12 square feet should be plenty for a single person. For a family of four to eat fresh produce in season and preserve some for winter, you may need to cultivate 96 square feet, or more.

Some vegetables need a lot of space (e.g., winter squash and pumpkins), whereas other crops produce an abundance of food in a small space (e.g., tomatoes and pole beans).

Use the “My Organic Garden Worksheet” to make a list of the crops you wish to grow and to estimate the amount you’ll need.

Keep this list handy when you read the guide to common vegetables, their average yield, and how much space they require.

How Much Time Do You Have?

You don’t want your garden to take up every extra minute of your day, so think carefully about how much time you can dedicate to this project.

Are there certain seasons when you go on vacation? Need to take children to soccer practice every weekend? Have a maxed-out schedule because of other obligations? Consider these types of questions.

Be realistic when planning the size of your garden so you don’t get overwhelmed. It’s better to start small and add to your plantings when time allows. Plan ahead for time spent weeding, watering, pruning, checking for insects, and harvesting.

Use time-saving techniques, such as mulching to prevent weeds and installing drip irrigation (system of hoses or pipes that drip water onto the soil next to a specific plant) to reduce watering responsibilities.

Locate beds close to the house, if possible, to reduce time spent walking to and from the garden to harvest and maintain your plantings.

Method Mash-Ups

If you can’t decide which garden methods would work best for your specific needs, don’t worry! There’s no reason you have to stick with just one.

Instead, use a combination of different systems according to your space and growing conditions. For example:Install a trellis for climbing crops as a backdrop for a bed that mixes insectary plants with colorful salad vegetables and herbs. Turn a large, sunny backyard into a wide-row or biointensive garden with a compost bin and potting shed nearby. Use the sheet mulching technique around sprawling pumpkins and squash. Grow vines on an arbor over part of your patio, with vertical stacking containers of strawberries and herbs and large pots for miniature blueberries in sunny areas.Use square-foot spacing techniques in an in-ground garden rather than a raised bed.

Of course, these ideas are just a sampling for putting your outdoor space to work for you. Pay careful attention to each area of your yard and look for micro-climates that have more sun, while avoiding areas that are windy or more susceptible to frost, and choose the best gardening technique for each spot.

[edgewaterfarmcsa]

CSA WEEK 5

p i c k l i s t

CABBAGE - CELERY - BEETS - CARROTS - SHISO - 

 TULSI BASIL - FENNEL - CAULIFLOWER

CSA FRAAAANDS!!  On account of way too many crops that will leave y’all scratching your heads wondering what exactly you signed up for, I am skipping the farm updates and moving right into PRO-TIPS.  And if anyone needs more on how we spent this week in farming, I can assure you this.  No one went home dry.  Yes, our wells and water-tables are pumped but ugggh my feet exist in a constant prune state.  

PRO TIPS:

SHISO:  This week we are going to try something new.  We are all going to use SHISO (the beautiful reddish purple bunch in your CSA) and learn this herb together.  Full disclosure, I know nothing about it.  I’ve eyed it for years- heard stories of pickling and fermenting, garnishing, juicing, etc.  But this year we have a really beautiful crop and it’s time to expand our horizons.   

(Delicious Korean pickled perilla (shiso) leaves in soy sauce brine)

32 leaves shiso

SEASONING SAUCE (MIX THESE IN A MEDIUM-SIZED BOWL)

10 Tbsp soy sauce

1 tsp Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)

1 tsp minced garlic

2 Tbsp brown sugar

2 Tbsp spring onion , finely chopped

2 Tbsp green chilies or red chilies, finely chopped

Rinse the shiso leaves in cold running water and drain/air dry them while left in the colander.

While waiting for the perilla leaves to dry, prepare the seasoning sauce.

Place the perilla leaves in stacks in a large (glass) container (with a lid). Spread (about 1 Tbsp worth of) seasoning sauce on top of the perilla leaf. Repeat this process for every 3 leaves for the rest of the leaves. As it is already stacked, you will have to lift the leaves at every third interval with one hand while the other hand is spreading the sauce. You don’t need to spread the sauce on every leaf. If you have any sauce leftover, pour it onto the stacked leaves. If you run out of sauce, tip the container and scoop out the sauce from the bottom corner of the container and spread it over the perilla leaves.

Close the lid and move the container to the fridge. You can start eating this from the next day. Serve it with a hot bowl of rice. (It can be stored in the fridge for at least one week. Though traditionally this dish was made during the summer months when many perilla leaves are available and consumed through the summer to winter.)

18 oz Red/Purple Shiso leaves * 1 or 500g

2 cups water 

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Prepare shiso leaves to boil. Wash and trim the shiso leaves.

Bring the 2 cups of water to boil in a large sauce pan and add the prepared shiso leaves.

Turn the heat down to medium heat and cook the shiso leaves for about a few minutes. The leaves colour will change from purple to a greenish colour.

Drain the shiso leaves with a strainer and squeeze the leaves to extract as much as you can. It is hot so be careful not to burn your fingers. I used a spoon to extract all liquid.

Place the drained liquid back to the saucepan and bring it simmer.

Add the sugar, and when the sugar is dissolved, turn the heat off and add the apple cider vinegar.

Cool it down and keep it in a clean bottle in a fridge.  If you sterilize the container in which you keep the syrup, it will last about 6 months in the fridge.

To make shiso juice, place 1/4 cup of the syrup into a glass and pour about 200 ml of mineral water or fizzy soda water over the top. Add ice cubes.

Tulsi: Tulsi, or Holy Basil.  This herb, I LOVE.  Tulsi, the green bunch in your box topped with little purple flower is an herbal adaptogen.  My dear friend and favorite herbalist Rachael Keener of ALKAME CO. wrote the following about adaptogens,

 “ADAPTOGENS ARE CONSIDERED HERBAL SUPERSTARS BECAUSE OF THEIR UNIQUE ABILITY TO SUPPORT A HEALTHY STRESS RESPONSE. In what can sometimes feel like the barrage of the modern era, these plants stand beside us fostering grace and balance while offering their generous hand of support.

What’s even more impressive about adaptogens is that we’re not just talking about resilience to the occasional stress of the modern demands of work, family, etc. They may also support our body’s response to environmental stressors like pollutants in our water, and chemicals in our body products. These too pose a challenge unique to the times we are living in.

Interestingly, adaptogens don’t have one specific way in which they act. Instead, they act as harmonizers. Their diverse chemistry helps balance our diverse chemistry and supports the stability of our neuroendocrine and immune systems (aka how we perceive and respond to mental/emotional and environmental/chemical stressors). Science has identified some of the ways in which adaptogens do this, but due to their broad-ranging mechanisms of actions, every aspect of how they work has yet to be clearly defined.    

Adaptogens are, by definition, considered appropriate for long-term use… Best adopted as daily tonics, they build our resilience over time. They are not an instant fix, and they do not stand alone as a replacement for other forms of self-care. Instead they stand firmly behind us, supporting lifestyle changes that promote resilience in this wild world*.

With self-care and adaptogens at our side, we can restore our ability to be actors in our worlds. We can orient to action, rather than reaction.  The world is indeed a crazy place, and yet we still belong to it. Lean on your plant friends when the going gets rough and you notice that you’re having a hard time adapting or finding balance. They make pleasant companions and reflect back to us how to welcome ourselves home no matter what is happening around us.”

MORE ON Tulsi from Urban Moonshine… “Tulsi, in particular, is one of the few adaptogens that come in a green leafy form, this plant supports our nervous system during periods of occasional stress and burn out. It's sweet, spicy vanilla aroma and taste make it a favorite one to uplift the spirit.  It's a favorite in tea, as well as smoothies, salads and fresh juices.” 

All this being said, I remember when I was pregnant my midwife discouraged tulsi… Not entirely sure why- but if you are a pregnant person, please ask your midwife first.  

TULSI TEA

1 cup water

1 tsp-2 tsp dried tulsi, or 4 tsp fresh (really based on the taste you prefer)

Bring the water to a boil. Remove from the heat and pour over the tulsi in a heat-safe container.

Allow the tea to steep, covered, for 10-15 minutes.

Strain tulsi from tea and enjoy daily.

USE FRESH LEAVES:  Add chopped leaves to culinary dishes just as you would basil. Freeze leaves in ice cubes to add to summer drinks.  Eat a few fresh leaves to get phytonutrients and boost your immunity.  

TULSI is also found in tinctures, infused honeys, elixirs, vinegars etc… for more on that give it a google.  

Caramelized fennel with parmy frico

by Molly Baz from the book: COOK THIS BOOK 

(recommended by Coreen at the farmstand!)

3 large fennel bulbs with fronds

1 lemon

2oz Parmesan cheese

¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

salt & pep

Position a rack in the lower third of your oven.  Preheat the oven to 425*f

Prep the fennel and Parm:

Trim off the long stalks of 3 fennel bulbs, right where they meet the bulb.  Reserve about half of them; discard the rest.  Trim the root ends of the bulbs if they are looking a little brown and sad.  Discard any bruised outer layers of the fennel bulbs.  Position each bulb upright on your cutting board, root-end down, and cut into ½-inch thick planks.  Transfer the planks to a large rimmed baking sheet.

Drizzle the fennel planks with ¼ cup olive oil, being sure to coat them evenly and all over.  Season with salt and black pepper.

Using a microplane, finely grate 1 ounce of Parmesan cheese (about ¼ cup) over the fennel (on top only, no need to flip).  Roast until the fennel is deeply caramelized on the underside, 20 to 25 minutes.

Remove from the oven and flip each plank.  Finely grate 1 ounce more cheese (about ¼ cup) over the caramelized side of the fennel.  Return to the oven and roast until tender and browned all over, 10 to 15 minutes longer.  

Prep the raw fennel salad:

While the fennel roasts, pluck any fronds attached to the reserved fennel stalks and coarsely chop them.  Thinly slice the fennel stalks crosswise into coins.  Transfer everything to a medium bowl.

Cut 1 lemon in half; squeeze the juice from both halves over the raw fennel.  Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and black pepper, and toss well to dress the fennel.  Taste and adjust the seasoning if it needs it.  

SERVE: Transfer the roasted fennel planks to a serving dish.  Scatter the r

[wineanddinosaur]

We Asked 24 Bartenders: What Are You Drinking in Dry January?

Whether it’s an all-out Dry January, or just a desire to step away from daily drinking for a week, a slew of non-alcoholic and low-ABV products have made forgoing the daily glass (or three) of wine easier and more fun than ever.

To discover what’s currently inspiring drinks experts, VinePair asked bartenders for the teetotaling beverages that keep them satisfied while abstaining. Many see Dry January as a chance for renewed focus on the myriad flavors found in tea and coffee, while others are turning to creative and intricately balanced low-proof cocktails and mocktails. Keep reading for a list that will help make the remaining booze-free weeks in January a breeze.

The Best Dry January Beverages Recommended by Bartenders

221 BC Berry Hibiscus Kombucha

Nuun Sports Hydration Tablets

Aplós Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Twice-Brewed Oolong Tea

Seedlip Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Sobrii 0-Gin

Avec Grapefruit & Pomelo

Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth

Dolin Blanc Vermouth

Corpse Reviver’s Chai Spice & Banana Kit

Conniption Barrel-Aged Gin

Suntory ALL-FREE Beer

Kin Euphorics

Q’s Grapefruit Mixer

Wayan’s Tumeric Tonic

Rare Tea Cellar’s Freak of Nature Oolong

Artet Cannabis Apertif

Bammy’s Non-Alcoholic Painkiller

Zoe’s Mocktail at Zoe’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant

Lyre’s Spirit Co.’s Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Fresh Victor Cucumber & Lime

Keep reading for details about all the recommended beverages!

“Dry January for me means lots of coffee, tea, and kombucha! Hot chai lattes get me going: I love the ginger and black pepper notes. I wasn’t always the biggest fan of kombucha, but I’ve recently been enjoying a berry hibiscus blend that we have on tap at work. It’s also important to stay hydrated, so I have Nuun sport hydration tablets at the house. Drop one of those in 16 ounces of water, and I don’t worry about cramping up on my 5K runs.” —David Roth, Beverage Director, KOJO, Sarasota, Fla.

“I’ve been making different shrubs to use in non-alcoholic drinks at home. They’re really easy to make and customize. My current beverage of choice has been an apple shrub with bitters and soda water. Having something fun and flavorful at the end of the day is key!” —Rachel Ramirez, Head Mixologist, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, Nashville, Tenn.

“Since bars were closed down in Texas, and because I am a social drinker, I decided to take a long break from drinking alcoholic beverages. I’m currently 10 months alcohol-free, and I plan on staying the course for at least a year. But for anyone who is doing Dry January, I highly recommend Aplós, a hemp-infused, non-alcoholic spirit that is plant-based and uplift[ing]. My beautiful and talented friend, Lynnette Marrero, is the flavor consultant for this product. [It’s] so unique that I found it incredibly tempting during these times.” —Alba Huerta, Owner, Julep, Houston

“I’m always drinking coffee and soda water regardless of what month it is, but I’ve been adding in oolong and other kinds of tea. If I’m drinking it at night, I brew it once to remove the caffeine, and then brew it a second time to drink. Mostly, I’m thinking about when I get to drink tequila again.” —Nick Pratt, Assistant General Manager/Bar Manager, Hojoko, Boston

“For Dry January, I’ve been enjoying Highballs made with non-alcoholic bases (Seedlip etc). At Queen’s Park, we have a cocktail on our menu called Here’s the Thing, with Seedlip Grove, honey, pineapple, lime, and soda that I usually grab to-go on my way home from working on the new bar.” —Laura Newman, Owner, Queen’s Park, Birmingham, Ala.

“This month, I’ve been drinking Sobrii 0-Gin with Avec Grapefruit and Pomelo. Avec is a new line of better-for-you mixers, and this flavor has beautiful vanilla and peppery notes. The fresh grapefruit sings together with the gin without the need for any sugar. I’ve been enjoying this combo strained over fresh ice. The beauty of this low-sugar, non-alcoholic drink is that there’s no need to stop at just one!” —Matija Whitenton, Head Bartender, Palihouse Miami Beach, Miami Beach, Fla.

“For Dry January, I’ve been doing a lot of alcohol-free Mojito-style and ginger beer cocktails. They’re simple but tasty and not too sweet, so you feel like you’re still sipping on a great cocktail.” —Al Hofeling, Bartender, Strange Bird, Indianapolis

“Topo Chico [with a] twist of grapefruit [and] a squeeze of lime juice. The high carbonation, along with natural grapefruit flavor and fresh lime juice, makes for a bright, bubbly, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage option. Vermouth is often thought of as just a modifier for cocktails like the Manhattan or Martini, but it is also great on it’s own for a low-ABV option. I love a good sweet vermouth like Carpano Antica Formula, or a blanc or bianco style such as Dolin Blanc, either on the rocks or as a vermouth and tonic.” —Nick Touch, Brand Ambassador, The Family Jones, Denver

“My go-to Dry January drink is a basil, mint, [and] lemon slushy mocktail. It’s been an at-home staple during the pandemic, as adults and children alike love it, and it’s super easy to make with simple and accessible ingredients. I blend basil leaves, mint leaves, lemon juice, agave nectar or honey, and then add some ice and continue to blend to get that slushy-like consistency.” —Joe Palminteri, Beverage Director, Hamilton Hotel, Washington, D.C.

“I think it is always important to take care of yourself. I often take breaks from drinking to reset both my body and mind. Whenever I’m taking a break, the first thing I turn to is tea. The complexity of flavors you find in various teas are as interesting as wine and spirits. For me, it is a lot of fun to take the flavors I love and share them with others through what we do at Corpse Reviver. This year, I am especially excited about a new house-made chai spice blend and banana kit we created. Add hot water, and you have a beautiful handcrafted chai tea that is a great alternative to a Hot Toddy. For those who want to add booze, I recommend a gin like Conniption Barrel-Aged Gin.” —Megan Corbally, Bartender, Corpse Reviver Bar & Lounge, Durham, N.C.

“I’ve been sippin’ on a session cocktail (no liquor, super-low ABV) that I call the Pretty in Pink: sage simple syrup, lemon, Aperol, ginger beer, soda water, and some lavender bitters in a Collins glass with ice. I drink mine with a half rim of pink sea salt and a shaved lemon.” —Eric Vanderveen, Bar Manager, The Empire Lounge & Restaurant, Louisville, Colo.

“A product I’ve been enjoying quite a bit recently, and will continue to do so for Dry January, is the beer-like beverage [called] Suntory ALL-FREE. It’s zero percent alcohol and sugar, with no artificial flavorings and zero calories. It also fits really well in my lifestyle, whether I’m fresh off a workout or doing a midday conference call. I’ve also been experimenting with it in non-alcoholic cocktails, like a Blackberry ALL-FREE Shandy. It’s really versatile, and I definitely recommend it if you’re looking for non-alcoholic options to keep on hand at home.” —Elliott Clark, Founder, Apartment Bartender, Denver

“We have a huge bag of dried Jamaica at the bar right now left over from some R&D, so we almost always have a batch of Agua de Jamaica on hand. I love soft drinks — probably a consequence of growing up in the Midwest — and having something sweet and tart to enjoy helps to quench one’s thirst for a cocktail.” —Matthew Belanger, Head Bartender, Death & Co, Los Angeles

“Honey is currently experimenting with Kin Euphoric’s Adaptogenic concentrates as a staple ingredient in our Non-Alcoholic Potion program. We love healthy ingredients that still physically alter the body and mind!” —Jocasta Hanson, Owner/Bartender, Honey Elixir Bar, Denver

“Recently, I’ve learned the value of not putting too much pressure on myself, and I’ve certainly carried that into what I’m calling a ‘dry-ish’ January. Moderation and intention are the name of the game for me this month, so low-ABV cocktails have been my saving grace. My favorite ingredients when making low-proof cocktails are sherry, fun sparkling seltzer flavors, and freshly squeezed winter citrus, like grapefruit or orange. I definitely prefer to keep it really simple and often opt for a Highball. A fun one to try is oloroso sherry, grapefruit soda (Fever Tree and Q Mixers make great ones), and a splash of pomegranate juice. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.” —Veronica Correa, Bartender, San Diego

“Our Turmeric Tonic is one of my favorite non-alcoholic alternatives. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory, slightly bitter, and refreshing, making it a great healthy option for a Dry January detox. It can be enjoyed hot — perfect for the chilly winter months — or served cold over ice; both delicious. This recipe is super easy for everyone to make at home.” —Eileen Chiang, Beverage Director, Wayan, NYC

“While I’m not fully participating in Dry January, my consumption, in general, has been quite moderate since quarantine began. I’ve always been a big fan of intentional, thoughtful, non-alcoholic cocktails. I’m pretty fanatical about tea — the Freak of Nature Oolong from Rare Tea Cellar is a regular in my rotation. Their smoky lapsang souchong tea is fantastic too — great to plug it into non-alcoholic cocktails to play the role of the whiskey. I was also making some cocktails recently with juice blends from Natalie’s. They have some really interesting profiles that are easy to twist into a fully composed non-alc cocktail. The ‘Purify’ from them (blood orange, grapefruit, dandelion, and ginger) is a favorite.” —Charles Joly, World-Champion Mixologist & Co-Founder, Crafthouse Cocktails, Chicago

“I’m currently loving shrubs and amaro for no- and low-ABV options. As part of our zero waste program, we make both in house — utilizing what would be waste, such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grinds, chocolate scraps, etc. We serve each with seltzer water or ‘caldo’ with hot water, and right now, we’re featuring an apple fennel shrub with fresh lemon juice and soda. I’m also big on vermouth — Dolin Blanc, specifically. I’ve been making sours with it for myself that are super-low ABV, since the vermouth is the only alcohol in it.” —Melissa Brooke, Bartender, The Musket Room, NYC

“When I’m in the mood for a cocktail but also want the chill vibe, my route is always an aperitif. I recently discovered Artet, a non-alcoholic cannabis aperitivo that hits those bitter notes I’m looking for, along with a modest dose of THC. It’s perfect for the early evening on the rocks with soda water, and versatile enough to lend itself to a fun cocktail creation.” —Karl Steuck, Owner, Spirit & Spoon, Los Angeles

“Without a doubt, I’ll be drinking the crowd favorite, the non-alcoholic Painkiller — pineapple juice, orange juice, and creamy coconut goodness, finished with a generous dusting of freshly grated nutmeg. It’s been a rough year in this world. True to its namesake, the non-alcoholic Painkiller cocktail served at Bammy’s surely numbs the pain and eases the mind. Honestly, I barely miss the rum.” —Chad Henry, Bar Manager, Bammy’s, Washington, D.C.

“While options are plentiful for observing Dry January, I created the Zoe’s Mocktail. This deliciously refreshing drink is one part Goya Jamaican-style ginger beer, four parts San Pellegrino, with a splash of lime juice and Pom pomegranate juice, [and] garnished with a lime rind spiral. It’s flavorful with a nice little zing, and pairs well with rich dishes.” —Marc Sauter, Bartender/Sommelier/Owner, Zoe’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant, Virginia Beach, Va.

“I love a Negroni, and I love trying variations on them as well. And a Negroni is a cocktail that before you could not get non-alcoholic because its components are basically all alcohol-based. But now, there are amazing non-alcoholic spirits like Lyre’s Spirit Co. that offer an homage to classic spirits we know and love, like a Dry London spirit, Vermouth Rosso, and Italian Orange, which is their version of an Aperol, just [without] alcohol. Of course, then I take my style of blending tropical island flavors with classics. With Sweet Hibiscus from the Perfect Purée of Napa Valley, it delivers just that harmonious blend.” —Tim Rita, Brand Ambassador/Bartender, Lyre’s/ T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas

“I’ve defaulted to making Martinis at home using inverse proportions: 2 ounces of vermouth and .75 ounces of gin. It’s every bit as satisfying as a regular Martini, but significantly lower in proof!” —Shannon Tebay, Head Bartender, Death & Co, NYC

“I’ve been intrigued by the multitude of new tonic expressions on the market and have been playing with them in combination with different Fresh Victor flavors. I find that 1 to 2 ounces of Fresh Victor with 4 to 6 ounces of tonic is a great formula. Fresh Victor Cucumber & Lime plus classic tonic water is a go-to for me on a regular basis; I like Q’s new Light Tonic in particular. —H. Joseph Ehrmann, Owner/Chief Mixology Officer, Elixir/Fresh Victor, San Francisco 

The article We Asked 24 Bartenders: What Are You Drinking in Dry January? appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/24-best-dry-january-beverages-bartenders/

[johnboothus]

We Asked 24 Bartenders: What Are You Drinking in Dry January?

Whether it’s an all-out Dry January, or just a desire to step away from daily drinking for a week, a slew of non-alcoholic and low-ABV products have made forgoing the daily glass (or three) of wine easier and more fun than ever.

To discover what’s currently inspiring drinks experts, VinePair asked bartenders for the teetotaling beverages that keep them satisfied while abstaining. Many see Dry January as a chance for renewed focus on the myriad flavors found in tea and coffee, while others are turning to creative and intricately balanced low-proof cocktails and mocktails. Keep reading for a list that will help make the remaining booze-free weeks in January a breeze.

The Best Dry January Beverages Recommended by Bartenders

221 BC Berry Hibiscus Kombucha

Nuun Sports Hydration Tablets

Aplós Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Twice-Brewed Oolong Tea

Seedlip Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Sobrii 0-Gin

Avec Grapefruit & Pomelo

Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth

Dolin Blanc Vermouth

Corpse Reviver’s Chai Spice & Banana Kit

Conniption Barrel-Aged Gin

Suntory ALL-FREE Beer

Kin Euphorics

Q’s Grapefruit Mixer

Wayan’s Tumeric Tonic

Rare Tea Cellar’s Freak of Nature Oolong

Artet Cannabis Apertif

Bammy’s Non-Alcoholic Painkiller

Zoe’s Mocktail at Zoe’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant

Lyre’s Spirit Co.’s Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Fresh Victor Cucumber & Lime

Keep reading for details about all the recommended beverages!

“Dry January for me means lots of coffee, tea, and kombucha! Hot chai lattes get me going: I love the ginger and black pepper notes. I wasn’t always the biggest fan of kombucha, but I’ve recently been enjoying a berry hibiscus blend that we have on tap at work. It’s also important to stay hydrated, so I have Nuun sport hydration tablets at the house. Drop one of those in 16 ounces of water, and I don’t worry about cramping up on my 5K runs.” —David Roth, Beverage Director, KOJO, Sarasota, Fla.

“I’ve been making different shrubs to use in non-alcoholic drinks at home. They’re really easy to make and customize. My current beverage of choice has been an apple shrub with bitters and soda water. Having something fun and flavorful at the end of the day is key!” —Rachel Ramirez, Head Mixologist, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, Nashville, Tenn.

“Since bars were closed down in Texas, and because I am a social drinker, I decided to take a long break from drinking alcoholic beverages. I’m currently 10 months alcohol-free, and I plan on staying the course for at least a year. But for anyone who is doing Dry January, I highly recommend Aplós, a hemp-infused, non-alcoholic spirit that is plant-based and uplift[ing]. My beautiful and talented friend, Lynnette Marrero, is the flavor consultant for this product. [It’s] so unique that I found it incredibly tempting during these times.” —Alba Huerta, Owner, Julep, Houston

“I’m always drinking coffee and soda water regardless of what month it is, but I’ve been adding in oolong and other kinds of tea. If I’m drinking it at night, I brew it once to remove the caffeine, and then brew it a second time to drink. Mostly, I’m thinking about when I get to drink tequila again.” —Nick Pratt, Assistant General Manager/Bar Manager, Hojoko, Boston

“For Dry January, I’ve been enjoying Highballs made with non-alcoholic bases (Seedlip etc). At Queen’s Park, we have a cocktail on our menu called Here’s the Thing, with Seedlip Grove, honey, pineapple, lime, and soda that I usually grab to-go on my way home from working on the new bar.” —Laura Newman, Owner, Queen’s Park, Birmingham, Ala.

“This month, I’ve been drinking Sobrii 0-Gin with Avec Grapefruit and Pomelo. Avec is a new line of better-for-you mixers, and this flavor has beautiful vanilla and peppery notes. The fresh grapefruit sings together with the gin without the need for any sugar. I’ve been enjoying this combo strained over fresh ice. The beauty of this low-sugar, non-alcoholic drink is that there’s no need to stop at just one!” —Matija Whitenton, Head Bartender, Palihouse Miami Beach, Miami Beach, Fla.

“For Dry January, I’ve been doing a lot of alcohol-free Mojito-style and ginger beer cocktails. They’re simple but tasty and not too sweet, so you feel like you’re still sipping on a great cocktail.” —Al Hofeling, Bartender, Strange Bird, Indianapolis

“Topo Chico [with a] twist of grapefruit [and] a squeeze of lime juice. The high carbonation, along with natural grapefruit flavor and fresh lime juice, makes for a bright, bubbly, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage option. Vermouth is often thought of as just a modifier for cocktails like the Manhattan or Martini, but it is also great on it’s own for a low-ABV option. I love a good sweet vermouth like Carpano Antica Formula, or a blanc or bianco style such as Dolin Blanc, either on the rocks or as a vermouth and tonic.” —Nick Touch, Brand Ambassador, The Family Jones, Denver

“My go-to Dry January drink is a basil, mint, [and] lemon slushy mocktail. It’s been an at-home staple during the pandemic, as adults and children alike love it, and it’s super easy to make with simple and accessible ingredients. I blend basil leaves, mint leaves, lemon juice, agave nectar or honey, and then add some ice and continue to blend to get that slushy-like consistency.” —Joe Palminteri, Beverage Director, Hamilton Hotel, Washington, D.C.

“I think it is always important to take care of yourself. I often take breaks from drinking to reset both my body and mind. Whenever I’m taking a break, the first thing I turn to is tea. The complexity of flavors you find in various teas are as interesting as wine and spirits. For me, it is a lot of fun to take the flavors I love and share them with others through what we do at Corpse Reviver. This year, I am especially excited about a new house-made chai spice blend and banana kit we created. Add hot water, and you have a beautiful handcrafted chai tea that is a great alternative to a Hot Toddy. For those who want to add booze, I recommend a gin like Conniption Barrel-Aged Gin.” —Megan Corbally, Bartender, Corpse Reviver Bar & Lounge, Durham, N.C.

“I’ve been sippin’ on a session cocktail (no liquor, super-low ABV) that I call the Pretty in Pink: sage simple syrup, lemon, Aperol, ginger beer, soda water, and some lavender bitters in a Collins glass with ice. I drink mine with a half rim of pink sea salt and a shaved lemon.” —Eric Vanderveen, Bar Manager, The Empire Lounge & Restaurant, Louisville, Colo.

“A product I’ve been enjoying quite a bit recently, and will continue to do so for Dry January, is the beer-like beverage [called] Suntory ALL-FREE. It’s zero percent alcohol and sugar, with no artificial flavorings and zero calories. It also fits really well in my lifestyle, whether I’m fresh off a workout or doing a midday conference call. I’ve also been experimenting with it in non-alcoholic cocktails, like a Blackberry ALL-FREE Shandy. It’s really versatile, and I definitely recommend it if you’re looking for non-alcoholic options to keep on hand at home.” —Elliott Clark, Founder, Apartment Bartender, Denver

“We have a huge bag of dried Jamaica at the bar right now left over from some R&D, so we almost always have a batch of Agua de Jamaica on hand. I love soft drinks — probably a consequence of growing up in the Midwest — and having something sweet and tart to enjoy helps to quench one’s thirst for a cocktail.” —Matthew Belanger, Head Bartender, Death & Co, Los Angeles

“Honey is currently experimenting with Kin Euphoric’s Adaptogenic concentrates as a staple ingredient in our Non-Alcoholic Potion program. We love healthy ingredients that still physically alter the body and mind!” —Jocasta Hanson, Owner/Bartender, Honey Elixir Bar, Denver

“Recently, I’ve learned the value of not putting too much pressure on myself, and I’ve certainly carried that into what I’m calling a ‘dry-ish’ January. Moderation and intention are the name of the game for me this month, so low-ABV cocktails have been my saving grace. My favorite ingredients when making low-proof cocktails are sherry, fun sparkling seltzer flavors, and freshly squeezed winter citrus, like grapefruit or orange. I definitely prefer to keep it really simple and often opt for a Highball. A fun one to try is oloroso sherry, grapefruit soda (Fever Tree and Q Mixers make great ones), and a splash of pomegranate juice. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.” —Veronica Correa, Bartender, San Diego

“Our Turmeric Tonic is one of my favorite non-alcoholic alternatives. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory, slightly bitter, and refreshing, making it a great healthy option for a Dry January detox. It can be enjoyed hot — perfect for the chilly winter months — or served cold over ice; both delicious. This recipe is super easy for everyone to make at home.” —Eileen Chiang, Beverage Director, Wayan, NYC

“While I’m not fully participating in Dry January, my consumption, in general, has been quite moderate since quarantine began. I’ve always been a big fan of intentional, thoughtful, non-alcoholic cocktails. I’m pretty fanatical about tea — the Freak of Nature Oolong from Rare Tea Cellar is a regular in my rotation. Their smoky lapsang souchong tea is fantastic too — great to plug it into non-alcoholic cocktails to play the role of the whiskey. I was also making some cocktails recently with juice blends from Natalie’s. They have some really interesting profiles that are easy to twist into a fully composed non-alc cocktail. The ‘Purify’ from them (blood orange, grapefruit, dandelion, and ginger) is a favorite.” —Charles Joly, World-Champion Mixologist & Co-Founder, Crafthouse Cocktails, Chicago

“I’m currently loving shrubs and amaro for no- and low-ABV options. As part of our zero waste program, we make both in house — utilizing what would be waste, such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grinds, chocolate scraps, etc. We serve each with seltzer water or ‘caldo’ with hot water, and right now, we’re featuring an apple fennel shrub with fresh lemon juice and soda. I’m also big on vermouth — Dolin Blanc, specifically. I’ve been making sours with it for myself that are super-low ABV, since the vermouth is the only alcohol in it.” —Melissa Brooke, Bartender, The Musket Room, NYC

“When I’m in the mood for a cocktail but also want the chill vibe, my route is always an aperitif. I recently discovered Artet, a non-alcoholic cannabis aperitivo that hits those bitter notes I’m looking for, along with a modest dose of THC. It’s perfect for the early evening on the rocks with soda water, and versatile enough to lend itself to a fun cocktail creation.” —Karl Steuck, Owner, Spirit & Spoon, Los Angeles

“Without a doubt, I’ll be drinking the crowd favorite, the non-alcoholic Painkiller — pineapple juice, orange juice, and creamy coconut goodness, finished with a generous dusting of freshly grated nutmeg. It’s been a rough year in this world. True to its namesake, the non-alcoholic Painkiller cocktail served at Bammy’s surely numbs the pain and eases the mind. Honestly, I barely miss the rum.” —Chad Henry, Bar Manager, Bammy’s, Washington, D.C.

“While options are plentiful for observing Dry January, I created the Zoe’s Mocktail. This deliciously refreshing drink is one part Goya Jamaican-style ginger beer, four parts San Pellegrino, with a splash of lime juice and Pom pomegranate juice, [and] garnished with a lime rind spiral. It’s flavorful with a nice little zing, and pairs well with rich dishes.” —Marc Sauter, Bartender/Sommelier/Owner, Zoe’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant, Virginia Beach, Va.

“I love a Negroni, and I love trying variations on them as well. And a Negroni is a cocktail that before you could not get non-alcoholic because its components are basically all alcohol-based. But now, there are amazing non-alcoholic spirits like Lyre’s Spirit Co. that offer an homage to classic spirits we know and love, like a Dry London spirit, Vermouth Rosso, and Italian Orange, which is their version of an Aperol, just [without] alcohol. Of course, then I take my style of blending tropical island flavors with classics. With Sweet Hibiscus from the Perfect Purée of Napa Valley, it delivers just that harmonious blend.” —Tim Rita, Brand Ambassador/Bartender, Lyre’s/ T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas

“I’ve defaulted to making Martinis at home using inverse proportions: 2 ounces of vermouth and .75 ounces of gin. It’s every bit as satisfying as a regular Martini, but significantly lower in proof!” —Shannon Tebay, Head Bartender, Death & Co, NYC

“I’ve been intrigued by the multitude of new tonic expressions on the market and have been playing with them in combination with different Fresh Victor flavors. I find that 1 to 2 ounces of Fresh Victor with 4 to 6 ounces of tonic is a great formula. Fresh Victor Cucumber & Lime plus classic tonic water is a go-to for me on a regular basis; I like Q’s new Light Tonic in particular. —H. Joseph Ehrmann, Owner/Chief Mixology Officer, Elixir/Fresh Victor, San Francisco 

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