About Prairie Yard & Garden

Prairie Yard & Garden, or PY&G for short, offers expert gardening advice from researchers, nursery professionals, educators, and backyard gardeners in the Upper Midwest who are passionate about cultivating beautiful gardens to discuss. Episodes range from specific issues in horticulture to landscaping and a host of topics in gardening.

PY&G 3701 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Cut Flowers (Tips and Tricks: How to Cut Flowers Like a Pro)

Creating a bouquet from fresh, cut flowers creates a stunning statement. Anyone can create these lovely arrangements according to Mary Solbrekken of Rustic Design Flower Farm near Belgrade, Minn. There are many cut flower farms throughout Minnesota where customers can cut their own flowers to make these colorful centerpieces. 

PY&G 3702 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Goat Products (Goats Milk Skin Care Products)

Goat milk is known for its nourishing and moisturizing properties, making it a popular ingredient in skin care products. There are a variety of goat milk skin care products available on the market, including soaps, lotions, creams, and balms. These products may be especially beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin, as goat milk is gentle and soothing. Some potential benefits of goat milk skin care products include improved hydration, reduced irritation and inflammation, and a brighter, more even complexion. Country Sunshine 

PY&G 3703 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Alternative Cooking Oil (From Field to Kitchen: Cooking with Sunflower Oil)

Sunflower oil can be a great alternative to traditional cooking oils like vegetable or canola oil. It has a high smoke point, meaning it can be heated to high temperatures without burning or smoking. Tom and Jenni Smude of Smude's Sunflower Oil and shares how sunflowers, low in saturated fats and high in unsaturated fats, make a healthier option for cooking. Sunflower oil also has a mild flavor, which makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used for a variety of dishes. 

PY&G 3704 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Bison Meat Products

Bison meat products are a great choice for those looking for a healthy and lean source of red meat. Bison meat is low in fat and cholesterol, while being high in protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. Additionally, consuming bison meat supports the sustainable and healthy management of grasslands, as bison grazing helps to promote the growth of native plant species and maintain a healthy ecosystem. So not only is bison meat a healthy choice for you, it also contributes to a healthier environment. Breen Enterprises

PY&G 3705 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Pollinator Gardens

Establishing a pollinator garden is a great way to attract and support bees, butterflies, and other important pollinators. These gardens are designed to provide a habitat for these essential creatures, which in turn helps to promote healthy ecosystems and maintain biodiversity. By creating a space that is rich in nectar and pollen sources, you can help to ensure that these vital pollinators have the resources they need to thrive.

Gene Stark, owner of Glacial Ridge Growers in Glenwood, Minnesota, is a leading expert in growing plants that are specifically designed to attract and support pollinators. He understands the critical role that these creatures play in ensuring the health of our ecosystems and food systems, and he is passionate about helping people create pollinator-friendly gardens that can make a real difference.

Overall, establishing a pollinator garden is a great way to give back to the environment and support the health and wellbeing of our planet. By working with experts like Gene Stark, you can ensure that your garden is optimized for the needs of pollinators and can make a meaningful impact in your community.

PY&G 3706 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Pure Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup collected from trees in Minnesota is renowned for its high quality, unique flavor, and health benefits. Minnesota's ideal climate, soil conditions, and traditional methods of collection and processing make it one of the best places to get pure maple syrup. Its rich, complex flavor and smooth texture make it perfect for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream. Camp Aquila Pure Maple Syrup

PY&G 3707 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Local Fiber

Kathy Sletto of Shepherd's Bay Farm in Alexandria, Minnesota raises sheep and rabbits to produce natural, locally-sourced fiber for weavers and creative individuals. Focused on sustainability and ethical practices, the farm provides high-quality wool and yarns as a wholesome alternative to mass-produced fibers.

PY&G 3708 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Medicinal Herbs

Connie Karstens of the Lamb Shoppe in Hutchinson, Minnesota shares the advantages of medicinal herbs and natural approaches to wellness. As an expert in the field, Connie shared her extensive knowledge on the benefits of medicinal herbs, including their ability to help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health and well-being. Connie emphasizes the importance of using high-quality, organic herbs to ensure maximum potency and effectiveness.

PY&G 3709 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Alternative Bee Products

Alternative bee products, such as beeswax candles and single-source honey, are specialties of Ames Farm, led by Brian Fredrickson. The farm is known for producing high-quality beeswax candles, which are prized for their clean and long-lasting burn. Additionally, they offer single-source honey, which is harvested from specific floral sources, resulting in unique and distinctive flavors. These alternative bee products are popular among consumers who appreciate natural and sustainable goods, as well as those seeking high-quality and ethically produced honey and beeswax products.

PY&G 3710 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Organic Whole Grains

Organic whole grains, such as those grown at Askegaard Organic Farmnear Moorhead, Minnesota, offer numerous benefits. They are free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making them healthier for both people and the environment. Additionally, whole grains are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and various nutrients, contributing to improved digestion, heart health, and overall well-being. Askegaard organic farm's commitment to organic agriculture ensures that their grains are produced sustainably, supporting biodiversity and soil health for future generations.

PY&G 3711 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Farm Wineries 

Farm wineries in Minnesota offer a delightful and enriching experience for wine enthusiasts. One such destination is Carlos Creek Winery, where Tamela Bredeson shares the challenges and rewards of winemaking. Visitors can immerse themselves in the labor of love that goes into each bottle of wine while enjoying the serene surroundings. It's a perfect place to relax and savor the fruits of the labor while taking in the beauty of the winemaking process.

PY&G 3712 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Artisan Cheese

Redhead Creamery is a family-owned dairy farm in Brooten, Minnesota, that specializes in artisan cheese-making. The creamery uses milk from their own cows to produce a variety of handcrafted cheeses, including cheddar, gouda, and brie. All of their cheeses are made in small batches and aged to perfection, resulting in rich and flavorful products that are a true delight for cheese lovers 

PY&G 3713 - Live Local with Minnesota Grown - Apple Tasting

Hardy apples are a popular fruit variety in Minnesota due to their ability to withstand the state's harsh winters. One example of a hardy apple is the Sweet Tango, which was developed by the University of Minnesota. Country Blossom Farm is one such grower of Sweet Tango in Minnesota, a variety known for their sweet and tangy flavor, as well as their crisp texture. They are a cross between the Honeycrisp and Zestar apple varieties and are typically ready for harvest in late August or early September. Sweet Tango apples are a great choice for baking, cooking, or simply enjoying as a healthy snack. 
 

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