Episode 139: The Urban Farm

Today's intro comes to you from by back garden, courtesy of the local birds!    In this episode I'm joined by Greg Peterson, who started The Urban Farm nearly 30 years ago. His third of an acre site is covered in edible crops which feed his family and other families too. Gardening as he does in Phoenix, Arizona he has to make full use of rainwater harvesting systems, soil improvement techniques, plus he's heavy into recycling and reuse. We talk about how he's created a fully functioning and successful farm in an urban neighbourhood. Dr Ian Bedford's Bug of the Week: Leaf rollers This episode is brought to you by So & Mo. Launched this year, So & Mo is a new lawn care brand bringing the right products and expertise to give everyone the confidence to be a lawn expert. They have developed the perfect 12 month plan, through 6 liquid feeds to give your lawn all the nutrients needed for complete plant health and professional results. Packaged into a one size fits all box lasting 6, 12 or 24 months based on the lawn size, ensures the ability to cater for all lawns with no waste. As a special offer for listeners, So & Mo is offering 15% off your first box. Simply visit soandmo.com and enter the code ROOTS15 at checkout. What we talk about: Why Greg began The Urban Farm Gardening in a desert and managing water Greg's natural soil and how he fertilises it  The importance of growing local Seed saving Neighbourhood rules and regulations One easy win that people could achieve if they're thinking of establishing their own urban farm About Greg Peterson Greg has lived at the Urban Farm for almost 30 years.  His 1/3-acre yard features an entirely edible landscape, including over 70 fruit trees, rainwater and grey-water harvesting, solar applications, and extensive use of reclaimed and recycled building materials. Greg is a longtime permaculture advocate, flunked out of university in 1981 because he was bored, then went back twenty years later to get a bachelor's degree and a Masters in Urban and Environmental Planning in 2006 and is a lifelong continual learner. On his days off he hangs out in his garden with his sweetheart Heidi and their chickens, creating new projects and catching some rays. Links www.urbanfarm.org The Urban Farm Podcast Brad Lancaster - Rainwater Harvesting  Ishmael by Daniel Quinn soandmo.com