We don’t harvest from the woods but rather use the abundance of the weeds in the cultivated areas around us for food and healing. Perhaps one day the woods will be thick enough again with the edibles and medicinals that we feel comfortable taking from it. Until then, we see the forest as a place to be observed, given unto with plantings and offerings, preserved and appreciated.
We acknowledge that the First Nations Cherokee stewarded this land long before us and that our white predecessors stole this land from them. Planting, tending and protecting biodiversity is one of the ways we make amends. Visit our blog page on the many plant species alive and growing at Herb Mountain Farm. We update the list regularly- it is a joy to return again and again to the continual wealth of diversity exploding on the property.
We do not use pressure treated wood, synthetic chemicals, artificial detergents and cleaners, GMO seeds, pesticides or herbicides on the property, to help the ecology around us. The soil, air and water don’t do well with those things, and neither do humans, ultimately. We value thinking about how our choices affect others – both human and non-human.
We value, welcome, respect and celebrate all genders, colors, and cultures and ask for your kindness and respect as reciprocity.
Diversity is the spice of life!
Follow Mary’s conversation with the natural world on Instagram