All the Dirt on Gardening

DRUM CIRCLE A drum circle is based less on the expertise of the players, and more on the quality of their relationship with each other to express themselves and create a rhythmical experience. Come experience an entry level drum circle where many people who use drums (or percussion instruments) for different purposes all come together to share their rhythmical spirit to create a drum song. Outside event in the pecan grove around fire pit. All ages welcome – family friendly.  WEATHER PERMITTING Saturday 9-24-11 at 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. MoonShadow Herb Farm 3500 South Country Club Road Muskogee To participate call ahead:  918-687-6765 Leave your name and phone number for call-back Minimum of 5 participants to make drum circle Bring your own instrument – if you do not have an instrument we have a limited amount of extra drums and percussion instruments you may use. Blessings – Sharon Owen

There are seeds that you plant directly in the ground outside and others that should be planted in sterile seed starting soil inside. Cosmos, marigolds, corn and carrots are planted directly into the ground in the spring. Poppy, chamomile and larkspur seeds are planted outside in January. The seeds of many perennials and some annuals need to have a chance to freeze and thaw before spring weather arrives. Perennial shrubs and herbaceous plant seeds were planted last September so they could get the alternating temperatures ( vernalization ) they need to grow. This month, the seeds of onions, leeks, chives, Chinese cabbage, pansy and other cool weather lovers are planted inside. Pete Carson of Carson Borovetz Nursery said that the seeds to plant now include those that enjoy a cool start such as cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower. I start peppers now, too, Carson said. Pepper seeds take 14 days to germinate and you need a heat mat under them to give them the 80-degree soil temperatures the...

Sharon Owen, owner of Moonshadow Herb Farm in Muskogee OK, is offering labyrinth walks in December and New Year 2009. Owen said, "Afternoon has been the best time for group walks & activities. However, a night walk & celebration would be great, too. Please contact me if you plan to participate and/or if you would like to schedule a private walk. Otherwise I will either be with family or busy working in the greenhouse ~ in which case I would be too dirty & busy for surprise visits!" Winter Solstice (Yuletide/Midwinter) ~ Christmas Traditional dates: Dec. 21s (Sun.) and Dec. 20 23rd (Sat. to Tues.) and Dec. 25 (Thurs.) Open: weekend of 20 , 21 through Tues. Dec. 23rd Celebration of the return of light The birth of Jesus the Christ Suggested Ceremonies & Activities: Blessings ~ Follow The Star Candle Walk ~ Drumming ~ Singing (new fire pit in pecan grove) New Years Eve Day Traditional date: Dec. 31 (Mon.) and Jan. 1 (Tues.)Open the weekend: Dec. 29 and 30 De...

Home-grown plants make herb farm unique The daffodils, crocus, flowering almond and forsythia are bursting with their spring song so it must be time for opening weekend at Moonshadow Herb Farm in southeast Muskogee. Even though it is still a little early to plant some things, no one wants to miss out on seeing what Sharon Owen has grown over the winter for their medicinal and culinary garden beds. "Each year I propagate new plants from cuttings of my stock plants," Owen said. Seedlings are grown from organic seeds. I do not buy from wholesalers and re-sell. I grow my own earth-friendly, chemical free stock." Owen's new, larger greenhouse has made it possible for her to grow an even wider variety of plants this year. Plus, the herb garden in the back was re-worked and new beds planted to adjust to changing weather patterns. "Moonshadow is a small, retail nursery specializing in medicinal, crafting, ceremonial, culinary and obscure herbs," Owen said. "Ex...