Articles

A good selection of perennials provides an ongoing framework for the organic flower garden. Perennials are plants which flourish, then die back before re-establishing themselves in a seasonal cycle which should continue for at least several years. They can almost be considered permanent in cooler climates which provide favourable growing conditions. On account of this longevity, it is worthwhile preparing their ground thoroughly prior to planting. Most perennials benefit from well aerated soils which contain substantial quantities of thoroughly broken down organic materials such as compost, manure, and leaf mould. Healthy juveniles are generally available as potted plants from organic nurseries and plant wholesalers. In temperate climates these can be transplanted to the garden throughout the... Read more »

It’s possible that the supermarket concept evolved during the Great Depression. “Pile high, sell low” was the strategy of King Kullen, a famous New York grocer during the 1930s. Since that time, supermarkets have merged within our contemporary economy where they have been been both popularised and demonised. From the perspective of many consumers, supermarkets provide an essential vehicle for reliable convenience and access to organic groceries and fresh produce. Alternatively, there are traditionalists who fear the influence of large organisations and the pressures of economic rationalisation which may be exerted within the general agricultural and organic agricultural sectors. A fundamental complaint against established supermarkets is their ability to restrict competition... Read more »

Most of us have it. None of us want it. And it’s almost impossible to get rid of. Cellulite. There – I’ve said it! It’s possibly the only word in the English language that has the capacity to send a room full of confident, successful businesswomen into a cowering pack of wimps. Are we genetically predisposed to feeling guilty about it? If we were that would explain our seeming desire to support the largely fraudulent infomercial-based cellulite lotion and potion industry. If you’ve seen the ads - and most of us have - you’re probably aware of how, with the assistance of a few pills and a tube of extraordinarily expensive cream, you can remove any trace of cellulite from your body within 14 days. Although I’m too old to buy cellulite creams from infomercials, I’ve got young friends... Read more »

At all stages of pregnancy, the ability to make informed dietary and lifestyle choices can have a positive influence on the health and wellbeing of mother and child. Under normal circumstances, the developing foetus depends upon placental efficiency to absorb a rich supply of nutrients from the maternal bloodstream. Because of this close dependence, there are certain situations which can potentially disrupt the normal course of foetal development. For example, there are a number of maternal illnesses and infections which must be avoided or treated promptly to reduce the risk of developmental abnormalities. Because several of these conditions exhibit minimal symptoms, it is beneficial for most pregnant women to undertake a periodic health assessment with their primary caregiver. Depending on... Read more »

When raised according to the ill-founded principles of intensive agriculture, cotton is one of the most ecologically destructive crops which can be planted. In response to disease and insect pests, the majority of cotton producers become dependent on a chemical arsenal which impacts heavily upon the soil and surrounding environment. The scale of this problem can be understood from estimations that cotton production accounts for one quarter of the total volume of pesticides used throughout the world each year. After a while, continued application of these pesticides contributes to sterile soils. Because they become devoid of the living organisms which promote normal nutrient recovery and plant growth, sterile soils are dependent upon a continual application of synthetic fertilisers. To reach... Read more »

With more than 70 years of collective experience in building successful dairy and organic companies, there isn’t too much Mark Retzloff, Chairman, Aurora Organic Dairy, and Mark Peperzak, CEO, Aurora Organic Dairy, don’t know about the organic dairy industry. Five years ago they co-founded Aurora Organic Dairy. Bringing knowledge and expertise, as well as an unwavering commitment to accessibility and affordability, they have managed to position Aurora Organic Dairy as one of the leading suppliers of high quality organic milk to average Americans. By focusing on organic stewardship, sustainable farming practices, innovative business models, and practical community involvement, Aurora Organic Dairy is well placed to bring organic milk into a growing number of fridges across the country. Mark... Read more »