RESPECT

One of the things I've gained from growing good food at home is a deep respect for the soil. This brief video from Michael Pollan really resonates with me. 

There's a good amount of science to soil  but let's keep it simple.  The basic components of soil are organic matter, minerals and organisms. 


Soil testing to ensure understanding of soil needs, proper watering, mulching for moisture retention and soil protection along with adding organic matter such as compost all contribute to soil health.  We give the soil what it needs and we are thanked by way of a bountiful harvest.

There's a progression that happens where the level of care for each part of the process is elevated.  We wouldn't cultivate the soil and then not plan and prepare for the sowing of seeds, not nurture the seeds once in the ground or harvest with care. 

The act of growing food has given me a sense of concern for the things we often take for granted.  Focus has shifted from the end result to the process and for me this is respect gained from growing good food at home.