Growing mushrooms at home is an engaging hobby that requires minimal equipment. They thrive in humid, dark environments, feeding on organic matter. Beginners can start with easy varieties like oyster or lion’s mane using various methods. Proper conditions and avoiding common mistakes can lead to successful mushroom cultivation, enhancing your culinary experience.… Read More Growing Mushrooms: A Beginner’s Guide to Home Cultivation
The author began cultivating pink oyster mushrooms out of curiosity, discovering the joy and complexity in mushroom growing. Each type of mushroom, from pink to enoki, presents unique requirements and relationships. This process turned into a rewarding collaboration with living systems, with plans to share detailed insights on various mushroom varieties and cultivation rituals.… Read More Growing Mushrooms: Pink Oyster A Gentle Ritual of Colour & Care
Natural dyes, derived from plants, flowers, and fruits, can be foraged sustainably from local gardens, parks, and fields. Spring and summer are ideal seasons for this. To extract dyes, chop plant materials, simmer in water, and soak fabrics. Responsible foraging practices help connect with nature while utilising free resources.… Read More Natural Dyes: Spring and Summer Foraging
Autumn and winter are optimal for gathering natural dye plants in the UK. Various trees, berries, and roots yield vibrant colours suitable for dyeing. Key foraged items include blackberries, elderberries, and oak galls, along with technique tips like using mordants for brighter hues and practicing sustainable foraging for preservation.… Read More Natural Dyes: Autumn & Winter Foraging
Rachel Bakewell 