Dandelion+Burdock

Harvest lessons prompts fall soil amendments

Happy Autumn! The weather in September has been absolutely gorgeous in upstate New York, it’s been sunny, warm and dry. Like the past two summers, New York experienced loads of rain and tropical temperatures from June through August. I didn’t have to water my garden once. The ground always felt wet enough. In fact having a couple of days without rain was a relief allowing the plants to dry out a little. With all the heat and rain, one would think my garden would have exploded. Instead I would rate it a 50-60% success. 

Rough starts and slow growth

Sadly a female rabbit and two kits met their end one bloody night, but I am pretty sure that they were the creatures eating my strawberries. I planted about 300 sunflower seeds but only four made it. Something obviously foraged my seeds. All the vegetable plants seem to take forever to take off and never reached their potential heights. The wild blueberries also underperformed and many bushes didn’t have fruit at all. The blackberry and raspberry did produce for the first time since I have been here, but I was only able to harvest enough for breakfasts and not enough to preserve.

Cabbage, yellow squash, jalapeños, cherry tomatoes and huge amounts of herbs were the bounty I ate from this summer and continue to now, but it’s a far cry from living off the land. My gifted purple potato plants kind of disappeared and I only got half a gallon of spuds. Same with my purple garlic, only six cloves. The problem I have concluded is my soil is still in terrible shape and I need to improve it before planting time comes again

Fixing My Soil Problems

My little homestead is north of Lake Oneida and east of Lake Ontario. The soil conditions in upstate New York, specifically east of Lake Ontario, are influenced by a combination of factors such as the region’s glacial history, topography, and climate. The region was heavily impacted by glaciation, leaving behind glacial till soils that are generally loamy (a mix of sand, silt, and clay), which at least is well draining. Additionally the ground water has a high iron content primarily due to the region’s geological history and the nature of its iron-bearing minerals like magnetite, hematite, and goethite. As these parent materials weather over time, the iron within them becomes a more prominent component of the soil. The groundwater moves through these iron-rich formations and dissolves the iron minerals, increasing iron concentrations in the water. Consequently, in a nutshell, my soil is very acidic and very sandy. From the research I have done,  I need to reduce the pH and add more organic material to get a better soil composite. To raise the pH over time, I can add two things I have readily on hand: wood ash and eggshells so that is a plus.

Aligning with Eco-Prepping ideals, I want to amend my soil using regenerative methods. Even though it takes more time and labor, in the end my soil will be free from chemicals and full of organic life. This fall I am weeding first, then covering the beds with additional cardboard, adding a layer of straw and a layer of forest topsoil, which contains Alfisols. Prevalent in forested areas, Alfisols are known for their fertility having a clay-enriched subsoil and good moisture retention. Ideally I should also add a layer of compost so I hope I have enough time and energy. If not I can add it before the first snow fall.

Implementing Regenerative Methods to Improve Soil Naturally

Amending soil using regenerative methods focuses on enhancing soil health, increasing organic matter, and fostering a thriving soil ecosystem. The goal is to restore soil fertility, improve structure, and promote biodiversity without synthetic chemicals. Regenerative agriculture is a proven method to farm sustainably that more and more people are adopting. Ready to get on board this fall? Here’s a list of natural amendments and practices to regenerate and enrich your soil naturally thus protecting the environment and yielding better, bigger crops next season:

Composting: Add mature compost to soil to increase organic matter, improve soil structure, and introduce beneficial microorganisms. Use kitchen scraps, garden clippings, leaves, and manure (from herbivores) to create a nutrient-rich compost. Apply 1-3 inches of compost to the top layer of soil and work it in lightly, or use it as a mulch to let it decompose naturally.

Cover Cropping: Plant cover crops like clover, rye, buckwheat, or vetch to add organic matter, reduce erosion, suppress weeds, and fix nitrogen in the soil. Cover crops prevent nutrient leaching and, when tilled back into the soil, improve soil fertility and structure.

Green Manure: Use cover crops as green manure by cutting them down and incorporating them into the soil. This adds organic matter and nutrients back into the soil.

Mulching: Apply organic mulches like straw, wood chips, leaves, or grass clippings to the soil surface. Mulching helps retain moisture, moderate soil temperature, and decompose slowly, adding organic matter and nutrients to the soil over time.

Animal Manure: Use well-aged manure from herbivores (like cows, horses, chickens, or rabbits) to improve soil fertility. Fresh manure should be composted to reduce the risk of pathogens and weed seeds. Apply manure at appropriate rates to avoid nutrient overloads (particularly nitrogen and phosphorus).

Biochar: Incorporate biochar (charcoal produced from plant material) to increase soil carbon, improve nutrient retention, and enhance microbial activity. Biochar helps create a stable soil structure and can remain in the soil for hundreds of years, promoting long-term fertility.

Compost Teas and Extracts: Apply compost tea (a liquid extract made from steeping compost) to introduce beneficial microorganisms and nutrients. Foliar spray or drench the soil with compost tea to improve microbial diversity and plant health.

Chop-and-Drop Method: Cut and leave plant material (e.g., pruned branches, crop residues) on the soil surface to decompose naturally and add organic matter. This method mimics natural nutrient cycling and reduces the need for external inputs.

Vermicomposting (Worm Castings): Add worm castings (vermicompost) to improve soil texture, increase microbial activity, and enhance nutrient availability.Worm castings are rich in plant nutrients and growth hormones that support healthy root development.

Rock Dust and Mineral Amendments: Use rock dusts like basalt or granite to add trace minerals (e.g., calcium, magnesium) and improve soil fertility. Apply mineral amendments like gypsum (for calcium) or soft rock phosphate (for phosphorus) to address specific soil deficiencies.

Cover with Leaf Litter and Organic Debris: Leave leaf litter, crop residues, or other organic materials on the soil surface to mimic natural forest floors and reduce soil disturbance. This practice helps protect the soil, promote microbial activity, and increase organic matter content over time.

Integrated Livestock Management: Introduce grazing animals like chickens, sheep, or cattle in a controlled manner to add manure, break down plant residues, and stimulate soil life. Use rotational grazing or mob grazing techniques to avoid overgrazing and promote pasture health.

Lastly, about the animals …

On a final note, I wanted share my recent bear scat discovery on my walking trail that I was very surprised to find. It was a HUGE pile in all its fresh, seed-sprinkled glory. It made me think about the diversity of wildlife we have here in Oneida County. I think it’s so important to be mindful of all the animals, amphibians, and insects who share our environment and learn how we can protect them. Without our natural ecosystem, life will get a lot harder and there definitely won’t be any more blueberries. Read on to see a compiled list of New York’s furriest finest and where to find them. Thank you so much for reading! Have a wonderful autumnal season. ❤️

Exploring the Enchanting World of Woodland Creatures in Upstate New York

Upstate New York is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with its lush forests, meandering streams, and diverse wildlife. Among the many wonders of this region are its enchanting woodland creatures, each contributing to the rich tapestry of its ecosystems. From the majestic white-tailed deer to the elusive red fox, and a plethora of bird species, as well as the unique porcupine, let’s take a closer look at some of the fascinating creatures that call Upstate New York home.

1. White-Tailed Deer: One of the most iconic residents of Upstate New York’s woodlands is the white-tailed deer. These graceful creatures are commonly spotted grazing in meadows or silently wandering through the forest. With their distinctive white tails flashing as they bound away, white-tailed deer add a sense of magic to the landscape, especially during the serene hours of dawn and dusk.

2. Eastern Gray Squirrel: Another familiar sight in Upstate New York is the Eastern gray squirrel. These agile acrobats of the treetops are known for their boundless energy and playful antics. Whether they’re scampering across branches or burying nuts for winter, gray squirrels bring a sense of liveliness to the woodland canopy.

3. Red Fox: While more elusive than some of their woodland counterparts, red foxes can still be found prowling through the forests and fields of Upstate New York. With their fiery red coats and bushy tails, these cunning hunters are a sight to behold. Despite their nocturnal habits, lucky observers may catch a glimpse of a red fox darting through the underbrush in search of prey.

4. Eastern Chipmunk: No exploration of Upstate New York’s woodlands would be complete without mentioning the Eastern chipmunk. These pint-sized rodents are renowned for their striped fur and cheeky demeanor. Often seen darting between rocks and fallen logs, chipmunks are integral members of the forest community, contributing to its vitality through their role as seed dispersers.

5. Eastern Cottontail Rabbit: The Eastern cottontail rabbit is another common inhabitant of Upstate New York’s woodlands. With their soft, cotton-like tails and alert ears, these shy creatures blend seamlessly into their surroundings. Whether nibbling on grasses or seeking shelter in the undergrowth, cottontail rabbits play an important role in the region’s food web.

6. Raccoon: With their distinctive black masks and ringed tails, raccoons are adept at adapting to a variety of habitats, including the woodlands of Upstate New York. From scavenging for food along streams to nesting in hollow trees, these clever critters are a testament to nature’s ingenuity.

7. Porcupine: One of the more unique residents of Upstate New York’s woodlands is the porcupine. With their quill-covered bodies and waddling gait, porcupines are instantly recognizable. Despite their prickly appearance, these gentle herbivores spend their days munching on leaves, twigs, and bark, making them an essential component of the forest ecosystem.

8. Red Squirrel: The energetic red squirrel is a common sight in Upstate New York’s woodlands. With their vibrant reddish-brown fur and bushy tails, red squirrels are known for their spirited antics and territorial behavior. They can often be seen darting among the branches, chattering loudly as they defend their territory or search for food.

9. Wild Turkey: The wild turkey is a symbol of the rugged wilderness of Upstate New York. With their impressive size and striking plumage, these birds are a sight to behold as they strut through the forest in search of food. During the spring mating season, male turkeys, or toms, display their magnificent tail feathers in elaborate courtship rituals, adding a touch of drama to the woodland landscape.

10. Black Bear: The black bear roams the woodlands of Upstate New York, instilling both awe and respect among residents and visitors alike. These powerful omnivores play a crucial role in the ecosystem as seed dispersers and scavengers. While encounters with black bears are rare, their presence serves as a reminder of the untamed beauty of Upstate New York’s wilderness.

11. Salamanders, Frogs, Toads, and Peepers: In addition to mammals and birds, Upstate New York’s woodlands are also home to a diverse array of amphibians. From the secretive Eastern red-backed salamander to the melodious spring peeper, these creatures thrive in the moist, shaded habitats of the forest floor. Frogs such as the American bullfrog and toads like the American toad add their voices to the chorus of sounds that fill the woodland air, signaling the arrival of spring and the changing seasons. The spring peeper, with its high-pitched “peep” call, is particularly iconic, heralding the onset of warmer weather and the rejuvenation of the forest after the long winter months.

12. Pine Martens, Fishers, and Similar Predators: Among the lesser-known but equally fascinating inhabitants of Upstate New York’s woodlands are the pine martens and fishers. These elusive members of the weasel family are skilled hunters, preying on small mammals such as mice, voles, and rabbits. With their slender bodies, sharp claws, and keen senses, pine martens and fishers are well-adapted to life in the dense underbrush of the forest.

Pine martens, with their luxurious fur and bushy tails, are adept climbers, often pursuing their prey among the branches of trees. Fishers, on the other hand, are known for their agility on the ground, swiftly darting through the undergrowth in pursuit of their quarry. Despite their small size, both species play important roles in regulating populations of rodents and other small mammals, helping to maintain the balance of their woodland habitat.

13. Bugs and Insects: No exploration of Upstate New York’s woodlands would be complete without acknowledging the vast array of bugs and insects that inhabit this biodiverse region. From the bustling activity of ants and beetles to the delicate beauty of butterflies and dragonflies, bugs play a crucial role in the forest ecosystem.

Ants, with their intricate societies and tireless work ethic, are often seen marching in long lines, foraging for food and building elaborate underground colonies. Beetles, ranging from tiny ground beetles to impressive stag beetles, are essential decomposers, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients back into the soil.

Butterflies and moths add a splash of color to the woodland landscape, flitting gracefully among the flowers and foliage. Their delicate wings and intricate patterns make them a delight to observe, while their role as pollinators ensures the continued reproduction of many plant species.

Dragonflies and damselflies, with their iridescent wings and aerial acrobatics, are formidable predators of flying insects, including mosquitoes and flies. Their presence is a testament to the purity of the woodland streams and ponds that they call home, serving as indicators of water quality and habitat health.

Of course, no discussion of woodland bugs would be complete without mentioning the industrious bees and wasps. These buzzing insects are vital pollinators, facilitating the reproduction of countless plant species and ensuring the production of fruits, nuts, and seeds that sustain the forest’s inhabitants.

From the smallest ants to the largest beetles, bugs and insects are an integral part of Upstate New York’s woodlands, contributing to the complex web of life that sustains this vibrant ecosystem. So, the next time you find yourself exploring the woods, take a moment to appreciate the intricate beauty and importance of these tiny creatures.

Here are some specific local resources in Upstate New York for exploring woodland creatures:

1. Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge: Located near Seneca Falls, Montezuma NWR is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The refuge offers scenic driving routes, hiking trails, and observation platforms for viewing waterfowl, raptors, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

2. Allegany State Park: Situated in western New York, Allegany State Park is one of the largest state parks in the region and boasts diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, attend nature programs at the park’s visitor center, and even participate in guided wildlife watching tours.

3. Tifft Nature Preserve: Located in Buffalo, Tifft Nature Preserve encompasses over 264 acres of marshes, woodlands, and meadows along the shores of Lake Erie. The preserve offers interpretive nature trails, birdwatching blinds, and educational programs focused on the local flora and fauna.

4. Wild Center: Nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains in Tupper Lake, the Wild Center is an immersive nature museum dedicated to showcasing the biodiversity of the Adirondack region. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, walk along elevated forest canopy trails, and participate in guided naturalist-led walks and workshops.

5. Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Located in Ithaca, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a world-renowned research institution focused on the study and conservation of birds. The lab offers a variety of educational programs, birding courses, and citizen science projects, including the famous Cornell FeederWatch program, which allows participants to contribute to bird population monitoring efforts from their own backyard.

I love Cornell’s bird identification app, Merlin. It’s free and an amazing way to identify birds, especially by their calls. I identified over 20 species in the summer just in my woods. Check it out!