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Plant Something, Heal Something

  • Seeds of Innovation: Black Pioneers in Agricultural Technology

    by Erica McRAE
    Family, gather 'round. We're about to dig into some rich soil that's been left untilled for far too long. This Black History Month, let's shine a l...

  • George Washington Carver: The Plant Whisperer Who Revolutionized Agriculture and Empowered Communities

    by Erica McRAE

    George Washington Carver wasn't just about peanuts; he was about people.  He saw the potential for agriculture to be a tool for liberation, a pathway to economic independence for Black farmers.  His work wasn't confined to the lab; it extended to the fields, where he shared his knowledge freely, empowering communities to take control of their destinies.  Carver understood that true freedom was rooted in the land, and he dedicated his life to cultivating not just crops but also hope and resilience.

  • Fulvic Acid and Black Resilience: Nurturing Our Roots This Black History Month

    by Erica McRAE
    Family, as we celebrate Black History Month, I want to talk about something that's been on my mind lately - fulvic acid. Now, before you roll your ...

  • Planting Seeds of Empowerment: My Mission with Gardening Under Influence LLC

    by Erica McRAE
    Excerpt from interview with Demeter Earth  1️⃣ Tell us about Plant and Heal: What inspired you to start your business? Plant and Heal Co. was born ...
    Posted in Agrarians, Black farmers, Gardening, Growers, plant and heal, Seeds, sustainability

  • From Soil to Soul: MLK's Legacy and the Black American Agrarian Renaissance

    by Erica McRAE
    As a Black Agrarian, horticulturalist, farmer, and agribusiness mentor, I, Erica Plants, have experienced firsthand the transformative power of rec...
    Posted in Agrarians, Black farmers, Black growers, farm fresh 24/7, Land ownership, Martin Luther King Jr., MLK Jr., plant and heal, sustainability

  • Understanding the USDA Heirs' Property Relending Program 

    by Erica McRAE

    Heirs' property refers to land that has been passed down through generations without a clear legal title. This often happens when land is inherited by multiple family members without a will or proper legal documentation. Over time, this can lead to complicated ownership issues, making it difficult to manage, sell, or use the land effectively for

  • Growing Your Future: Using EBT and SNAP Benefits for Seeds, Fruit Trees, and Edible Plant Starts

    by Erica McRAE
    In 1973, Congress passed a law allowing SNAP benefits to be used for purchasing seeds and plants that produce food. This initiative was proposed to help families become more self-sufficient and reduce food insecurity by enabling them to grow their own food. Over the years, this policy has proven to be a successful and impactful way to stretch food budgets and promote healthier eating habits.

  • The Buzz on Mosquitoes: From Pollinators to Genetic Warriors and Our Complex History

    by Erica McRAE
    Mosquitoes might be a nuisance, but they're also a part of our ecosystem, playing roles we might not even realize. Genetically modified mosquitoes offer a fascinating glimpse into how science can help us tackle big problems, but like any solution, they come with their own set of challenges and questions.

  • Allelopathy in Plants: Mechanisms, Impacts, and Practical Applications

    by Erica McRAE
    Mechanisms of Allelopathy

    So, how does allelopathy work? Well, some plants release special chemicals called allelochemicals. These can come from different parts of the plant like leaves, roots, stems, and even seeds. When these chemicals get into the soil or air, they can affect other plants nearby. For example, black walnut trees (Juglans nigra) produce a chemical called juglone that can stop other plants like tomatoes and apples from growing well (Hejl & Koster, 2004).

     

  • Cultivating Connections: Embracing Sustainable Gardening with Crab Shells and Chitin

    by Erica McRAE
    To source crustacean shells, consider reaching out to local seafood markets, restaurants, and fishermen. Many are happy to provide crab shells and other seafood remnants for composting, as it reduces their waste and supports sustainable practices. It's as simple as getting free used coffee grounds from a coffee shop or spent hops from a brewery. By requesting these shells, you can transform what was once considered waste into valuable resources for your garden

  • Crab Boils to Garden Soil: Harnessing the Power of Crustaceans for Sustainable Gardening

    by Erica McRAE
    So, the next time you indulge in a seafood feast, don't let those leftovers go to waste. Embrace the cycle of giving back to the earth, and watch as your garden thrives in return. It's a simple act with profound implications for both your plants and the environment.

  • Harvesting Empowerment: A Black Agrarian's Guide to Wearing Many Hats on the Farm

    by Erica McRAE
    Now, as a Black Agrarian, I'm weaving a tapestry of tradition and innovation, of heritage and hope. I'm reminding my community that when we grow our own food, we're not just feeding our bodies; we're nourishing our souls. We're reclaiming our power, one garden, one seed, one youth at a time.