Growing Local

Next time you cozy up with a mug of tea, take a minute to consider where those herbs and leaves came from. Asheville Tea Company could source ingredients from anywhere in the world, but gets many of its herbs from Rayburn Farm just two miles away.

Listen in as farmer Michael Rayburn drops off a special delivery, and hear Jessie Dean of Asheville Tea Company blend it into loose leaf tea.

Spartanburg County School District Six embarked on a big project last year: starting its own farm. The school is already seeing results in its fields and cafeterias as farm-fresh broccoli, cabbage, and peppers arrive on lunch trays.

October is National Farm to School month. Hear two leaders of ASAP’s Growing Minds program talk about how kids can impact the local food movement.

Garlic is a powerhouse in the kitchen, but what does it take to grow these flavorful bulbs? Morgan Decker of Root Bottom Farm in Madison County, North Carolina gives us the lowdown on local garlic.

Check out the WNC Garlic Fest on Oct. 7 in Asheville to taste some weird and wonderful treats, like garlic ice cream and garlic chocolate. http://www.wncgarlicfest.com

Photo by Sarah Jones Decker

Take a trip to the Mills River farmers market to hear about local food activities for families, and meet parents and volunteers who inspire kids each week.

It’s tempting to pick every apple you find on a U-pick adventure. Don’t feel overwhelmed when you get home! Try these tips for making good use of the fruit.

There’s a hotbed of apple production hidden in the hillsides of Western North Carolina. Hear Perry Lowe III, a sixth generation orchardist, talk about apple farming traditions in the Brushy Mountains.

Children in Henderson County, North Carolina are kicking off fall in the garden with a new project that helps daycare centers teach gardening skills. The program supplements WIC's current efforts, including the demonstration garden pictured here.

Come along on an audio adventure to Franny’s Farm Camp. Hear the kids taste edible flowers and pet a pig for the first time.

Learn about more farm camps in Western North Carolina at www.appalachiangrown.org And find ideas for helping kids engage with local food and farms all year at www.growing-minds.org

Eclipse madness has hit Western North Carolina and local farms are some of the prime spots to witness this rare celestial event.

Reservations are required for an eclipse weekend Walnut Hollow Ranch in Hayesville: www.walnuthollowranch.com Or go to Darnell Farms on the morning of the 21st for a full day of food and activities. https://goo.gl/s7K3KR