I just posted an article about how to force winter branches, which is probably the less common type of winter forcing of plants that is done in comparison to forcing bulbs, mainly because success rates are higher (i.e. branches can be damaged when cut or improper storage and hydration of the branches may result in blossoms falling off) but also ... Read More »
Category Archives: Gardening
Feed SubscriptionHow to Force Winter Branches
I absolutely love bringing color indoors all year long, but in the winter it seems like more of a necessity than anything- to lift up the darkness outside (and how early it comes) and bring in a natural pop of color. It’s also fun to go out looking for branches to bring indoors and be surprised by the type of ... Read More »
Community Gardening
I think I know why retired people garden. It’s not just because they have more time than the rest of the population; it’s because they finally get to enjoy a place of peace in this world. Don’t get me wrong, gardening does take time and work and effort- it’s a labor of love and way to connect with the Earth. ... Read More »
How to Preserve Fresh Basil
It’s that time of year here in the Midwest of the U.S. and everywhere there is summer weather when our gardens are bursting with green and lovely plants and herbs. Since we’ve had a lot of hot weather lately, my basil, tomato and zucchini plants have suddenly bolted upward. That’s great for vegetable plants, but herbs like basil need to ... Read More »
Edible Gardening Resources
Yesterday I aired a segment on my blog talk radio program called Organic Edible Gardening, where I gave 30 minutes of tips on what you need to think about and know in order to prepare, plant and maintain your own edible garden space, big or small. As promised during the program, I’m providing a list of resources for you below. The ... Read More »
5 Simple Ways to Get Your Gardening Groove On
Here in the Midwest, much like other parts of the country we’re experiencing a complete and utter freeze. It’s incredibly hard to imagine colorful flowers, edible gardens, or even water that doesn’t freeze when poured right now, but this is the best time to think about your spring garden. The Butchart Gardens Seeds- Vancouver, Canada Yes, your spring garden. And summer ... Read More »
My Interview with Jules Dervaes of The Path to Freedom: The Modern Urban Homestead
Many of you who follow this blog or actively participate on the MHK Facebook Page probably remember my several mentions of the Dervaes Family, the nearly self-sufficient Californians who garden just about every inch of their modest Pasadena home and even sell their harvest to local chefs and restauranteurs. I first learned about Jules Dervaes a few years ago while watching a ... Read More »
Farmer’s Market Salad
Strolling through the farmer’s market on a humid summer morning is enough inspiration to seek out the best salad ingredients you can find. I returned recently with beautiful radishes and purple scallions. Combining that with my balcony garden herbs made this a super local food. Ingredients ½ bunch radishes, julienned 1 cucumber, seeds removed, sliced lengthwise 3 scallions, cut ... Read More »
My Cactus Plant is Flowering! And I Don’t Live in the Desert…
I’m not only amazed by the fact that my cactus is growing and thriving here in the Midwest, but now it’s flowering! This is just too beautiful to keep to myself. I wish everyone the same joy in caring for plants that mine bring to me. I’m grateful to friends and family like my mother-in-law who was thoughtful enough ... Read More »
My (Edible) Balcony Garden
Many of my family members and members of our Facebook page have been asking me to send pictures of my balcony garden, so I’ve finallly had a chance to take and compile pictures of this lovely extension of my home. I’m delighted that so many people are interested in such a wonderful thing to share. Years ago when I first moved ... Read More »

My Halal Kitchen | Inspiration for Wholesome Living Simple Recipes and Useful Household Tips
















