The Poor Prole’s Almanac

This bonus content we did for our Patreons regarding the election. Despite massive changes in the dynamics in the election, I'd say it's still within a margin of error of what we predicted. We'll see how it plays out over the next few months, but we figured we'd give you fantastic folx the opportunity to hear our take.

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" picks up where the previous episode left off, focusing on the practical aspects of establishing and managing sustainable grazing systems. Fencing Options The episode begins with a discussion of fencing options, highlighting the importance of containing livestock and protecting them from predators: Woven wire fencing attached to T-posts is presented as a cost-effective and semi-permanent solution. This type of fencing is readily available, relatively easy to install and move, and suitable for a variety of livestock. High-tensile electric fencing is highlighted as a popular and economical choice, particularly for larger properties. This type of fencing is less expensive than woven wire, easier to move, and effective at deterring predators. The hosts note that electric fencing requires proper grounding and regular maintenance to ensure its effectiveness. Mesh electric netting is recommended for smaller animals like chickens, ducks, and goats, especially in areas with predator concerns. This type of fencing provides a more secure barrier than single-wire electric fencing but can be bulky and difficult to move without specialized equipment. Traditional post-and-rail fencing, while aesthetically pleasing, is less practical for rotational grazing systems due to its high cost and lack of portability. The hosts suggest that using locally sourced wood, such as cedar, locust, or osage orange, can make this option more sustainable. The hosts emphasize the importance of choosing a fencing system that aligns with the scale of the operation, the type of livestock being raised, and the level of predator pressure in the area. They also encourage listeners to consider the long-term sustainability of materials and the potential impact of supply chain disruptions when making decisions about fencing. Water Systems After discussing fencing, the hosts transition to the critical element of water in pasture systems: Providing water within 800 feet of any point in a paddock is crucial to encourage uniform grazing and minimize energy expenditure by livestock. The hosts explain that animals will tend to overgraze areas closer to water if they have to travel long distances to drink. Water temperature significantly affects animal consumption, with requirements increasing as temperatures rise. This underscores the importance of providing adequate shade and access to cool, clean water, especially during hot weather. The hosts briefly touch on the impact of forage moisture on water needs, noting that animals may require less supplemental water when grazing lush, green pastures. The episode primarily focuses on practical strategies for establishing water systems: Using pond liners to create semi-permanent water sources is presented as a viable option. Shallow buckets or troughs, sized appropriately for the number of animals, are suggested as a more portable but labor-intensive solution. The hosts recommend developing a long-term plan for water infrastructure that minimizes external inputs and labor. This may involve utilizing existing water sources, collecting rainwater, or installing gravity-fed systems. Grazing Systems and Management The episode then shifts to a detailed exploration of various grazing systems and management techniques, starting with the concept of dry matter: Dry matter is defined as the portion of forage that remains after moisture is removed and is a key metric for assessing pasture yield and animal intake. The hosts explain that cattle and small ruminants typically consume 2.5-3% of their body weight in dry matter per day. This information is crucial for calculating stocking rates and determining appropriate paddock sizes. The episode outlines several grazing systems, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages: Continuous grazing, where livestock have unrestricted access to the entire pasture, is presented as the simplest but least efficient method. The hosts explain that continuous grazing leads to uneven grazing patterns, reduced forage quality, and an uneven distribution of manure nutrients. Rotational grazing, involving dividing pastures into paddocks and moving livestock between them, is advocated as a more sustainable and productive approach. This system allows for rest periods for pasture regrowth, promotes more uniform grazing, and improves manure distribution. The hosts discuss various forms of rotational grazing, including strip grazing, where animals are confined to narrow strips of pasture, and mob grazing, which involves high stocking densities and frequent moves. The episode emphasizes the importance of matching the grazing system to the specific goals and constraints of the operation: For beginners, starting with a basic rotational system and gradually intensifying management as experience is gained is recommended. Factors to consider when choosing a system include the size of the property, the type of livestock, available labor, and desired outcomes, such as maximizing forage production or improving soil health. Practical Considerations for Grazing Management The episode concludes with a deep dive into the practical considerations of managing a rotational grazing system, offering specific guidance on calculating stocking rates and determining appropriate paddock sizes: The concept of an “animal unit” (AU) is introduced, which represents the forage consumption of a 1,000-pound dry cow (approximately 25 pounds of dry matter per day). The hosts provide AU equivalents for various livestock species, emphasizing that these values can vary depending on factors like breed, age, and physiological state (e.g., lactating vs. dry cows). The hosts provide a formula for calculating “available pasture,” which considers the height of the forage before and after grazing and the average dry matter yield per inch of height for a given region. They emphasize the importance of consulting local resources for accurate dry matter yield figures. A step-by-step example is presented to illustrate how to calculate paddock size based on the AU of the herd, the desired grazing period (number of days), and the available pasture. The hosts stress that paddock size is not a static figure and should be adjusted based on observations of pasture growth rates, animal behavior, and seasonal variations. They encourage listeners to develop an intuitive understanding of their pastures and to be flexible in their management. Integrating Grazing with Pasture Health and Animal Welfare Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the interconnectedness of pasture health, animal welfare, and the long-term sustainability of grazing systems. They highlight several key considerations: Managing grazing to prevent overgrazing is crucial for maintaining healthy pastures and preventing erosion. The hosts recommend leaving a minimum of 3 inches of residual forage height to allow for rapid regrowth and to protect the soil. Strategic grazing can help control parasites by breaking their life cycles. Moving animals frequently and allowing for adequate rest periods can significantly reduce parasite loads in pastures. Grazing multiple species of livestock can further enhance parasite control and improve pasture diversity. Different livestock species often have different grazing preferences and host different parasites, making multi-species grazing a valuable tool for sustainable pasture management. The hosts advocate for a flexible and adaptive approach to grazing management, emphasizing the importance of observing pasture conditions, monitoring animal behavior, and making adjustments as needed. The episode concludes with a reminder that building successful grazing systems is an ongoing process of learning and experimentation. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the complexity of these systems, to seek out resources and information, and to continuously refine their management practices to create resilient and productive pastures that support both livestock and the environment. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" focuses on designing resilient and sustainable pasture systems, specifically addressing erosion control and paddock layout. Erosion Control and Pasture Design Pasture design should minimize animal movement up and down hills to prevent erosion. Animals frequently traveling up and down hills create paths that can become channels for water runoff, leading to the formation of ditches and soil loss. Alleyways or lanes are important for controlling animal movement and minimizing erosion. These designated paths, potentially reinforced with gravel or fabric, help direct animals between paddocks or to and from barns, reducing uncontrolled trampling and soil compaction. Sacrifice lots, areas for confining animals during wet weather, should be strategically located to prevent nutrient runoff. Placing them away from water sources like streams, ponds, or wells is crucial to protect water quality and prevent contamination. Using gravel and stone dust can help stabilize sacrifice areas, improve drainage, and protect animal hooves. This is particularly beneficial in areas with heavy clay soils or high rainfall. Paddock Design and Layout Temporary fencing is recommended initially to allow flexibility in paddock size and layout. This allows for adjustments based on observations of animal behavior, grazing patterns, and pasture growth over several years before installing permanent fencing. Paddock shape should aim for squares to minimize fencing material, but practicality often dictates irregular shapes. Factors like property boundaries, existing features like trees or sheds, and the need for access routes all influence paddock design. Easy access to water is crucial for animal welfare and efficient grazing. Providing water sources within 800 feet of any point in the paddock encourages animals to graze uniformly and prevents overgrazing in areas closer to water. Permanent water systems that minimize external inputs are ideal. Utilizing natural water sources like streams or constructing small ponds within paddocks reduces reliance on labor-intensive methods like hauling water or installing complex plumbing. Gates should be strategically placed to facilitate animal movement and minimize stress. Placing gates in corners where animals naturally want to move and ensuring they are wide enough for equipment access simplifies daily chores and emergency handling. A designated livestock handling system should be located for convenience and accessibility. Factors to consider include proximity to barns, good drainage, access for vehicles, and potential for electricity for lighting or tools. Paddock Sizing and Management Paddock size depends on several factors, including the number of animals, forage availability, growth rates, and topography. It's recommended to start with enough forage to feed animals for four to five days in each paddock, but this can be adjusted based on observations and experience. Understanding the growth patterns of cool-season (C3) and warm-season (C4) grasses is essential for effective paddock rotation. Matching grazing periods to peak growth phases for different grass types maximizes forage utilization and promotes healthy pasture growth. Topography plays a significant role in paddock size and management. Soil fertility and productivity vary across a landscape, often with more fertile areas in lower elevations. Larger paddocks may be needed in less productive areas to provide sufficient forage. Temporary fencing allows for adjustments to paddock size based on forage availability and seasonal changes. This flexibility is crucial for preventing overgrazing and ensuring adequate rest periods for pasture recovery. Integrating Grazing Systems with Other Practices Harvesting excess forage as hay during peak growth periods helps prevent plants from maturing and declining in feed value. This also allows for stockpiling winter feed or supplementing during droughts. The episode hints at future discussions on incorporating tree crops and other elements into grazing systems to further enhance resilience and productivity. This suggests a holistic approach that integrates various aspects of sustainable land management. The episode emphasizes that creating successful grazing systems is an ongoing process of observation, adaptation, and learning. It encourages listeners to embrace the complexity of these systems and develop an intuitive understanding of the interplay between land, animals, and management practices. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

The host, Andy, transitions from the story to the main topic of the episode, acknowledging that incorporating animals into a food production system can feel daunting to those unfamiliar with livestock. He emphasizes that with proper management techniques, raising animals can be less demanding than managing fruit trees. He argues that mimicking natural grazing patterns is key to minimizing health risks for the animals and reducing the workload for the caretaker. Understanding Key Terminology Andy introduces fundamental concepts in grazing management, differentiating between: Stocking rate: The number of animals that can graze in a given area over an extended period. Stock density: The concentration of animals within a specific, fenced-off area called a paddock at a particular time. He explains that intensive grazing, involving high stock density for short periods, can positively impact the land's carrying capacity. This concept echoes the principles of mimicking natural grazing patterns, where herds move frequently and graze intensely before moving on. Planning for a Sustainable Grazing System Andy outlines essential questions to consider before establishing a grazing system: Species and class of livestock: Determining the type of animals best suited for the available resources and desired outputs (meat, dairy, eggs). Seasonal utilization: Deciding whether to graze year-round or only during certain seasons. Resource assessment: Evaluating land size, budget, and the potential productivity of the pasture based on location and climate. Management commitment: Assessing the time and effort required for animal rotation, pasture maintenance, and potential challenges like weed control. He emphasizes the importance of realistic planning to avoid common pitfalls like overgrazing and the resulting negative consequences for both the animals and the land. The Role of Plant Life in Grazing Management Andy stresses that successful grazing systems prioritize the health and productivity of the plants, as they form the foundation of the entire ecosystem. He explains how sunlight energy is captured and transferred through the system: from plants to soil to animals and back to plants. Grass Growth and Grazing Management The episode provides a detailed explanation of grass growth dynamics: Tiller and growing point: The tiller (shoot) is the basic unit of grass growth, containing leaves, stem, roots, and dormant buds. The growing point, located at the base of the plant, is essential for new growth. Grazing and growing point: Some grass species have growing points near ground level, making them tolerant to close grazing. Others have elevated growing points that are vulnerable to overgrazing, requiring energy from the roots to regrow. Vegetative vs. reproductive stages: Maintaining the pasture in a vegetative state (actively growing leaves) is crucial for maximizing productivity. Allowing the grass to mature and produce seed heads reduces regrowth potential and nutritional value. Maintaining leaf area: Leaving sufficient leaf area after grazing is essential for photosynthesis and energy production, ensuring rapid regrowth. Legumes and Nitrogen Fixation Andy highlights the importance of incorporating legumes, such as clover and alfalfa, into pasture mixes. Legumes have a symbiotic relationship with bacteria that "fix" nitrogen from the atmosphere, enriching the soil and benefiting the grasses. Cool Season vs. Warm Season Grasses The episode distinguishes between cool season (C3) and warm season (C4) grasses, emphasizing their different optimal growing temperatures and seasonal productivity. C3 grasses: Thrive in cooler temperatures (65-75°F) and are productive in spring and fall. Examples include orchard grass, fescues, and ryegrass. C4 grasses: More efficient in warmer temperatures (90-95°F) and productive during summer. Examples include big bluestem, Indian grass, Bermuda grass, and switchgrass. Andy recommends using a mix of cool season and warm season grasses to ensure year-round forage availability. Perennial Grasses and Their Characteristics Andy discusses the characteristics of common perennial grasses, noting their suitability for different grazing animals and soil types. Some key examples include: Kentucky bluegrass: Tolerates low grazing, suitable for sheep and goats, not heat or drought tolerant. Orchard grass: Palatable, mixes well with legumes, spreads by seed only. Tall fescue: Resilient, heat and drought tolerant, suitable for sandy soils. Timothy: Tolerates heavy, wet soils, not heat or drought tolerant. Perennial ryegrass: Highly palatable, mixes well with legumes, short-lived. Nitrogen-Fixing Legumes The episode also covers common nitrogen-fixing legumes, emphasizing their role in soil fertility and forage diversity. Key examples include: Alfalfa: Deep-rooted, drought tolerant, prefers well-drained soils. Red clover: Short-lived perennial, heat and drought tolerant, reseeds readily. White clover: Spreads by rhizomes, less drought tolerant than red clover, prefers well-drained soils. Annuals in a Grazing System While acknowledging that most pasture acreage in the United States consists of perennial grasses and legumes, Andy suggests that annuals can play a role in specific situations: Pasture renovation: To break weed cycles or provide a seed bed for perennial forage. Biomass building: To increase soil organic matter. Dual-use: As both a cover crop and grazing forage. He cautions that the need to re-establish annuals each year can make them cost-prohibitive, especially in a post-collapse scenario where seed access might be limited. Practical Considerations for Pasture Establishment Andy emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation when establishing a pasture, recognizing that it's a multi-year process: Timing: Seeding in late summer is generally considered most successful, providing optimal conditions for seedling growth. Spring seeding is possible but faces challenges like weed competition and summer droughts. Soil pH: Maintaining a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is crucial for nutrient availability. Lime or wood ash can be used to adjust pH, but they require time to work. Soil testing: Understanding soil type and nutrient levels is essential for selecting appropriate forage species. Seeding depth and seed-to-soil contact: Proper seeding depth ensures successful germination. Legume inoculation: Adding rhizobia bacteria to legume seeds ensures nitrogen fixation. Nurse crops: Small grain species can provide protection for establishing forage seedlings but can also compete for resources. Pasture renovation: Improving soil fertility can often revitalize existing pastures without complete reseeding. Addressing Real-World Challenges Recognizing that many people might not have access to ideal pastureland, Andy shares his personal experience of transitioning a forested property with poor soil conditions into a productive grazing area. He outlines practical steps he took, including: Identifying suitable areas: Selecting sites with favorable soil and light conditions. Utilizing available resources: Burning wood for heat and using the ash to improve soil pH. Building soil biomass: Mulching leaf litter and planting cover crops like buckwheat, rye, snow peas, and hairy vetch. Thinning the forest: Increasing light penetration to the forest floor to support understory growth. Seeding with resilient species: Choosing grasses and clovers adapted to low pH or challenging soil conditions. Conclusion and Future Topics This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of establishing and managing grazing systems. It emphasizes the importance of: Understanding the ecological dynamics of pasture ecosystems. Planning and preparing the land for long-term success. Choosing appropriate plant and animal species. Adapting strategies to specific environmental conditions and resource limitations. The episode concludes by hinting at future topics, including: Pasture design and management systems. Fencing systems. Water management. The philosophical aspects of livestock integration. This episode equips listeners with a foundational understanding of grazing systems and encourages them to consider the multifaceted role of livestock in building resilient and sustainable food production systems.   For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

In this episode, we examine Peter Kropotkin's "The Conquest of Bread" to understand how work could function in a new society after a collapse. We begin by emphasizing the book's enduring relevance and accessibility. Although published in 1892, "The Conquest of Bread" offers valuable insights into how to transition to a new society after a significant disruption. We suggest that an anarchist framework is particularly suitable for fostering resilient communities during the turbulent post-collapse phase. Transitioning to a Stateless Society and Addressing Scarcity We then discuss Kropotkin's concept of the "transitory phase," the period of transition to a stateless society. Kropotkin argues that previous revolutions faltered because the working class feared scarcity during this period, and rural populations were wary of accepting potentially worthless currency. Successful transition hinges on urban populations reaching out to rural communities and establishing a gift economy to alleviate these fears. Ownership, Labor, and "Meaningful Work" We transition to Kropotkin's exploration of the history of work and our inherent rights to the products of labor. He posits that as inheritors of generations of labor, we possess the right to claim the fruits of that work. This leads to a critique of intellectual property and the arbitrary nature of ownership in the current system. We posit that capital ownership often originates from previous systems like feudalism. We dedicate a significant portion of the episode to "meaningful work" and its separation from wealth creation. Capitalism often manipulates labor through high unemployment and long working hours to benefit capitalists. This reinforces the class system, illustrated by the example of the aristocracy in "Downton Abbey," who argued that their wealth provided employment for the lower classes. We propose that a shift from wealth creation to meaningful work, even at the cost of economic efficiency, can lead to a better society and environment. Transitioning to meaningful work would involve moving away from tasks that don't benefit society, such as producing short-lived appliances like refrigerators. We believe that by focusing on tasks that genuinely contribute to the common good, such as regenerative agriculture, we can create a more fulfilling and sustainable society. Addressing Concerns about Laziness and Volunteer Work We address the capitalist fear that people will cease to work without wages, drawing on Kropotkin's counterarguments. He asserts that historical instances of emancipation, such as the abolition of slavery in the US and the liberation of serfs in Russia, did not lead to widespread idleness. We propose that people are inherently motivated to contribute meaningfully to society. It's essential to recognize that many individuals labeled as "lazy" may simply be misplaced or struggling due to systemic issues like inadequate education or poverty. Kropotkin emphasizes that people are more productive when they have autonomy and see a direct benefit from their labor. We suggest that a direct democracy, where individuals witness the impact of their work on their community, can foster a stronger work ethic. We also discuss the value of volunteer work, which Kropotkin highlights as a testament to people's willingness to work without financial incentives. Luxury in a Post-Capitalist Society We conclude by examining Kropotkin's idea that luxuries should be accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy. He argues that reduced working hours and collective production can make luxury goods available to all. We use the example of a collective of piano enthusiasts building pianos in their free time to illustrate this concept. We emphasize that a society where people prioritize intrinsic value over wealth creation would allow them to enjoy the process of their work and leisure activities without the constant pressure of turning everything into a profitable venture. We reflect on how our podcast, created out of passion rather than profit, embodies this principle. Concluding Thoughts and Looking Ahead We close by emphasizing the need to rethink our relationship with work and move away from a system where we exchange labor for basic survival. We believe that Kropotkin's ideas can guide us toward a more equitable and fulfilling future. We also express concern about the environmental damage caused by capitalism. The sources include an anecdote about polluted ponds in Massachusetts and a discussion of the unsustainability of offsetting carbon emissions. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This miniseries is focused on building practical, hands-on skills through basic knowledge sharing for prepping and other homesteading type skills to build sustainable communities through hands-on skills. This episode focuses on the basic functions and facets of prepping, from food storage to mental health. You can support this project by visiting us at Patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

This episode of the Poor Proles Almanac podcast explores the concept of community armed self-defense as a necessary component of building resilient and sustainable communities, particularly in the face of potential societal collapse. The hosts, Elliott and Andy, draw heavily on the book "Setting Sites: Histories and Reflections on Community Armed Self-Defense" by Scott Crow, which features a collection of essays and interviews exploring the historical and theoretical underpinnings of this concept. The episode begins by defining liberatory community armed self-defense as the collective and temporary act of taking up arms for defensive purposes, emphasizing that this action should be rooted in a larger framework of self-determination and guided by egalitarian principles. The hosts stress that this approach differs significantly from other forms of armed action, as it prioritizes power sharing, mutual aid, and non-violent conflict resolution as essential components of community defense. The hosts use several historical examples to illustrate the effectiveness of community armed self-defense in a variety of contexts. They discuss the Oka Crisis in Canada, where Mohawk communities successfully resisted attempts by the Canadian government to displace them from their land. The episode also examines the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, where armed community groups, including former Black Panthers and anarchists, stepped in to protect vulnerable populations from racist vigilante militias in the absence of adequate state support. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of dual power structures, where community defense efforts are intertwined with the development of alternative institutions such as food distribution networks, medical clinics, and independent media outlets. They argue that this holistic approach allows communities to not only defend themselves from external threats but also build self-sufficiency and autonomy. The episode concludes by highlighting the importance of training and education in both firearms use and non-violent conflict resolution for anyone considering participating in community self-defense efforts. The hosts underscore the need for a culture of responsibility and accountability within these groups, ensuring that the use of firearms remains a last resort and that the principles of self-determination and community empowerment are upheld. Purchase the book here: https://www.pmpress.org/index.php?l=product_detail&p=886 and you can follow scott crow on Twitter at @scott_crow For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Self-Defense, Community Organizing, Social Justice, Alternative Politics, Anti-Fascism, Disaster Preparedness, Resilience, Autonomy, Sustainability  

Critiquing "Fruit Tree Guilds" The episode takes a critical look at the popular concept of "fruit tree guilds," a permaculture technique that involves planting a central fruit or nut tree surrounded by beneficial companion plants. Andy expresses skepticism about the effectiveness of some companion planting methods, particularly those that claim to mimic natural ecosystems. He argues that selecting plants based solely on anecdotal evidence or "naturalist" principles can lead to unintended consequences, potentially harming the fruit tree's growth and productivity. Andy challenges the idea that planting diverse understory species, often from different regions, accurately replicates the complexity of natural forest ecosystems. He points out that true forest ecosystems evolve over long periods, with plant communities adapting to specific environmental conditions and forming intricate relationships. Introducing a random assortment of plants around a fruit tree may not create the desired symbiotic relationships and could even lead to competition for resources. Emphasizing Evidence-Based Practices Instead of relying on untested companion planting methods, Andy advocates for a more pragmatic approach based on scientific understanding and observation. He encourages listeners to: Focus on building healthy soil: This includes incorporating nitrogen-fixing plants like clover, alfalfa, or vetch to enrich the soil. He emphasizes the importance of choosing plants suited to the specific soil type and pH. Mimic natural processes: Andy suggests using methods like "chop and drop," where nutrient-rich plants like comfrey are cut back and used as mulch, mimicking the natural decomposition cycle of a forest floor. Maximize light access: He stresses the importance of proper fruit tree training and pruning to ensure adequate light penetration for both the tree and the understory plants. Consider the role of livestock: Andy highlights how integrating livestock, such as chickens, ducks, or goats, can contribute to soil health by controlling weeds, fertilizing the ground, and managing pests. He acknowledges the lack of extensive research on some permaculture practices, particularly those outside the realm of large-scale agriculture. He encourages listeners to critically evaluate the information they encounter, comparing scientific research with anecdotal evidence and traditional knowledge. Rejecting "One-Size-Fits-All" Solutions Andy emphasizes that there is no single "right" way to design a fruit tree guild. The best approach depends on individual goals, available resources, and the specific environmental context. He encourages experimentation and adaptability, recognizing that what works in one location may not be suitable for another. Balancing Practicality and Idealism The episode strikes a balance between the idealistic vision of permaculture and the practical realities of managing a food system. While acknowledging the limitations of some permaculture principles, Andy remains committed to the core values of sustainability, working with nature, and building resilient communities. Key Takeaways: Fruit tree guilds can be beneficial, but it's crucial to approach them with a critical and evidence-based mindset. Focus on building healthy soil, maximizing light access, and choosing plants suited to your specific environment. Don't be afraid to experiment and adapt your approach based on observation and results. Remember that creating a sustainable food system is an ongoing process of learning and adapting. This episode provides a nuanced perspective on fruit tree guilds, encouraging listeners to engage with the complexities of permaculture while embracing a pragmatic approach to building sustainable food systems.   For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of The Poor Proles Almanac focuses on the practical aspects of growing fruit trees, particularly in the context of prepping and food security. The host, Andy, emphasizes that the common approach to fruit trees, as seen in big box stores, often leads to disappointment and wasted resources. He critiques the prevailing mindset of treating fruit trees like grass, neglecting their specific needs. Instead, he advocates for a more holistic approach, understanding the nuances of different fruit tree varieties and their specific requirements for successful growth and fruiting. Andy introduces the concept of cultivars, explaining that fruit trees don't grow true from seed. To preserve the desired qualities of a specific variety, such as a Honeycrisp apple, the trees must be propagated through grafting. He explains that grafting involves joining the desired cultivar (scion) to a compatible rootstock. The episode then goes into detail about apple varieties, particularly their suitability for cider making. Andy explains the different categories of cider apples: bittersharp, bittersweet, sharp, and sweet. He discusses the characteristics of each category and their role in creating a balanced cider. He encourages listeners to explore heirloom apple varieties, especially crabapples, which are often well-suited for cider making. Andy then broadens the discussion to include other fruit trees, such as pears, peaches, nectarines, cherries, plums, and persimmons. He emphasizes the importance of selecting varieties that are suitable for the local climate and soil conditions. He also stresses the importance of considering the intended use of the fruit, whether it's for fresh eating, baking, or preservation. The episode provides detailed information about rootstocks, highlighting their crucial role in fruit tree management. He explains the difference between seedling rootstocks and clonally propagated rootstocks, emphasizing the advantages of the latter in terms of disease resistance and size control. Andy discusses the benefits of size regulation in fruit trees, even for those with larger properties. He explains that smaller trees are easier to manage, allowing for better light penetration and air circulation, which reduces disease and improves fruit quality. He also discusses various techniques for managing tree size, including training, pruning, espalier, girdling, site selection, deficit irrigation, and nitrogen management. The importance of light access for fruit production is emphasized, and the concept of leaf area index is introduced. Andy explains that maximizing leaf area, while ensuring sufficient light reaches all parts of the tree, is crucial for optimal fruit yield and quality. The episode then explores different training methods for fruit trees, including the three-tier system for apples, pears, and persimmons, and the open center system for stone fruits like peaches and plums. He explains how these training methods influence the tree's shape and ultimately its fruit production. Andy recommends planting trees with similar harvest dates together, even if they are different species, to facilitate cross-pollination and simplify harvesting. He shares his personal experience managing a diverse fruit tree orchard on his property, demonstrating the feasibility of creating a resilient and productive food system in a relatively small space. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to take steps towards food sovereignty and community resilience by growing their own food. He emphasizes that creating a sustainable food system doesn't require advanced technology but rather thoughtful planning, organization, and a willingness to work in harmony with nature. He reminds listeners that in the past, cities like New York City were able to feed their populations with locally grown food, and suggests that with the right approach, we can achieve similar levels of food self-sufficiency today. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of The Poor Proles Almanac podcast focuses on Catherine Tumber's book Small, Gritty, and Green: Reimagining the Urban Space. The hosts, Andy and Elliott, examine the book's central argument that smaller cities are uniquely positioned to implement sustainable urban development practices. They discuss Tumber's historical analysis of how American cities developed, emphasizing the role of the railway system in shaping urban centers and the subsequent rise of automobile-dependent suburbs. This historical context helps explain the current challenges facing cities, including suburban sprawl, the decline of regional cultures, and the lack of affordable, locally sourced food. The hosts highlight Tumber's concept of "form-based codes," which advocate for customized zoning and building regulations that cater to a city's unique architectural, economic, and environmental characteristics. They explore how these codes could facilitate the development of compact, walkable, mixed-use urban spaces, prioritizing public transportation and local resources. Andy and Elliott also discuss the importance of decentralizing food systems to enhance urban resilience. They cite a study that proposed sourcing a substantial portion of New York City's food from within 200 miles, emphasizing the logistical challenges and the need for a significant shift in agricultural practices. The conversation then shifts to the potential for repurposing existing infrastructure, particularly abandoned malls and declining suburban areas. The hosts discuss the concept of "agrihoods" or agricultural neighborhoods, where suburban lawns and vacant retail spaces are transformed into community gardens and food production centers. They envision these repurposed spaces as catalysts for fostering community engagement and enhancing local food security. Throughout the episode, Andy and Elliott emphasize the importance of challenging the prevailing capitalist mindset that prioritizes short-term profits over long-term sustainability. They argue that reimagining the urban space requires embracing community-oriented solutions, prioritizing local resources, and rethinking traditional notions of land ownership. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Keywords: Catherine Tumber, Small Cities, Suburban Sprawl, Monoculture, Complex Systems, Small, Gritty, and Green, 95 Corridor, Locavore, Main Street vs. Wall Street, Victory Gardens, Zoning, Robert Evans, It Could Happen Here