This archive brings together practical, experience-led articles from The Backyard Farmer, covering gardening, DIY, indoor growing, foraging, reviews, and sustainable living. Each post is written with real-world use in mind — focusing on working with nature, building practical skills, and making sustainable choices more accessible.
Why Grow Vegetables Under Artificial Light? Imagine harvesting fresh, crisp lettuce in the middle of winter, right from your living room. This might sound futuristic, but it’s quickly becoming a reality. Indoor gardening has surged by over 200% in the last five years, driven by
Introduction: Unlock the Secrets to a Thriving Indoor Vegetable Garden Imagine stepping into your home and being greeted by the sight of lush, green vegetables thriving in every corner, ready to be harvested and enjoyed. Indoor vegetable gardening not only brings the joy of fresh,
Introduction As someone who’s always had more plants than square footage, I’ve mastered the art of affordable indoor gardening. Whether you’re looking to save money or just love the idea of bringing the outdoors in, I’m here to show you how to do affordable indoor
Introduction Embarking on a zero waste journey can feel like a daunting task, especially when faced with the daily realities of a waste-heavy world. However, starting small can lead to significant changes over time. Whether you’re looking to reduce your environmental impact, simplify your life,
Introduction Ever wondered what vertical gardening is all about? It’s a method of growing plants in a vertical, stacked arrangement using containers, wall planters, or elaborate tower gardens. This clever technique is perfect for maximizing every inch of indoor environments with more wall space than
Willoughby’s Leaf Cutter Bee Identification: A Complete Guide Willoughby’s Leaf Cutter Bee (Megachile willughbiella) is a fascinating solitary bee species known for its unique nesting behavior and distinct appearance. Native to Europe, this bee is particularly skilled at cutting leaves to construct its nests, which
Red-girdled Mining Bee Identification: A Complete Guide The Red-girdled Mining Bee (Andrena labiata) is a distinctive and attractive solitary bee species native to Europe. Known for the striking red band that girdles its abdomen, this bee is one of the many species of mining bees
Introduction Dealing with pests indoors can be a real headache, but using harsh chemicals isn’t the only solution. In fact, natural indoor pest control methods are not only effective but also safer for your family, pets, and the environment. From herbal pest repellents to preventative
Small Carpenter Bee Identification: A Complete Guide The Small Carpenter Bee, scientifically known as Ceratina cyanea, is a small but significant solitary bee species commonly found in Europe. Known for its shiny, metallic appearance, this bee plays a vital role in pollination, particularly in gardens
Ashy Mining Bee Identification: A Complete Guide The Ashy Mining Bee (Andrena cineraria) is a solitary bee with distinctive black and white coloring. These bees are important pollinators found in gardens, meadows, and woodland edges across southern and central England. By learning how to identify
Tawny Mining Bee Identification: A Complete Guide The Tawny Mining Bee (Andrena fulva) is one of the most distinctive solitary bees in the UK. Known for its reddish-brown fur, this ground-nesting bee is a valuable pollinator in gardens, meadows, and woodlands. Learning how to identify
Introduction Imagine finding a sanctuary right in your urban jungle—a place where stress melts away, and happiness blooms alongside your flowers. Gardening isn’t just about cultivating plants; it’s about nurturing your mental health! With the growing concern of eco-anxiety, a chronic fear of environmental collapse,