IUrbanFarm

02/16/2026

08/29/2025

Land bank information

Learn what a land bank is, how it works, how to buy vacant property from a land bank, and if any land banks serve your community.

06/01/2025

05/26/2025

02/05/2025

Good morning did you know comfrey is a great herb to use.

# # # **What is Comfrey?**
Comfrey (*Symphytum officinale*) is a perennial herb traditionally used for healing wounds, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pain. It contains compounds like allantoin, which promotes cell growth, and rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

# # # **Uses of Comfrey**
1. **Topical Applications (External Use Only)**
- *Comfrey Salve or Ointment*: Helps heal bruises, sprains, and minor wounds.
- *Poultice*: Useful for swelling, arthritis pain, or bruises.
- *Compress*: Soothes back pain, joint inflammation, or skin conditions.

2. **Gardening Use**
- As a fertilizer or mulch: Comfrey leaves are rich in potassium and can be used to improve soil fertility.
- Compost booster: Speeds up decomposition when added to compost piles.

# # # **How to Prepare and Use Comfrey**
1. **Comfrey Salve**
- **Ingredients:** Dried comfrey leaves, olive oil, beeswax
- **Instructions:**
1. Infuse the dried comfrey leaves in olive oil for 2-4 weeks.
2. Strain the oil and heat it gently with beeswax until melted.
3. Pour into a jar and let it cool before use.

2. **Comfrey Poultice**
- **Instructions:**
1. Chop fresh comfrey leaves or crush dried leaves.
2. Mix with a bit of water to form a paste.
3. Spread on a clean cloth and apply to the affected area for 15-20 minutes.

3. **Comfrey Tea (For Gardening, NOT Consumption)**
- **Instructions:**
1. Fill a container with chopped comfrey leaves.
2. Cover with water and let sit for 2-3 weeks, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain and dilute the liquid (1:10 ratio) before using as a fertilizer.

# # # **Safety Note**
- **Do Not Ingest:** Comfrey contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can cause liver damage if consumed.
- **Skin Use Caution:** Avoid using on deep wounds as it may promote surface healing before internal!

01/31/2025

**Creating a Sustainable Lifestyle: How to Get Started**

Living a sustainable lifestyle is more than a trend—it's a conscious choice to reduce your environmental footprint, promote healthier living, and contribute to the well-being of future generations. Transitioning to a greener lifestyle can seem overwhelming at first, but small, intentional steps can make a lasting impact. Here's how to get started:

# # # 1. **Evaluate Your Current Lifestyle**
Start by assessing your daily habits. Where is there room for improvement? Pay attention to areas such as energy consumption, food waste, water usage, and shopping patterns. Understanding your current practices will help identify meaningful changes.

# # # 2. **Reduce, Reuse, Recycle**
- **Reduce:** Limit unnecessary purchases and choose quality over quantity.
- **Reuse:** Opt for reusable products like water bottles, shopping bags, and storage containers.
- **Recycle:** Familiarize yourself with local recycling guidelines and separate your waste accordingly.

# # # 3. **Embrace Energy Efficiency**
- Switch to energy-efficient LED light bulbs.
- Unplug electronics when not in use.
- Consider installing a smart thermostat to regulate heating and cooling.
- Explore solar energy options if feasible.

# # # 4. **Practice Sustainable Eating**
- Eat seasonally and locally when possible to reduce your food’s carbon footprint.
- Support farmers' markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.
- Reduce meat consumption and try plant-based meals.
- Compost food scraps to create rich soil for gardening.

# # # 5. **Conserve Water**
- Fix leaks and install water-saving faucets.
- Use rain barrels to collect water for outdoor use.
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth.
- Consider drought-tolerant plants for landscaping.

# # # 6. **Adopt Green Transportation Habits**
- Walk, bike, or carpool when possible.
- Use public transportation.
- Maintain your vehicle to ensure it operates efficiently.
- Explore electric or hybrid vehicle options if feasible.

# # # 7. **Grow Your Own Food**
Starting a small garden can provide fresh produce, reduce grocery bills, and contribute to food security. Even if space is limited, container gardening or vertical gardens can work wonders. Hydroponics is also a fantastic option for growing food sustainably year-round.

# # # 8. **Support Ethical and Sustainable Brands**
Research and support companies that prioritize sustainability, fair labor practices, and eco-friendly packaging. Choose products made from renewable or recycled materials.

# # # 9. **Get Involved in the Community**
Join local clean-up events, sustainability workshops, or conservation groups. Connecting with others can inspire you to maintain your sustainable journey.

# # # 10. **Stay Educated and Flexible**
Sustainability is a continuous learning process. Stay informed about new practices, technologies, and ideas. Be open to adjusting your habits as needed.

**Final Thoughts:**
Creating a sustainable lifestyle doesn’t happen overnight, but each small change you make contributes to a healthier planet and a better quality of life. Start with what feels manageable, and remember that your efforts—no matter how small—make a difference.

How will you start your journey toward sustainability? Share your thoughts and inspire others to take action!

Let’s get started with some herbs you can grow inside and in water