Recent articles by Simon Webster
![Making the most of solar panels Panels can work whichever way your roof is facing but get advice to make sure you can maximise power production.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/OG 149 renewable energy update_iStock-500x500.jpg)
Making the most of solar panels
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Solar panels on your mind (and your roof)? Here's some tips to keep them providing you with the energy you need.
![Benefits of compost loos Compost loos are very basic but easy to maintain.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Compost loo_Simon Webster-500x500.jpg)
Benefits of compost loos
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Simon Webster answers questions about compost loos, such as why would you want one?
![Prefab houses: great for the environment and our housing crisis? The Our FabHaus prefabricated design by John Tallis is Passivhaus certified, a rigorous standard for energy efficiency in building.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/OG 146 Prefab_Our FabHaus-500x500.jpg)
Prefab houses: great for the environment and our housing crisis?
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Contructing homes offsite can be great for the environment and a huge time saver. Could it also solve some of Australia's housing problems?
![Prefab housing for the future The Our FabHaus prefabricated design by John Tallis is Passivehaus certified.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Our FabHaus by Tallis Architecture-500x500.jpg)
Prefab housing for the future
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Constructing homes offsite can be great for the environment and a huge time saver. Could prefab housing be the chosen way to build in the future?
![The war on waste continues Craig Reucassel points out that we can change the amount of food waste we generate.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/OG 143_Craig Reucassel_ABC-500x500.jpg)
The war on waste continues
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War on Waste host Craig Reucassel talks with Simon Webster about the show’s third season, the progress that's been made and challenges still ahead.
![Life in an off-grid small home Life in an off-grid small home](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/no-image.png)
Life in an off-grid small home
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This couple wanted to go off-grid so decided to build their own tiny house in the country, and we can learn from their experience.
![Does your soil pass the test? Elemental sulfur corrects sulfur deficiencies and lowers soil pH.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Sulfur for soil by Phil Dudman_web-500x500.jpg)
Does your soil pass the test?
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Knowing which nutrients are in short supply (or oversupplied) can help you take a more targeted approach to fertilisers that you add to your soil.
![A growing community The garden at Charnwood consists of 45 individual plots.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/OG 140 Community garden_Canberra Organic Growers Society-500x500.jpg)
A growing community
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This group of community gardens has been going for more than 50 years. Simon Webster asks what's their secret to success.
![Build your own garden bed You can repurpose old bricks to build your raised beds.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/OG 139 raised beds_Kirsten Bresciani_web-500x500.jpg)
Build your own garden bed
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A raised bed can look great and be incredibly useful, providing a neat, contained space in which to grow your vegies, writes Simon Webster. All it takes is some planning and the right materials.
![How to get started with ethical investing There's a growing awareness about responsible and ethical investing.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/iStock-1326822043-500x500.png)
How to get started with ethical investing
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Do you want to invest your money ethically? Simon Webster shares how to get started.
![Cucumber: a salad essential 'Gympie Gold' cucumber.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/'Gympie Gold' cucumber by Gap Photos Tim Gainey-500x500.jpg)
Cucumber: a salad essential
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Simon Webster loves fresh cucumbers straight from his garden! His tips will help you grow this summer salad essential.
![Going off-grid Installing solar panels.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Solar panels_Michael Mobbs-500x350.jpg)
Going off-grid
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Simon Webster investigates what it means to go ‘off-grid’, and what’s feasible.
![The future is organic The future is organic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Organigro-500x500.jpg)
The future is organic
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In 2019 Organic Gardener celebrated its 20th anniversary with a look at the origins of the movement here in Australia, as well as profiles of successful organic business.
![Ethical investing Ethical investing](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/iStock-618557356_ethical-500x500.jpg)
Ethical investing
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How can ethical investing practices such as divestment from fossil fuels help you and the world?
![Make your home an eco-friendly haven Make your home an eco-friendly haven](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Ecoreno_butterfly_amorfo-500x500.jpg)
Make your home an eco-friendly haven
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Renovations large and small can make your home a more eco-efficient, healthier and happier place. SIMON WEBSTER finds out how.
![In conversation with… Michael Ableman](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Michael Ableman-500x500.jpg)
In conversation with…
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Simon Webster chats with organic farmer and author Michael Ableman about the healing power of growing food.
![How to save seeds Saving leek seeds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/CTG7DB-500x500.jpg)
How to save seeds
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As seed company ownership tightens, now's the time to learn how to save your own seed writes Simon Webster.
![When more is less More or less space?](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Plot 99 Tanya Cooper OG Inner West_FINAL[1]-500x500.jpg)
When more is less
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The more the land, the more ambitious Simon Webster’s gardening vision became.
![The accidental gardener Surprise potato](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/OG_surprise potato_final_22[1]-500x500.jpg)
The accidental gardener
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Simon Webster cottons on to a new way of gardening – expect the unexpected – at Plot Farm.
![Coffee: grow, harvest, process Coffee cherries ripe for picking](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/DSC_6694-500x500.jpg)
Coffee: grow, harvest, process
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Yes, you can grow coffee in Australia. Simon Webster explores the growing, harvesting and processing of coffee.
![Biochar explained Mobile biochar kiln](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/B1 - BYRON BIOCHAR 006-500x372.jpg)
Biochar explained
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Simon Webster investigates biochar and reveals Peter Cundall's method for making it.
![Bite into watermelons Watermelon crop](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Watermelon620x3503-500x350.jpg)
Bite into watermelons
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Get sticky exploring the world of watermelons with Simon Webster, who names his top choices for your patch.
![Say no to plastic bags Plastic is a massive environmental problem.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Plastic pollution_istock-500x350.jpg)
Say no to plastic bags
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Plastic bags are a whale of a problem for the environment, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![The truth about glyphosate how safe is glyphosate?](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/glyphosate-500x500.jpg)
The truth about glyphosate
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It is a globally used herbicide but the UK Soil Association is questioning its safety, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![Holmgren on tour David Holmgren](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/David Holmgren-2008032364-500x500.jpg)
Holmgren on tour
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Permaculture co-founder is taking his ‘Survive and Thrive’ tour on the road, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Organic farmer loses landmark GM case Organic farmer loses landmark GM case](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Blog2.jpg)
Organic farmer loses landmark GM case
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WA Supreme Court’s decision is a big blow for the organic movement, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Pesticides plummet on organic diet Pesticides plummet on organic diet](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Carrots_166672636 free istock-500x500.jpg)
Pesticides plummet on organic diet
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An organic diet can quickly get rid of pesticides in the body, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Rhubarb power Rhubarb and mulch](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/mulch rhubarb sw copy-500x500.jpg)
Rhubarb power
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Plant molecules may solve a puzzle for the renewable energy industry, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Organic farms boost biodiversity Organic farms boost biodiversity](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/DSC_5089-500x500.jpg)
Organic farms boost biodiversity
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Organic farming has great benefits for wildlife, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![How to grow giant, juicy watermelons How to grow giant, juicy watermelons](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/watermelon-500x500.jpg)
How to grow giant, juicy watermelons
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An unfeasibly large melon puts a smile on SIMON WEBSTER’s face.
![Learn farming skills Alpaca shearing](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Alpaca_no_ropes-500x500.jpg)
Learn farming skills
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A series of workshops in Sydney aims to give permaculture students some hands-on rural know-how, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![How to grow greens in summer Greens in netted bed](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/DSC_5998-500x500.jpg)
How to grow greens in summer
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A bit of shade makes a world of difference, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Teachers get help with organic gardens Australian Organic Program school garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Australian Organic Schools program-500x500.jpg)
Teachers get help with organic gardens
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Teachers can download a free guide to educating students about growing their own food, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Chefs hop to it Chefs hop to it](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/vegetable grasshopper with coleus leaf-500x500.jpg)
Chefs hop to it
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Grasshoppers are on the menu as insect-eating catches on, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Artists in bloom Artists in bloom](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Reitze Jo Cloudehill in Summer_-500x500.jpg)
Artists in bloom
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Gardens and plants are the subject of a new art exhibition, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Snap to it Snap to it](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2603_Jokinen-500x500.jpg)
Snap to it
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There are only days left to enter the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![The world according to permaculture The world according to permaculture](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/permie_global_grab-500x286.jpg)
The world according to permaculture
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Permaculture inspiration from around the world is available online, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![Sustainable House Day Sustainable House Day](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/front 3-500x500.jpg)
Sustainable House Day
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Here’s a chance to visit an eco-friendly home near you, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Pesticide residues in wines Glass of wine](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/123459307-500x500.jpg)
Pesticide residues in wines
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In the Nov/Dec 2013 issue of Organic Gardener, there is an article by SIMON WEBSTER on organic wine which pointed to more information on wine pesticide residues. Here it is:
![Talking green business David Suzuki](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/David_Suzuki-500x455.jpg)
Talking green business
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Do capitalism and sustainability go together? David Suzuki may have the answer, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Make your own compost tea brewer Compost tea brewer](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/CT NEW 2-500x500.jpg)
Make your own compost tea brewer
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SIMON WEBSTER follows step-by-step plans to build his own brewer.
![How to make compost tea Adding compost to tea bag](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/C7 adding compost to tea bag-500x500.jpg)
How to make compost tea
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In the March/April 2012 issue of Organic Gardener magazine, SIMON WEBSTER investigates how to make a successful brew of compost tea: the essence of organic farming and gardening. Plus he provides a step-by-step guide to building your own brewer.
![Book Review: Down-to-Earth Garden Design Down to Earth Garden Design by Phil Dudman](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Down to Earth Garden design copy-500x500.jpeg)
Book Review: Down-to-Earth Garden Design
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SIMON WEBSTER reviews Phil Dudman’s guide to garden design.
![When should I replace my rooster? When should I replace my rooster?](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/CHOOKS-173 copy 2-500x500.jpg)
When should I replace my rooster?
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Roosters can only perform at peak levels for so long, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Chickens in nappies Chicken in purple nappy](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Chicken_Nappies-500x500.jpg)
Chickens in nappies
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At last, you can invite chooks into the house without worrying about the carpet (well, apart from the scratching), SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Chicken breeds on show Chicken breeds on show](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/CHOOKS_620px-500x289.jpg)
Chicken breeds on show
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The best of more than 100 chook breeds are going on display in Melbourne, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Happy as a chook out of mud Happy as a chook out of mud](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/DSC_5385_620px-500x289.jpg)
Happy as a chook out of mud
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It’s important to make your chicken shed waterproof, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Fruit flies buzzing on organic diet Fruit flies buzzing on organic diet](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Drosophila_melanogaster-500x289.jpg)
Fruit flies buzzing on organic diet
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Fruit flies fed organic food are healthier than those fed more conventional food.
![Seed savers take a stand Seed-sharing station](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/seed-sharing-station_620px-500x289.jpg)
Seed savers take a stand
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Sharing seeds has never been easier, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![We’ve got the power We’ve got the power](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/iStock_000010059845Medium-500x289.jpg)
We’ve got the power
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As households continue to embrace solar panels, scientists have shown that Australia could run on 100 per cent renewable power, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![All the dirt on the Emmys All the dirt on the Emmys](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/cate_34cm_RGB-500x280.jpg)
All the dirt on the Emmys
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The Aussie gardening show for kids, dirtgirlworld, is up for an Emmy, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Climate change causes angry summer Climate change causes angry summer](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/The-Angry-Summer-Map small-500x289.jpg)
Climate change causes angry summer
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Recent extreme weather is a taste of things to come, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Premature alpaca survives storm Frank the cria](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/IMG_1937-500x318.jpg)
Premature alpaca survives storm
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An untimely arrival has a tricky start to life, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Organic farming and mining go head-to-head Organic farming and mining go head-to-head](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Lock_the_gate-500x350.jpg)
Organic farming and mining go head-to-head
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There’s good news and bad news in the forecasts for this year’s fastest growing industries, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Weeds are the final straw for CSIRO Weeds are the final straw for CSIRO](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/csiro weed mat-500x400.jpg)
Weeds are the final straw for CSIRO
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Scientists have come up with a weed mat that biodegrades and improves soil, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Josh tackles 10-star homes Josh tackles 10-star homes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/josh byrne-500x500.jpg)
Josh tackles 10-star homes
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Josh Byrne has started a bold new building project, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Organic farming takes on climate change Organic farming takes on climate change](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/organic farming carbon pic-500x450.jpg)
Organic farming takes on climate change
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Organic methods and mixed farming practices sequester carbon in soil, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Malay hen is on her game Malay hen is on her game](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DSC_5473-500x398.jpg)
Malay hen is on her game
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A hen from a much-maligned breed is proving a great surrogate mum, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Organics growing up Organics growing up](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Mook1_p14_620px-500x350.jpg)
Organics growing up
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Certified organics is becoming increasingly mainstream, but there is a downside, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Enter the Kingdom of Plants Enter the Kingdom of Plants](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Kingdom of Plants promo pic-500x383.jpg)
Enter the Kingdom of Plants
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David Attenborough is still making all the right noises, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Waste not want not Waste not want not](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/25390.jpeg.644x0_q100_crop-smart-500x500.jpg)
Waste not want not
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Food wastage has been an issue for a long time, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Permaculture: the musical Permaculture: the musical](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/charlieukehirescropped-500x364.jpg)
Permaculture: the musical
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It was only a matter of time before ukeleles and hip-hop made the Organic Gardener website, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Arctic ice melt Arctic ice melt](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/680891main_seaIceArea_08262012-orig_full-500x337.jpg)
Arctic ice melt
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Sea ice is retreating faster than expected, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Tomatoes are smarter than you think Tomatoes are smarter than you think](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/iStock tomatoes-500x360.jpg)
Tomatoes are smarter than you think
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Plants have abilities we can only dream of, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Wine grape grower tastes success Wine grape grower tastes success](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Sam2 HR-500x400.jpg)
Wine grape grower tastes success
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It’s official: organic grape and olive grower, Sam Statham, is a pioneer, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Organic tomatoes are better for you Organic tomatoes are better for you](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/OG_291111_0062-500x500.jpg)
Organic tomatoes are better for you
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Not only do organic tomatoes taste better, but they might make you live longer too, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Organics rule in remote kingdom Organics rule in remote kingdom](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Blog3.jpg)
Organics rule in remote kingdom
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Bhutan has unveiled another wildly progressive policy, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Gardening as a renter Gardening as a renter](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/digga-500x389.jpg)
Gardening as a renter
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The fact that you are renting needn’t put you off growing food, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Give that grower a gong Give that grower a gong](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Blog4-500x500.jpg)
Give that grower a gong
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Several awards are up for grabs for Australia’s best and brightest organic producers, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Fridge-free life is cool Fridge-free life is cool](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/jihyun ryou-500x325.jpg)
Fridge-free life is cool
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A Korean artist has pulled the plug on refrigeration, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Permaculture party goes global Permaculture party goes global](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/permablitz-500x450.jpg)
Permaculture party goes global
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Aussies are celebrating permaculture on Sunday, and the world has caught on, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Permaculture Providers Graham and Annemarie Brookman in their market garden at The Food Forest.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/OrganicGardener291111-3526-500x410.jpg)
Permaculture Providers
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Annemarie and Graham Brookman have spent 30 years creating a remarkable permaculture property near the Barossa Valley that produces more than 160 varieties of fruit, vegetables and nuts, and provides a working model for sustainable living, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![Rules of attraction Rules of attraction](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/butterfly_3-500x500.jpg)
Rules of attraction
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SIMON WEBSTER investigates how to attract butterflies and their role in the garden.
![Masanobu Fukuoka’s spiritual revolution Masanobu Fukuoka’s spiritual revolution](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/masanobu-500x366.jpg)
Masanobu Fukuoka’s spiritual revolution
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SIMON WEBSTER looks at a legendary Japanese farmer in action.
![New Guinea bean keeps its cool New Guinea bean keeps its cool](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/new guinea bean-500x398.jpg)
New Guinea bean keeps its cool
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SIMON WEBSTER finds a plant with many names that loves the subtropics.
![Using a fan to dry garlic Garlic fan](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/garlic fan-500x398.jpg)
Using a fan to dry garlic
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After harvesting garlic in the wet, SIMON WEBSTER needs help drying it out.
![Farmers’ markets producing the goods Farmers’ markets producing the goods](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/markey.hanka 163-500x401.jpg)
Farmers’ markets producing the goods
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Despite the power of supermarkets, the alternatives are going strong, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Ethical threads One of India Flint’s natural dye dresses.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/C5---p.195-violett-flint-500x500.jpg)
Ethical threads
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The environmental impacts of cotton production have been known for years, but the conventional textile industry remains plagued with problems that affect farmers and consumers, writes SIMON WEBSTER. Plus, an extract from a new book on ethical clothing by India Flint.
![Time-lapse plants grow on you Time-lapse plants grow on you](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/time lapse-500x371.jpg)
Time-lapse plants grow on you
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Watching footage of plants can make your own life disappear, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Early fruit and a map of climate change Early fruit and a map of climate change](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/warming world map-500x457.jpg)
Early fruit and a map of climate change
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Native tees are fruiting ever earlier in Britain, and a map may illustrate why, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Small fish in a big pond Small fish in a big pond](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/silver perch-500x398.jpg)
Small fish in a big pond
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At last, there are fish in the dam, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![One plucky ducky One plucky ducky](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/duckling chooks wide-500x337.jpg)
One plucky ducky
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A new arrival is welcomed by not one, but two, surrogate mums, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Organic pioneer calls it a day Organic pioneer calls it a day](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/landline tractor-500x337.jpg)
Organic pioneer calls it a day
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Retiring sheep and wheat farmer Alan Druce was organic well ahead of his time, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Homemade organic sprays to kill aphids on garlic Soap and oil spray on garlic aphids](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/aphids spray-500x398.jpg)
Homemade organic sprays to kill aphids on garlic
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The sap-sucking pests didn't know what hit them, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![Beautiful by design Striking stonework and hedging provides order and beauty.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/2-vegie-beds-and-stonework-from-above-500x500.jpg)
Beautiful by design
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Garden designer Steve Hailstone has combined beauty and functionality to create a wonderfully productive property, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![Cubbies too cool for school Cubbies too cool for school](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/cool cubbies pic 2-500x225.jpg)
Cubbies too cool for school
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Cool Cubbies are enough to make big kids green with envy, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Broccoli harvest is a net gain Broccoli and net](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DSC_4696-500x398.jpg)
Broccoli harvest is a net gain
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Simon Webster celebrates a win over the caterpillars.
![Australia to get first biochar plant Australia to get first biochar plant](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/biochar in hands-500x401.jpg)
Australia to get first biochar plant
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Biochar could be good news for farmers, gardeners and our climate, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Wildlife atlas lives up to billing Wildlife atlas lives up to billing](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/atlas grab-500x500.jpg)
Wildlife atlas lives up to billing
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The Atlas of Living Australia tells you all about what's crawling, flying and growing in your neighbourhood, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![Vegie grower avoids jail Vegie grower avoids jail](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/OakPark,jpg-500x400.jpg)
Vegie grower avoids jail
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Media attention and public outrage means gardener won’t go to prison after all, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Korea opens organic museum Namyangju Organic Museum](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/organic museum-500x423.jpg)
Korea opens organic museum
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At last, there’s a museum that takes vegie growing seriously, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Dirty Dozen list isn’t dinky-di Dirty Dozen list isn't dinky-di](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/cucumber-500x398.jpg)
Dirty Dozen list isn’t dinky-di
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Australians shouldn’t read too much into pesticide residue figures from the US, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Football club gives chemicals the boot Football club gives chemicals the boot](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DSC_4530-500x398.jpg)
Football club gives chemicals the boot
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Groundsmen bung on the dung to give the environment a sporting chance, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Peak oil has ‘already happened’ Jerry cans](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/jerry cans-500x398.jpg)
Peak oil has ‘already happened’
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Energy industry experts fear the worst, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Swale maintenance Simon Websters shows us how to maintain a permaculture swale](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/craigfoodforest-500x398.jpg)
Swale maintenance
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SIMON WEBSTER gives the fruit trees in his permaculture food forest some much-needed tender loving care.
![Brits at home among the gum trees The British Museum sets up an Australian landscape](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/pathdelivery3-500x450.jpg)
Brits at home among the gum trees
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You can almost hear the kookaburras in central London, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Unmulched corn takes a battering Corn flattened by wind](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/flattened corn-500x398.jpg)
Unmulched corn takes a battering
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Mulch proves just champion in a storm, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Permaculture in the Middle East Jordan Wadi Rum herding](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/jordan_wadi_rum_herding-500x400.jpg)
Permaculture in the Middle East
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Jordan will soon play host to permaculture designers from around the world, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![How to grow the three sisters: part 4 The eldest sister, sweetcorn, is stealing the limelight from the snake beans and](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DSC_3970-500x398.jpg)
How to grow the three sisters: part 4
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The eldest sister, sweetcorn, is stealing the limelight from the snake beans and watermelon in SIMON WEBSTER's three sisters experiment.
![The pros and cons of mulching The pros and cons of mulching](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DSC_3917-500x398.jpg)
The pros and cons of mulching
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Nothing is perfect – not even mulch – writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![How to grow the three sisters: part 3 Simon Webster wards of rats from attacking his organic crops, and succeeds!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/snakebeansandcornforblog-500x398.jpg)
How to grow the three sisters: part 3
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The rats have been seen off, for now, and all three sisters are growing, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Giant Russian cucumbers live up to their name Simon Webster proudly shows of his giant cucumbers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/giant russians for blog-500x398.jpg)
Giant Russian cucumbers live up to their name
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SIMON WEBSTER shows off some recently harvested giant cucumbers.
![Salad greens that survive the wet Salad greens that survive the wet](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/AmaranthMekongRed2-500x446.jpg)
Salad greens that survive the wet
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Choosing the right plants is crucial to producing food during a wet summer, says SIMON WEBSTER.
![How to grow the three sisters: part 2 Simon Webster has planted seedlings to expedite the growing process.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/sweetcornseedlings-500x384.jpg)
How to grow the three sisters: part 2
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It’s time for plan B in the attempt the grow the classic three sisters, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![How to grow the three sisters: corn, beans and melon A classic permaculture companion planting combo is corns, beans and melons](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3sistersbed-500x398.jpg)
How to grow the three sisters: corn, beans and melon
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Corn, beans and melons are classic permaculture best friends, SIMON WEBSTER hopes.
![Horseflies up close Horsefly](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/horse fly-500x399.jpg)
Horseflies up close
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Insects are beautiful, except when they’re biting you, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![Good soil health on the cards Testing the quality of the soil](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/forrest1-500x398.jpg)
Good soil health on the cards
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A coathanger and a piece of fencing wire are among the tools used in this clever soil testing kit, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Organic farming can feed the world Rodale researches argue that organic farming methods produce higher yields.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DSC_2551-500x398.jpg)
Organic farming can feed the world
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A 30-year study shows organic farming systems can outperform conventional farming, contributing to a more sustainable future reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Evergreen in Africa Evergreen in Africa](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/4Faidherbia-500x500.jpg)
Evergreen in Africa
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Farmers are interplanting legume trees and maize with impressive results, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Food Inc – organics and how to reduce our environmental cancer risk Rob Bauer ditched chemicals for organic farming to save his health.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/FoodInc_JoelHD-1-500x500.jpg)
Food Inc – organics and how to reduce our environmental cancer risk
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The case for organic food to improve health and reduce our exposure to cancer risks is at last being pitched at high levels. Rob Bauer ditched chemicals for organic farming to save his health.
![Seed saviour Seed saviour](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Shiva-500x450.jpg)
Seed saviour
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An Indian woman who gave up nuclear physics to become a seedsaver and campaigner has won the 2010 Sydney Peace Prize, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Breath of fresh air Breath of fresh air](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/no-image.png)
Breath of fresh air
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Clean air does exist, and scientists have bottled it, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Peas and harmony Peas and harmony](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/peaswale-500x397.jpg)
Peas and harmony
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A cover crop has provided an unexpected bounty, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Straw poll Straw poll](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/strawb-500x398.jpg)
Straw poll
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Organic strawberries have impressed researchers in the US, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
Compost countdown
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There’s still time to have your say about compost, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Food for thought Food for thought](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/bluekleeks1-500x431.jpg)
Food for thought
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A feast of stimulating food stories can be found online, reports SIMON WEBSTER.
![Solo effort Solo effort](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Mook1_p115_620px-500x350.jpg)
Solo effort
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Don’t despair: individuals’ actions can have an effect on climate change, SIMON WEBSTER reports.
![Green but keen Green but keen](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Greenhorns_in_USA-500x350.jpg)
Green but keen
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American activists are doing their best to get young people on the land and farming sustainably, writes SIMON WEBSTER.
![Sweet Success Sweet Success](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/SAMS-1--P1010002-500x500.jpg)
Sweet Success
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Craig Sams was a pioneer of the natural food movement in the ’60s, going on to establish the most successful organic chocolate company in the UK. He talks to SIMON WEBSTER about food, business and gardening.