Harrowsmith is still the reliable go-to for gardeners, weekend carpenters, homesteaders, hobby farmers and urban dwellers with romantic fantasies of country life. Harrowsmith publishes four issues a year in conjunction with the seasons--three print issues and a summer digital exclusive.
Editor’s Note
Publisher’s Letter
Harrowsmith
Earth Month Ambassador
Defrosting
PEOPLE, PLACES, THINGS
Celestial Spring • This season’s skies reveal a bounty of constellations, from Leo the Lion to the Virgo cluster of galaxies. Ditch the parka, grab your telescope and witness the beauty the warmer nights have to offer!
When Spring Comes Too Soon • For many of us, the warmer weather can’t arrive soon enough. But premature warm temperatures can wreak havoc on nature.
Imagining the Possibilities • Dan Needles, author/playwright of the popular Wingfield Farm series and contributor to Harrowsmith magazine from 1997 to 2011, chats about his newest book, and why he finds country life so darn funny.
And the winner is...
10 Best Flowers to Grow Right Now • From the aforementioned Flower of the Year (see previous page) to one of the most popular pollinators, this list has something for everyone, regardless of the colour of your thumb or size of your garden (or even lack thereof).
Growing Garlic • April is National Garlic Month, and we couldn't think of a better way to celebrate the beloved vegetable (Allium sativum is an edible plant with a bulb, stem and leaves) than to ensure your garden – and therefore your kitchen – will have a robust supply arriving this year.
Five Showstopping Spring Bulb Combinations • Combine spring flowering bulbs with other plants to create a beautiful display.
Are Lawns “Green”? • Mark and Ben Cullen explain why – and how – you can have a lawn and be kind to the planet, too.
Merry Meringue
Mussels 3 Ways • Savour the exquisite flavours of Moules Martini with white wine and garlic, indulge in rich and creamy Masala Coconut Curry Mussels, or delight your taste buds with a zesty Spanish twist in the form of Chorizo and Tomato-Infused Mussel. PLUS: How to buy and store these coastal bivalves.
Garlic Galore • Young (aka ‘green’) garlic can be found at farmer’s markets for a very short time, so grab it if you can! Bob Blumer shares his two favourite GG recipes.
Breakfast for One • When we reached out to Laura Keogh, cookbook author and food expert on Global’s “The Morning Show,” we tasked her with sharing a few of her favourite recipes from her website, www.sweetpotatochronicles.com, that we could make for a special occasion this spring. Her thoughts immediately went to two things: her mom and breakfast in bed. With Mother’s Day right around the corner, we couldn’t be more thankful for the great gift idea, but some of us won’t be waiting until May to make these delectable treats.
Egg Nod • Why every day is a good day for eggs.
Springtime at Struisvogel Ranch
Question: What are the Must-Have Cordless Power Tools for Serious DIYers?
The Tiny House Spirit • Four insights for overcoming Canada’s housing shortage for yourself
Smart Home Style • The concept of a “smart home” has become more than just a tech-savvy trend; it’s a gateway to a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. As we strive to reduce our carbon footprint and create a greener future, the integration of smart technologies into our homes emerges as a promising solution.
Travel as Nature Intended
Springtime in BRIGHTON, ON • Nestled on the northern shores of Lake Ontario about two hours east of Toronto, this picturesque village is one of those small towns that makes you feel right at home.
Oh, the places you’ll go • How one Canadian adventurist turned her love of...