The Farm Journal

Heritage Farm specializes in the conservation of heritage garden seed and plants in northwestern Alberta. Through our extension program, growers learn about cold climate permaculture, regenerative agriculture, pollinator health and nursery crop production. Check out upcoming workshop dates here:

The heirloom seeds that we use and recommend in our workshops are the hardiest varieties from over 25 years of northern applied research trials on our farm. A majority of these seed varieties have been handed down from generation to generation right here in the Canadian Prairies. 

This is the time of year that we look forward to foraging for newly emerged buds of the Balsam Poplar of northwestern Canada. The essence of spring in a jar, the resin of the buds are infused with a carrier oil and beeswax to create a botanical salve that has been used as an anti-inflamatory and antibacterial topical treatment for generations. 

Kids love to garden too and what better way to help them learn about pollinators, seeds and nature than hands on in fresh soil. One of the best memories I have of gardening with the kids was starting seeds or painting clay pots to start their own flower gardens.

Learning to start your own tomato plants from seed is not as hard as you think. The trick is to mimic nature, the seeds and plants already know what to do.

Companion Plantings like 'the 3 sisters' includes growing corn, beans and squash together. This is a great example of the symbiotic relationship between companions. Check out the Heritage Farm Companion Planting resource to help map out your garden on paper before you plant.

It’s the simple things that we remember. Not the gifts, not the glitter, not the parties or the packages. It’s the special moments with family and friends. Wishing you and your family a wonderful Old Fashion Christmas.