Friday, September 25, 2026

Around the Table

Discover why dandelions were prized for centuries as herbal heroes rather than weeds. From ancient Arabian medicine to colonial gardens, Reporter Liz Partsch explores the history of this vitamin-rich plant and shows us how to make a sweet, honey-like dandelion jam.

How-To's

We love sweet potatoes here at Farm and Dairy, and we think you should, too. Learn everything from planting slips and soil requirements to harvesting and storage tips. Discover why these heat-loving tubers are a low-maintenance, high-yield addition for any gardener.

Discover why dandelions were prized for centuries as herbal heroes rather than weeds. From ancient Arabian medicine to colonial gardens, Reporter Liz Partsch explores the history of this vitamin-rich plant and shows us how to make a sweet, honey-like dandelion jam.
Powering a Nation

Columns

tree stand

Retired wildlife officer Jim Abrams shares vital tree stand safety tips to prevent hunting falls. Learn how to inspect gear, choose the right stand, and use a full-body harness to stay safe in the woods during whitetail deer season.

Antiques expert and journalist Paul Locher explores the pioneer-era process of flax braking and scutching. Discover how early Americans used wooden brakes, scutching knives, and community bees to transform harvested flax straw into fine linen and coarse tow.
pony

Growing up in the 1960s with dreams of being a cowboy, a simple stick horse and cap gun brought endless joy. Look back at childhood imagination, classic TV Westerns, and why an imaginary stick horse turned out to be much better than a real, ill-tempered farm pony.

Ohio State University Extension specialist Emma Matcham provides seasonal pasture evaluation checklists for fall, winter and spring. Learn how soil sampling, weed scouting, and stem density checks can help repair pastures and set up your farm for healthy spring growth.

Portage Soil and Water Conservation District stormwater educator Lynn Vogel reflects on a youth group's 10-year cleanup milestone. Discover what drives long-term conservation, from changing public habits on public lands to helping farmers adopt sustainable no-till practices.

Columnist Kymberly Foster Seabolt takes a nostalgic look back at the days when buying detergent, cereal, or soup meant getting free towels, dishes, and toys. Explore how grocery premiums disappeared and why today's high prices miss those classic extras.

Recipes