Healthy Soil Practices for Sustainable Farming | Family Harvest Farm

By Mary Cherry | Guest Contributor Healthy soil practices are the foundation of every successful farm. At Family Harvest Farm, we believe strong crops begin underground — with living soil rich in organic matter, beneficial microbes, and natural biology. Our farm was built around the idea that sustainable farming starts by caring for the soil…

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Why Healthy Soil is Full of Life

Microscopic view of living soil microbes including flagellates, amoeba, and fungal hyphae at 100x magnification

Healthy soil isn’t just dirt — it’s a living ecosystem.  Beneath our feet exists an entire microscopic world working quietly to support plant growth, nutrient cycling, and soil health. When people talk about “living soil,” they’re referring to soil that is rich with biological activity, especially soil microbes. The more life in the soil, the…

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Vermicast (worm castings) – Use in Hot Summer Months

Compost delivered to Family Harvest Farm in Pittsburgh

Vermicast are excellent to use in the hot summer months—but with a few considerations to maximize their benefits: Why Worm Castings Work Well in Summer Tips for Summer Application: Good Summer Uses: Over the years I’ve found that summer is when worm castings provide the greatest value. Plants are under heat and moisture stress, and…

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