Fertilizer Can Make a Huge Difference

Papaya grown with EM (effective microorganisms) on left; Papaya grown with average amount of manure, straw and leaves on right
Papaya grown with EM (effective microorganisms) on left; Papaya grown with average amount of manure, straw and leaves on right

Yesterday’s blog post discussed various ways of boosting plant growth with liquid fertilizers. Well, a picture is worth a thousand words and so we took some photos of local papaya fruit trees to show what a difference proper fertilization can make. The EM fertilized papaya tree on the far left obviously received the nutrients it needed to be a prolific producer. I counted roughly 20 fruits. This papaya tree is in marginal soil and yet still prolific.

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Superadobe Project Model

Clay model of proposed superadobe (earthbag) project
Clay model of proposed superadobe (earthbag) project

“While we started the work, I happened to do an internship. We have to do a room in a fenced area, and I had the idea of doing it with superadobe. We also made a saloncillo or room for people and a bathroom.

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Island Style Homes

Island style home with cupola, bamboo, and wrap-around deck with water views.
Island style home with cupola, bamboo, and wrap-around deck with water views.

Island style homes feature wide roof overhangs, lots of windows for cross ventilation and plentiful outdoor living space. These homes are prevalent throughout the Caribbean, Pacific Ocean and beyond. There are some wonderful coffee table books on island style/Pacific style homes, and they’re one of my favorite styles. You might want to take a look at some books the next time you’re in a good bookstore.

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