Recycling has taken us in another direction as we prepared to plant 700 tree seedlings this spring. We were presented with a challenge we had not really thought of—what to do with all of the corn stalks that were left after this past harvest season? You see, the field that we are planting into a variety of conifers still has shin-high corn stalks after the corn was picked. A friend did offer to plow the field for us, but this did not solve our problem.
So, while not sure this will work, I have made the effort to measure out and clear out the rows for the tree plantings. The remaining corn stalks will be mowed and I am going to attempt to use them as mulch around the trees in order to combat weeds and grasses. While it may not be a long term solution, this will eliminate some cost in the early portion of our small plantation.
I think that my grandparent’s generation was much better as using the old to help the new. I don’t remember either of my grandfathers ever buying much for new equipment or materials. I believe Pr. Mark at Shalom Hill told about the home on the property being covered with nails on the inside walls. He was told that the person who built the home would dry cobs full of corn to use for the next season’s field planting. How cool is that? There was no concern for decorations on the walls, just making sure there was enough seed to plant and survive.
It seems something is lost today in how we live. I see this with my kids already learning at school that it is okay if something breaks, just buy something new instead. I don’t like that attitude. I never have been one that enjoyed spending money on frivolous things. Recycle what you have: seeds, corn stalks, waste food, clothes too.
Earth Care III
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