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Gather, Feast, and Connect – A Farm Experience Like No Other An Exclusive Invitation to Experience Our Food Forest and Share in a Homegrown Meal When: Saturday 3rd May 2025 Time: 9-12 Where: Vast Harvest Permaculture farm, Girvan Step into a space where food, nature, and community come together. This is more than just a farm visit—it’s an opportunity to slow down, connect with like-minded people, and share in something truly special. We invite you to walk through our thriving food forest, where abundance grows naturally, and experience firsthand the beauty of homegrown food. Then, we’ll gather around our farm table for a meal prepared with love, using seasonal ingredients fresh from the land. This isn’t just about food—it’s about fellowship, conversation, and being part of a welcoming community. If you’ve been longing for a place to feel at home, this is your invitation. Duration: Approx. 3 hours (2-hour farm walk + shared meal) What’s Included: • Guided walk through our food forest – A light 2-hour stroll, where you’ll taste, learn, and immerse yourself in nature’s abundance. • Farm-to-table meal – A nourishing, homegrown lunch, enjoyed together in a warm and inviting setting. • A gathering of like-minded people – Come for the food, stay for the fellowship and connection. Why You Should Come: • Craving real connection? Meet like-minded people who share your love for good food, nature, and meaningful experiences. • Longing for community? Feel at home in a space where conversation flows, stories are shared, and meals are savored together. • Tired of the usual weekend plans? Step away from the routine and into a refreshing, immersive experience that feeds both body and soul. • Want to feel more connected to your food? Walk the land, see how it’s grown, and then enjoy a meal prepared straight from the source. • Looking for something deeply fulfilling? This is more than just an event—it’s a moment to pause, gather, and be present. This gathering is kept small to maintain the personal, homey feel. Secure your spot before tickets sell out!

Gourd Art Birdhouse Workshop Transform nature into art while creating a cozy home for birds! Join us for a fun-filled, hands-on workshop where you’ll craft your very own gourd birdhouse! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity. You’ll start with a farm-grown gourd, learn how to prepare and decorate it, and finish by turning it into a beautiful, functional birdhouse for your garden. Not only will you leave with a unique, eco-friendly creation, but you’ll also gain new skills in painting, crafting, and caring for the natural materials around you. Workshop Details • Date: Wed 15th January 2025 • Time:9-12 • Duration: 3 hours • Location: Vast Harvest Permaculture • Cost: $110 Adults • $70 Children 16 and under (Includes all materials, refreshments, and your take-home birdhouse) ✔️ Farm-Grown Gourds: Select from a variety of dried gourds grown on our permaculture farm. ✔️ Step-by-Step Guidance: Learn how to sand, prep, paint, and lacquer your gourd to make it weatherproof and garden-ready. ✔️ Creative Freedom: Decorate your birdhouse with your choice of colours and designs. ✔️ Assembly Tips: Finish your masterpiece with hardware for hanging. ✔️ Morning Tea: Enjoy light refreshments while you work. Why Gourd Birdhouses? • Eco-Friendly: Made from natural, sustainable materials. • Beneficial for Gardens: Attract birds that help control pests and pollinate plants. • Unique and Personalised: Create a birdhouse that reflects your style and adds charm to your outdoor space. What’s Included? • All materials (dried gourds, paints, brushes, hanging hardware, etc.) • Step-by-step guidance • Aprons and protective gear • Light refreshments and morning tea • A group photo to remember the fun! Who Should Attend? • No experience needed – just bring your creativity and a love for nature! • Great for individuals, families, and groups looking for a fun, creative day out. What to Bring: • Hat, sunscreen, and water for your comfort. • Your creativity and a smile! We’ll provide everything else. Come for the craft, leave with a masterpiece—and the skills to create more!

Experience a Personalised Farm Tour Like No Other Step into the beauty of Vast Harvest Permaculture with a private farm tour designed just for you and your small group. Wander through our thriving 25-acre permaculture farm, discover the secrets of food forests, medicinal plants, and sustainable living, and enjoy a relaxing, immersive experience in nature. Your journey includes a guided tour, farm-to-table refreshments, and plenty of time for questions and conversation. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an educational adventure, this intimate tour is tailored to your interests. Location: Vast Harvest Permaculture Duration: 2.5 hours Price: $110 per person (minimum 2 people) Bookings by appointment only Come explore, unwind, and be inspired by the magic of permaculture.

Move over zucchinis, there’s a new climbing hero in town. If you’ve never grown a white choko , you’re in for a treat. It’s rare, it’s productive, and it’s far more versatile than people give it credit for. At Vast Harvest Permaculture, we’ve fallen head over heels for this underappreciated gem. And we’re not alone, gardeners across Australia are rediscovering the white choko, not just for its novelty, but for its insane productivity , resilience, and kitchen potential. Let’s dig in… A Brief History of the Choko (White & Green) The choko , also known as chayote , is a member of the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae), and it originated in Mesoamerica , likely in southern Mexico or Guatemala , where it was cultivated by the Aztecs and Mayans . The plant has been grown for centuries for its edible fruit, leaves, shoots, and roots. Chokos made their way around the world through trade routes and colonial expansion, eventually landing in Australia where they thrived thanks to the warm climate and vigorous vines. In Australia, chokos became widely known as a wartime and Depression-era staple , they were cheap, easy to grow, and extremely prolific. Many older Aussies remember their nannas sneaking them into stews, chutneys, and even desserts to bulk out meals. What Makes the White Choko So Special? Large White Choko You’ve probably seen green chokos before — in roadside boxes, old-school veggie patches, or maybe simmering in your nan’s stew. They’ve been a humble staple for generations. But the white choko ? That’s a whole different story. This lesser-known variety is a bit of a garden gem. While it comes from the same Mesoamerican origins as the green choko — cultivated for centuries by the Aztecs and Mayans — the white version is far less common and often considered a heritage or heirloom variety . So, what makes it special? It’s a great talking point – Most people have never seen a white choko before. Perfect for garden tours or sparking curiosity among visitors. Slightly sweeter flavour & smoother texture – It’s less fibrous than green chokos and can blend seamlessly into both savoury dishes and desserts. A stunning climber – White chokos look gorgeous trailing up fences, archways, or climbing trees. Hardy and productive – Like its green cousin, it grows like it’s on a mission. We’ve had ours take over multiple archways and produce fruit like mad, even in tough soil conditions. Stores well – Once picked, they last a decent while, which makes them perfect for batch cooking, preserving, or gifting. They’re not mass-produced commercially, which makes them a rare find , especially here in Australia. If you’re after something productive, edible, and just a little bit special, this is the variety to grow. How to Grow White Chokos (Even If You’re a Beginner) Chokos are one of the easiest things to grow if you give them room. Whether you’re in a small backyard or a sprawling food forest, here’s what they need: A sunny spot Room to climb (think trellis, fence, or chicken run) A bit of compost or aged manure Water in dry spells To make it ridiculously easy for you, we’ve put together a FREE White Choko Growing Guide , with tips, troubleshooting, and what to expect from season to season. FREE: Choko Recipe Sampler Booklet Choko Sticky Date Pudding Still not sure what to do with all those chokos? We’ve got you. We’ve created a free choko recipe sampler , a downloadable booklet with a handful of our favourite ways to use chokos in the kitchen. Inside, you’ll find: Choko Chutney with Dates & Mustard Seeds Choko & Pumpkin Thai Soup Choko & Leek Quiche Choko Stir-Fry with Garlic, Ginger & Sesame Choko Sticky Date Pudding 👉 Click here to get the free recipe booklet sent directly to your inbox It’s our gift to help you start cooking creatively with chokos The Ultimate Choko Cookbook – 20 Flavour-Packed Recipes Ultimate Choko Cookbook Ready for more? We’ve compiled 20 bold, flavour-packed recipes into one beautiful, full-colour cookbook, featuring everything from nostalgic favourites to recipes that surprise even the choko-haters. Quick sides and pickles Comforting mains Unexpected sweets And zero boring boiled chokos You’ve got two ways to grab it: Want it instantly? 👉 Click here to get the digital version ($7) Prefer a printed copy for your kitchen? 👉 Preorder the printed cookbook here for $16.95 (includes the full digital version FREE — regular price will be $21.95 after the first print run) Whether you’re harvesting buckets or just planting your first vine, you’ll never look at chokos the same way again. Want to Grow Your Own? We’ve got a limited batch of white choko seed fruit ready to go, straight from our farm. These are perfect for planting now so you’ll be harvesting your own in no time.

Loquat trees ( Eriobotrya japonica ) are a captivating species, prized for their delectable fruit, striking appearance, and numerous ecological benefits. Native to China and Japan, these trees have become widely distributed, thriving in a variety of climates, making them an essential addition to many home gardens and permaculture systems. In this guide, we will explore the life cycle of loquat trees, their significance, and provide helpful tips for growing and caring for them. The Botanical Characteristics of Loquat Trees Loquat trees are evergreen, with dense, dark green leaves that give them a bold presence in any landscape. These trees can grow between 6 to 10 meters (20 to 33 feet) tall, often developing a rounded, spreading canopy. The leaves of a loquat tree are large, leathery, and deeply veined, adding texture and contrast to the tree's overall look. One of the most unique aspects of loquats is their flowering period. Unlike many fruit trees that bloom in spring, loquats begin to flower in late autumn to early winter, producing small, fragrant, creamy-white blossoms. These flowers eventually develop into clusters of small, round to oval fruits that ripen in spring. Loquat fruit varies in color from yellow to orange, and its flavor combines a tangy-sweet zest. Each fruit contains several large brown seeds inside. Ecological and Agricultural Importance 1. Pollinator Attraction Loquat trees bloom during a time of year when nectar sources are scarce, making them an invaluable resource for pollinators, especially bees and butterflies. The fragrant flowers attract a variety of pollinators, which contributes to local biodiversity. By supporting these pollinators, loquats indirectly aid in the overall health of garden ecosystems. 2. Erosion Control and Soil Improvement Loquat trees possess deep, expansive root systems that help prevent soil erosion. This is especially important for slopes or regions that are prone to land degradation. Their fallen leaves decompose, adding organic matter to the soil, which enriches its fertility and helps improve its structure. As a result, loquats can play a crucial role in maintaining healthy soil in both garden beds and larger agricultural settings. 3. Drought Tolerance and Climate Adaptability Once established, loquat trees are relatively drought-tolerant. Their ability to withstand dry periods makes them an excellent choice for climates with irregular rainfall, such as Mediterranean or subtropical regions. While loquats can handle mild frost, they thrive best in areas with warm temperatures and moderate winter conditions. This adaptability makes them suitable for a wide range of environments. Cultivating and Caring for Loquat Trees 1. Planting and Soil Requirements Loquats prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. They are highly adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay-rich soils, but perform best in nutrient-rich, well-aerated conditions. For optimal growth and fruit production, ensure that your loquat tree receives plenty of full sun. Select a location that provides at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, especially in cooler climates where sunlight is a limited resource. 2. Watering and Fertilization Loquat trees need regular watering while young, but once they are well-established, they can tolerate periods of drought. To encourage strong root growth, water deeply but infrequently. This helps the roots reach deeper into the soil for moisture. A balanced fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, will support the tree’s overall health and productivity. Fertilize loquats in early spring before new growth begins, and again after the harvest to replenish nutrients in the soil. 3. Pruning and Maintenance Pruning is essential for maintaining the health of your loquat tree and improving airflow around the canopy. Remove any dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches after the fruiting season. This will encourage new growth, help prevent fungal diseases, and allow for better light penetration. While loquats are generally low-maintenance, regular pruning will keep the tree in top form and ensure it produces a bountiful harvest each year. 4. Pest and Disease Management Loquats are relatively resistant to pests, but like all fruit trees, they can still be affected by certain insects. Common pests include aphids, scale insects, and fruit flies. Natural predators, neem oil, or organic insecticidal soaps can help keep these pests under control. Fungal diseases like fire blight may appear, especially in humid conditions, but these can be minimized by ensuring good airflow and practicing proper sanitation around the tree. Uses and Benefits of Loquat Trees 1. Nutritional and Medicinal Uses Loquat fruit is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, loquats offer significant health benefits. Traditionally, loquat leaves have been used in herbal medicine for their potential anti-inflammatory and respiratory properties. A soothing tea made from the leaves is often used to relieve coughs and improve lung health. 2. Culinary Applications The sweet, tangy flavor of loquat fruit makes it a versatile ingredient in a variety of culinary creations. Enjoy loquats fresh, or incorporate them into jams, jellies, and preserves. Their unique flavor also pairs well in chutneys, fruit salads, and desserts like pies or tarts. The fruit can be used in savory dishes, adding a touch of sweetness to sauces and marinades. 3. Ornamental and Shade Benefits In addition to being a valuable fruit tree, loquats have ornamental appeal. Their lush, evergreen foliage provides excellent shade, making them an ideal choice for gardens, patios, and urban landscapes. Whether grown in a large garden or as part of a permaculture system, loquats enhance the aesthetic value of any space. Conclusion Loquat trees are more than just a source of delicious fruit—they are a versatile, low-maintenance, and ecologically beneficial addition to any garden. With their resistance to drought, attractive foliage, and valuable contributions to local ecosystems, loquats are a resilient species that can thrive in a variety of environments. Whether planted for their ornamental beauty, nutritional value, or ability to support pollinators, loquats are an excellent choice for gardeners and permaculturists looking to grow a productive and sustainable tree.

Introduction Bananas are one of the most globally recognized fruits, best known for their yellow peel and sweet flavor. However, a lesser-known, yet equally delightful variety has been making waves among fruit enthusiasts: the Blue Java banana. Also called the “Ice Cream Banana,” “Hawaiian Blue Banana,” or “Cenizo,” this unique cultivar catches the eye with its soft-hued blue peel and captivates the taste buds with its creamy, vanilla-like flavor. In this blog post, we will explore every stage of the Blue Java banana’s life cycle, why it’s important to both humans and the environment, and share other fascinating tidbits about this extraordinary fruit. Table of Contents Introduction to the Blue Java Banana Origins and Background Life Cycle of a Blue Java Banana Plant Growing Conditions and Cultivation Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling Culinary Uses and Nutritional Benefits Environmental Impact and Importance Interesting Facts and Myths Challenges and Conservation Conclusion 1. Introduction to the Blue Java Banana The Blue Java banana is a cultivar of the banana species Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana  (ABB group). It is recognized by several key features: Appearance : When unripe, the peel has a blue-greenish hue, covered in a silvery bloom that gives it a stunning, almost “frosty” look. As it ripens, it transitions to a more familiar pale yellow color. Flavor : The fruit’s creamy texture and mild vanilla flavor have earned it the nickname “Ice Cream Banana.” Cold Tolerance : The Blue Java banana is relatively hardy, tolerating cooler temperatures better than most banana varieties. Because of its unique attributes, the Blue Java banana has sparked curiosity among gardeners, foodies, and researchers alike, all eager to discover what sets this banana apart from its yellow cousins. 2. Origins and Background Bananas are believed to have originated in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Over generations of selective breeding and natural hybridization, various cultivars emerged, each adapted to local climates and cultural preferences. The Blue Java banana likely arose in the tropical regions of Southeast Asia or the South Pacific and later spread to Hawaii and other subtropical regions. Today, Blue Java bananas are grown in backyards, small farms, and specialized markets worldwide, especially in areas with mild winters. 3. Life Cycle of a Blue Java Banana Plant 3.1 The Corm Every banana plant begins its life from a corm, an underground stem responsible for producing roots, the pseudostem, and new offshoots called “pups.” 3.2 Pseudostem and Leaves The corm produces long, slender shoots that unfurl into broad leaves. These leaves form the pseudostem, a structure that provides support as the plant grows up to 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) tall. 3.3 Flowering About 9-12 months after planting, the plant enters its flowering stage. A large, purple-brown flower (the "banana heart") appears, revealing rows of female flowers that develop into bananas. Most cultivated bananas, including Blue Java, are seedless and develop fruit without pollination. 3.4 Fruiting As the female flowers transform, Blue Java bananas begin to swell and exhibit their characteristic pale blue hue before ripening into yellow fruit. 3.5 Harvesting and Plant Senescence A typical Blue Java bunch weighs 30-60 pounds (14-27 kg). After harvest, the pseudostem dies back, but new pups ensure the plant’s continuity. 4. Growing Conditions and Cultivation 4.1 Climate Blue Java bananas thrive in tropical and subtropical climates, preferring temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). They tolerate cooler conditions better than many banana varieties. 4.2 Soil and Water Requirements Banana plants require moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 5.5 to 7.0 is optimal. 4.3 Fertilization Regular feeding with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium boosts growth and fruit production. Organic compost or manure can enrich the soil. 4.4 Propagation Blue Java bananas are propagated using suckers or pups. Once a pup reaches 3-4 feet, it can be transplanted. Tissue culture is another propagation method used by commercial growers. 5. Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling 5.1 Signs of Maturity Ripening is indicated by rounding of the bananas and dryness of the flower remnants. 5.2 Harvest Techniques Harvesting involves cutting the stalk while supporting the bunch to prevent fruit damage. 5.3 Storage and Ripening To encourage even ripening, harvested bunches are hung in a well-ventilated space. 6. Culinary Uses and Nutritional Benefits 6.1 Flavor Profile Blue Java bananas have a vanilla-like taste and creamy consistency. 6.2 Recipes and Uses Smoothies : Adds natural sweetness. Desserts : Used in banana splits, puddings, or homemade “nice cream.” Baking : Suitable for banana bread or muffins. Frying or Grilling : Caramelization enhances sweetness. 6.3 Nutritional Profile Blue Java bananas provide: Potassium : Supports muscle function and blood pressure regulation. Vitamin B6 : Aids immune function and metabolism. Vitamin C : Acts as an antioxidant. Dietary Fiber : Promotes digestion. 7. Environmental Impact and Importance 7.1 Agroforestry Benefits Banana plants contribute to biodiversity, soil health, and moisture retention. 7.2 Cultural Significance Bananas play key roles in traditional diets, medicine, and rituals. 7.3 Economic Considerations While Cavendish bananas dominate markets, Blue Java bananas appeal to specialty growers and chefs. 8. Interesting Facts and Myths “Ice Cream” Bananas : When frozen, their texture mimics soft-serve ice cream. Hardiness : While more cold-tolerant, they are not frost-hardy. Ornamental Value : The large, lush leaves enhance gardens. Longevity : The banana corm ensures continuous propagation. 9. Challenges and Conservation Like other banana varieties, Blue Java bananas face challenges such as: Susceptibility to diseases  (e.g., Panama disease, Black Sigatoka) Climate limitations Market availability and commercial production constraints 10. Conclusion The Blue Java banana is an extraordinary fruit that stands out for its flavor, versatility, and resilience. Whether you’re a gardener, chef, or fruit enthusiast, this unique banana is worth discovering.