Evergreen Botany

  In recent years, more people — from farmers to urban foodies — have started growing their own food. But what happens when you don’t have a backyard, a field, or even clean soil to grow in? That's where hydroponic systems come in — and they’re especially powerful when used for growing microgreens and fodder . What Makes Hydroponics Different? Hydroponics skips the soil completely. Instead, it uses nutrient-enriched water to grow plants. This means: No weeding No soil pests No worrying about drought or soil quality Less space, less mess, more yield Hydroponics makes growing possible anywhere — on rooftops, balconies, or even a classroom window. Why Microgreens? Microgreens aren’t just trendy—they’re packed with nutrients. These baby plants are usually harvested within 10–14 days of germination, and studies show they can contain up to 40 times the nutrient levels of mature plants. They’re quick to grow, require little space, and don’t need sunlight if you...

  Intro: Beekeeping has become more than just a hobby—it's a movement. Whether you're drawn by the promise of home-harvested honey or the satisfaction of supporting pollinator health, one thing's certain: you need the right tools to succeed . At EvergreenBotany.com , we’ve met countless first-time beekeepers who often ask the same question: “What gear do I actually need to get started?” This post answers that with a beginner-friendly rundown of essential beekeeping tools and their real-world uses. 🐝 1. The Bee Smoker No, it’s not used to harm bees. A bee smoker emits cool smoke that calms bees by interfering with their alarm signals. It helps keep both you and the colony safe during inspections. Pro Tip: Go with natural fuels like wood pellets or dried pine needles. 🔍 2. Protective Gear A full-body bee suit with a veil, plus a good pair of gloves, can give you confidence when working with your hive. Feeling safe allows you to move more gently, which bees appre...

What Is a Bee Smoker? If you're just getting started with beekeeping—or even if you're a seasoned apiarist—you’ve probably    heard of a  bee smoker  But what does it do exactly? A bee smoker is a time-tested beekeeping tool that emits cool smoke to calm honeybees , making it safer and easier for you to inspect the hive, harvest honey, or perform maintenance. It may look simple, but this tool can be the difference between a smooth session and a swarm of chaos. Why Do Beekeepers Use Smoke? Bees are highly sensitive to smell and instinctively respond to the presence of smoke. When they sense smoke: They assume there’s a forest fire nearby. They begin gorging on honey to prepare for a possible hive evacuation. This feeding distracts them and reduces their aggression. Smoke also masks alarm pheromones , reducing chances of a defensive bee attack. So, when used correctly, smoke creates a calmer environment for both bees and beekeepers. How Does a Bee...