Out here at Garden Gate Lavender , the chickens move through the farm as naturally as the wind does. They pass the lavender rows, circle the young trees, and settle where the ground feels right to them. Over time, I’ve noticed they return to the same dry patch again and again. That’s where they dust bathe. It ’s easy to overlook if you’re busy. A chicken lowers herself into loose soil, kicks it up, and rolls slightly to work it through her feathers. It looks rough at first glance, but it’s...

Each spring at Garden Gate Farms , I walk the farm and take stock of what needs attention. The lavender begins to push new growth, the trees show their first leaves, and the hens spend longer hours outdoors. This is when I clean out the chicken coop. A thorough spring clean protects the flock’s health and supports consistent egg production. It matters every year, but it is especially important if you use the Deep Litter Method through winter. Deep Litter Method The Deep Litter Method is a...

At Garden Gate Farms , the fields people walk through in summer begin months earlier on simple tables inside a barn. Most of our lavender, herbs, and many of the plants around the farm start in trays before the ground outside is ready. Starting plants indoors is steady work. You are taking over the job of the season. Light, warmth, and water are now in your hands. When those three are handled well, plants grow strong from the beginning. Here is how I do it. 1. Begin With Good Seed and the...