For many of our customers: the uncertainty of food supply in the coming years and decades due to climate and weather changes, disruptions in global and domestic supply lines, and rising grocery costs. A further concern for many is that “Big Ag” systems yield less and less nutrient-dense produce.
Like many in our Growing Dome community, Laurel and Will Biedermann’s Growing Dome adventure started with a dream. A dream for a more sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyle. In 2016 Laurel and Will retired from city life in Colorado Springs and relocated to the small mountain town of Coaldale, Colorado, to begin their self-sufficient journey.
Working at Growing Spaces for more than a decade has allotted me many exciting perks. The one I enjoy the most is having access to fresh produce, veggies, herbs, greens, and fruits all year round. For many years, I have walked into the Growing Dome, like it was the grocery store, at lunchtime and hand-picked my lunch. This shrimp and nasturtium salad is one of my favorite easy Dome Grown recipes.
In spring, early high temperatures are a huge benefit--especially in our mountain location with a short growing season. But as spring turns into summer, the increasing heat in the dome can turn our sanctuary into an oven unless it’s managed correctly. Over the years, we’ve learned how to adapt our growing practices, our plant choices, and even our plant locations to make the most of summer heat and provide much-needed shade for the water tank.
There are many challenges to consider when planning the ideal survival garden: crop failure, limited time, limited water, limited resources, a limited growing season, and proper protection. Most of those can be solved with the addition of a Growing Dome greenhouse.
Mardell Gunn and her partner, Mark Kistler, aka Diz, had been gardening in Haines, Alaska, using standard hoop houses for several years. In 2016, they searched for a polycarbonate structure that could withstand heavy snow loads and humid summers while providing a protected environment to grow fresh heat-loving vegetables that can't be grown successfully outside. Specifically, tomatoes. That's when the internet led them to a 26' Growing Dome.
We are thrilled to announce our 2nd Annual Customer Appreciation Party that will be held at our Pagosa Springs Domes from 12 to 4 pm on Saturday, September 11th. This will be a fantastic opportunity to socialize with current dome owners and meet people who are passionate about gardening. We will be offering tours of all five of our Growing Domes, along with Growing Dome gardening classes taught by some of our experts. There will be fresh food, local craft beer, games for kids & adults, and music. We will also have Growing Spaces swag to give away.
The above-ground pond included with our greenhouse kits creates an optimal opportunity for growth. -- It aids the growth of your plants in your raised beds, acting as the greenhouse's primary source of thermal mass, but it can also foster the growth of aquatic plants & fish. It can even promote the growth of a peaceful environment with soothing sounds and art.
We are planning to attend two socially distanced events this Spring to give you an opportunity to visit some wonderful Growing Domes in Colorado. The San Luis Valley Seed Exchange at Joyful Journey, and the Earth Day Riverwalk Event at the Geothermal Greenhouse Project in Pagosa Springs Colorado.
I started making this creamy southern comfort food in 2007. My friend owns a southern, Mardi Gras-themed comfort food restaurant. She gave me the recipe because I was obsessed with how yummy it was! I’ve been making this exact broccoli casserole dish for holiday gatherings and potlucks ever since, and people always want more! My family loves it.
