fb
Cart
Home  ❯  Blog Archives

MENU

✖

Backyard Vitality

Montreal’s Urban Agriculture Revolution: The Future of City Farming

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Montreal is leading an urban agriculture revolution, transforming rooftops, warehouses, and city spaces into high-tech farms that defy the region’s harsh winters. Lufa Farms, a pioneer in large-scale hydroponics, operates the world’s largest rooftop greenhouse, growing pesticide-free tomatoes, lettuce, and peppers year-round. Their electric fleet now delivers 30,000 produce baskets per week, reshaping how the city eats.

But Lufa is just one piece of Montreal’s growing urban farming movement. Opercule, an innovative aquaculture company, supplies top restaurants with antibiotic-free, locally raised arctic char. Rosemont Distillery crafts its gins using Montreal-foraged elderflowers and berries, proving city-grown ingredients can thrive in unexpected places.

Even Montreal’s historic rooftops are being reclaimed for farming. The Palais des congrès now hosts beehives, grapevines, and a saffron farm, with refugees and migrants tending the harvest. In community gardens, residents grow everything from fennel to eggplants, though urban wildlife presents challenges. Enter Agriculture du Coin, a new storefront helping city dwellers embrace indoor hydroponic farming with user-friendly growing kits.

This movement is more than just a food trend—it’s a model for urban self-sufficiency. Lufa’s founder, Mohamed Hage, envisions turning shopping mall rooftops into fully functional farms, capable of feeding Montreal’s two million residents. With fresh, locally-grown produce now a reality year-round, Montreal isn’t just a food city—it’s a blueprint for the future of urban farming.

Elderberries: Nature’s Immune-Boosting Powerhouse

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Elderberries are the small, dark purple berries of the Sambucus nigra plant, commonly known as the elder tree. Native to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, elderberries have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their immune-boosting properties. These berries are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamin C, fiber, and powerful antioxidants known as flavonoids, which help fight inflammation and support overall health.

The Powerful Benefits of Elderberries

Elderberries are best known for their ability to strengthen the immune system and reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu. Research suggests that elderberry extract can help combat viral infections by blocking viral replication and stimulating immune defenses. Additionally, their high antioxidant content supports heart health, reduces oxidative stress, and may help lower inflammation in the body.

How to Use Elderberries Safely

Elderberries can be enjoyed in several forms, including syrups, teas, gummies, and tinctures. Elderberry syrup is a popular choice for daily immune support or as a remedy during illness. Dried elderberries can be brewed into tea, while gummies and capsules provide a convenient supplement option.

Important Cautions

Raw elderberries, leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide and cause nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. Always cook elderberries before consuming them to neutralize these toxic compounds. Additionally, individuals with autoimmune disorders should consult a healthcare provider before use, as elderberries may stimulate the immune system and interfere with certain treatments.

By incorporating elderberries safely into your routine, you can enjoy their numerous health benefits while supporting your immune system naturally.

We Need Birds, But They Are Disappearing Fast: How to Help

2 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Bird populations across the U.S. are in crisis, with 42 species on the brink of disaster, according to a new report from the North American Bird Conservation Initiative. The Golden-cheeked Warbler, Florida Scrub Jay, and Mottled Duck are among those flagged as “red alert” species, needing urgent conservation efforts. Scientists warn that one-third of U.S. bird species require immediate attention, reflecting broader environmental changes that also threaten human well-being.

Birds play a crucial role in ecosystems by controlling pests, pollinating plants, and dispersing seeds. Their decline signals that habitats are deteriorating in ways that impact both wildlife and people. Additionally, bird-related activities—such as birdwatching and feeder sales—contribute billions to the economy.

The main threats to birds include habitat loss, changes in weather patterns, and pollution. Grassland and arid-land birds have seen over a 40% decline since 1970. Even duck populations, once a conservation success story, are now rapidly decreasing due to drought. Shorebirds, reliant on fragile coastal and wetland ecosystems, are particularly at risk as human development disrupts these habitats.

How to Protect Backyard Birds

You can help protect birds right in your own backyard. Simple steps can make a big difference:

  • Plant Native Trees and Flowers – Native plants provide food and shelter for birds year-round.
  • Reduce Pesticide Use – Chemicals harm insects that birds rely on for food and can poison birds directly.
  • Make Windows Bird-Safe – Millions of birds die from window collisions. Use decals, screens, or curtains to reduce reflections.
  • Provide Fresh Water – A clean birdbath or water source helps birds stay hydrated, especially in hot months.
  • Keep Cats Indoors – Free-roaming cats are a leading cause of bird mortality. Keeping them inside protects both cats and birds.
  • Support Bird-Friendly Legislation – Advocate for policies that protect bird habitats and reduce environmental pollution.

Urgent steps must be taken before more species become endangered. Strategic conservation efforts can make a difference—if we act now. Protecting birds means safeguarding the health of our environment and future generations.

What Not to Eat and Drink at the Airport – And Safer Alternatives

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Airport food may be convenient, but some options come with hidden food safety risks. Improper storage, temperature fluctuations, and poor handling can lead to bacterial contamination and foodborne illnesses. 

Here’s what experts say you should avoid—and what to choose instead.

Foods & Drinks to Avoid

  1. Fountain Drinks & Iced Tea
    Fountain machines and iced tea dispensers are difficult to clean, accumulating bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Legionella, which can cause pneumonia. Instead, opt for bottled drinks or freshly brewed coffee or tea, but be cautious of dairy left at room temperature.
  2. Prepackaged Sandwiches & Salads
    These often sit at unsafe temperatures, allowing bacteria to thrive—especially in open refrigeration units. Salads with raw sprouts are particularly risky due to high bacterial contamination. Instead, choose sealed snacks like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit, or bring your own food.
  3. Fruit Cups
    Once cut, fruit loses its protective skin and can harbor Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella if not stored properly. Instead, opt for whole, unpeeled fruits like bananas, oranges, or apples.
  4. Unpasteurized Juices & Dairy Products
    Cold-pressed juices and raw dairy products may contain harmful bacteria. Instead, look for sealed, pasteurized products stored at proper temperatures.
  5. Sushi & Raw Seafood
    Maintaining safe temperatures for raw fish at an airport is difficult, increasing the risk of parasites and foodborne illnesses. Instead, opt for hot, fully cooked meals like grilled chicken, shrimp, or pizza.

Final Tips

  • Choose restaurants that look clean and follow hygiene protocols.
  • Wash your hands frequently, as hand sanitizer doesn’t kill norovirus.
  • When in doubt, opt for hot, cooked foods rather than cold or raw options.

Safe eating choices can help you avoid illness and enjoy stress-free travel!

This Green Slime Can Make Your Garden Harvest Huge

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

If you’re looking for an easy – and even free – way to supercharge your garden this spring, take a tip from coastal gardeners. Use seaweed. Packed with essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals such as iron, zinc, and magnesium, seaweed is a powerhouse soil enhancer that can help your plants grow stronger, healthier, and more productive.

Beyond its rich mineral content, seaweed naturally contains plant growth hormones that promote faster root development and boost plant resilience. It also acts as a built-in pest repellent—its salty, rough texture deters slugs and other garden pests, keeping your crops safe without harmful chemicals. Simply lay seaweed around the base of plants as mulch, avoiding direct contact with stems, and let nature do the rest.

For an extra nutrient boost, try making seaweed fertilizer spray. Just soak seaweed in water for a few days to create a nutrient-rich liquid feed—perfect for tomatoes, cucumbers, leafy greens, apple trees, berries, and citrus plants.

If you don’t live near the coast, no worries! Many garden centers sell dried or liquid seaweed fertilizers. Many brands offer easy-to-use products that enhance soil microbial activity, improve soil structure, and help plants withstand drought, heat, and frost.

Whether you gather it yourself or buy it in-store, seaweed is an age-old gardening secret that can help you grow a thriving, pest-resistant garden with bigger, healthier harvests this year!

The Root That Stops a Cough in Its Tracks—Fast

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

If you’re dealing with a stubborn cough that just won’t quit, you might be desperate for relief. You’ve tried cough drops, tea, and even Googled remedies in the middle of the night. But have you considered a centuries-old herbal solution that works fast? Enter marshmallow root extract—a natural remedy that can quickly soothe your throat and stop a cough in its tracks.

How Marshmallow Root Works

Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) has been used for over 2,000 years to treat coughs, thanks to its natural mucilaginous properties. This thick, gel-like substance coats the throat, reducing irritation and suppressing dry coughs. “Marshmallow root has been shown to decrease throat irritation and coughing,” says Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, a family medicine physician. Studies confirm that this herbal extract offers fast-acting relief, with many users experiencing soothing effects within just 10 minutes.

Best Ways to Take It for Quick Relief

For the fastest and most effective relief, doctors recommend:

  • Lozenges – They prolong contact with the throat, extending relief.
  • Tea – Steep dried marshmallow root in hot water and sip throughout the day.
  • Tincture – Add 30–40 drops to water and drink as needed.
  • Capsules – Take a total of 6 grams daily in divided doses.

Other Natural Cough Stoppers

In addition to marshmallow root, several other natural remedies can help calm a persistent cough:

  • Honey – Coats the throat, soothes irritation, and has antimicrobial properties.
  • Pineapple Juice – Contains bromelain, an enzyme that reduces mucus and inflammation.
  • Licorice Root Tea – Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and throat soother.
  • Warm Salt Water Gargle – Helps reduce throat swelling and irritation.
  • Bone Broth or Warm Water with Honey – Hydrates and soothes the throat while providing essential nutrients.

Simple Swaps for a More Sustainable Home

3 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Creating a sustainable home doesn’t require a total overhaul—just a few small changes can reduce waste, save energy, and lower your environmental impact. 

Here’s how to make your home greener with practical, everyday swaps.

Swap Out Light Bulbs

If you’re still using incandescent bulbs, it’s time to upgrade. LED bulbs last up to 50,000 hours and use a fraction of the energy, saving both money and resources. Unlike traditional bulbs, they don’t waste energy generating heat, making them the smartest lighting choice for an eco-friendly home.

Use Curtains or Cellular Shades

Curtains aren’t just for décor—they help regulate temperature and reduce reliance on energy-hungry air conditioners and heaters. Insulated or room-darkening curtains block excess heat in summer and retain warmth in winter, making your home naturally comfortable.

Install a Water-Saving Shower Head

Switching to a low-flow shower head can reduce water use by 40% or more, cutting down both water waste and your energy bill. Pair this with shorter showers for an even greater impact.

Ditch Paper Towels & Single-Use Products

Paper towels, napkins, and disposable plates create mountains of waste. Swap them for washable cloths and reusable kitchenware to cut down on paper consumption. If you’re feeling bold, reusable toilet paper is even an option!

Switch to Natural Cleaning Products

Conventional cleaners release harmful chemicals into the water supply. Instead, vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice work wonders for cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing—without the toxic side effects.

Line Dry Your Clothes

Clothes dryers consume massive amounts of energy—opt for air drying instead. Whether it’s a drying rack or an outdoor line, your clothes (and the planet) will thank you.

Use Wool Dryer Balls Instead of Dryer Sheets

Skip wasteful dryer sheets and switch to wool dryer balls. They naturally soften clothes, reduce static, and speed up drying time, helping you save both energy and money.

More Ways to Green Up Your Home

Looking for additional ways to make your home more sustainable? Try these eco-friendly solutions:

Fill Your Home with Plants

Houseplants do more than add beauty—they improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. If you have space, consider growing a vegetable garden to produce fresh, pesticide-free food and reduce your grocery trips.

Invest in Solar Panels

While solar panels require an upfront investment, they drastically reduce long-term energy consumption and lower utility bills. Plus, many regions offer incentives and rebates for switching to solar energy.

Keep Your Fridge Coils Clean

A simple but often overlooked tip: clean the back of your refrigerator regularly. Dust buildup forces your fridge to work harder, using more energy. Keeping the coils clean helps it run more efficiently and extends its lifespan.

Harvest Rainwater

Installing a rain barrel to collect water runoff from your roof can help reduce water waste. Use the collected water to water plants, wash outdoor furniture, or even flush toilets.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

When it’s time to replace appliances, look for Energy Star- certified models. These appliances use significantly less energy and water, saving money and reducing your home’s environmental footprint.

Compost Your Food Scraps

Instead of tossing food scraps into the trash, start a compost bin. It’s a great way to reduce landfill waste while creating nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

The Dirty Truth About Your Kitchen Towels—And How to Clean Them Properly

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Think your kitchen towels are harmless? Think again. These seemingly innocent cloths are breeding grounds for nasty bacteria, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus, lurking in every wipe and spill. If you’re not washing them correctly, you might spread germs all over your kitchen, contaminating your hands, counters, and food.

How Kitchen Towels Become a Bacterial Nightmare

Picture this: You just sliced raw chicken, wiped your hands on a towel, then used the same towel to dry dishes. Congratulations, you may have just spread harmful bacteria all over your kitchen. Kitchen towels absorb everything from food residue to moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply.

How to Properly Wash Kitchen Towels Properly

  1. Use Hot Water & Sanitizing Cycles: Hot water kills microbes effectively. If your towel touched raw meat, eggs, or dairy spills, use the sanitize cycle to eliminate dangerous bacteria.
  2. Bleach Wisely: Chlorine bleach is a powerhouse against germs but can be harsh on fabrics. Oxygen bleach is a gentler alternative that still keeps towels fresh and free from odors.
  3. Wash Towels Separately: Never mix kitchen towels with clothing! Wash them with bathroom towels, which also harbor microbes, but keep them away from everyday laundry.
  4. Wash Often Hand-drying towels: Every few days Cooking and cleaning towels: Immediately after use.

Want a safer kitchen? Keep your towels clean—and use disinfectant wipes for high-risk spills instead of your towels.

The Side Effects of Eating Too Much in One Meal

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Protein is essential for muscle growth, metabolism, and overall health, but consuming too much at once can lead to discomfort and inefficiency. The general recommendation for protein intake is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight daily, but active individuals may need more. For example, a 150-pound person may require 80–160 grams of protein per day, depending on activity levels and fitness goals.

While research is inconclusive on how much protein the body can process in one meal, experts suggest 25–30 grams per serving as a general guideline. Overloading on protein in a single sitting may cause digestive discomfort, including bloating, nausea, and constipation. 

Additionally, excess protein increases water loss, potentially leading to dehydration. If not used for muscle repair or energy, the extra calories from protein may be stored as fat, contributing to weight gain.

Instead of consuming large amounts in one meal, experts recommend distributing protein intake across 3–6 meals and snacks daily. This approach supports better absorption, sustained energy levels, and muscle recovery. 

If you want to optimize your protein intake for muscle growth or weight management, consulting a nutritionist who can help you create a balanced diet that meets your needs. 

Prioritizing consistency over excess in one sitting ensures your body makes the most of your protein intake.

When Life Gives You Lemons – Clean Your Entire Home

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Discover the magic hidden inside a simple lemon. These sunny citrus fruits aren’t just for lemonade – they’re natural powerhouses perfect for brightening your laundry, deep-cleaning your home, and banishing pesky odors. Here’s how lemons can effortlessly elevate your household routine, leaving your space cleaner, fresher, and full of zest.

Here are a few good ways to put the humble lemon to work!

Lemon Fresh Laundry Magic

Lemons are nature’s secret weapon for brightening your laundry. Packed with natural citric acid, lemons gently whiten clothes, removing stains and dullness without harsh chemicals. To give your whites a sparkling boost, simply squeeze fresh lemon juice into your washing cycle or soak whites in lemon-infused water before washing.

Citrus-Powered Cleaning

Harness the antibacterial and deodorizing powers of lemons to effortlessly tackle household grime. Cut a lemon in half, sprinkle it with salt, and scrub bathroom fixtures and tiles to remove stubborn soap scum, leaving behind a sparkling, citrus-scented shine.

Kitchen Revival

Refresh and sanitize cutting boards naturally by rubbing them with lemon halves and then rinsing them thoroughly. This simple trick eliminates stains and lingering odors, keeping your kitchen fresh and clean.

Say Goodbye to Odors

Lemons are excellent odor eliminators. Place lemon slices in your refrigerator, garbage disposal, or trash bins to neutralize unpleasant smells. Simmer lemon peels on the stovetop for a fragrant boost, instantly freshening your home’s air.

Citrus Ambience

Create a bright and cheerful atmosphere effortlessly. Add lemon slices to water bowls or flower arrangements for a refreshing look and subtle fragrance. Lemons enhance your home’s décor and uplift your mood with their vibrant scent and visual appeal.

Embrace these simple, effective, lemon-based solutions to naturally brighten your laundry, clean your home, and enhance your everyday life!

Why You Need Vitamin C: Essential Benefits for Your Body

3 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a vital nutrient supporting nearly every body system. Since your body doesn’t produce or store it, you need a constant supply through diet or supplements. But why is it so important?

Boosts Immunity and Reduces Illness Duration

One of the most well-known benefits of vitamin C is its role in immune function. It stimulates the production of white blood cells (lymphocytes and phagocytes), which help protect your body against infections. While it won’t prevent colds, studies suggest it can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, helping you recover faster.

Supports Skin Health and Wound Healing

Vitamin C plays a significant role in collagen production, a protein necessary for maintaining skin elasticity, wound healing, and overall tissue repair. A deficiency can lead to dry, damaged skin and slow injury recovery. This is why vitamin C is a key ingredient in many skincare products.

Aids Iron Absorption and Prevents Anemia

Vitamin C enhances iron absorption, especially from plant-based sources like spinach and lentils. If you struggle with low iron levels or anemia, pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C-rich foods can significantly improve absorption and energy levels.

Acts as a Powerful Antioxidant

As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps combat oxidative stress caused by free radicals—unstable molecules contributing to aging and chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Vitamin C helps protect your cells from damage by neutralizing these harmful molecules.

Promotes Heart Health

Research suggests that vitamin C may help lower the risk of heart disease by reducing blood pressure and improving blood vessel function. It helps keep arteries flexible and reduces inflammation, key factors in preventing cardiovascular issues.

Supports Brain Health and Reduces Cognitive Decline

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in brain function by protecting nerve cells from damage and reducing inflammation. Some studies indicate that higher levels of vitamin C are associated with a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Helps Maintain Healthy Bones and Cartilage

Vitamin C contributes to the formation and maintenance of bones, cartilage, and connective tissues. It is especially important for aging adults, as it helps protect against osteoporosis and joint degeneration.

May Play a Role in Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Emerging research suggests vitamin C might help reduce the risk due to its antioxidant properties. Additionally, high doses of vitamin C are being studied for their potential role in selectively targeting and weakening cancer cells while leaving healthy cells intact.

How to Get Enough Vitamin C

To reap the full benefits of vitamin C, include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Some of the best sources include:

  • Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits)
  • Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Bell peppers (especially red bell peppers, which contain more vitamin C than oranges!)
  • Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and spinach
  • Tomatoes and potatoes

The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies by age and gender, but for most adults, it’s around 75–90 mg per day. Smokers and those under high stress may need more, as smoking and stress deplete vitamin C levels.

Should You Take a Supplement?

If you struggle to get enough vitamin C from food, a supplement can help, but whole foods are the best source because they provide additional nutrients and fiber. Since vitamin C is water-soluble, your body flushes out excess amounts, making it difficult to overdose – though very high doses (over 2,000 mg) may cause stomach upset.

Site Map

Backyard Vitality ©

Get Social

Facebook-f Instagram

Backyard Vitality © 2020

Sign up for gardening advice

delivered straight to your inbox!