The Compost Pile | Gardening & Homesteading

In this episode of The Compost Pile , we sit down with fellow gardener Paul Lemoine to talk about his transition from traditional row gardening to raised beds. We break down the real-world pros and cons of both methods, drawing from hands-on experience rather than theory. We discuss how raised beds can improve drainage, maximize space, increase crop diversity, and make garden management more effic...

In this Q&A episode of The Compost Pile, David and guest Courtney Hale Revia dive into some of the most common topics in the garden and landscape world, especially as they relate to managing a homestead and event venue. They break down cut-flower growing strategies, including whether flowers are better supported with string systems or planted directly in the ground. The conversation also tackl...

n this solo episode, David breaks down the key fundamentals of starting tomato and pepper seeds successfully , whether you’re growing for a backyard garden, raised beds, or containers. We cover the most important building blocks for strong, healthy seedlings, including: Choosing the right containers Selecting a proper growing medium for seed starting How and when to water without causing common is...

Plants want to grow—but they don’t always grow upright. In this episode of The Compost Pile, we break down everything you need to know about plant support materials and how choosing the right one can improve plant health, yields, and overall garden success. We cover the different types of plant supports—including stakes, cages, trellises, and DIY options—along with the materials they’re made from,...

Container gardening is one of the most flexible and accessible ways to grow plants—whether you’re short on space, dealing with poor soil, or gardening in a hot, humid climate like Zone 9a. In this episode of The Compost Pile , we break down everything you need to know about container gardening , from choosing the right containers to soil mixes, watering practices, and long-term plant care. We disc...

In Episode 8 of The Compost Pile , we dig into the cultural practices that separate struggling gardens from thriving ones—especially here in USDA Zone 9a . From crop rotation and watering practices to cover crops , soil protection, and long-term garden planning, this episode focuses on the habits that quietly do the heavy lifting in an organic garden. We discuss why rotating crops helps prevent pe...

Onions are a staple in the Zone 9a garden—but timing and variety selection make all the difference. In this episode of The Compost Pile , hosts David Pool and Aaron Barnhill break down everything you need to know about successfully growing onions in our warm Southern climate. We cover what makes short-day onions essential for Zone 9a, when to plant onions for the best bulb formation, and the diffe...

Hosted by David Pool (Mid County Farm & Feed) and Aaron Barnhill. This episode dives into one of the biggest success levers in organic gardening and homesteading: water. Learn how to properly water raised beds and in-ground gardens in Zone 9a, set smart frequency targets, and test moisture so you know when plants actually need a drink. We unpack why pH (and alkalinity) matters, common tap-wate...

Episode 4 – The Organic Gardening Fundamental Series: Companion Planting & Plant Diversity Hosted by David Pool, your Homesteading & Organic Gardening Enthusiast, and Aaron Barnhill, your resident new home gardeners. In this episode of The Compost Pile: Breaking Down How to Grow in Zone 9a, hosts David and Aaron explore one of the most practical—and fascinating—principles of organic garden...

Episode 3 — The Organic Gardening Fundamental Series - Know Your Environment Hosted by David Pool, your Homesteading & Organic Gardening Enthusiast, and Aaron Barnhill, your resident new home gardeners. Your garden’s success starts long before you plant. In this episode of The Compost Pile, David and Aaron dive into the environmental factors every Zone 9a gardener, homesteader, and organic gro...

Cold snaps happen fast in Zone 9a, and your garden needs a game plan. In this episode of The Compost Pile: Breaking Down How to Grow in Zone 9a, hosts David Pool and Aaron Barnhill sit down with our friend and local plant enthusiast Tom Wright for a relaxed but info-packed conversation about protecting your plants when temperatures drop. We break down simple, practical steps every gardener or home...

In this episode of The Compost Pile we are breaking down the basics of Fertilizer. Learn why organic options like compost, fish emulsion, and seaweed extracts build long-term soil health, while synthetic fertilizers give a quick boost but can leave your soil hungry later. . We will explore different elements including: organic vs. synthetic slow-release vs quick release pH How fertilizer works wit...

Episode 1: The Organic Gardening Fundamental Series: Understanding the Basics of Healthy Soil Welcome to The Compost Pile: Breaking Down How to Grow in Zone 9a! In this first episode, we’re laying the foundation for every successful garden—literally—by talking all about soil . We’ll dig into: What soil is really made of (and why “dirt” isn’t the same thing) How to build the ideal soil mix for rais...

We are launching our new channel to give you to scoop on all things gardening, homesteading, and more. We will be breaking down information to help you be more successful in the garden. Your hosts, David & Aaron will be starting out with a fundamentals series to help form the foundation for success.