Mary Lucero

It took me thirty years of research and education in agriculture, biotechnology, and environment to arrive at conclusions our ancestors knew from birth. Everything on the planet is connected. Once I really understood that, I also understood that true health, and true prosperity come from living in alignment with our environment.

Carbon in the Diet-Do we really need fulvic acids, activated charcoal, or C60?

by
Image of wood burning down to charcoal is used to illustrate elemental Carbon

Carbon in the diet is a rare subject.  I am including it here, because in episode 13, I had a lot to say about carbon as plant food. In that episode, I emphasized the importance of carbon in plant nutrition.  I said carbon was essential for plant growth because carbon makes up 45-50% of a … Read more

The Neglected Plant Nutrient

by
This image of a conifer seedling challenges the viewer to consider which plant nutrient is most neglected.

The neglected plant nutrient, carbon, is arguably the most important plant nutrient because, out of seventeen recognized plant nutrients, carbon makes up the largest portion of the plant’s dry weight.  Is it realistic to expect all this carbon to come from atmospheric CO2?  Are you including  carbon with your N, P, and K? [divider] LINKS … Read more

The Microbial Economy and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation

by
Wheat farm and surrounding wind farm highlight the macroscopic green economy as a reminder that, like wind energy, microbially rich farmland can help mitigate greenhouse gasses.

Microbial economies trade greenhouse gasses for food and energy.   By tapping into this system, we can increase agricultural profits.  This is because microbially driven agricultural systems require fewer costly chemicals to support. As carbon credit systems become more universal, it is reasonable to assume that farmers who operate to maintain healthy soil microbial communities will … Read more

Oxytocin for Heart Health and More

by
Picture of a heart reminds us that the feeling of love has biochemical roots.

Oxytocin supports heart health and more.   Often referred to as the “Love Hormone,” this little molecule is best known for its effects on social behavior. When oxytocin levels are high, humans and other mammals feel drawn to one another. Social animals require healthy bonding for survival, and oxytocin has probably evolved to reinforce those bonds. … Read more

Dryland Tree and Shrub Establishment

by
Image of the flower from a desert shrub, Apache Plume provides an example of a desert riparian plant that can be revegetated using hydrogels.

Dryland tree and shrub establishment can be tricky because young seedlings and transplants need to stay moist. In EPISODE 10  we look at simple strategies you can use to ensure your dryland plantings live, grow, and feed your soil.  These strategies protect biodiversity and help restore the environmental cornerstone of healthy food systems. Wondering if dryland … Read more