Half Wild Blog | Discover the Latest News from the Farm
Sustainable living beyond skin care. Read what we are up to at the farm and get inspired!
This season asks us to hold two truths at once: the warmth of gathering together, and the reminder that Thanksgiving lives inside a complicated history.
We’re hearing a lot of calls for boycotts right now. And listen, we get it—sometimes you just can’t support a company that goes against your values. But here’s an important reminder: avoiding companies for ethical reasons doesn’t mean you need to buy nothing.
Over the past few years, social media has become more unpredictable, more pay-to-play, and honestly, more exhausting. Small brands like ours are being buried under ads and ever-changing rules, making it harder and harder to connect with the people who actually want to hear from us—you.
I felt the sun on my face and the sweat on my back today. The green things are greening, and the crows are hanging out sunning themselves in the trees while watching me work.
Do you harvest fiddleheads? Can you identify them? Below are all the other ferns that I saw growing alongside ostrich ferns today.
Rain used to be a disappointment. Days when it wasn’t pleasant to be outside, when I wanted to stay in and was annoyed if I had to go out. But when I started farming, the rain became a joy…
The spring sun is warm, the bluebirds are singing, and there are signs of life in the gardens. Walk with me.
March is here, and so is the first project of the new growing season: willow propagation! The seed shortages of 2020 and 2021 have got us thinking seriously about seed saving and propagation, so we are giving our dying willow tree new life by cutting off some whips and rooting them in water.
We’ve had a few beautiful “spring” days this week — a great time to get out and walk in the fresh air and see what has remained hidden under the snow this winter. Lots of berries left in the landscape still. It must be a pretty easy year for the wildlife. Well earned after last year’s winter that never ended.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts to stay healthy and take care of ourselves, life (and cold and flu season!) get in the way. Here is a kitchen witch recipe for immune boosting broth that I just cooked up for myself.
Fruit shrubs (AKA drinking vinegars) are a great way to reduce or eliminate your soda habit and make sure your fruit scraps don't go to waste.
After a long heatwave, the air is finally cool and dry. Many of the annual plants are looking worse for wear, but the perennial herbs and flowers are chugging right along!
I have a rare quiet day today to enjoy the garden and catch up on some chores. The sun is bright, but not hot, and it feels so good to be outside. The gardens are almost in full bloom, and I'm starting to harvest herbs.
The Quincy Bog walk is a wonderful respite on a hot and humid day, winding through wetland and woodland and everything in between.
It's been quite a year for wildlife in the garden. Here are a few photos I took this week of our newest residents...
We tend to think of vast box store parking lots as wastelands, but there are herbs growing even there. Herbs specialize in growing where other plants fear to tread — bold, strong, survivors. Here are the shots from my wander between box store parking lots this afternoon.
I'm trying something new this year...inviting you to join me on my wild wanders. Here are some of the plants I visited with this evening, just before sunset. It's a beautiful time in the North Country!
In the unseasonably hot September afternoon sun, I visited the orchard to stock up on eating apples and a gallon of unpasteurized cider. Turning it into hard cider takes minutes of your time and a few days of blind neglect.
Be More Half Wild . . .
-
Wander
- Jan 21, 2020 Cold Therapy Wander
- Jan 15, 2020 Wandering Through the January Thaw
- Jul 10, 2019 Woodland Fruit Wander
- Jul 7, 2018 Garden Wander After the Heatwave
- Jun 19, 2018 Garden Wander
- Jun 10, 2018 Iris Garden Wander
- Jun 9, 2018 Wildlife in the Garden
- Jun 8, 2018 Parking Lot Wander
- Jun 7, 2018 June Sunset Wander
- Jul 20, 2016 An Evening in the July Garden
- Apr 13, 2016 A Little Color in the April Garden
- Feb 22, 2016 A Walk in the Suburbs
-
Recipes
- Oct 16, 2019 Immune Boost Broth
- Jul 8, 2018 Strawberry Shrub Recipe
- Sep 17, 2017 Quick & Dirty Hard Cider
- Jun 18, 2017 Dehydrated Pineapple Snacks You Won't Be Able to Resist
- Jan 4, 2017 Miso Soup with Egg Drop: Instant Breakfast on the Go
- Aug 17, 2016 Whole Food Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Mar 28, 2016 Nothing But Apple(sauce)
- Mar 8, 2016 Pickle That Garlic Before it Goes Bad
- Jan 19, 2016 Unfed Sourdough Pizza Crust
- Jan 19, 2016 How to keep your sourdough starter happy
-
Living
- Mar 23, 2020 Stay home, but break the rules.
- Jul 21, 2016 How I Replaced My Asthma Inhalers with Meditative Breathing
- Mar 7, 2016 Easy Wooden Spoon Care
- Jan 15, 2016 A jade plant in bloom
- Jan 12, 2016 In praise of winter nights
-
Herbal
- Mar 27, 2016 Hawthorn Love: Easter Sunday pruning
Shop Skin Care & Sacred Celtic Herbs
Natural Protection for the Outdoors
Herbal Bug Spray is a refreshing, herb-infused mist designed to keep your comfortable during your time outdoors. Made with thyme and other herbs grown on our farm, this formula is thoughtfully crafted to help you enjoy nature without unwatned distractions. Light and easy to apply, it is perfect for hikes, picnics, or any adventure under the open sky.
Best For: Outdoor Adventures, Hiking, Gardening, Camping
Not for use on pets.
This 56 mL bottle comes with a treatment pump that can be refilled twice with our Herbal Bug Spray Refill.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Nourish Your Skin Naturally
Every Body Oil is a luxurious, herb-infused oil crafted to hydrate and support your skin from head to toe. Handcrafted with calendula and rose to nourish and soothe, goldenrod to repair, and thyme to protect, this versatile oil brings the best of nature to your skincare routine. Whether you are looking for deep hydration, a relaxing massage oil, or a gua sha companion, Every Body Oil delivers the care your skin deserves.
Best For: Daily Moisturizer, Gua Sha, Sensitive Skin, No Added Scent
This 112mL bottle comes with a flat cap and will refill our 56 mL bottles twice.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Naturally Soothing
Herbal Itch Relief is an herb-infused spray formulated to calm and soothe your skin when it is most in need. Crafted with care using herbs from on our farm, this water-based spray combines jewelweed, sweet fern, yarrow, plantain, and witch hazel for their natural skin-soothing properties. A touch of organic peppermint essential oil is a refreshing addition.
Best For: Bug Bites, Stings, Rashes, or Any Itchy Skin
This 56 mL bottle comes with a treatment pump that can be refilled twice with our Herbal Itch Relief Refill.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Nourish, Protect, and Sooth Extra-Dry Skin
Green Wonder salve is our best seller and your every day solution for dry, flaky skin in need of extra care. Made with nourishing herbs grown on our farm and blended with local beeswax, this salve provides deep, lasting hydration and creates a protective barrier to lock in moisture. With a fresh, subtle scent of geranium, Green Wonder is perfect for hard-working hands, sensitive skin, and anywhere that needs a little extra attention. 45 mL
Best For: Dry Hands, Flaky Skin, Cracked Fingers, Callused Heels, and Sensitive Skin
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Comfort and Care for Active Days
Après Ski & Sport salve is designed to help you recover and stay comfortable after skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or intense workouts. Made with herbs grown on our farm, this salve naturally warms and soothes tired muscles and stiff joints, giving you the relief you need to keep moving. Its subtle, woodsy aroma and natural formula make it a must-have for winter sports enthusiasts and active individuals. 45mL
Best For: Post-Sport Recovery, Stiff Hands, Hardworking Muscles, and Cold Weather Protection
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Tone and Refresh Your Skin Naturally
Our Rosewater Mist is a refreshing herbal facial toner and body spray made with witch hazel and rose petals grown on our farm. This gentle mist is perfect for soothing and hydrating skin while providing a delicate, natural fragrance. With its mild formulation, it is ideal for sensitive skin and can be used throughout the day for a revitalizing boost.
Best For: Gentle Toning, Skin Soothing, Redness, Rehydrating Make-up, Freshening Up, All Skin Types.
This 112mL bottle comes with a flat cap and can refill our 56mL Rosewater Mist spray bottle twice.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Cool and Refresh Shaved Skin
Herbal Aftershave is a gentle facial toner crafted to calm your skin after shaving. Formulated with farm-grown herbs, this blend provides a cooling sensation and helps to reduce redness and irritation. Perfect for all skin types, it leaves your skin feeling calm and smooth.
Best For: Post-Shave Care, Cooling and Soothing, Reducing Redness, All Skin Types
This 112mL bottle comes with a flat cap and can refill our 56 mL bottles twice.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Nourish and Tame Skin, Beard, and Hair Naturally
Grooming Oil is infused with herbs grown on our farm. It nourishes and softens hair and skin, tames beards, and is light enough to wear comfortably all day. No added scent — just the mild, grounding aroma of pine and sage.
Best For: Beard Conditioning, Scalp Nourishment, Shaving Oil
This 56 mL bottle comes with a treatment pump and can be refilled twice with our Grooming Oil Refill.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Gentle Skin Care with Farm-Grown Ingredients
Traditional Witch Hazel is crafted with witch hazel grown on our farm and processed in the traditional way, without distillation. Made more like a tea, our witch hazel retains all of the natural tannins and beneficial compounds found in the plant, providing gentle yet effective skin care. 56mL
Best For: Skin Soothing, Cleansing, Toner for Sensitive Skin, Hair Removal Care
This 112mL bottle comes with a flat cap and can refill our 56 mL bottle twice.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Herbal Nourishment for Radiant Hair
Dark Hair Serum is an herbal oil formulated to strengthen and rejuvenate dark and grey hair, while promoting a healthy scalp. Infused with farm-grown herbs, this serum is deeply nourishing and leaves your hair with a subtle lavender scent. Whether you want to enhance hair health, manage dryness, or promote shine, this erum is the perfect addition to your hair care routine. 56ML
Best For: Moisturizing Dark and Grey Hair, Scalp Nourishment, Dry Hair Repair, Shine Enhancement, Deep Conditioning
This 56 mL bottle comes with a treatment pump that can be refilled twice with our Dark Hair Serum Refill.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Herbal Nourishment for Radiant Blonde and Red Hair
Light Hair Serum is a luxurious herbal oil crafted to nourish and enhance blonde and red hair while supporting scalp health. Infused with farm-grown herbs, this serum helps strengthen hair, promote shine, and manage dryness. The gentle lavender frangrance adds a calming touch to your hair care routine. 56ML
Best For: Blonde and Red Hair, Scalp Nourishment, Dry Hair Repair, Shine Enhancement, Deep Oil Treatments
This 56 mL bottle comes with a treatment pump that can be refilled twice with our Light Hair Serum Refill.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Hydrate, Soften, and Pamper Your Skin
Gentle Hands salve is a soothing flower blossom blend designed to deeply hydrate and soften your skin. Crafted with care using herbs grown on our farm, this salve nourishes hands and dry areas while wrapping you in the calming scent of lavender. Gentle enough for sensitive skin and hardworking enough for every day use, it is the perfect way to keep your skin smooth, soft, and radiant. 45 mL
Best For: Softening Hands, Hydrating Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Every Day Hand Care, and Bedtime Routines
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Soothing Herbal Massage Blend
Massage Oil is thoughtfully crafted to elevate your massage experience with a unique blend of herbs grown on our farm. Infused with St. John’s wort, goldenrod, white pine, and organic cinnamon essential oil, this oil warms gently and is perfect for deep relaxation and targeted massage. Its silky texture and mild, earthy aroma make it an essential addition to your self-care routine.
Best For: Relaxing Massage, Targeted Care, Warming Comfort
This 56 mL bottle comes with a treatment pump and can be refilled twice with our Massage Oil Refill.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Gentle Care for Blemish-Prone Skin
Clear Skin Toner is an herbal facial toner designed to support clear, healthy skin naturally. Made with witch hazel grown on our farm and a blend of herbs known for their clarifying properties, this toner works with your skin rather than against it. Gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it is the perfect addition to your daily skincare routine.
Best For: Blemish-Prone Skin, Gentle Skin Care, Clarifying, and All Skin Types
This bottle comes with a flat cap (no sprayer) and can refill our 56 mL bottles twice.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Nourish and Brighten Your Skin Naturally
Our Facial Serum is a luxurious flower-infused oil crafted to promote smooth, radiant, and healthy skin. Made with herbs grown on our farm and infused in organic sunflower oil, this nourishing serum brings the beauty of nature to your daily skincare routine. Its lightweight, silky texture absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and glowing.
Best For: Daily Moisturizing, Hydration, Skin Brightening, Smoothing.
This 56 mL bottle comes with a treatment pump and can be refilled twice with our Facial Serum Refill.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Support our small business with a gift card now and shop later! Good for use on any future online purchase.
Purchasing this digital gift card creates a unique code. The gift card recipient can enter this code at checkout to subtract the gift card value from their order total.
This gift card never expires.
Our Facial Set pairs the refreshing Rosewater Mist with the nourishing Facial Serum for a complete natural skincare routine. Treat yourself or a loved one to the calming, farm-grown luxury of botanicals carefully cultivated and crafted. This set is ideal for gifting or personal self-care, bringing the essence of our farm to your daily ritual.
Set Benefits:
Comprehensive care for refreshing and rejuvenating skin
Perfect gift option for those who cherish natural skincare
Sustainably handcrafted with farm-grown ingredients
Suggested Usage: Use Rosewater Mist as a toner after cleansing, followed by a few drops of the Facial Serum.
This set includes one 56mL bottle of Facial Serum and one 56mL bottle of Rosewater Mist.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Herbal Aftershave and Grooming Oil for shavers and beard wearers alike.
All of our products are infused with locally grown whole herbs and flowers.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Everything you need to keep your body moving this winter! Green Wonder salve is healing and soothing for dry, cracked skin. Apres Ski & Sport salve is warming and relieves overworked muscles and joints, and our Massage Oil is anti-inflammatory massage oil for deep healing.
All of our products are infused with locally grown whole herbs and flowers.
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Awaken Your Intuition and Connect with Celtic Wisdom
Mugwort Sain is a mindfully crafted herbal mist that invites ancient energies into modern life. Mugwort has been revered for centuries in Celtic traditions for its powerful properties in spiritual and energetic work. Grown with care on our small farm, this herb invites you to open your mind and embrace the wisdom of our Celtic ancestors. 30mL Spray
Best For: Protection, Connection, Manifestation, Dreaming, and Good Luck
We offer sliding scale prices. Please select an option below to support our small business at a price that matches your ability to pay.
Cold therapy isn’t just for athletes. Getting outside at all times of year is good for the soul.