Benton County

Arkansas IS the natural state, so what does Benton county have to offer? Walmart and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art are two establishments that first come to mind. Although I was born in the "Cornerstone of the State," I am still discovering exciting new places.

The Gentry Safari, the safari is about 30 minutes from Bentonville. You drive through the safari in your own vehicle so you have control on how much time you spend looking at the animals. The group I went with consisted of 4 adults and 2 children, it was a blast!

One of my favorite trail riding spots is the Pea Ridge National Military Park. The park is great even if you don't have horses to ride. There are trails for hiking and biking. A self guided driving tour is offered if you want to learn about the history of the park.

How about waking up early to go to War Eagle Mill and eat at their restaurant The Bean Palace? After a huge buckwheat waffle, made from waffle mix from the mill you can shop for local flour and treats in the ground floor of the mill. While you are over that way, visit Hobbs State Park. With the park covering over 12,000 acres, you can imagine the trail for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

Park Springs has been on the radar in Bentonville since 1890's where two therapeutic springs were discovered. Today the park has been updated with a pavilion, play ground, bridges over the spring and beautiful trails. Discover the springs with your bike, dog, or the quite sound of nature.
In the 1930's the Spanish Treasure Cave started giving tours. The cave is about a 30 minute drive from Bentonville, and be prepared for some curvy roads and don't forget your camera.

Whether you are a native or a newcomer, where is your favorite spot in Benton county?

Blueberry Bushes

There is nothing better then taking a hike and finding wild raspberries or blackberries. Summer is not complete without berries in a smoothie, over granola, or on shortcake.

This year I want to plant blueberry bushes in my garden. Blueberry bushes will produce fruit in their 3rd year; if you buy a 3 year old bush and plant it in the spring then you will have fresh berries by summer!

Blueberry bushes:
Require full sun
Need an acidic soil
Like clay and rocky soils
Irrigate regularly
Use a mesh net to detract hungry birds
Prune in fall to promote berries next summer

Do you think you would enjoy fresh berries? If so start digging holes so you can plant some blueberry bushes!

Soil Tests

This warm weather has me thinking about the Farmers Market. I have the taste of a ripe, juicy, bright red tomatoes and crispy, green, fresh cucumbers on the tip of my tongue. What are these farmers doing now to prepare for the future harvest? Or if you grow some plants in you yard what can you be doing now?

Did you know that the extension office offers free soil sampling?
There are many reasons to preform a soil test:
1. Know how much lime to use                                                              
2. Know how much fertilizer to use
3. Know how to adjust the pH
4. Find out what nutrients are lacking or are in excess

You will need to go by the extension office to pick up your soil testing kit. The address of the extension office is:
1204 SW 14th Street
Bentonville, AR  72712

I hope you get your soil tested soon so you can have a beautiful heirloom tomato by summer!