Dunnellon farm shows how to keep plants happy without phosphate fertilizer

There are more sustainable, earth-friendly wayd to grow fruits and vegetables without mined fertilizer — and they're on full display at the Garden Doctor's Teaching Farm in Dunnellon.

Why it matters: Florida is home to the majority of phosphate mining for fertilizer in the U.S.

• Phosphate mining gave us Piney Point, plus a billion tons of the industry’s radioactive waste, phosphogypsum.
• And while the science isn't conclusive, the pollution from Piney Point's April leak could be contributing to the fish kills in Tampa Bay.

What's happening at the farm: Kevin Gunter and his staff give lessons on home food forests design, medicinal herbs, beekeeping, rainwater re-use, composting, making biochar, and other sustainable farming techniques.

• Details: Open Thursday to Saturday. Call 352-895-4809 for information.