Åter 4/25

Clay is one of the oldest building materials that humans have used. Depending on the availability of clay or soil and other materials, time, social conditions and climate, a variety of different techniques have been developed. Here in the Nordic countries, too, there was a great deal of knowledge about different methods, either as load-bearing or, more commonly, as filling and cladding materials. A very common method is clay plastering.

In the previous issue of Åter I told you about our family's double life with Svensson-life with a job and apartment in Gothenburg and self-sufficiency on our farm Sjöbacken in my free time. And about my journey here via a few years as a part-time urban farmer, when I ran the Renströmska Trädgården cooperative in Gothenburg. In this part of my "half-move letter" I write about my practical and mental strategies for growing for self-sufficiency in a place where I don't live.

Some vegetables and fruits feel extra environmentally smart to choose to grow yourself. For me, melons are the best example. A watermelon that weighs one kilo contains almost one liter of water. If I buy it in the grocery store, one liter of water has been transported from the growing site in Spain or Brazil. If I have grown the watermelon myself, the corresponding volume of water comes from the winding river I live next door to. Environmental awareness makes the choice a non-choice and all I have to do is start growing melons.

Growing sprouts and shoots is one of the easiest ways to have fresh, nutritious food at home all year round. You don't need a garden or fancy equipment – ​​just seeds, water and a little patience. The result is crunchy little powerhouses that will enhance both the taste and nutritional value of your everyday meals.

In times of abundance, we sometimes forget what is literally at our feet. Acorns – often ignored as forest litter – are a versatile and surprisingly good source of nutrition. This article explores ancient wisdom, modern uses and how to make your own acorn flour. A celebration of the forest as a source of self-sufficiency, with the acorn starring in a mealy adventure in the forest’s pantry.