Maeme's Clover Lawn

Gardens, growing and green things. These are all things our Maeme - as well as twin sister Callie live for. The spring starts with grow lights, leads to summer sun (and weeds) harvesting and perserving for the non-producing seasons. We love all things outdoors in the summer and have a soft spot in our hearts for pollinators. Growing up and even to this day our father is a bee keeper. On the homepage of rasberrys.net check out that little bee on his plump dandelion.

In the Wood River Valley area of Idaho where we are firmly planted, green lawns are abundant. We have fresh, cold water flowing down from the Sawtooth Mountains in the Big Wood River. Most years…but not always. Since 2007, the Wood River Land Trust (a local conservancy organization) has been working with homeowners and businesses alike with the Trout Friendly Program. It’s good for not only for the fish, but also promoting drought tolerant landscaping.

This year our own Maeme started a “clover lawn.” Clover uses less water and requires less maintenance than traditional lawns. The hardy white clover - the species predominantly used for clover lawns today - is actually a primary source for pollinators. In some areas of the world 30-60% of a bee’s nectar comes from this clover type.

If you are interested in learning more about Maeme’s clover lawn in downtown Hailey, Idaho stop into Rasberrys Bistro at 411 East 5th Street under Tribes. She would be happy to share her tips and tricks.

Garden Green Pesto

We love a good classic basil pesto as the next person, but did you know a pesto can be any ingredients? That’s right, any fresh young green(s) can become a beautiful pesto - the combinations are endless really. So next time instead of just eating the vegetable and throwing the tops away, consider creating a small batch of your very own homemade pesto.

The basic proportions of pesto are nuts, greens, cheese and olive oil. You can go old-school and use a mortar and pestle, but a food processor works just as well. Add all ingredients to the bowl of the machine and puree until smooth; add more oil for consistency and season to taste with salt. Pesto can be used right away or stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Rasberrys Pesto Inspiration:

  • Dill, Parsley, Lemon and Almonds

  • Tarragon and Pistachios

  • Cilantro with Peanuts and Sesame Oil

  • Cilantro with Pecans and Jalapeno

  • Basil with Lemon and Almonds

  • Carrot Tops

  • Spicy Mustard Greens

  • Broccoli Leaf

  • Beet Greens

Pro Tip: Use fresh grated cheese and toasted nuts, the flavor will be better.

Be Water Wise

Conservation is one of our core beliefs as both individuals and as business owners. This summer we have decided to do our part by only serving water upon request to dine-in patrons. We will gladly pour our filtered water for those who intend to drink it. We hope this step will spur others to review their own household’s consumption.

10 Ways to conserve water for the farmers growing our food:

  1. Follow local landscape watering guidelines. In Ketchum, landscape watering is prohibited from 10 am to 5 pm, June 15th to September 1st.

  2. Practice xeroscaping at your home when planning landscaping. The City fo Sun Valley, Idaho has created a list of drought tolerant species.

  3. Install rain sensors on irrigation systems

  4. Plant a rain garden for catching storm water runoff from your roof, driveway and other hard surfaces

  5. Install a rain barrel for outdoor watering

  6. Only run the washing machine and dishwasher when you have a full load

  7. Fix leaks

  8. Turn off the water when brushing your teeth and shaving

  9. Keep a bottle of drinking water in your refrigerator

  10. Use water efficient household appliances