Field Notes

Field Notes

A Field Guide to Magnolia

by Syama Wells on Mar 24 2026
They show up in the fossil record from before bees existed, which explains a lot about how they work. Most flowering plants today are shaped around bees. Magnolia isn’t.
Creating Traditional Indian Incense

Field Notes

Creating Traditional Indian Incense

by Syama Wells on Feb 15 2026
Traditional Indian incense is built from simple, plant-based materials. Wood powders create the body, natural binders hold it together, resins add depth, and bamboo charcoal supports an even burn. Finished with oils, each element works with the others to form a balanced stick that burns slowly and steadily.