As I transitioned from my initial small garden to a sprawling 2.5-acre property surrounded by forest and mountain slopes, I recognized the importance of scaling up my design elements to harmonize with the expanded landscape. In contrast to my original two-seater bistro dining set nestled in my herb area, our current setup features a 14-person … Read more
Eggplant’s reputation as a finicky crop and unpalatable ingredient is undeserved. With optimal conditions and proper culinary handling, this versatile vegetable can be transformed into a flavorful delight. I’m perplexed by the widespread dislike of eggplant, which I attribute to its frequent miscooking. When prepared correctly, it surpasses other vegetables in terms of flavor. Additionally, … Read more
I used to harbor a fear of the word ‘fertilizer’, conjuring images of hazardous industrial products requiring protective gear to handle. While some synthetic fertilizers still make my nose twitch, I’ve come to realize there are numerous alternatives. In fact, many of these natural options are already part of our homesteading routine. Here, I’ll delve … Read more
Who wouldn’t adore a slice of mom’s famous cherry pie or a succulent cherry perched atop a sundae? The allure of cultivating one’s own cherry tree is undeniable – from the breathtaking spring blooms to the joy of harvesting plump, juicy fruits directly from the branch. It’s little wonder that this beloved fruit has been … Read more
For those who brave the biting cold of planting zones one and two, gardening is a remarkable feat that requires dedication, resilience, and creative problem-solving. In areas such as Wyoming and Alaska, where temperatures plummet to -50°F (and sometimes lower), it’s nothing short of astonishing that people still cultivate their own food. These hardy gardeners … Read more
Why Should I Learn How to Sterilize Soil? The primary goal of sterilizing soil is to minimize risks and eliminate unwanted fungi, viruses, diseases, weeds, and pests, thereby reducing unpredictability in the gardening season. While you may not need to sterilize your soil if it’s pest- or disease-free, reusing soil for container gardens or dealing … Read more
If you’re a beer enthusiast, growing your own hops can be a game-changer. Not only will you have the ability to brew unique flavor profiles, but you’ll also save money by using locally sourced ingredients. And if brewing isn’t your thing, you can sell your harvest to local breweries or at farmers’ markets. The female … Read more
While some might dismiss the idea of raising turkeys for profit, homesteaders know that these birds can be voracious eaters and have specific protein requirements. However, it is possible to turn this perceived drawback into an opportunity. By implementing certain strategies, you can successfully raise turkeys for a profit. Here’s where we’ll explore some key … Read more
The concept of trap crops, also known as decoy crops or sacrificial crops, initially raised a few eyebrows when I first encountered it. However, after experimenting with this approach, I was thrilled with the outcomes. My harvests became more bountiful, and I successfully transitioned my vegetable garden to a predominantly chemical-free environment. The underlying idea … Read more
While spring planting has its advantages, many fruit trees and bushes actually thrive in the fall season. If you’re looking to establish a thriving edible landscape, food forest, or orchard, the cooler autumn weather presents an ideal opportunity for planting. As such, now is the perfect time to begin planning and preparing for a bountiful … Read more