As the end of summer approaches, August can be a frantic time for gardeners. To help you stay on track, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide outlining the essential tasks you should focus on this month, taking into account your planting zone and region. We’ll also provide some universal tips applicable to most gardens. In … Read more
As I began homesteading, I started with a small footprint – roughly ¼ of an acre. I divided this space into a vegetable garden and a mini fruit orchard/herb garden. Over time, I gradually added to these spaces through piecemeal purchases of individual plants. This approach worked reasonably well, allowing me to fill up most … Read more
The first time I hatched chicken eggs, I was under the impression that it would be a breeze. Twenty-one days passed quickly, and while some specialized equipment and basic instructions were necessary, the process seemed surprisingly straightforward – almost like nature was doing all the heavy lifting. In hindsight, this initial experience might have contributed … Read more
Raising ducklings is a delightful experience that can bring immense joy to your homestead. Whether you choose to care for them personally or let a mother duck do the honors, watching these feathered friends grow and thrive is a treat that’s hard to match. As you embark on this journey, it’s essential to consider some … Read more
In today’s homesteading world, food preservation is a hot topic. When you put in the effort to grow your own food, it’s only natural to want to make every harvest count. Not only does preserving food help reduce waste, but it also allows you to enjoy the fruits of your labor year-round. From freezing and … Read more
There’s no scent quite like the sweet aroma of fresh, baked apples wafting through your kitchen. The unmistakable signal that a day is about to get deliciously better! As an orchardist myself, I have the privilege of watching my apple trees flourish and knowing that soon, the fruits of my labor will be transformed into … Read more
As the warmer months arrive, my herb garden flourishes, and I delight in cultivating an array of flavors, from the sweetness of mint (chocolate mint being a personal favorite) to the pungency of cilantro. The versatility of these herbs is undeniable – they elevate everything from crepes to pizza with their unique tastes. However, as … Read more
While many gardeners focus on cultivating crops for human consumption, incorporating medicinal herbs into your garden beds or surrounding your chicken coop can have a multitude of benefits. Not only are these herbs beneficial to humans, but they also provide a natural means of maintaining parasite-free coops and promoting the overall health and well-being of … Read more
My fascination with gardening began during a trip to France many years ago. It was then that I discovered how some people approached gardening as an art form rather than just a task. The French gardeners I met didn’t just maintain their gardens; they nurtured relationships with the plants and the landscape around them, creating … Read more
While there are some notable parallels between keeping ducks and chickens, one of the most significant areas of convergence lies in their housing requirements. Both can thrive in similar coop or shelter designs with only minor adjustments necessary. Furthermore, both species can be fed a diet comprising chicken food, provided that a few supplemental elements … Read more