Blackberries are highly nutritious and contain a wide array of important nutrients including potassium, magnesium, and calcium, as well as vitamins A, C, E and most of our B vitamins. They are also a rich source of powerful antioxidants that give blackberries their deep purple color. Native Americans used many parts of the Blackberry plant…
So, you’re starting a homestead. What do you do first? There are so many things to do. So many things to install. So many things to build. So many things to plant. It can certainly seem daunting. One thing for sure is that you will want to grow food. Why would you want a homestead…
Of all the critters to choose from to stock your homestead, chickens should be a no-brainer. Whether you have an urban backyard or have found yourself a few acres in the country, the backyard chicken can be one of your greatest assets. They provide eggs, meat, manure, and insect control to name a few of…
Homesteading is a mindset. It’s a lifestyle of self-sufficiency, frugality, prioritization, skill set development, and a positive attitude toward life and nature. If you possess the willingness to develop those things, you’re ready to start. A homestead can be a small backyard or a large piece of property. Most homesteads will include a garden, fruit…
Whether you buy your peppers at the grocery store or grow them in your own garden choosing the right pepper for your family is not an easy task. There are thousands of varieties of peppers and each one has its own heat signature. Many peppers are not hot at all, but most will challenge even…
There are many factors, that will determine your need for an irrigation system, including your location, the season, and typical climate conditions. If your location gets adequate annual rainfall, you might not need one. If, however, you are like most folks (who don’t live in Seattle) you’re probably going to need to do some irrigation….
Anyone can stick a seed in some potting mix, but not just anyone can get it to sprout and grow. But you can! If you follow some simple tips, you can be the envy of all your gardening friends, and get off to an amazing start. Starting seedlings is so rewarding. I’ve been doing this…
Gardening can be a difficult job. Planting, fertilizing, cultivating and other jobs can be taxing on any gardener. Thankfully, there are tools available that will make it much easier. One company that makes life easier for many gardeners like myself is the Hoss line of Wheel Hoes and their many attachments. Hoss Tools offers a…
Whether you’re raising chickens in a small backyard or spread over a large acreage, there are some things you need to know before you start your journey. Chickens are relatively easy to keep, but there are a few challenges you will need to overcome. No matter what breed you choose, chickens must be kept in…
Some think a homestead has to be a large piece of property, but a smart homesteader can enjoy all the benefits of the homestead lifestyle without the expense of a large land purchase. For many, starting a small scale homestead is much more attainable, and desirable. Small scale homesteading is a self-reliant way of life…
