Alley cropping is a hot topic in agroforestry and permaculture. Unfortunately, the name doesn't do a great job of explaining what it is. So what is alley cropping and how can you implement it on your homestead? Alley cropping is an agricultural method where annual crops are planted in between rows of trees or other…
Composting in the winter comes with unique difficulties, but it can be done effectively. By understanding how the composting process works, knowing the challenges of composting in colder temperatures, and following a few practices, you can keep composting right through the colder months of your climate. Challenges Of Composting In The Winter Composting in winter…
Regardless of your climate zone, if you experience winter, this guide will help you get a head start on your gardening. In this article, I'm focusing on seeds you can start in January indoors. Don't worry too much about last frost dates; with a few tricks like low tunnels, greenhouses, or even a simple milk…
Raised beds are a unique way to grow vegetables or flowers and have recently become more popular as many people have less space in their yards. However, it is important to choose the right kind of soil to ensure healthy plants. An ideal soil mix for raised beds combines topsoil, compost, and some of the…
Wildlife habitats in our gardens serve as crucial sanctuaries for various species, allowing them to flourish and offering homeowners a chance to reconnect with nature. The degradation of natural habitats around the world underscores the importance of establishing safe spaces for animals, birds, and insects even within our urbanized environments. In this article, we delve…
In the realm of permaculture, where we seek to mimic nature's most efficient and sustainable systems, fungi play a crucial role. While the common mushroom is the most recognized face of fungi, the hidden world of mycelium and other fungal forms is far more vast and influential than most realize. Let's delve into the fascinating…
For those who have been delving into permaculture and sustainable gardening, the term 'herb spiral' might sound familiar. An emblematic design of permaculture, the herb spiral embodies efficiency, diversity, and sustainability. In this post, we'll dive deep into what herb spirals are, why they work so well, and how you can build and plant in…
In our digitally-driven age, traditional homesteads are integrating technology for improved efficiency, safety, and environmental responsibility. These solutions complement, rather than compromise, the essential ethos of homesteading, emphasizing self-sufficiency, sustainability, and harmony with nature. Renewable Energy Innovation Solar Panels: A natural choice for homesteads, solar panels can drive the majority of a home’s energy needs,…
In today's rapidly changing world, the conservation of biodiversity has become a crucial endeavor. One of the lesser-known yet equally important aspects of this effort involves the preservation of heritage breeds and heirloom plants. These timeless treasures of agricultural diversity play a significant role in maintaining genetic variation and ecological resilience. As modern agricultural practices…
Maintaining a pristine and productive garden is a labor of love, requiring patience, dedication, and the right tools for the job. When it comes to weeding, it's crucial to have efficient equipment that can help you remove unwanted plants quickly and effectively without causing damage to the plants you want to keep. Here's a detailed…
Successful vegetable gardening is much more than just planting seeds and waiting for a bountiful harvest. Among the many factors that determine a healthy, productive garden, proper watering habits stand out as a fundamental necessity. This article will offer guidance on how often and how much to water your vegetable garden, the specific needs of…
Urban homesteading is a movement on the rise, with many city-dwelling individuals and families eager to adopt more sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyles. This interest often extends to raising livestock. However, there are several challenges and considerations to keep in mind, from legal regulations to space limitations. So what livestock, if any, can you raise on an…
In a rapidly urbanizing world, many are seeking to reclaim control over their lives through the practice of urban and suburban homesteading. Despite potential challenges such as limited space and complex regulations, this way of life has numerous merits, demonstrating that it is indeed worth the effort. What is Urban and Suburban Homesteading? At its…
Homesteading, the practice of self-sufficiency and living off the land, has experienced a resurgence in recent years. As people seek a simpler and more sustainable lifestyle, they often come across two terms: modern homesteading and traditional homesteading. While both approaches share a common goal of reducing reliance on external systems, they differ in various aspects.…
Gardening is not only a fulfilling and enjoyable hobby but also a sustainable way to provide fresh produce for you and your family. If you're new to gardening or simply looking for a way to maximize your harvest, it's important to choose the right vegetables that are both easy to grow and produce high yields.…
Mulch can be one of the greatest assets available for your garden. Here are a few possible resources for free mulch for your homestead.
Borage is an incredibly useful annual herb to grow in an organic garden. It can work well in mixed beds and borders, alongside perennials, and even in your kitchen vegetable garden. Borage is one of my favorite permaculture-friendly plants for those who wish to garden in a sustainable, wildlife-friendly, and organic way. In this article,…
If you're looking for a versatile and resilient berry plant for your homesteading or permaculture garden, look no further than the Jostaberry. This hardy plant, a cross between a black currant and a gooseberry, offers a unique flavor and abundant harvests, making it an ideal choice for any garden. In this article, we'll explore the…
Sheet mulching is a key strategy in an organic permaculture garden. But if you are new to gardening in a sustainable way, you might be a little confused about sheet mulching and exactly what this strategy entails. So why is sheet mulching a good idea, and how can you adopt this approach in your own…
Trees can be a tremendous benefit to a homestead in many ways, but one way that isn't often considered is how trees can enhance soil quality. Trees are good for soil health for several reasons: Trees add organic matter to the soil, help prevent soil erosion, improve soil fertility, help maintain soil moisture, and promote…
