On today’s podcast episode, Harold and Rachel talk about urban and suburban homesteading and whether or not it is worth it, practical, or even really possible right where you are, or should you even bother and just move to the country.
The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 237 – March 17, 2024
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We Discuss
Is it worth it?
Is it practical?
Is it possible where you are?
Advantages of Urban and Suburban Homesteading
- Urban Homesteading Is Not New
- According to archived USDA fact sheets, there were more than 20 million victory gardens in 1943, which produced 10 billion pounds of food. In 1944, gardens provided around 40 percent of the U.S. vegetable supply. Two-thirds of the gardens were in towns, cities, and suburban areas. About 27% was produced on urban and suburban homesteads
- The production of an abundance of healthy food in a small space
- Environmental Benefits
- Article we can discuss – https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-carbon-footprint-urban-farms-and-agriculture/
- Reduces “Food Miles” – Studies have estimated that the average distance that food travels in the United States is between 1,500 and 2,500 miles.
- Decreases use of pesticides and herbicides
- Increases natural habitat
- Reduces water runoff
- Reduces waste
- Air puification
- Can present small business opportunities
- Turns a liability into an asset
- Inspires others!
Challenges and Solutions
Space Constraints
- Selecting compact and high-yield crops.
- Utilizing Vertical Space
- Containers / Grow Bags
Indoor Growing
- Utilizing hydroponics and aquaponics systems.
Zoning and legal restrictions
- Familiarize oneself with local ordinances and regulations.
- Engaging with local officials to promote urban and suburban farming initiatives.
Time management
- Prioritizing tasks and setting realistic goals.
- Utilizing automation and smart technologies.
Evaluating Your Property For Its Homesteading Potential And Exploring Options
- Sun Exposure
- Soil Quality
- Existing Infrastructure
- Local Ordinances
- Water quality or issues?
Getting Started
Infrastructure
- Garden Beds
- Pathways
- Greenhouse
- Compost Bins
Soil
Soil Testing for Nutrients, Heavy Metals, and Ph Levels
- Compost
- Compost Tea
- Vermicompost
- Chop and Drop Plants
- Biochar
Picking Your Crops
- Trees and Shrubs
- Annual Plants
- Perennial Plants
-What you like to eat
-What grows well in your zone (start with natives)
Water Management
- Water Collection
- Water Delivery – hoses, drip irrigation
Livestock
- Rabbits
- Quail
- Chickens
- Goats
- Pheasant
- Fish
Other Ways To Provide Food For Your Homestead
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Foraging
- Bartering
Preserving The Food
- Canning
- Dehydrating
- Fermenting
- Freezing
Creating Closed-Loop Systems For Greater Self-Sufficiency And Sustainability
- Seed Saving
- Plant Propagation
- Livestock Loop
- Implementing Permaculture
Engaging With The Local Community
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