On this podcast episode, I answer a few questions from listeners. I talk about what to get started with on a new homestead, mistakes I’ve made and what I’d do differently, getting away from the homestead and farm sitters, what to look for on a new homestead, guest rules on my homestead, what I’ve decided to stop doing and making use of a leach field area.
Listen To The Podcast
Your First Year of Homesteading: What Should You Prioritize?
Shannon asks: What would be the top 3-5 things to accomplish or buy in the first year of homesteading?
Starting a homestead is super exciting but can also feel overwhelming with so many possibilities. You might wonder if you need a tractor right away or if you should dive into raising livestock. Here’s what I recommend for your first year:
1. Plant Fruit Trees Early
Fruit trees take time to mature, and you won’t see fruit for a few years. So, plant them right away! Whether it’s apples, pears, or plums, getting those trees in the ground early means you’ll enjoy the fruits (literally) of your labor down the road.
2. Start a Garden
Even if it’s a small garden, growing your own food is a big part of homesteading. Start by prepping a garden area, maybe with raised beds, and get a compost pile going too. You can use cardboard and mulch to prep the soil over winter, and come spring, you’ll be ready to plant.
3. Compost is Gold
Speaking of compost, start a compost pile from day one. Whether it’s kitchen scraps or garden waste, turning that into nutrient-rich soil will help your garden thrive. It’s a simple and cost-effective project to begin immediately.
4. Chickens are a Great Start
Chickens are relatively low-maintenance and give you the double benefit of eggs and meat, not to mention manure for composting. You don’t need a big flock—start small with 3-5 hens. You can even build a simple chicken tractor and move them around your yard to fertilize the soil.
5. Plan Your Infrastructure
This might not sound exciting, but take the time to plan your homestead layout. Where will the garden go? Where will you put a barn if you need one later? Planning ahead saves you from costly mistakes like needing to move a fence or building down the road.
Mistakes Happen – And That’s Okay!
Elizabeth asks: What’s the biggest mistake you’ve made on your homestead? Would you try it again? What would you do differently?
My biggest mistake? Waiting too long to get started! I spent years dreaming of the “perfect” homestead, thinking I’d move to a big piece of land someday. But eventually, I realized I could start right where I was, even with a small property. There’s always something you can do—whether it’s gardening, raising chickens, or learning new skills. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to get going.
What would I do differently? I’d stop worrying about perfection and start taking small steps toward my goals. If you wait for the perfect moment, you might never start. So, my advice: just dive in, make mistakes, and learn as you go!
Taking a Break from the Never-Ending Homestead Chores
Cindy asks: How do you get a break from what feels like a never-ending obligation on the homestead? How do you take a vacation?
The reality of homesteading is that it can feel like there’s always something to do. The key to getting a break? Seasonal slowing down. In the winter, we process most of our animals, so there’s less to care for. Gardens aren’t growing, so there’s less to do. This is when I plan any vacations or take time to rest.
When you do need to get away during busy seasons, finding a reliable farm sitter is a must. More on that in the next question!
Finding a Farm Sitter You Can Trust
Tamlynn asks: What do you look for in a farm sitter, and how can you make things easier for them?
Finding a farm sitter can be tricky, but it’s not impossible! Here’s what I look for:
1. Look for Experience
If you have capable family or friends, start there. If not, ask around your local community or homesteading groups. Sometimes, teenagers in rural areas are familiar with farm chores and can be great help.
2. Train Them
Don’t just show them the ropes the day before you leave. Have them come by a few days before and go through the routine with them, making sure they understand what’s needed. Watch them do it while you’re home, so you can correct anything on the spot.
3. Make it Simple
Simplify your homestead chores as much as possible. Set up automatic feeders and waterers for your animals. Leave clear written instructions for your sitter, including what to do if something goes wrong.
What I’d Look for in a Homestead Property
Meg asks: If you were to start all over, what would you look for in a homestead property?
If I had the chance to start again, I’d look for:
1. Good Water Source
A reliable water source like a well, pond, or creek is essential. Without good water, homesteading can become a huge challenge.
2. Good Soil
Test the soil before you buy. Good soil can save you a lot of work. If it’s bad, you’ll need to invest time and resources to amend it.
3. Infrastructure or Room to Build
If the property has barns, outbuildings, or fencing already, that’s a big bonus. If not, make sure there’s space to build what you need.
4. Proximity to Neighbors
I don’t want to be right next to a bunch of GMO crop fields being sprayed with pesticides. Consider what’s around you!
Repairing Your Soil After Construction
Kim asks: We just moved to a new construction home. How do I go about repairing my soil?
New construction can really mess with your soil. Here’s what you can do:
1. Get a Soil Test
Start by testing your soil, especially if you think the construction brought in poor-quality fill dirt. Your local county extension office can usually help with this, and it’s often free or low-cost.
2. Amend the Soil
Depending on your test results, you’ll know what nutrients your soil is missing. Compost is a great way to start improving it. You can also add organic fertilizers or minerals as needed.
3. Consider Raised Beds
If the soil is really poor or contaminated, building raised beds and bringing in good soil is another option.
Visitors on the Homestead: Rules and Fun Stories
Ian asks: Do you have any rules for people visiting your homestead? Do you let them pick from your harvest?
I love having visitors, but I do have a few simple rules. If I’m not home, I ask people to stay out of the garden. If I’m there, I’m happy to show them around and even let them pick a few things, as long as they’re respectful.
Funny story: I once caught my neighbor’s kids picking berries along the fence. They tried to deny it, but I just laughed and told them they were welcome to anything hanging over the fence. As long as people are respectful, I’m happy to share.
When Something Isn’t Worth the Effort
Derek asks: What’s something you’ve stopped doing because it wasn’t worth the effort?
I stopped colony raising rabbits. At first, I loved seeing the rabbits run around together, but it became too difficult to manage. They were more prone to disease and parasites, and catching them was a challenge! Now, I raise them in cages, which is easier and healthier for the rabbits.
Starting a homestead is full of learning moments and rewarding experiences. Just take it one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes! Happy homesteading!
