As the days get shorter and the nights turn colder, it’s time to switch from harvest mode to prep mode. Winter can be tough on both you and your homestead, but a little preparation now will save you a lot of stress later.
These are the five things I do every fall to get my homestead ready for freezing weather — so when that first snow hits, I can rest easy knowing everything (and everyone) is taken care of.
1. Check and Insulate Your Water Lines
Frozen water lines are no fun — and if you’ve ever tried to haul buckets through snow, you know exactly what I mean.
- Check all your lines, both inside and out, for cracks or weak spots.
- Wrap exposed pipes and faucets with insulation or heat tape if needed.
- If your water source is outdoors, make sure you have a backup plan for thawing or hauling water when temperatures drop.
Even a little insulation goes a long way in keeping things flowing smoothly through the coldest nights.
2. Deep Clean Animal Coops and Pens
Before winter sets in, I like to do a full deep clean of the chicken coop, goat pen, and any other livestock shelters.
- Remove old bedding and replace it with fresh straw or shavings.
- Check for drafts — block the cold winds, but leave ventilation up high so moisture doesn’t build up.
- Stock up on bedding materials so you’re not scrambling mid-winter.
A clean, dry space helps animals stay healthier and reduces ammonia smells that get worse when everything’s shut up tight.
3. Organize and Protect Your Seeds & Tools
Before you tuck your garden supplies away for the year, take an afternoon to clean and sharpen your tools. Dirt and rust shorten their lifespan — a quick scrub and a light oil coat will make them last for years.
Then move on to your seeds:
- Sort and label them by type or planting season.
- Store them in a cool, dry, and temperature-controlled spot (inside the house is often best).
Fluctuating temps can affect humidity, which lowers seed viability. Treat them like gold — because they are!
4. Stock Up Before the First Snow
It never fails — the first winter storm always seems to hit when you’re low on feed. Avoid the rush by stocking up early on:
- Animal feed and minerals
- Bedding materials
- Fuel, propane, or firewood
- Family essentials like flour, sugar, and coffee
A full pantry and feed room mean fewer trips to town and more peace of mind when the roads get icy.
5. Winterize Your Garden Beds and Cold Frames
Don’t forget your garden! A little prep now makes spring planting so much easier.
- Mulch raised beds with straw or leaves to protect the soil.
- Clean and repair cold frames or mini greenhouses before you need them.
- Compost spent plants and add manure or cover crops to feed next year’s soil.
Even a small effort now helps preserve the health of your beds — and keeps your garden thriving year after year.
Final Thoughts
Winter prep can feel like extra work, but it’s really an investment in your peace of mind. When you’ve got insulated pipes, stocked feed, and clean coops, you can focus on cozy fires and planning next year’s garden instead of crisis management.
A little preparation now means a smoother, safer, and happier homestead all winter long.
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