Tag: how to start homesteading

  • Raising Chickens for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know

    Raising Chickens for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know

    Raising chickens is one of the most rewarding steps toward self-sufficiency and sustainable living. You may have heard that they are the gate-way animal to homesteading. 😂 Not only do they provide fresh eggs and meat, but they also make delightful companions and help control pests in your yard. If you’re new to chicken keeping, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think! Here’s everything you need to know to get started. 

    Why Raise Chickens?

    First off, why should you raise chickens? Chickens are incredibly versatile animals, making them a perfect addition to any homestead, backyard or beginner. Here are some benefits:  

    Fresh Eggs: Home-raised eggs are tastier and more nutritious than store-bought.  

    Natural Pest Control: Chickens love eating insects like ticks, beetles, and flies.  

    Composting Helpers: Their droppings are a rich source of nitrogen for compost.  

    Low-Maintenance Pets: Chickens are easy to care for and can provide endless entertainment.  

    Choosing the Right Breeds 

    Selecting the right breed depends on your goals. Some chickens are better for egg production, while others are ideal for meat or dual-purpose. I always recommend doing your own research to find whats right for your life and your homestead but here are a few popular options:  

    Egg-Layers: Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, and Australorps are amazing layers.  

    Meat Birds: Cornish Cross and Freedom Rangers are great for meat production but these are birds you would stricly buy from a hatchery. They are bred to be larger and aren’t recommended for re-breeding as the genetics just wont turn out the same. So therfore you would be buying them from a hatchery every year. Orpingtons and Bresse’s are a good option if you want to breed yourself.

    Dual-Purpose: Breeds like Orpingtons, Wyandottes, or Rhode Island Reds are good options for both eggs and meat.  

    Cold-Hardy Breeds: Brahmas, Black Australorp and Barred Rocks tolerate colder climates well.  

    Heat-Tolerant Breeds: Leghorns and Andalusians do better in warm climates.  

    Setting Up Your Chicken Coop 

    A well-designed chicken coop is essential for keeping your flock safe, healthy, and productive. Here’s what to consider:  

    Space Requirements: Provide at least 4 square feet per bird inside the coop and 10 square feet per bird in the outdoor run.  

    Ventilation: Proper airflow prevents moisture buildup and reduces the risk of respiratory issues.  

    Nesting Boxes: Provide one nesting box for every 3–4 hens for egg-laying.  

    Roosting Bars: Chickens need roosts to sleep on at night, about 8–12 inches per bird.  

    Predator Protection: Use sturdy materials, and ensure doors and windows are secure. Install hardware cloth instead of chicken wire for better protection against predators.

    Remember, there are many options for building or purchasing a suitable coop for your birds. It can still be purposeful without being pretty. We utilized an old shed that was on our property, cut the chicken door, built roosts, and bought some laying boxes. I’ve seen people turn old campers, large dog kennels, and even make simple hoop coops to house their chickens. The possibilities are endless. So please don’t think you need $1,000 to build a coop; you just don’t.

    Feeding Your Chickens

    A balanced diet is crucial for healthy chickens and quality eggs. Here is a quick run down or you can check out my article here:

    Feeding Your Chickens for a Healthy Flock: A Guide to Quality Eggs and Meat

    Chicken Feed: Start with a commercial feed formulated for the age and purpose of your chickens (starter feed for chicks, layer feed for hens, or grower feed for meat birds).  

    Scratch Grains: A treat for chickens, but not a primary food source.  

    Kitchen Scraps: Chickens love vegetable scraps, fruits, and grains, but avoid feeding them raw potatoes, avocado, chocolate, or anything moldy.  

    Grit and Oyster Shells: Grit aids in digestion, and oyster shells provide extra calcium for strong eggshells.  

    Fresh Water: Chickens need constant access to clean water.  

    Managing Health and Hygiene  

    Healthy chickens are happy chickens. Here’s how to maintain their well-being:  

    Clean the Coop: Regularly remove droppings and old bedding to prevent ammonia buildup.  

    Check for Parasites: Inspect your chickens for mites, lice, and worms. Treat as needed with appropriate solutions.  

    Quarantine New Birds: Keep new chickens separate for a few weeks to ensure they’re not carrying diseases.  

    Watch for Signs of Illness: Be alert for lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal behavior, which could indicate health issues.  

    Raising Baby Chicks 

    Starting with baby chicks can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s what they’ll need:  

    Brooder Box: A safe, enclosed space with proper ventilation.  

    Heat Source: Use a heat lamp to maintain a temperature of 95°F in the first week, decreasing by 5°F each week until they’re fully feathered.  

    Chick Feed: Provide starter feed with the nutrients they need for healthy growth. 

    Fresh Water: Use a shallow dish to prevent chicks from drowning. Yes, this happens.  

    Bedding: Use pine shavings or straw, but avoid newspaper, which can cause leg problems. This would be like using no bedding as the newspaper just slips and slides everywhere, putting your babies at risk for splayed leg syndrome.

    Egg Collection and Storage  

    Hens typically start laying eggs around 4–6 months of age depending of the breed. To ensure clean and fresh eggs:  

    Daily Collection: When left unattended in the nest, eggs can become dirty, cracked or even eaten(either by the chicken herself orother invaders). In some cases, hens might also conceal them. Interestingly, chickens have a unique ability to carry their eggs tucked under their wings, transporting them to a more secure location(for hatching).  

    Store Properly: Farm fresh eggs have what we call a ‘bloom’ on them that protects them for weeks at room temperature. However if you wash this bloom off, then the eggs must refrigerated.  The eggs still last up to 3 months if stored in the fridge. I personally leave all my eggs at room temperature and rotate them into my kitchen about once a week. I will then wash if they are dirty and store them in the fridge or give away to family as I see fit.

    Common Challenges 

    Even experienced chicken keepers face challenges. Here are a few and how to handle them:  

    Predators: Raccoons, hawks, and foxes are common threats. Always secure your coop and run.  

    Broody Hens: A broody hen essentially acts like a mother anticipating the arrival of chicks. She will lay a certain number of eggs and then stop, choosing to settle on her nest in hopes of hatching them. Interestingly, even without a rooster, meaning the eggs are not fertilized, or if you routinely gather the eggs she lays, she may still insist on sitting on her empty nest. This behavior can lead her to attempt hatching eggs that won’t ever develop or remain fixed on an empty space. To curb this broodiness, it’s important to remove her from the nest, sometimes repeatedly over several days. While she won’t be pleased and will likely express her discontent LOUDLY, this intervention is crucial. Left to her own devices, she might starve herself in her relentless pursuit to incubate those eggs.

    Molting: Chickens shed old feathers and temporarily stop laying eggs during molting season. Usually this happens in fall. It’s normal and doesn’t require intervention, however you may come out one day thinking a murder happened with all the excess feathers you find.

    Building a Routine

    Chickens thrive on consistency. Establish a daily routine that includes:  

    – Feeding and watering in the morning.  

    – Collecting eggs daily.  

    – Letting them out to free-range (if possible).  

    – Many chicken tenders choose to put their chickens to bed and close their coop doors at night to keep them safe from predators. I don’t lock mine up in their coop, but I do ensure they are safe in their run, especially during the summer when daylight hours are long and they are most likely up past my bedtime.

    Enjoy the Process  

    Raising chickens is about more than just eggs and meat—it’s about building a connection to your food and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Chickens have unique personalities and are fun to watch as they scratch, peck, and interact. Take the time to enjoy the process and celebrate the small victories.  

    Final Thoughts

    Raising chickens is a rewarding journey that offers both practical benefits and joyful moments. By starting with the right preparation and knowledge, you’ll set yourself up for success. Whether you’re looking to gather fresh eggs every morning or simply enjoy the companionship of these feathery friends, chickens are a wonderful addition to any homestead or backyard.  

    What questions do you have about raising chickens? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Homesteading: My Top Ten Tips

    Homesteading is a dream for many—living closer to nature, growing your own food, raising animals, and embracing self-sufficiency. It’s a lifestyle filled with rewards, but it’s also packed with challenges and surprises that most beginners don’t anticipate. Looking back on my journey, there are several things I wish I had known before diving into homesteading. If you’re just starting out, these lessons might save you time, money, and frustration.

    1. You Don’t Have to Do Everything at Once

    When I first started homesteading, I was eager to try it all—gardening, raising chickens, keeping bees, and preserving food—all at once. I figured if instead of just dipping a toe in, I would jump in both feet first. This was a recipe for burnout. I quickly learned that starting small and focusing on one or two projects at a time is the best approach. Homesteading is a marathon, not a sprint. There’s always time to add more as you gain experience and confidence. If you want to read about how I got started I’ll link it below.

    Embracing Homesteading: A Journey to Self-Sufficiency

    2. It’s Harder Than It Looks Online

    Scrolling through social media, it’s easy to romanticize homesteading. Beautiful gardens, happy animals, and rustic homes make it seem effortless. In reality, homesteading is a lot of hard work. Plants don’t always thrive, animals get sick, and fences break, a lot. Be prepared for challenges and bad days. Homesteading is about learning as you go, and remembering its okay to make mistakes.

    3. The Cost Can Add Up Quickly

    I assumed that homesteading would save me money right away, but I quickly realized that the upfront costs can be significant. Tools, seeds, fencing, animal feed, and infrastructure like coops and raised garden beds all require investment. While homesteading can save money in the long term, it’s important to budget wisely and prioritize essential projects first.  I also suggest prioritizing DIY projects and recycled materials before buying new. It’s more important for it to be purposeful than pretty.

    4. Research Is Your Best Friend

    One of the biggest lessons I learned is that knowledge is power. I made several mistakes early on because I didn’t research enough. For example, I didn’t now how to amend my soil or know what companion planting was. Let’s not start about how I misjudged the height of fencing I needed for my goat enclosure. Take the time to study your land, climate, and the requirements of the animals or plants you want to raise.  

    5. Time Management Is Key

    Homesteading is incredibly time-consuming. Between caring for animals, maintaining a garden, and tackling DIY projects, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. I wish I had created a daily and seasonal schedule earlier to stay on top of tasks. Planning ahead, especially for busy times like planting and harvesting seasons, makes everything more manageable. 

    6. Pests and Predators Are Relentless

    One of the biggest shocks for me was how relentless pests and predators can be. From insects destroying crops to foxes breaking into the chicken coop, I learned that prevention is crucial. Invest in secure fencing, use natural pest control methods, and always be prepared to adapt your strategies.

    7. It’s Okay to Outsource Some Things

    As much as I wanted to do everything myself. I quickly realized that it’s okay to ask for help or outsource certain tasks. Whether it’s hiring someone to repair a fence or buying seedlings instead of starting from seed. Outsourcing can save you time and energy when you’re feeling overwhelmed. When I outsource I prefer to buy local or from other homesteaders to help support my community.

    8. Patience Is Essential

    Homesteading is a lifestyle that requires patience. Gardens don’t grow overnight, and animals take time to mature and produce. There will be setbacks and slow progress, but trust the process. Celebrate small victories and remember why you started.  

    9. Self-Care Matters

    In the early days of homesteading, I often worked from dawn to dusk, neglecting my own well-being. Over time, I learned that self-care is just as important as caring for your land and animals. Take breaks, rest when you need to, and make time for hobbies or relaxation to avoid burnout.  

    10. Homesteading Is a Journey, Not a Destination

    Finally, I wish I had embraced the mindset that homesteading is an ever-evolving journey. There’s always something new to learn, and your goals change over time. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on progress and enjoy the process of building a lifestyle that works for you.  

    Final Thoughts

    Homesteading is a fulfilling and transformative lifestyle, but it’s not without its challenges. By learning from my experiences, you can avoid some common pitfalls and set yourself up for success. Remember to start small, do your research, and give yourself grace as you learn and grow.  

    Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about taking the plunge, homesteading is a journey worth pursuing. What lessons have you learned or are you excited to explore? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • What is homesteading: Small Scale

    What is Homesteading on a Small Scale?

    Homesteading has long been associated with a self-sufficient lifestyle. One where individuals or families take responsibility for producing their own food, shelter, and energy. While large-scale homesteading properties often conjure up images of huge farms and pastures galore with animals, small-scale homesteading is a growing trend that focuses on achieving a similar sense of independence and sustainability—just on a smaller, more manageable scale. You can achieve small-scale homesteading whether you live on a small urban lot, a suburban backyard, or a few acres in the countryside (which is what I have). Small-scale homesteading allows you to embrace self-reliance in a way that fits your space, budget, and lifestyle.

    What Does Small-Scale Homesteading Involve?

    Small-scale homesteading is about creating a lifestyle where you can provide for your basic needs without relying heavily on outside resources. It’s about being resourceful, learning new skills, and cultivating a sense of independence. Here are some key elements involved in small-scale homesteading:

    Growing Your Own Food

       One of the primary goals of homesteading is food production, and small-scale homesteaders often grow their own vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Even if you have a small garden or just a few containers on a balcony, you can grow a surprising amount of food. From tomatoes and peppers to greens like spinach and kale, many plants thrive in compact spaces. Raised garden beds, vertical gardening, and hydroponics are all popular methods for maximizing food production in small areas.

    Raising Livestock

       For those with a bit more space, raising small livestock can be a rewarding aspect of homesteading. Chickens for eggs, rabbits for meat, or even a few goats for milk are great options for small-scale homesteaders. These animals require less space and resources than larger livestock but still offer the benefits of fresh, home-produced food.

    Preserving the Harvest

       When you grow your own food, one of the key skills to master is food preservation. Canning, freezing, drying, and fermenting allow homesteaders to store food for the winter or times of scarcity. For small-scale homesteaders, this could mean a modest pantry full of homemade jams, pickles, or frozen vegetables, ensuring a year-round supply of nutritious food without relying on store-bought alternatives.

    Energy Independence

       Small-scale homesteaders often seek to reduce their dependency on traditional energy sources by adopting renewable energy practices. Solar panels, small wind turbines, and even rainwater harvesting systems can be incorporated into a homesteading lifestyle, making it more sustainable and cost-effective over time. Energy independence can be achieved incrementally, starting with small steps like installing energy-efficient appliances or using solar-powered lights.

    DIY Projects and Crafting

       Many small-scale homesteaders embrace the DIY mentality. This can range from woodworking and home repairs to making your own soap, candles, and cleaning products. The ability to create or repair items yourself not only saves money but also fosters a sense of accomplishment and reduces reliance on mass-produced goods. This mindset is central to homesteading on any scale, and it’s a great way to enhance your self-sufficiency.

    Sustainable Living

       Sustainability is a core tenet of homesteading, and even small-scale homesteaders can reduce their environmental impact. This can involve composting food scraps, using natural fertilizers, recycling materials, and minimizing waste. Even small actions, like using reusable bags and reducing plastic usage, contribute to a more sustainable way of life.

    Why Choose Small-Scale Homesteading?

    Small-scale homesteading offers numerous benefits, and it’s a lifestyle that appeals to a wide range of people. Here are some reasons homesteading is becoming so popular:

    Lower Cost of Living

    Growing your own food, raising animals for eggs or meat, and reducing your reliance on store-bought goods can lead to significant savings in the long run.

    Increased Self-Sufficiency

    With a small-scale homestead, you become less reliant on outside sources for food, water, and energy. This sense of independence can be both empowering and reassuring.

    Connection with Nature

    Homesteading allows you to develop a closer relationship with the land and the natural world. The satisfaction of growing your own food, taking care of animals, and using natural resources in sustainable ways can deepen your connection to nature.

    Healthier Living

    Growing your own organic food and avoiding processed items can lead to a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, the physical labor involved in homesteading, from gardening to building, can keep you active and engaged.

    A Sense of Accomplishment

    Homesteading teaches you new skills, such as gardening, carpentry, cooking, and animal care. Each task completed—from a successful harvest to a newly built chicken coop—provides a deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

    How to Start Small-Scale Homesteading

    If you’re interested in starting your own small-scale homestead, it’s important to start small and work within your current capabilities. Here are a few tips to get started:

    1. Assess Your Space

    Whether you have a small backyard or an apartment balcony, determine what you can realistically grow or produce in your available space.

    2. Start with the Basics

    Begin by growing a few easy-to-care-for plants, like herbs or lettuce, and gradually expand your garden as you gain experience.

    3. Learn New Skills

    There are countless resources online and in libraries to help you learn homesteading skills like gardening, food preservation, and animal care.

    4. Invest in Essential Tools

    Reusing and recycling materials you have available to you should always be your primary goal however there are certain items you will want to invest it. Whether it’s gardening tools, a compost bin, or a small chicken coop, investing in the right equipment will help you get started and make your efforts more efficient.

    5. Join a Community

    Homesteading doesn’t have to be a solo venture. Find local homesteading groups or online forums where you can exchange advice, tips, and encouragement with others who share your interests. Tik tok and facebook both have great communities.

    Conclusion

    Small-scale homesteading is a rewarding lifestyle that allows individuals and families to embrace self-sufficiency, sustainability, and independence without the need for large plots of land. Whether you’re growing your own food, raising small livestock, or creating DIY projects, small-scale homesteading provides countless opportunities for personal growth, cost savings, and a deeper connection to nature. By starting small and working with what you have, you can create a homestead that fits your space, your time, and your life.

    Happy Homesteading!