As winter fades and the first signs of spring emerge, homesteaders and gardeners alike eagerly anticipate the start of the growing season. However, early spring can still bring unpredictable weather and cold temperatures. Fortunately, many cold-hardy crops thrive in these conditions, allowing you to get a jump start on your garden. This guide will explore …
Gardening
Companion planting is an age-old gardening practice that enhances plant health, deters pests, and improves yields by strategically placing plants that benefit each other. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced homesteader, understanding which plants work well together can help create a thriving and resilient spring garden. This guide will explore the basics of companion …
Spring is an exciting time for homesteaders and gardeners alike. As the frost fades and the soil begins to warm, it’s time to prepare garden beds for planting. One of the most effective and natural ways to do this is by enlisting the help of your chickens and ducks. These hardworking poultry can assist with …
Weeds are the bane of every gardener’s existence. As spring arrives, weeds begin to emerge, competing with your garden plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight. However, there are many natural ways to prevent weeds from taking over your homestead without resorting to harsh chemicals. In this guide, we’ll explore effective organic methods to keep weeds …
Dandelions are often viewed as pesky weeds, but they are actually a powerhouse of nutrition and medicinal benefits. Every part of the dandelion—flowers, leaves, and roots—can be used for a variety of purposes, from food to skincare. In this guide, we’ll cover how to make dandelion jelly, tea, and salves, perfect for beginner and intermediate …
As winter begins to wane, late winter offers homesteaders a critical opportunity to prepare for the busy months of spring. With warmer days just around the corner, getting a head start on essential chores ensures your homestead transitions smoothly into the growing and birthing season. This article provides a comprehensive checklist of late-winter tasks to …
If you know anything about taking care of chickens, you know that egg laying season tends to have ebbs and flows. This is why every backyard chicken owner should know how to preserve eggs long term.
Here at Secret Life of Homesteaders, we believe there is never a wrong time to garden. That’s why we almost always begin germinating seeds in Winter.
Here at Secret Life of Homesteaders, we believe in including kids in our homesteading endeavors. Next time you’re out working in the garden, share these free ground layers worksheets with your kids and teach your kids all about the different layers of soil.
Are you learning how to preserve and store food? What about how to store produce for optimal freshness? We’re not talking long-term storage here – we’re focusing on short-term storage of produce that you want you and your family to enjoy over the next few weeks.

