The rooster may crow but the hen delivers the goods.

The rooster may crow but the hen delivers the goods.
Our mini farm continues to grow. I am learning a lot this year. Specifically, more than ever we are really trying to max out our space by intercropping and succession planting. I am also squeezing our planting distances. Probably more so than anyone would recommend but so far so good.
We doubled our garden size this year – who needs that much grass anyway. I also moved away from row planting which goes against everything I know and saw growing up. I also disregarded the recommendations for raised beds. I wasn’t willing to sacrifice this valuable space for clear defined walking paths – just ask my husband who wasn’t allowed in this space until all plants were fully visible.
So far we have been very happy with the results. We got a jump on planting due to a ridiculously mild winter so we have already harvest our Yukon Gold potatoes, cabbage and onions. All of which have already been replaced with their successor. Beans and peas are on and we have an amazing tomato crop ripening. Of course, the spring crops are done and I am setting up for our Fall planting now. Crop rotation is fascinating and I am learning how important this is.
We did everything from non-GMO heirloom seeds (organic too when possible). It’s been so rewarding and I hope to have enough starts next year to share- even more than this year.
I have found some amazing books and websites. I am compiling my list and will add them soon. One of the hardest things we have found is sourcing our homesteading supplies, feeds, seeds, etc. We support local as much as possible but also don’t wanted to be limited by the local retailers. This has been a big problem with our bee supplies – finally settling with two suppliers that I’m happy with but shipping is a problem.
Finally, as the harvest comes on I am learning to store food. We bought a food dehydrator and some freezer bags. Canning scares me the most but I will give it a shot!
Here’s some of what we’ve been doing. Hope you enjoy!
The gardens are planted and seeds are starting to sprout. I just finished putting down the straw and it’s everywhere! But, if it does its job of keeping down the weeds and holding in moisture – so be it.
I have been reading a book called Weekend Homesteader by Anna Hess. It has inspired many weekend projects for Jerad and I. Great book – especially for those of us needing some of the basics.
We have two (and a half) garden areas – getting ready to expand one for more space. Every year we press our luck with the frost. With a short growing season we do what we can April/May but keep the plastic sheets close. I think – I hope – we are past the last frost. So far, everything made it.
It’s been a very long time since my last post. I have missed journaling and sharing, but, a job change, house purchase and move, dead computer, new business, wedding and whatever else life has thrown our way has kept us preoccupied.
Busyness has kept us from not just sharing but actively participating in the things that are so important to us. We have been doing the minimal cooking, planning and learning – just getting by but not enjoying it.
No more.
Getting back into cooking and exploring ways to broaden our vegetarian diet/health is not only out of enjoyment, but necessity. And, we have taken it one step further jumping on the urban farm movement. Yep, even backyard chickens.
It has been a busy and exciting spring. Transforming lawns into vegetable gardens, building a chicken coop/run, and setting up a rain barrel just skims the surface of my long chore list. Hard work that is full of purpose and life- and I love it.
Look forward to sharing this journey – lots to learn.
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