4 Simple Tips to Starting A Homestead

Is the state of the nation and world starting to have you a bit on edge?

Many people are starting to feel a bit of a pull in their spirits to get back to a more simple life. Many are longing for more self-sufficiency as they work to provide for their family's future.  With a little knowledge and a lot of heart, you can embark on an incredible journey that will transform your way of life. Here are 4 essential tips to help you get started on creating your very own homestead.

1. Cultivate Your Green Thumb and Start with a Garden: Gardens are the soul of any homestead. Begin by assessing your land and choosing the ideal spot for your vegetable patch. Start small and gradually expand your garden as your confidence grows. Learn about crop rotation, companion planting, and organic pest control to ensure bountiful and sustainable harvests. Know what growing zone you are in and what your frost dates are. Where I live we have one of the shortest growing seasons in the US, just 108 days. It's important to know what grows best in this climate and what will be wasting my time. 

I often have people tell me that they don't have a green thumb and they kill everything they plant. I GET IT! I did too.  But just like anything else in life, gardening can be learned. Start small with just few easy things to grow and expand a little bit more each year. 

2. Cluck Your Way to Freedom: Chickens are incredible companions on the homestead. They provide fresh eggs, natural pest control, and endless entertainment. Research local regulations, acquire a small coop or build one yourself, and select a few hens to start your flock. Be sure to provide a safe and secure space, quality feed, and access to fresh water. Make sure to check out my post on Pullets Vs Straight Runs so you don't end up with all roosters and no egg layers! It's a common newbie mistake!

3. Build the Foundations: Fencing is crucial for creating boundaries and protecting your homestead. Determine your needs – Are you keeping animals in or out? Are you protecting your garden or marking property lines? Plan accordingly and select appropriate materials. Remember, strong and sturdy fences will ensure peace of mind and minimize potential challenges. Choose a style that fits your aesthetic and budget, and don't be afraid to take on the project yourself. Building a fence can be a fun and rewarding DIY endeavor, and you'll feel a sense of accomplishment every time you look at your secure homestead.

4. Quenching the Thirst: Water is a lifeline for your homestead. Consider water conservation methods, rain collection systems, and proper irrigation techniques to support your garden and animal care. Additionally, assess the accessibility of reliable water sources to ensure a self-sustaining oasis on your homestead.

Remember, homesteading is not limited to a specific group of people. It is a way of life that embraces self-sufficiency, sustainability, and a deep connection to the land. It can be done in a suburban neighborhood or the middle of the woods and many aspects can even be done in an urban area. While it may seem intimidating at first, anyone can embark on this remarkable journey with the right mindset and a willingness to learn. Surround yourself with fellow homesteaders, join online communities like our Inexperienced Homesteader group, and seek guidance from experienced mentors.

So, grab your gardening gloves, brush off those carpentry skills, and take the plunge into the world of homesteading. Your future awaits, teeming with fresh produce, happy clucks, and the freedom that comes with embracing a life connected to the land. You have the power to craft your homestead, one seed at a time. And check out my other post on Dreaming and Prioritizing as you create your perfect homestead space.