If you live anywhere in the Midwestern or Eastern United States, its time to stop pruning your oak trees for the year. Why, you ask? With the onset of spring, the worry of oak wilt grows anew. Caused by a fungus, oak wilt has existed in the aforementioned regions of the United States for some time. Red, black and pin oak are most susceptible to oak wilt, though white and bur … [Read more...] about Oak Wilt and Pruning
Gardening
Snow on the Fields
Chances are, if your homestead sits anywhere north of Texas this year, you have seen a fresh blanket of snow or two coat your land. If you live near where I do, that blanket didn't just fall, but has lasted for several weeks now (and counting). We all love the fluffy white stuff for our favorite wintertime traditions, such as snowman making, sledding and snowball fights, but … [Read more...] about Snow on the Fields
What Do You Do With Your Old Christmas Tree?
Christmas trees have a lot of uses once all the festivities are ended. Personally, I used to feed them to my sheep but now I just burn mine in a big New Year’s Eve bonfire. Whatever you decide to do just be sure to remember RULE NUMBER ONE – Make sure the tree is free from all tinsel, ornaments, fake snow and other artificial decorations. Fish Habitat: Toss the tree into … [Read more...] about What Do You Do With Your Old Christmas Tree?
Post-Halloween Pumpkin Procedures
All Hallow's eve is over. The candy has been passed out, the apples bobbed, and the costumes returned to the closet for next year. But one seasonal signature lingers on. Your friendly (or fierce) Jack O' Lantern still shimmers nightly on your front porch, though he's looking a little more slumped with each passing day. What's the best way to properly dispose of your glowering … [Read more...] about Post-Halloween Pumpkin Procedures
How to Grow Your Own Toilet Paper
Most homesteaders begin their journey with the desire to be fully self-sufficient. From food, to power, to transportation, this can be quite a process. Oftentimes, however, the simplest needs are overlooked in favor of more flashy pursuits, but the devil is in the details. Have you ever considered, for instance, how to live without store-bought toilet paper? If not, read on, … [Read more...] about How to Grow Your Own Toilet Paper
