As homesteaders, self-sufficiency seems almost folded into our DNA. While the lifestyle has many appeals, one thing in particular that binds us is a deep appreciation for the land, and a desire for a connection to the food that nourishes us. These sorts of virtues have fallen in and out of mainstream appeal over the years, sometimes on a whim, and other times on account of … [Read more...] about A Brief History of the Victory Garden
Vegetables
Proper Plantings for July
Now midway through July, lets take a look at how that summer heat is affecting the contents of our gardens. Here are a few tips on what to harvest, plant, and more in this most patriotic--but also hottest--of the summer months. Asparagus Asparagus takes a long time to mature--think about three years. Thus its going to be a while before any asparagus you may have planted in … [Read more...] about Proper Plantings for July
Proper Plantings for April: Part 2
Howdy ya'll! With a couple weeks left in April, I think it's time for our second installment of proper plantings for the month. So if you've already got your beets buried, your carrots coming in, and your cucumbers cared for, here are a couple more to keep you going till month's end. Tomatoes Planting tomatoes always holds a special place in my heart, as it was the first … [Read more...] about Proper Plantings for April: Part 2
Proper Plantings for April: Part 1
Good Tuesday ya’ll, and happy Spring! April is one of my favorite times to be a homesteader. The days get longer, nights get warmer, birds start singing and the cicadas begin to hum from the depths of the woods. It’s a great time to be outside, and what better excuse to get on out there than some garden plantings! Read on for the first of a few vegetables great for planting in … [Read more...] about Proper Plantings for April: Part 1
Saving Seeds for Spring
Have a few seeds left over from the growing season you'd like to preserve for next year? Turns out, you can actually save your seeds until conditions are again ripe for planting. Read on to find out how. Before we get started on particulars, its important to know some basics about the seeds you are attempting to keep. For instance, tomatoes, peppers, beans and peas are … [Read more...] about Saving Seeds for Spring