We are currently sitting in the peak of autumn where I live. It's so beautiful, especially in the mornings, but it's still a season of work here on the homestead, especially with the consistent predictions of a very snowy winter coming. Here's a few things on my mind during this season... Pine Shavings (Coop Bedding) … Continue reading Autumn: Pine Shavings as Garden Mulch? – Home, Car, Animal Preps for a SNOWY Winter
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Strawberry Rhubarb with Lemon Jam | Small Batch, Water Bath Canning
This jam recipe includes equal parts rhubarb, strawberries, and the brightness of lemon zest, and makes an even 8 jelly jars. Rhubarb jams of any sort are very hard to find in stores or in local markets, making this yet another homestead special for me (one, I'd rather not miss out on too, since it's … Continue reading Strawberry Rhubarb with Lemon Jam | Small Batch, Water Bath Canning
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Canning Plain Pumpkin (& how to purée it later) | Pressure Canning Recipe & Video
Although, winter squashes and pumpkins can sit at room temperature for several months, this is a great way to bust through the tedious work of using that pumpkin and getting them in a more approachable form. Canning them plain, gives you the most versatility with your pumpkin, and it's a very straight forward process. Here … Continue reading Canning Plain Pumpkin (& how to purée it later) | Pressure Canning Recipe & Video
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Mini Fruit Tree Guild for Small Gardens | Companion Plant for Dwarf Apples or Pears
Dwarf fruit trees have really given anyone a great chance to grow their own apples or pears in their gardens. But instead of planting them in a monoculture, using companion planting to create a Fruit Tree Guild is a great way to integrate these trees in, without much sacrifice on garden space or practicality. Here … Continue reading Mini Fruit Tree Guild for Small Gardens | Companion Plant for Dwarf Apples or Pears
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Free Ranging Ducks on a Pond
Yes, you can free range ducks on a pond, year-round. In fact, ducks are incredibly easy to let free range, even if you have neighbors. They are creatures of habit, generally love their owners, stay close to their water, and don't venture far (especially ducks who can't fly). In this article I go into tips … Continue reading Free Ranging Ducks on a Pond
The Cottage Vegetable 