Simple Homesteading

While embracing simplicity, sometimes I can get led astray with the lure of farm equipment. But when disaster was pending and the promised equipment did not materialize, I planted a pasture by hand. Though hard work, I felt a great reward.

Agroforestry with pecans and pasture is something that even farms as far north as zone 5 should consider, particularly if they have rolling ground that is unsuitable for row crops.

The new USDA Final Rule on organic farming is problematic. What I learned at a recent organic farming conference disturbed me, particularly when major players in the organics movement are actually talking about leaving and finding something else to call eco-farming.

Because we are starting from scratch, we are building everything on our farm, including fencing. From my research the best fencing available for sheep is the New Zealand style high tensile fence, which will keep the sheep in and the predators out.

Due to a decrease in wild bees, beekeeping is now an important means to be sure that your crops will have sufficient pollinators for good production. In addition, you can expect to have all the honey your family will want, with some to sell.

Livestock farmers are used to being under attack from radical fringe groups, but they now must be aware of organizations that extend a friendly hand with a marketing gimmick, but which also have other agendas.

Buying a tractor is anything but a simple exercise, particularly if you want to avoid debt. But if you can resist the shiny new tractor in the dealers' lot, you can adequately equip your farm and still honor your simple living philosophy.

Simplify your gardening by retiring your tiller. Deep mulch gardening is easier on you and the environment. And your plants will thank you for it.

One would not even think of turning out the horses, or other livestock, but there is a great romance about the free roaming dog: Rover's freedom equates with his owners' freedom. The horrible truth of the damage they cause is far from romantic.

Often, would-be homesteaders complain that they cannot afford their dreams of self-sufficient country living. This article addresses the simple living philosophy as it pertains to saving money for a homestead and the re-thinking of lifestyle necessary to accomplish your dreams.