Starting Over With Nothing: Our Homesteading Priorities
About This Resource
The article outlines a practical approach to starting a homestead from scratch, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing essential elements for self-sufficiency. It suggests focusing on finding productive land rather than a perfect house, simplifying meals to save money, and investing in a garden with healthy soil for maximum yield. The authors recommend starting with laying hens for eggs and eventually considering a dairy cow for milk and manure. Building a pantry and preserving homegrown food are also highlighted as key steps. The article provides actionable insights for those looking to begin homesteading with limited resources, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and gradual investment in self-sufficiency.
Key takeaways
What to know before you act on this, from the SteadScape editors.
- Look for at least 1 acre of productive land to start homesteading, even if it's just a backyard garden.
- Invest in quality compost and mulch for your garden; aim to grow $5,000 to $7,000 worth of food in the first year.
- Start with 3 to 6 laying hens to provide fresh eggs; they require minimal space and can thrive in small backyards.
- Gradually build your pantry by preserving seasonal produce; start with basic canning supplies costing around $50 to $100.
- Focus on growing 3 to 5 reliable crops that your family enjoys; avoid trying to grow everything available at the store.
- Best for
- Beginners starting a homestead with limited resources; plan in early spring for planting.
- Pairs with
- Garden Planner for your zone and frost dates.
Source Information
Summary and key takeaways written by SteadScape. How we choose resources
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