Blog Archives: Navigating Through Our Best Articles

The Time Has Come: Why We’re Rehoming Some of Our Turkeys

August 28, 2026

Raising turkeys has been one of our favorite homestead adventures, but sometimes flock management means making hard decisions. Here’s why we’re rehoming several of our male Black Slate and Narragansett turkeys—and what we’ve learned…
Sometimes the Best Solution Really Is the Easiest: Why We’re Trying Hen Harmony for Our Chickens and Turkeys

August 27, 2026

After months of minor poultry issues, J & J Homestead seeks simplicity with Hen Harmony, a daily nutritional supplement. It combines probiotics, prebiotics, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals to support gut health and overall nutrition.…
When Do Chickens Slow Down Laying Eggs? A Seasonal Guide to Egg Production

August 26, 2026

Backyard chicken keepers often experience a decline in egg production during late summer and early fall due to decreasing daylight. This seasonal slowdown, noticeable from late August to November, coincides with molting and natural…
It’s the End of August—Now Is the Time to Plan for a Longer Growing Season

August 25, 2026

In August, homesteaders should begin planning for winter gardening to extend their growing season. Simple strategies include using greenhouses, cold frames, and low tunnels to protect crops from frost. This approach allows for additional…
Feeding Turkeys on the Homestead: How Much Feed Do Turkeys Really Need?

August 24, 2026

SIice I’ve been re-examining how much we feed the chickens, I thought it was time take a second look at what and how we feed our turkeys If you’ve ever stood in the feed…
How Much Should You Feed Laying Hens? What We’re Changing for Our Growing Chicken Flock

August 23, 2026

J & J Homestead has found that feeding their growing flock of 53 chickens has become expensive and inefficient. They plan to measure feed accurately, prioritize layer feed over scratch grains, and raise feeders…
Oven Update: When a Repair Turns Into an Unexpected Kitchen Upgrade

August 21, 2026

Well, friends… we have another oven update, and unfortunately, it’s not the one we were hoping for. If you’ve been following along, you know that our oven decided to quit on us at possibly the worst time—right…
Who Else Has Seen the Almanac’s Winter Forecast? We’re Getting the Firewood Ready!

August 20, 2026

Preparing for winter on the homestead starts early, with cutting, splitting, and stacking firewood. While summer is still in full swing, it’s essential to be proactive, as cold weather is inevitable. By stocking up…
Why Are My White Leghorn Chickens Such Bullies? Understanding This Feisty Breed

August 18, 2026

White Leghorn chickens are known for their assertive and sometimes bullying behavior, characterized by high energy, agility, and a strong pecking order within flocks. Although they can appear aggressive, their actions often reflect their…