Homestead
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Preparing the Greenhouse for Fall and Winter Vegetable Gardening
esterday marked the beginning of one of my favorite seasonal homestead tasks—cleaning out the greenhouse to prepare for the fall and winter rotation of vegetables. On our homestead, we often refer to our structure as a three-season greenhouse. That’s because we use… Continue reading
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Our First Time Representing the Homestead at an Event!
I am beyond excited to share some big news—today was our very first event as J & J Homestead! It was such a wonderful opportunity to connect with other local small businesses in Stafford, Virginia, share more about what we do, and… Continue reading
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The Best Websites to Learn About Backyard Chickens
Raising backyard chickens is one of the most rewarding homesteading adventures you can begin. Not only do you get fresh eggs, but you also enjoy the company of these quirky, feathered friends. Whether you’re brand new to chicken keeping or… Continue reading
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Winter Chicken Care: How to Supplement Feed for a Healthy Flock
Last night the temperatures dipped into the 40s, and it was a sharp reminder that winter is right around the corner. For backyard chicken keepers, cold weather brings unique challenges, and proper preparation is essential for keeping your flock happy… Continue reading
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A Personal Choice: Vaccinating Your Chickens Against Marek’s Disease
Homesteading often comes with hard lessons—usually learned the hard way. In the summer of 2024, I experienced one of those lessons firsthand. At our local Tractor Supply, I spotted eight Sussex chickens. Loving the breed, I eagerly bought them all,… Continue reading
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Let’s Make Breakfast for the Chickens!
Morning food routines on a homestead can be quite an adventure, especially when it involves whipping up breakfast for the chickens. Often, I feel that my chickens eat better than I do! Just like us, chickens thrive on a varied… Continue reading
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The Three Biggest Lessons in Homesteading
Starting your homesteading adventure is like opening a new chapter filled with surprises, challenges, and endless lessons from Mother Nature herself. Whether you’re dreaming of tending to your own garden, raising chickens, or managing livestock, there are a few things… Continue reading
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Corid Treatment for Chickens: Preventing and Managing Coccidiosis on the Homestead
Chickens keep life exciting—you never run out of things to do when caring for a flock. On our homestead, daily routines focus on chicken health through a balanced diet, clean water, and natural preventatives. Still, one of the most common health challenges… Continue reading
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Homesteading: Balancing the Barn and the Boardroom: Homesteading with a Full-Time Job
This morning, as I was feeding the chickens before getting ready for work, I couldn’t help but think that this isn’t what people talk about when discussing homesteading. No one ever discusses what it’s like to have a full time… Continue reading
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Homestead Winter Care: Preparing the Bee Hives for the Cold Months Ahead
Although it’s only September 2nd, the days have already begun growing colder. As I am doing my homestead chores in the 50 degree mornings, I am rather quickly reminded that I need to get serious about preparing for the cold… Continue reading