Starting a vineyard is no small task, but I’m here to show you exactly how we’re making it work here at Barndovilla. I’m Ryan Harden, your host at Backroad Reviews, and in today’s blog, I’m going to give you a firsthand look at our vineyard test, along with some crucial lessons learned from setting up this project. You can watch my accompanying video over at Backroad Reviews for a more detailed walkthrough, where I cover everything from trellis setup to soil amendments and how to fend off deer (yes, those darn deer).
Youtube Video
We embarked on this journey with the goal of growing organic grapes for both personal use and potential winemaking. I knew it was going to be a challenging process, especially with our unique soil conditions and the local wildlife. But with some persistence, a lot of learning, and careful planning, we’re on our way to a successful first-year vineyard test.
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Trellis Setup and Vineyard Layout
Let’s jump right into the setup. Our vineyard trellises are running north to south, which is ideal for optimal sunlight exposure. The key here is airflow, and that’s why we spaced the vines roughly four feet apart. Some folks might recommend tighter spacing, but we wanted to ensure ample airflow, especially since we’re located in a high-humidity area. I’m using this first test line to figure out what works best in terms of vine spacing and airflow before we expand the vineyard further.
As far as the soil goes, our land has a heavy clay base, and while it doesn’t hold water in extreme weather conditions, it’s still important to mitigate the risk of root rot. For that, we’re using a blend of native soil and organic additives like biochar, rock minerals, and gypsum, along with Pro-Mix to enhance microbial life. This mix helps the vines get the nutrients they need without getting waterlogged. Pro-Mix is especially great because it contains vermiculite and mycorrhizae fungi, which encourage healthy root development and nutrient uptake.
Managing Soil and Moisture for Healthy Vines
One of the biggest concerns when starting a vineyard in an area like ours is maintaining the right soil moisture level. To keep things balanced, we’re implementing the “Back to Eden” gardening technique. This involves laying down wood chips to retain moisture while breaking down over time to enrich the soil.
This method not only ensures the soil stays rich but also protects the roots from getting too soggy during heavy rains. We’re layering the wood chips in a lasagna style to provide both insulation and a slow breakdown process that feeds the vines.
Each vine is surrounded by a healthy amount of mulch, and even though it might look like overkill, this amount of mulch is essential for water retention. In the long run, the mulch will settle, and the soil will become rich and black, making it perfect for sustained vine growth. This method has worked wonders for our blueberries, so I’m confident it will work here, too.
Dealing with Wildlife – The Deer Dilemma
We ran into a big problem with deer, which any vineyard owner will tell you can be a nightmare. The deer absolutely decimated the last two vines I planted, which was beyond frustrating. Not only did they pull up the roots, but they also ate through a significant portion of our chaos garden and elderberries.
To combat this, we installed a high-line electric fence powered by a solar fence charger. It’s been a game changer. You can check out my full review of this product in the video linked above. Keeping the deer out was the first step, but we’ve also started working on a more permanent fencing solution that we’ll be featuring in an upcoming video on Backroad Reviews. Fencing is crucial when starting a vineyard, and I can’t stress enough how much it helped us recover from the initial damage.
When it comes to nurturing vines, one of the most important aspects is getting the right balance of nutrients into the soil. We amended the clay-heavy native soil with trace minerals, biochar, gypsum, and worm castings. These amendments ensure that the vines get the major nutrients they need, like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as trace minerals essential for long-term vineyard health.
One key trick we’ve been using is vermiculture – that’s right, worms! I’ve added over a thousand worms into the soil around the vines, and they’re doing an amazing job breaking down the wood chips and enriching the soil. Between the rock minerals and worm activity, the soil is constantly breaking down and becoming more nutrient-rich.
We’re careful not to overdo it, though. Too many amendments can cause root burn, which is something we’re monitoring closely. I’ve found that a slow, steady approach to soil improvement is best, especially in these early stages of vineyard development.
Growing Organic Grapes for a Healthier Future
One of the reasons we chose to grow grapes organically is that we consume a lot of grapes as a family – probably a pound or two each week. But beyond that, we wanted to avoid the harmful chemicals and pesticides often used in commercial vineyards. While organic wine is available, there’s something incredibly rewarding about growing and making your own organic products.
The grapes aren’t the only thing we’re looking to produce organically. We’re also planning to expand into beekeeping next spring, which will allow us to start producing honey and possibly even venture into making our own mead. Growing everything organically aligns with our values here at Barndovilla, and we’re excited to share this journey with you.
Future Plans for the Vineyard
This first test row is just the beginning. Once we’ve fine-tuned the spacing, soil composition, and watering system, we’re planning to expand the vineyard to cover a larger portion of the property. It’s going to take time, but with the lessons we’re learning from this initial setup, I’m confident we’ll get there.
We’re also considering purchasing a second property to fully dedicate to vineyard farming, but that’s further down the road. For now, we’re taking it one step at a time and sharing every part of the journey with you.
Welcome to Barndovilla! Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, our homestead journey is all about creating a sustainable and rewarding life on the land. In today’s blog post, we’re diving into a recent video where we tackled some major projects around the homestead. From removing stubborn tree stumps to expanding our chicken run and even harvesting our first watermelons, it was a day full of hard work, learning experiences, and plenty of fun. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and join us as we take you through the ins and outs of this action-packed day on the homestead.
YouTube Homestead Video
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Product Reviewed (Affiliate Link) –
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The Challenge of Stump Removal: Why It’s Important for Your Homestead
Why We Needed to Remove the Stumps
One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced on the homestead has been dealing with leftover tree stumps. These stumps, left over from previous land clearing, were not only an eyesore but also a physical barrier preventing us from expanding our fence line and utilizing more of our land. Additionally, stumps can become a haven for pests like termites, ants, and other critters that you definitely don’t want getting too comfortable on your property.
On this particular day, we had a cluster of five large stumps that were particularly problematic. They were located along the south side of our property, right where we planned to extend our fence line. It was clear that removing these stumps was a top priority if we wanted to make progress on our homestead expansion.
The Tools We Used: Mini Excavator vs. Tractor
When it comes to stump removal, having the right tools can make all the difference. For this job, we brought in Mike with his trusty mini excavator. We’ve tried using our smaller tractor with a backhoe attachment in the past, but it just didn’t have the power needed to handle these stubborn stumps. The mini excavator, on the other hand, packed enough punch to get the job done.
The process wasn’t easy—these stumps were deeply rooted, with some going 4 to 4.5 feet deep into the ground. The soil in the Ozarks, while rich and fertile, can be a challenge to work with because of its rocky nature. However, the mini excavator proved to be up to the task, and after some maneuvering and muscle, we were able to get those stumps out of the ground.
Preparing the Land: Clearing the Tree Line for Future Projects
Why Clearing the Tree Line Was Necessary
Once the stumps were out, our next task was to clear the surrounding tree line. This is an essential step in preparing the land for future projects, whether it’s building new structures, planting crops, or simply improving the aesthetics of the property. For us, clearing this particular tree line was all about getting ready to put in an electric fence.
An electric fence is a must-have on a homestead, especially if you’re raising livestock or growing crops that you want to protect from wildlife. By clearing the tree line, we’re not only making space for the fence but also ensuring that it will be effective. Overhanging branches or thick brush can interfere with the fence, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to problems down the line.
Preserving What We Can: The Importance of Shade and Habitat
While we cleared out a lot of brush and smaller trees, we made a conscious effort to preserve certain trees, like a particularly nice cedar tree. Shade is incredibly valuable on a homestead, especially in the hot and humid climate of north-central Arkansas. By keeping certain trees intact, we’re not only maintaining natural shade but also preserving habitat for local wildlife. We’ve found that a balanced approach—clearing where necessary but preserving what we can—is the best way to manage our land sustainably.
Homestead Hacks: Turning Debris into Chicken Bedding
The Problem: What to Do with All That Brush?
After clearing the tree line and removing the stumps, we were left with a significant amount of brush and debris. On a homestead, nothing goes to waste if you can help it, and that’s where a little ingenuity comes into play. Instead of simply hauling off the brush or burning it, we decided to repurpose it into chicken bedding.
https://t.co/Jl3BmSfy6U Welcome to another sun-filled, sweat-packed day at Barndovilla! 🌞 We’re deep into clearing stumps, setting up premium poultry netting, and harvesting our first homegrown watermelons.
For this task, we brought out our DK2 chipper. This machine is an absolute workhorse when it comes to processing brush. By feeding the branches and smaller logs through the chipper, we were able to produce a nice, soft bedding material for our chickens. Not only is this a great way to recycle organic material, but it also saves us money on buying bedding and reduces our waste output.
Chicken bedding serves multiple purposes on the homestead. It keeps the chicken coop clean and dry, helps control odors, and eventually breaks down into nutrient-rich compost that can be used in the garden. It’s a perfect example of the kind of closed-loop system we strive to create at Barndovilla.
The Joy of Harvest: Growing and Enjoying Watermelons
First Time Growing Watermelons: Successes and Lessons Learned
After a morning full of hard work, we took a well-deserved break to enjoy the fruits of our labor—literally! This year, we decided to try our hand at growing watermelons for the first time, and let me tell you, it was a sweet success. There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food, especially when it turns out as delicious as these watermelons did.
Harvesting and Tasting Our Watermelons
The moment of truth came when we cut open our first watermelon. The bright red flesh and sweet, juicy flavor were everything we hoped for. As it turns out, watermelon is relatively easy to grow in our Ozark soil, especially if you give the plants plenty of water and sunshine. We planted seeded varieties, which means we can save seeds for next year’s crop—a win-win in terms of sustainability and cost savings.
The joy of growing and harvesting your own food is one of the most rewarding aspects of homesteading. It’s a reminder of why we chose this lifestyle in the first place—to connect with the land, nurture our resources, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Expanding the Chicken Run: Enhancing Our Poultry Setup
Why We Expanded the Chicken Run
As any homesteader knows, chickens are a vital part of a sustainable farm. They provide eggs, help control pests, and contribute to the overall health of the soil through their natural tilling and fertilizing actions. Given how important our chickens are, we decided it was time to expand their run and give them more space to roam and forage.
We chose to expand the chicken run into our sunflower garden, which had already been harvested for the season. This not only provides the chickens with a new area to explore but also allows them to clean up any leftover seeds, which helps prepare the soil for the next planting cycle.
Setting Up the Premium Poultry Netting
To make this expansion possible, we needed a reliable way to contain the chickens and protect them from predators. Enter the premium poultry netting we recently reviewed in our video. This netting is lightweight, easy to set up, and highly visible, making it an excellent choice for our homestead.
The netting comes with sturdy stakes and guy ropes, ensuring that it stays in place even in windy conditions. One of the features we appreciated most was the double spikes, which allow you to push the stakes into the ground with your foot—no need for a mallet, which is a real time-saver.
We connected the poultry netting to our existing electric fence system, adding an extra layer of protection. Electrifying the fence and the chicken coop provides a strong deterrent against predators like snakes and raccoons, which are always a concern in rural areas.
The Importance of Proper Fence and Coop Setup
Why Electrification Matters
One of the key takeaways from expanding the chicken run was the importance of electrifying not just the fence but the entire coop. Chickens, while hardy in many respects, are vulnerable to predators. A secure, electrified setup is crucial for their safety and for our peace of mind.
The process of electrifying the chicken run and coop wasn’t difficult, but it did require careful planning and setup. By running an electric line from the fence to the coop, we were able to create a seamless barrier that keeps unwanted visitors out. This setup has been incredibly effective, and we highly recommend it to other homesteaders looking to protect their flocks.
Maintaining Equipment: The Ups and Downs of Chainsaw Maintenance
Chainsaw Troubles: When Things Don’t Go as Planned
No day on the homestead is complete without a few hiccups, and this day was no exception. After clearing the stumps and expanding the chicken run, we turned our attention to helping out a family member with some tree removal. However, our chainsaws had other ideas.
Despite our best efforts, both chainsaws started acting up, refusing to run smoothly after a short while. It quickly became apparent that we were dealing with a fuel problem—likely some bad gas that was causing the chainsaws to sputter and stall. This was frustrating, to say the least, but it’s all part of the homesteading experience.
The Solution: Fuel Replacement and Chainsaw Maintenance
Our solution was to drain the old fuel, replace it with fresh gas, and give the chainsaws a thorough cleaning. We also decided to pick up some new chains, as the old ones had taken a beating during our earlier stump removal efforts. Maintaining your equipment is crucial on a homestead, where tools like chainsaws are essential for day-to-day operations.
Lessons Learned: The Value of Patience and Perseverance
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Wins
As we wrapped up the day, it was clear that we had accomplished a lot, despite the challenges we faced. From successfully removing stumps and expanding the chicken run to enjoying our first watermelon harvest, it was a day filled with both hard work and rewarding moments.
Homesteading is a lifestyle that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s dealing with stubborn stumps, maintaining equipment, or simply managing the day-to-day tasks, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Barndovilla?
With the tree line cleared and the chicken run expanded, our next big project will be installing the electric fence and continuing to prepare the land for future planting. We’re also looking forward to more harvests, as our garden continues to produce a bounty of fruits and vegetables.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life at Barndovilla. Whether you’re an experienced homesteader or just starting out, we hope you found some inspiration and practical tips to apply to your own homestead. Stay tuned for more updates, videos, and blog posts as we continue to build, grow, and enjoy life on the land.
Affiliate Notice: Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our homestead and allows us to continue sharing our journey with you. Thank you for your support!
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Homestead Lifestyle
Homesteading is more than just a way of life—it’s a commitment to self-sufficiency, sustainability, and community. At Barndovilla, we’re constantly learning, adapting, and sharing our experiences with others who are on a similar path. Whether it’s through our YouTube videos, blog posts, or hands-on projects, our goal is to inspire and empower others to embrace the homestead lifestyle.
We invite you to follow along with our journey, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and check out our other blog posts for more tips, tricks, and insights into homesteading in the Ozarks. Together, we can create a thriving, sustainable future—one project at a time. See more at https://barndovilla.com/journal/
Wowzers, it’s been a homestead season of growing since we last posted! A lot has happened around here, and we’ve been busy—really busy. We’ve switched over most of the content from Backroads Homesteading and Harden Farm, importing all our podcasts and blogs into one place. This homestead update is a big step toward keeping everything organized and accessible, even if we’re still not completely sold on the layout. But hey, we’ll make do with what we have for now and keep tweaking things as we go along.
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Expanding the Garden and the Chaos Garden Experiment
One of the most exciting developments in our recent homestead updates is the expansion of our garden. We’ve been putting a lot of effort into this, and the results have been rewarding. Among our latest projects is the creation of a chaos garden. If you haven’t heard of this before, it’s essentially a garden where plants are allowed to grow in a more natural, less structured way. The idea is to let the plants support each other, creating a thriving, resilient ecosystem. Despite the lack of rain this season, our chaos garden is doing surprisingly well, which has been one of the highlights of our recent homestead updates.
A Major Mower Upgrade: The Hustler Super Z Hyperdrive
Another significant homestead update involves upgrading our mower. After much deliberation, we decided to replace our old, trusty Toro Timecutter 5000. That mower has served us well, but it was time to move on. After weeks of researching and almost settling on a Bad Boy mower, we ultimately chose the Hustler Super Z Hyperdrive with a 40hp Vanguard engine.
This was a tough decision, but it’s one of the most critical homestead updates we’ve made recently. The Toro, while reliable, just wasn’t cutting it—literally—on our 5-acre property. We found ourselves spending entire days mowing, using up more fuel and time than we could afford. The Hustler, on the other hand, is a powerhouse that will save us both time and energy in the long run.
The Purchase Process: An Important Homestead Update We were able to afford this upgrade thanks to our neighbor, Mike, who also needed a new mower. By purchasing two units, we qualified for commercial fleet pricing, which gave us a 27% discount. We bought from a dealer in Missouri to avoid the high sales taxes in both Arkansas and Missouri, which was a huge savings. This homestead update was not only a financial decision but also a practical one, allowing us to get the equipment we need without breaking the bank.
A Tool for the Future and a Lesson for Link This mower upgrade wasn’t just about keeping our property looking nice. It’s also an important homestead update for our son, Link, who has started mowing lawns for a neighbor. With a better mower, Link can take on more jobs and learn valuable lessons about work, money, and responsibility. Teaching him how to budget his earnings and take pride in his work is something we consider essential, and this homestead update is a big part of that education.
Building a Side Business: Ozark Lawn & Field
In one of our more entrepreneurial homestead updates, Mike and I have been discussing the idea of starting a side business called Ozark Lawn & Field. We’re thinking of offering services like haying, baling, milling, and of course, lawn and landscape work. This homestead update is particularly exciting because it’s not just about making extra income; it’s about strengthening our connections with other homesteads and farms in the area.
Why is this important? Because as we’ve mentioned in previous homestead updates, having a strong network of like-minded people is going to be crucial as times get tougher. We’ve already seen how much we rely on our neighbors for support, and expanding that network is key to our long-term survival and success.
Adventures on the Water with Jess and Link
On a lighter note, Jess and Link finally got out on the boat! This has been one of the more fun homestead updates lately. We’ve never had such a nice craft before, and the lakes around here are perfect for it. While it’s nothing too fancy, it’s just right for fishing, tubing, and spending quality time on the water. We still need to add a new Bimini top and some additional fishing gear, but those are minor details in this latest homestead update.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much Jess enjoyed the boat. She’s not usually one for big open-water adventures, especially in a smaller craft, but the lakes around here are just the right size for her comfort level. Our friends here also dive, so I’m hoping to get back into that and maybe do some spear fishing—something I haven’t done in years but would love to try again as part of our ongoing homestead updates.
What’s Next?
Well, that’s all for this homestead update. We’ve been up to a lot more, but I’ll save those stories for the next blog post. There’s always something happening around here, and I’m excited to share more of our journey with you. Thanks for sticking with us, and stay tuned for more updates in the near future!
Hey everyone, welcome back to Backroads Homesteading! Today was another vibrant day out here, filled with gardening, bread-making, and some unexpected guests from nature.
We started our day planning to plant some lovely tomato seedlings given to us by our friends Jason and Tara. With our trellis ready to support their growth, we’re excited about the bounty of tomatoes we’ll harvest this year. We’re planting them a bit further apart this time to ensure they grow upwards rather than outwards, which helps in preventing any spoilage and maintaining good airflow around each plant.
In the midst of our planting, I decided to multitask by recording an audio podcast. For those of you who love tuning into our talks, check out our podcasts on Backroads Homesteading. We’ve got a whole series available that you can download or stream during your commute or while you’re gardening!
While gardening, we tackled some bread-making as well. I tried my hand at a sourdough loaf using a starter from Terry – and let me tell you, it turned out deliciously warm and comforting. It’s these small victories in the kitchen that make homesteading so rewarding.
Our work didn’t stop at the garden and kitchen. We moved on to some DIY projects, trying to get the ceiling up in Link’s room. We’re working with natural wood and figuring out installations for low-profile can lights. It’s a learning curve, but each step teaches us something new.
Interestingly, while working we encountered some curious salamanders and a toad, reminding us that we share this space with many other creatures. It’s essential to observe and respect these little fellows, ensuring our homesteading activities don’t disrupt their habitats.
By the end of the day, we managed to install new lighting and planned out the ceiling fan installation. Tomorrow promises more tasks, with a mini-split installation and flooring on the agenda. It’s busy here, but that’s how we like it.
If you enjoy peeking into our daily life and ongoing projects, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates. We appreciate you joining us on this journey and look forward to sharing more of our adventures. See you in the next video!
Welcome to another exciting journey on our homestead! Today, we’re diving into a variety of projects that keep our rural life vibrant and fulfilling. From upgrading our chicken tractor to enhancing our barndominium and planting seeds, we’re embracing the challenges and joys of homesteading.
Checking On Covered Plants: Navigating Frosty Mornings
One of the challenges of early spring gardening is dealing with fluctuating temperatures, especially those chilly mornings that bring unexpected frost. To protect our tender seedlings, we’ve been diligently covering our plants at night.
As the sun rises and the frost begins to melt, it’s a critical time to check on our covered plants. The first step is to assess the overnight impact. Even with protection, frost can sometimes sneak through, so we carefully inspect each plant for signs of frostbite or wilting. It’s a relief to see that, more often than not, our efforts pay off and the plants have made it through the night unscathed.
Next, we focus on the soil. It’s important to ensure that the soil hasn’t frozen, as this can hinder root growth and nutrient uptake. A gentle touch reveals that the soil is still soft and moist, a good sign that our plants are in a healthy environment.
As we uncover the plants, we’re greeted by the vibrant greens and budding leaves of our resilient seedlings. It’s a beautiful sight that reinforces the importance of our protective measures. We take this opportunity to check for any pests or diseases that might have taken advantage of the covered environment. Thankfully, all seems well.
This daily ritual of covering and uncovering plants is a testament to the care and attention required in gardening. It’s a reminder that, with a little extra effort, we can protect our plants from the unpredictable elements and help them thrive in the early stages of growth.
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Planting and Gardening
With spring in full swing, our focus has shifted to planting and gardening. We’ve started with tea seeds and watermelons, carefully potting them and monitoring their growth. We’re experimenting with different potting techniques to find the best method for healthy root development.
We’ve also introduced a new labeling system using a thermal printer. This allows us to include more detailed information on the plant tags, such as optimal pH levels and planting dates. It’s a small change, but it’s already proving to be a valuable tool in keeping our garden organized and efficient.
One of the most exciting developments has been the splitting of our worm bucket. This is part of our ongoing effort to improve our soil quality through vermicomposting. By increasing our worm population, we’re able to produce more nutrient-rich castings, which are then used to enrich our garden beds. It’s a sustainable cycle that not only benefits our plants but also reduces waste.
Using a Thermal Printer: Streamlining Garden Organization
In our continuous quest to improve efficiency and organization in our garden, we’ve recently incorporated a thermal printer into our labeling system. This small but mighty tool has revolutionized the way we keep track of our plants.
Traditionally, labeling plants involved writing on plastic or wooden tags with a marker, which can fade over time or become illegible due to weather conditions. With the thermal printer, we can now print clear, durable labels that withstand the elements and provide a wealth of information.
The beauty of using a thermal printer lies in its versatility. We can customize the labels to include not just the plant name, but also additional details such as optimal pH levels, planting dates, and care instructions. This level of detail is invaluable as our garden grows and we juggle the needs of various plants.
The process is simple and efficient. We design the labels on a computer or smartphone, and the printer quickly produces them on heat-sensitive paper. The labels are then easily attached to plant stakes or pots. The thermal printing technology means there’s no ink to smudge or fade, ensuring that the labels remain legible for the entire growing season.
Integrating a thermal printer into our gardening routine has been a game-changer. It’s a small investment that pays off in saved time and improved accuracy, allowing us to focus more on the joys of gardening and less on the administrative tasks.
Planting Tea Seeds: A Journey into Herbal Cultivation
Embarking on the cultivation of tea plants is a new and exciting endeavor for our homestead. Tea, with its myriad of health benefits and soothing properties, is a wonderful addition to our garden.
The process begins with selecting high-quality tea seeds. We chose varieties known for their robust flavor and adaptability to our climate. Before planting, we soaked the seeds in water, a crucial step that helps to soften the outer shell and encourage germination.
We carefully prepared planting cups, filling them with a mix of soil and perlite to ensure good drainage and aeration. The tea seeds were then gently placed on the surface of the soil, with just a light covering of soil on top. Tea seeds need light to germinate, so we made sure not to bury them too deeply.
Patience is key when growing tea from seed, as germination can take several weeks. We kept the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and placed the cups in a warm, bright spot to provide the ideal conditions for germination.
As the seeds sprout and grow, we’ll monitor their progress, ensuring they receive the right balance of light, water, and nutrients. Eventually, these seedlings will be transplanted into larger pots and, in time, into our garden where they can flourish and contribute to our sustainable lifestyle.
Planting tea seeds is more than just adding another crop to our garden; it’s an exploration of new flavors, traditions, and the art of tea-making. We’re excited to watch these plants grow and look forward to the day we can harvest our own leaves to brew a cup of homegrown tea.
Worm Farming: A Key Component of Our Homestead
One of the most rewarding aspects of our homesteading journey has been our foray into worm farming. Not only do worms play a crucial role in soil health, but they also provide a sustainable way to manage organic waste.
Our worm buckets have become an integral part of our gardening routine. By splitting the worm buckets, we’ve effectively doubled our worm population. This increase is vital for producing more worm castings, which are a fantastic organic fertilizer. The process is simple: we feed the worms kitchen scraps and other organic materials, and in return, they produce nutrient-rich castings that we can use to enrich our garden beds.
Observing the growth and reproduction of the worms has been fascinating. We’ve noticed a significant increase in baby worms, indicating a healthy and thriving environment. This is a good sign that we’re providing the right balance of food and habitat for our worm population to flourish.
We’re also experimenting with different methods to protect the worms and their habitat. In our first worm bucket, we used silicone to secure the screens, but found that it didn’t stick well to the plastic. So, we switched to using pop rivets, which seem to be a more effective solution for keeping flies and moths out while allowing air to circulate.
As we continue to expand our worm farming operation, we’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our garden’s productivity. The worms are not only helping us reduce waste, but they’re also playing a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and self-sufficient homestead.
Sealing Roof Leaks: Ensuring the Integrity of Our Barndominium
Maintaining the integrity of our barndominium’s roof is crucial for protecting our home and possessions from water damage. Recently, we’ve encountered some challenges with roof leaks, particularly where the metal roofing panels overlap. To address this, we’ve embarked on a mission to seal these leaks and prevent future issues.
The first step in this process was to identify the source of the leaks. We noticed that water was wicking back under the overlapping metal panels during heavy rains. To combat this, we decided to install J-channel along the edges of the roof. The J-channel is designed to redirect water away from the seams and into the gutters, effectively preventing it from seeping underneath the panels.
In addition to the J-channel, we applied a high-quality sealant along the seams and edges of the roofing panels. This sealant forms a waterproof barrier that fills any gaps or cracks where water might penetrate. It’s important to choose a sealant that is compatible with the roofing material and can withstand the elements, ensuring a long-lasting solution.
We also made sure to inspect and clean the gutters and downspouts, as clogged gutters can contribute to roof leaks by causing water to back up and seep under the roofing material. Regular maintenance of the gutters is an essential part of preventing roof leaks.
Sealing roof leaks is a critical task that requires attention to detail and a proactive approach. By addressing these issues promptly, we can protect our barndominium from water damage and ensure its longevity. It’s a reminder that regular maintenance and vigilance are key to a well-functioning homestead.
Homestead Hacks and Tips
Homesteading is all about innovation and making the most of what you have. In that spirit, we’ve come up with a few hacks and tips that have made a big difference in our daily routines.
One of our recent projects was constructing a chicken run with raised beds. This dual-purpose setup not only provides our chickens with fresh grass and bugs to forage but also protects our vegetable beds from pests. It’s a win-win situation that enhances the productivity and health of our homestead.
We’ve also been experimenting with different planting methods. For example, we’ve tried soaking some of our seeds before planting to encourage faster germination. It’s been encouraging to see some of these seeds sprout and begin to develop their first taproot. These small experiments help us learn and adapt, ensuring that we’re always improving our gardening techniques.
Another tip we’ve found useful is using scrap materials to create functional homestead equipment. For example, we used scrap rebar to make an axle for the back of our chicken tractor. This simple addition has made it much easier to move the tractor around our property, demonstrating that you don’t always need to buy new materials to solve a problem.
The canoe bed was wilty. Upon investigation, the drain holes (all of them) failed. We left the front and rear baffles in, thankfully. Easy to drain through the baffles vs. the tub. The water smelled anaerobic, so we know it would likely kill healthy roots. Hopefully, we caught… pic.twitter.com/5SZkT83EUg
Our canoe garden, a unique and aesthetic addition to our homestead, recently faced some drainage challenges. After a series of torrential downpours, we noticed that the drainage holes in the canoe were clogged, causing water to accumulate and stress the plants.
To address this issue, we decided to add more drainage holes to the sides of the canoe. While we initially hesitated to make these modifications, the health of our plants took precedence. Using a drill, we carefully added new holes above the existing waterline, ensuring that any excess water could escape more effectively.
We also inspected the base of the canoe to assess the drainage situation. Despite having a layer of rocks at the bottom for this purpose, it became clear that the arrangement was insufficient for heavy rains. We realized that a more porous material or a better configuration might be needed to improve drainage.
The smell of the water was another concern. A foul odor can indicate anaerobic conditions, which are harmful to plant roots. Fortunately, we caught the issue in time and were able to aerate the water by adding more drainage holes, preventing further damage to the plants.
Fixing the drainage in our canoe garden was a learning experience. It reminded us of the importance of regular maintenance and the need to adapt our gardening strategies to the whims of the weather. With these fixes in place, we’re hopeful that our canoe garden will continue to thrive and bring beauty to our homestead.
Creating a Raised Bed Chicken Run: Innovation in Action
One of our recent projects has been the creation of a raised bed chicken run. This innovative setup serves multiple purposes, providing our chickens with a safe and enriching environment while also protecting our vegetable beds from pests.
The concept is simple yet effective. We constructed raised beds for our vegetable garden and then built a chicken run around them. The chickens have access to the area between the beds, where they can forage for insects and enjoy fresh grass. This not only keeps them happy and healthy but also helps control pests naturally.
The raised beds are designed to be high enough to prevent the chickens from jumping into them, protecting our vegetables from being pecked at or trampled. At the same time, the proximity of the chickens to the beds means they can still contribute to the garden’s ecosystem by providing natural fertilizer through their droppings.
Building the raised bed chicken run required some planning and effort, but the results have been incredibly rewarding. It’s a sustainable solution that aligns with our goals of creating a productive and harmonious homestead. The chickens enjoy their spacious run, and we enjoy the peace of mind knowing our garden is protected.
This project is a testament to the creativity and innovation that homesteading demands. It’s about finding solutions that benefit both us and our animals, creating a balanced and thriving environment for all.
Converting the Chicken Coop to a Chicken Tractor: A Mobile Solution
Our journey in enhancing the functionality of our homestead led us to convert an existing chicken coop into a mobile chicken tractor. This transformation was driven by the desire to provide our chickens with fresh foraging opportunities while naturally fertilizing different areas of our land.
Step 1: Assessing the Existing Structure
The first step in this conversion was to thoroughly assess the existing chicken coop. We evaluated its size, weight, and overall condition to determine if it was suitable for conversion. The coop needed to be sturdy enough to withstand movement but light enough to be easily transported.
Step 2: Adding Mobility
The key to converting the coop into a tractor was to add mobility. We decided to use scrap rebar to create an axle for the back of the coop. This axle would support solid rubber tires, chosen for their durability and ease of maintenance. The tires were positioned to provide enough clearance for the coop to move smoothly over uneven ground.
Step 3: Constructing a Bumper System
To ensure the stability of the axle and to protect the coop during movement, we constructed a bumper system. This involved attaching wooden beams to the back of the coop, which would hold the axle in place and act as a buffer in case of any collisions.
Step 4: Testing and Adjustments
With the mobility features in place, it was time to test the newly converted chicken tractor. We attached it to a three-point hitch on our tractor to see if it could be lifted and moved easily. The initial test revealed that while the coop was mobile, some adjustments were needed to ensure smooth movement and stability. We fine-tuned the positioning of the tires and reinforced the bumper system.
Step 5: Final Touches
The final step was to add some practical features to the chicken tractor. We installed a new latch door for easy access and built a perch-style walkway for the chickens to enjoy. We also planned to add a rainwater collection system to provide a sustainable water source for the chickens.
Conclusion
Converting our chicken coop into a tractor was a rewarding project that aligned with our goals of sustainability and efficiency. The mobile coop allows us to rotate the chickens’ grazing areas, reducing the need for commercial fertilizers and providing the chickens with a varied and natural diet. It’s a win-win situation that enhances the health of our land and our flock.
It’s been a busy time filled with various projects, from setting up a new chicken coop to smoking our first ham and tackling some home improvement tasks. Let’s dive into the details of our week and share some insights and experiences from our homesteading journey.
Setting Up the Chicken Coop
Our week started with getting the chicken coop ready for our feathered friends. We moved the coop inside and set up the chickens temporarily to get them acclimated to their new surroundings. Em has been diligently checking on them to ensure they’re comfortable and adjusting well. It’s always a joy to see them exploring their new home and settling in.
Smoking Our First Ham
One of the highlights of the week was smoking our first ham. Although we didn’t raise the pig entirely on our homestead, we were involved in most of the process, making it a special experience. We used the East Oak smoker, a budget-friendly option we found on Amazon, which worked surprisingly well for our first attempt.
The marinade for the ham was a simple yet delicious combination of brown sugar, molasses from Roy’s place, and some honey mustard dipping sauce. The result was a tasty ham that, while not perfect, was certainly enjoyable. There’s room for improvement, but for a first attempt, we were pretty pleased with the outcome.
Preparing for Spring Planting
With the threat of freezing temperatures seemingly behind us, we’ve moved our produce out of the pole barn. This week, we also invested in some cattle panels to set up a trellis system for our beans, peas, and tomatoes. However, we mistakenly got the more expensive horse panels, which put us over budget. Despite this, we’re excited to see how the trellis system will support our plants as they grow.
Maintenance Work on the Pole Barn
Maintaining our pole barn was another task on our list this week. We’re replacing the roof screws on the main building and the original lean-to. Over time, the sun and weather can degrade the rubber washers on the screws, leading to leaks and deterioration. It’s important to replace these every few years to keep the roof in good condition.
Home Improvement: Spraying Knockdown Texture
We also tackled a home improvement project by spraying knockdown texture on the walls. It’s been a while since we’ve done this, so it was a bit of a learning curve to get the right consistency and technique. The knockdown texture adds a nice finish to the walls, covering up any inconsistencies between drywall pieces. We’re pleased with how it’s turning out and can’t wait to see the finished result.
Spending Time with Friends
One of the joys of homesteading is the community of like-minded individuals we get to interact with. This week, we spent some time with friends on the ridge, helping them build something for their homestead. It’s always great to share stories, enjoy good food, and support each other in our homesteading endeavors.
Looking Ahead
As we wrap up this week, we’re excited about the projects and challenges that lie ahead. Homesteading is a journey filled with learning, growth, and the satisfaction of building something with our own hands. We’re grateful for the support of our community, both online and offline, and look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you.
Thank you to everyone who has liked, shared, and subscribed to our channel. Your support means the world to us. Don’t forget to check out our newsletter on BackroadsHomesteading.com and follow us on Facebook and X for more updates on our homesteading journey. Until next time, happy homesteading!
