Boat Issues and Soil Testing | Building The Homestead Series
Hello, friends! Ryan here from Backroads Homesteading. Today, I want to share some updates on our homestead journey, focusing on soil testing for our garden beds and our boat repair adventures.
Soil Testing: Laying the Foundation for a Productive Garden
On the homestead front, we’ve been busy preparing our garden beds. We received some mulch from a new friend, which we initially planned to use for walkways. However, upon closer inspection, we realized it contained a mix of dirt, leaves, and other composting materials. We’ve decided to use this mulch in the bottom of our raised beds for a hugelkultur approach, which will help improve soil structure and fertility.
We also tilled some of the composting material into our clay-based soil to prevent compaction and improve nutrient availability. Our neighbor kindly brought over a tractor to help us work on the fence line, and we took the opportunity to finish collecting soil samples from our North Field.
After mixing the samples and removing any large organic matter, we’re sending them off for analysis. This will help us understand what amendments our soil needs to support a healthy, productive garden. We’re also making some adjustments to our raised beds, reducing their height from three layers to two to conserve wood and create more beds.
As we wait for the soil test results, we’re excited to start planning our garden layout and choosing the best crops for our soil conditions. It’s all about creating a sustainable, productive homestead that can support our family and community.
Boat Repairs: A Surprising Challenge
We recently noticed some issues with our boat, specifically in the battery chamber. Upon inspection, we found a significant amount of corrosion, likely caused by open-cell batteries leaking acid as the boat moved through the water. This was a surprising challenge, but we’re tackling it head-on.
To address this, we removed the tops of the batteries and cleaned out most of the corrosion. We’re now running baking soda through the chamber to neutralize any remaining acid. Thankfully, we haven’t found any holes yet, but we’ll continue to inspect and ensure it’s safe before reinstalling closed-cell batteries. This experience has taught us the importance of regular maintenance and checks, especially when it comes to safety on the water.
Stay tuned for more updates on our homesteading journey, and feel free to share your own experiences and tips in the comments. Until next time, happy homesteading!
Would we get another kit to do more? I think so. This stuff works pretty well. Below, here’s what it looks like with the R19 insulation on top of the spray foam and then the radiant barrier and tongue and groove. Should look pretty good when done.
For those who follow our journey, you know we’re all about DIY and learning as we go. This project was no different, and I’m here to take you through the highs, the lows, and the sticky situations (quite literally).
We kicked off this project with the goal of tackling the radiant heat in one of our rooms. The radiant heat was intense, and after sealing some cracks, it was time to bring in the big guns—or should I say, the big cans of Vega (or VGA) foam insulation. This purple foam promised to be our savior, despite my initial struggle with the backlight during filming. Lesson one in spray foaming: camera angles matter, folks.
Applying the foam was a new experience for us. The instructions were clear—keep the can 12 to 18 inches away from the surface, and make sure to apply it during the correct temperature window. Our first attempt went pretty well, and I was feeling optimistic. That was until we decided to switch tips for better coverage in the corners. Spoiler alert: it got messy.
The new tip gave us more control but made starting and stopping a Herculean task. After a somewhat comedic struggle, we swapped for a flat tip, which significantly improved our technique. This little adventure taught us the importance of choosing the right tool for the job—spray foam is forgiving, but only to a point.
Spray Foam Unboxing Video
Taking a break and coming back for round two, I gained a newfound respect for professional foamers. The heat, the mess, the precision required—it’s not for the faint-hearted. But, as we progressed, the Vega kit proved its worth, equipped with everything we needed for the project. Buying the kit on Amazon came with a substantial discount for the second purchase, which will be a nice bonus.
We managed to cover a 12×12 room’s ceiling to a depth of 1 to 3 inches with 12 cans. The learning curve was sorta steepish; understanding the can’s pressure dynamics was crucial. The first few applications might test your patience, but it gets easier, I promise. And let me tell you, this foam grips like a dream. It adhered to every surface, impressing even a skeptic like me.
This project was a rollercoaster of emotions and foam. From the initial backlit confusion to the messy triumphs with various nozzles, it’s been a journey. The Vega Bond foam exceeded our expectations, and while we may have been novices at the start, I feel pretty confident in our foaming skills now.
To those contemplating a similar project, dive in. It’s messy, it’s challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. And to the professionals out there, consider this a tip of the hat. Your job is tough, and we’ve got nothing but respect for the work you do.
Until our next adventure on the homestead—be it back roads, DIY, or another round of spray foam—this is Ryan signing off. Keep tackling those projects, and we’ll see you in the next blog post.
Hey there, Ryan here, welcoming you back to our cozy corner of the internet where farm chores meet deep dives into life’s big and small moments. As I gear up for another day on the farm, with the crisp morning air biting at my cheeks, I can’t help but share these moments with you. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the stories, the insights, and the reflections that come with every task, whether I’m tending to the fields or just rambling about the world around us.
This morning’s a brisk one, thirty-something degrees, and it’s got me bundling up as I prepare to fuel up the tractor and lawnmowers. It’s one of those necessary rituals that keep the farm ticking over. Maddie, my ever-enthusiastic companion, is right here by my side, her tail wagging excitedly as I load up the fuel jugs into the trailer. It’s these simple, shared moments that really highlight the day-to-day of farm living.
Today’s task list includes making a pilgrimage for fuel, and while it might seem mundane, there’s a bit of a twist. I find myself musing over the peculiarities of using taxed fuel for farm machinery—after all, it’s not like I’m hitting the road with them. It’s these little inefficiencies, these quirks of farm life, that often get me thinking about the bigger picture, how we navigate the often complex interplay between regulations and the realities of rural living.
So, as I set off with trailer in tow, I’m not just tackling a to-do list; I’m weaving through the thoughts and stories that each day brings. Whether it’s the joy found in companionship, the satisfaction of preparation, or the contemplation of life’s larger questions, it’s all part of the journey. Stick around, and let’s see where today’s chores—and today’s thoughts—take us.
Hello, fellow homesteaders and preppers! This is Ryan from backroadshomesteading.com, and today, I’m thrilled to bring you another enriching episode of our podcast, titled “Starting Seeds of Community.” This episode isn’t just about planting seeds in the soil; it’s about sowing the seeds of camaraderie and resilience in our homestead and prepper communities.
Seeding Trays and Sowing Community Bonds
As I speak, I’m in the barn, hands deep in the soil, starting trays of seeds, a ritual that marks the promise of new beginnings. But this act is more than just agricultural; it’s a metaphor for how we, as a community, can start and nurture the growth of our connections and support systems. Just like these seedlings that require care and attention, our homestead and prepper communities thrive on the mutual support and shared wisdom of their members.
More than Just Farming: A Discussion on Farm Shares and Goldbacks
The conversation goes beyond the soil and seedlings. We delve into the concept of farm shares, an innovative approach that allows community members to reap the benefits of local produce and support local farming. But our discussion doesn’t stop at agriculture. We also explore the fascinating world of goldbacks, an alternative currency that’s gaining traction among preppers and freedom-loving individuals seeking a reliable and tangible exchange medium, especially in these turbulent times.
Current Events and the Promise of an Early Spring
In this episode, we also touch on some current events shaping our world and our communities. And there’s good news to share – Phil the groundhog didn’t see his shadow, heralding an early Spring! Recording this episode was a true delight, as I found myself in a T-shirt, basking in the 70-degree sunshine, soaking up the warmth in the garden. It’s moments like these that remind us of nature’s cycles and the promise of renewal and growth.
Closing Thoughts
As we wrap up this episode, I want you to remember that every seed you plant, every community bond you forge, and every step you take towards self-reliance is a testament to the resilience and spirit of our homesteading and prepping lifestyle. Let’s continue to nurture these seeds and relationships because, just like the early Spring on the horizon, there’s a season of growth and prosperity awaiting us.
Until next time, keep sowing, keep growing, and keep sharing your light with the world. This is Ryan, signing off from backroadshomesteading.com. Stay rooted, my friends!
Hey there, fellow homesteaders and nature lovers! It’s Ryan here, from backroadshomesteading, and today, I’m thrilled to share a piece of our journey with you. We’ve recently released a video titled “Protecting The Homestead,” and I believe it’s one of our most vital episodes yet. It’s not just a video; it’s a chapter from our life, showcasing our relentless dedication to safeguarding our beloved homestead.
The Essence of Our Homestead Protection
In this video, I take you through the essence of our daily grind – protecting the land that’s become an integral part of our lives. These fields behind me aren’t just plots of land; they’re the heartbeat of our homestead. This journey isn’t just about planting seeds or fencing land; it’s about cultivating a future, a sustainable way of life that can be passed down through generations.
A Fence, But Not Just Any Fence
I dive deep into the world of fencing, not just as a barrier, but as a strategic investment in our future. It’s fascinating how a simple structure can hold so much significance. From solar fence energizers to electric fence holders, every tool and piece of equipment is a testament to our commitment to this land. But as you’ll see, it’s not just about keeping threats out; it’s about creating a harmonious space where every living thing thrives.
More Than Just Land Management
Our homestead is more than just a piece of land; it’s a complex ecosystem. I walk you through our thoughtful planning and resource management strategies. The way we structure our fences, considering factors like the depth perception of deer, reflects our deep understanding and respect for nature. But our stewardship doesn’t end there. It extends to managing pastures, optimizing the location of our chicken coop, and even the strategic placement and removal of trees.
Building Community and Future Prospects
One aspect of homesteading that’s incredibly close to my heart is the sense of community. In the video, I touch upon the significance of neighborly relations and how they can shape the future of a homestead. Our plans for AGR tourism and educational initiatives are all about sharing our journey and learning together as a community. This journey is not just about individual growth; it’s about growing together, learning from each other, and building a future that’s sustainable and enriching for everyone involved.
Reflecting and Looking Ahead
As the video draws to a close, I share some reflections on our homesteading journey. The history of our land, its past, present, and the potential future paths it might take, are all part of this incredible adventure. It’s a constant balance between respecting the past, nurturing the present, and planning for the future. And throughout this journey, the importance of community and adaptability shines through as the true pillars of a successful homestead.
I’m embedding the video right here for you to watch and hopefully, find inspiration and insights for your own homesteading journey.
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I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts, insights, and experiences. Drop a comment below, and let’s keep the conversation going. Until next time, keep nurturing your dreams and your land!
