what is a cattle shed

What Is a Cattle Shed?

You’ve probably wondered what a cattle shed is. It provides a separate “loafing” area for cows and helps you control the climate inside the barn. Sheds can protect cows from rain and different diseases by avoiding long periods of exposure to the elements. If you’re not sure what this valuable asset is, read on for some tips on building one. What is a cattle shed used for? A cattle shed isn’t just about protection. Let’s … Read more

Brown Swiss Cattle

Brown Swiss Cattle ~ Pros and Cons to Raising Brown Swiss Cows

The Brown Swiss is a breed of dairy cattle in the United States. Cows produce milk that is high in butterfat. Over the centuries, Brown Swiss cattle have diverged from the original breed in many ways, but their main characteristic remains the same: They produce high quality milk.  If you have been thinking of adding a Brown Swiss cow to your backyard farm for milk or meat, you are in the right place. Here, we … Read more

silkie chicken

Silkie Chicken ~ Why These Fluffy Chickens are a Joy to Raise

Here’s what to know about adding a Silkie chicken to your flock. These friendly, small chickens are ideal for beginners and backyards. Silkies have luxurious plumage, which feels like silk or satin. Their notable characteristics include black meat, puffy feathers, and tufts on their heads. They look like fluffy chickens. Silkie hens were bred to be broody. This breed makes excellent mothers and can rear the offspring of other birds as well. You can raise … Read more

Septic Tank Maintenance

Septic Tank Maintenance ~ What Beginners Need to Know

If you are moving to the country, chances are that you will have to deal with owning a septic system. This means that you will also have to manage septic tank maintenance. Those who have always had homes connected to a sewer system might find this intimidating. Having lived in cities and suburbs for 40+ years, I never had to concern myself with where the waste went. When I moved to an unincorporated area, I learned quickly. … Read more

septic tank cleaning

Septic Tank Cleaning ~ Costs and When to Clean It

The idea that you as a homeowner are now responsible for the management of your own sewage can be a little unsettling. You probably have a hundred questions about living with a septic system, and we have the know-how that you need to make this endeavor a success. The key to uncertainty is education, so read on to have all of your septic tank and septic tank cleaning questions answered. You have picked out the … Read more

septic tank pumping

Septic Tank Pumping ~ What to Know

“How do septic tanks work?” or “How often does my septic tank need pumping?” may be questions that you’re asking if this is the first time you have ever dealt with a septic system.  If you have never lived in the country, the idea of dealing with a septic system may come as a surprise. However, especially in rural areas, septic systems are often more the rule than the exception.  If you have always lived … Read more

Best PTO Generators

PTO Generator ~ What It Does and 5 to Choose From

PTO generator, also called power take-off generator, is a tool utilized primarily by those who have farm or construction equipment with a Power Take Off (PTO) connector. You might see PTO generators referred to as tractor-powered generators or a PTO driven generator as well. Either way, these generators are powerful must-have for anyone who owns a tractor with a PTO shaft connector. Here we explain why a PTO generator is so effective, dive deep into … Read more

Whole house generator

Whole House Generator ~ What to Know and How to Choose One

A whole house generator is an extremely useful investment in the event of an emergency. It can provide enough power for all your electronics and appliances. It can also be permanently installed and connected to your house to offer an automatic, quick, and seamless transition during a power outage. In the event of an emergency, a whole home generator can supply power to your home as long as it has a sufficient fuel supply. You … Read more

free land

Free Land ~ How to Find Free Land for Homesteading

Free land might seem like something too good to be true, primarily as most people are taught that property is one of the most profitable investments you can make. If you have always had the dream of owning and operating a homestead, looking into free land can quickly transform your vision into a reality. Stemming from the development of the now-dissolved Homestead Act of 1862, there are still states and provinces in North America that … Read more

Generac GP2200i

Generac GP2200i ~ Find Out If It’s for You

Generac GP2200i – If you are a camper or tailgater and like having some extra power, you might have looked into portable generators. There are all sorts of sizes and wattages to choose from and several models within each type. The Generac GP2200i is a popular option for small inverter generators. It’s lightweight at 46 pounds, making it easy to take along RV-ing, boating, tailgating and camping. For blackouts at home, you can use it … Read more

Generac 22kW

Generac 22kW ~ Generac 70422 vs 70432 Review

Consider Generac 22kW for your whole house generator. The 22kW will be enough to run what you need so you won’t have to pick and choose appliances. Having a whole house generator will provide peace of mind. It’s especially important if you live in an area prone to power outages and extended blackouts or rely on medical devices. You’ll be able to run your HVAC, electronics, and keep the food in your refrigerator and freezer … Read more

Westinghouse iGen4500

Westinghouse iGen4500 ~ What to Know Before Buying

Here we explain the Westinghouse iGen4500. A generator is becoming more of a necessity for almost any residential or commercial property. This model is portable. It will be helpful during a power outage. You can also use it to provide power when you’re in a place with no electricity.  Choosing a generator can be challenging. There are so many generators on the market, and each offers something slightly different. The one you choose will often … Read more

Generac GP5500

Generac GP5500 | Lots of Power for the Price

When researching generators, the Generac GP5500 is one option. This portable model is compact yet powerful. This product review provides the facts you need to know if it’s the generator for you. A portable generator can be a practical addition to your residential or commercial property. Whether you keep it on standby if you lose power in a storm or use it regularly to help support your everyday energy needs, you want to be sure … Read more

leaving the city

Leaving the City for Land, Homesteading and More

If you’ve been considering leaving the city, you’re in good company. While moving out of urban areas isn’t new, in recent months, as people changed routines, it made many people reflect on priorities differently. Many city dwellers moved to the suburbs or the country for land and space. They wanted a greater sense of control and to be able to become more self-reliant. With this came a slower pace, a different lifestyle. While a desire … Read more

Sycamore tree

Sycamore Tree – Features, Uses, Types and How to Grow

The sycamore tree is a shade tree. They can grow 70 – 100 feet and sometimes higher. Sycamores need lots of space to grow. You’ll often see them in parks and lining streets. They are fast-growing trees, growing over two feet per year. With a deep root system, they are very sturdy. Sycamore trees are deciduous and provide shade with their large canopies. Because of their size and aggressive roots, they grow well in areas … Read more

water pressure regulator

Water Pressure Regulator – Here’s What to Know

A water pressure regulator controls the pressure of water that comes into the home from the main line. It’s also called a pressure-reducing valve or PRV for short.  Water pressure regulators are installed where the main water line comes into the house, just past the main shutoff valve. It’s a way to safely regulate the pressure of the water you use from faucets, showers, toilets, etc. It will also ensure the proper pressure to run … Read more

soybean plant

Soybean Plant Growing, Uses and Needs

Soybean plants grow soybeans, which are legumes. They are easy to grow in warm season months. The beans take approximately 80 days to harvest.  Soybeans are an annual crop, popular in the midwestern United States. Soybean Plant A soybean, despite the name, is not a bean at all and is classified as a legume. It’s scientific name is Glycine max. The soybean plant is native to East Asia. Soy is the same as soya. Soybeans … Read more

best battery powered lawn mower

Best Battery Powered Lawn Mower in 2023 ~ Learn the Pros and Cons of 5 Models

The best battery powered lawn mower can help you transition to more efficient yard work. With a cordless mower, you have ease of use. Charge the battery, and your mower will be ready when you need it. Battery operated lawn mowers are eco-friendly and practically maintenance free. They are ideal for small lawns. You can choose a lawn mower with a single battery or dual-battery source to double the charge. There are many different types … Read more

scottish highland cattle

Scottish Highland Cattle | A Hardy Breed Worth Raising

Raising cattle is on your homestead is a way to earn money and provide for your family. One breed to consider is Scottish Highland cattle. They produce excellent quality beef and are very hardy, easy to train, docile, interesting, adorable, and intelligent. With property and the means to care for them, they can be a good investment and choice for livestock to raise for meat. Scottish Highland Cattle Aptly named, Scottish Highland cows originated from … Read more

how to grow truffles

How to Grow Truffles – Requirements and Challenges

With this complete guide on how to grow truffles, you will be able to harvest these great little treats each year! If you have ever sat down at a restaurant and tried a specially-prepared truffle, you likely loved it. Truffles are often considered a delicacy or special treat for those who eat them. But do you know if truffles are difficult to grow? Could you grow them yourself? Can you sell truffles you grow at … Read more