Lawn fertilization is necessary for healthy, green grass lawns. A well-fertilized turfgrass lawn is healthy enough to withstand stress from pests, foot traffic, and environmental factors. Quite simply, regular lawn fertilization is necessary to maintain optimal health. Here are some quick tips that will help you maintain a healthy green turfgrass lawn. Then I will give a more in-depth explanation of key lawn fertilization principles. Home, Garden and Homestead receives a small commission (at no cost to you) from product links in this story. Thank you for supporting this website! 5 Quick Lawn Fertilization Tips Fast-Release and Slow-Release Fertilization Depending on your lawn’s needs and your preference, you can choose between fast-release inorganic lawn fertilizers and slow-release organic fertilizers. You can even use the blend of multiple fertilizers if you wish. For example, some homeowners use fast-release fertilizers, followed by a top dressing of organic … [Read more...] about Lawn Fertilization Tips for Spring and Fall
Off Grid Solar and Wind Power for Your Homestead
Off grid solar and wind power for your homestead enables you say goodbye to power bills. Why pay high costs to bring power from a utility company when you can generate your own clean, renewable energy? An off-grid power system is a stand-alone system. It operates completely on its own to supply all your power needs. The cost of and off grid solar and wind power system for a homestead or ranch can be less than bringing in utility power. Especially if you live in an area where it's expensive to bring in utilities. We chose an off-grid power for our home because the start-up cost for utility power was over $10,000! Self-Sufficiency with a Clean, Renewable Resource There is a real feeling of independence and accomplishment that comes with being self-sufficient. We live on an acreage, and we also have our own well, septic system, and a wood stove for heating. We use propane for cooking, hot water, and a small backup heater. This is our only utility expense. If the power goes … [Read more...] about Off Grid Solar and Wind Power for Your Homestead
Update Bathroom to Add Value to Your Home
Update bathroom to add value to your home if you want to sell--or even if you are staying put. There are many good reasons to update your bathroom. After all, your bathroom is a home asset. It's easy to update bathrooms to spruce up your home and add value. If you own a home, it should come as no surprise that restoration and renovation are highly effective in increasing property resale values. But kitchens probably come to mind as the number one possibility for remodeling. Bathrooms are often neglected when it comes to a room remodel. Don't dismiss the humble household bathroom! Updating this space is one of the easiest ways to add value to your home. And even if you aren't looking to sell your home, a remodeled bathroom is something you will appreciate every day. Here are three great ways to improve and refresh a bathroom that can be done on a budget. Refresh or Replace the Tiles Your bathroom is a very moist place. Over time, all of this moisture and water can … [Read more...] about Update Bathroom to Add Value to Your Home
Gas vs. Electric Power Equipment
The choice between gas vs. electric power equipment continues to evolve. But one thing is certain: battery powered cordless electric power equipment keeps getting better. For homeowners and even professional landscapers, that makes it easier and easier to buy cordless electric power equipment. I know. As the editor of HomeGardenandHomestead.com, I am on the front line of the gas vs. electric power equipment battle. When I needed to replace my old gasoline powered lawn mower, I bought an EGO Power Self-Propelled Cordless Electric Mower. I replaced my gas-powered string trimmer for a battery-powered string trimmer. I also have a cordless electric leaf blower, too. So, I am firmly in the electric power equipment camp. I think battery powered tools are the future. In the decision between gas vs. electric power equipment, here are the reasons why I choose electric. Gas vs. Electric Power Equipment: Less Maintenance for Electric A cordless electric lawn mower, leaf blower … [Read more...] about Gas vs. Electric Power Equipment
Teach Kids About Kitchen Safety
Teach kids about kitchen safety and start them on a delicious lifelong journey. Children can be introduced to the kitchen and the concepts of kitchen safety sooner than you think. Yes, the safety precautions can seem overwhelming and stressful. This is especially true if you’re allowing them to help out in the kitchen for the first time. The kitchen has been called the heart of a home. Your kids will spend lots of time in the kitchen, especially when you are cooking. But kitchens can be dangerous places. About 350,000 people are injured by kitchen knives each year according to Beaumont Emergency Hospital, and kitchen burns are also very common. Yet these dangers shouldn’t prevent you from introducing your children to the art of cooking healthy meals — and the safety precautions involved. Here’s what you should know if you’re considering cooking together as a family. Start Small When You Teach Kids About Kitchen Safety Many parents are eager to teach kids about kitchen … [Read more...] about Teach Kids About Kitchen Safety