You are interested in how to start a hobby farm. But what separates a hobby farm from a standard farm or homestead? And what do you need to know to start a hobby farm to ensure its success? Below are the characteristics of a hobby farm, the potential goals you can establish for your hobby farm, and how to write a one-year plan for your farm. These tips and bits of information will help you stay on track when buying and operating your own hobby farm. What Is a Hobby Farm? A hobby farm is a farm with a small footprint that is run and maintained for pleasure instead of profit. It's important to understand that the crops you grow or yield from your hobby farm are not going to be a major source of income for you or your family. Unlike a homestead, a hobby farm is not a source of total self-sufficiency. Hobby farmers, because they are not primarily concerned with profit, have the luxury to decide exactly what the purpose of their hobby farm is. For example, do you want … [Read more...] about How to Start a Hobby Farm
Soil Testing for Beginners
Soil testing and examining the soil is crucial to growing healthy plants. Quite simply, plants won't survive without good, healthy soil. Good soil can support plant growth because it contains the right amounts of nutrients plants need. Also, healthy soil has the right consistency to support root health and development. When the roots are growing rapidly, healthily, and happily, you can grow the healthiest plants. That’s why soil testing is so important. Soil testing is checking for all the qualities of good soil: structure, compaction, ease of use or workability, the presence of natural organisms, plant development, water infiltration, and soil pH. Here are some practical soil testing techniques. Soil Testing for Structure You can't tell if your garden soil is dry or wet just by looking at the surface. Dig a small hole about 10 inches deep and place the soil in a small tray. Try to take an intact soil sample and break it apart with your hands. Check if the soil is … [Read more...] about Soil Testing for Beginners
A Winter Living Room Makeover on a Budget
The cold of winter offers a good time for a living room makeover. Your living room or den area deserves this special attention. That’s because this is where you will be hosting gatherings for friends and family. For a winter living room makeover, warmth should be your top priority. The room must feel cozy and comfortable. Plus, it must be attractive enough to become a much-loved venue for the holiday season—and beyond. However, budget constraints may seem daunting. But you can still achieve a lot without “burning a hole in your pocket.” Here are some simple and affordable ideas that can help make your living room the perfect place for comfortable winter get-togethers with friends and family. Invest in cozy throws Winter is the best time to pamper your living space with cozy and comfortable add-ons. Throw pillows for your couch are a great addition for the living room. Invest in warm fabrics like wool, cashmere or sheepskin. You can add a luxurious feel to the … [Read more...] about A Winter Living Room Makeover on a Budget
Tips for Winter Outdoor Living Space
Here are 6 essentials that will make your outdoor living space cozy and comfortable this winter The toasty-warm summer (perhaps even blistering) is behind us. Now is the time to think about getting your outdoor living space ready for winter. Are you looking forward to those crisper mornings and chillier evenings? Cooler weather is right around the corner! To get ready for the change in the season, start planning and creating that cozy outdoor living space that you can enjoy in the fall and winter. We have gathered our 6 essential elements for transforming your patio, deck, or courtyard into a winter outdoor living space. Use these tips and you can enjoy the autumn and winter outdoors while staying warm and comfortable. Plan Your Outdoor Living Space for Colder Weather The trick is to think of all the things that make your indoor living spaces intimate and cozy. Then, recreate that same feeling outside with seating, heating and accessories that are … [Read more...] about Tips for Winter Outdoor Living Space
Best Greenhouse Heaters and Accessories
A greenhouse outfitted with one of the best greenhouse heaters and other accessories is a fabulous way grow plants all year long. Quite simply, a greenhouse turns a short growing season into a year-round growing paradise. A well-designed greenhouse—with the right greenhouse accessories and equipment—can provide the perfect growing environment for all kinds of plants. If you are planning to add a greenhouse on your property, this round-up of the best greenhouse heaters, equipment and accessories will come in handy. If you just purchased or constructed a greenhouse, consider adding these greenhouse products to make it a true indoor growing paradise 12 months a year. The Best Greenhouse Heaters The inside of a greenhouse naturally stays warmer than the outside temperature. But during colder weather, most greenhouses need a heating boost. Add more insulation for most greenhouses during winter months. A greenhouse heater is among the must-have greenhouse accessories to keep … [Read more...] about Best Greenhouse Heaters and Accessories
