A living Christmas tree can make this year's holiday season special for many, many years. Selecting the family Christmas tree is an exciting holiday tradition. But instead of buying a cut tree this year, why not choose a living Christmas tree? A decorated living Christmas tree celebrates the holiday season—and then becomes a growing part of your landscape for years to come. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, the average retail price of a farm-grown holiday tree is approaching $100. Sure, a freshly cut holiday brings the delightful scent of a pine forest into your home. But for a few dollars more, you can buy a living Christmas tree. A living, container-grown tree can be purchased at local garden centers and some “big box” stores. If strong north winds are a problem in your yard, now is a good time to start planting the first of that hedgerow of evergreens to break the wind. This is the fun way to get the job done. Each living Christmas tree will have its … [Read more...] about How to Choose and Care for a Living Christmas Tree
Homestead
Sebright Bantam Chickens
Sebright Bantam chickens are a great breed to add to your chicken flock. They are also a delightful breed to begin your chicken flock. Of course, there are hundreds of chicken breeds. From fuzzy silkies to giant brahmas, the choices are practically endless! If you are looking for something truly flashy and unique to add to your flock, look no further than the spunky Sebright bantam! The Sebright bantam chicken is an ornamental bantam breed. Unlike many other breeds, the Sebright is a “true” bantam, meaning it comes only in a small size. This diminutive breed comes in two beautiful colors (silver and gold). Both colors have a spunky character that adds a lot of fun to a backyard flock. Need a chicken coop or other chicken-keeping items? Check out the Chicken Supplies on Amazon. History of Seabright Bantam Chickens The Sebright Bantam chicken has been an established breed since 1874 when it was submitted to the American Poultry Association. This breed was … [Read more...] about Sebright Bantam Chickens
Best Home Weather Stations
The best home weather stations help you monitor temperature changes, rainfall, wind velocity, and more. A weather station for your home or homestead helps you plan your outdoor activities and events including picnics, backyard parties and outdoor chores. Monitoring the changes in weather can be a source of enjoyment and entertainment. Watching the changes in the weather is a hobby enjoyed by people all over the world. Knowing the exact weather conditions right now, and knowing what tomorrow’s weather will be, can also provide peace of mind for you and your family. Best Home Weather Stations for Gardeners and Homesteaders Farmers know the value of monitoring the weather. They know the current weather conditions. They also check the weather forecast to see what tomorrow’s weather will bring. Doing so helps to avoid crop losses caused by freezing, excessive heat, or excessive rain. Gardeners and homesteaders can also reap the rewards of accurate weather prediction. It is very … [Read more...] about Best Home Weather Stations
Best Battery Powered Chainsaws
The best battery powered chainsaws can now compete with gas-powered chainsaws for most homeowner uses. Cordless electric, battery powered chainsaws pack plenty of power to cut firewood, fell dying trees and prune branches. Plus, the best battery powered chain saws are easier to use, easier to start, quieter, and run cleaner with no fumes. There are now many different models of battery-powered chainsaws, so it’s important to choose the right chainsaw for your needs. That’s why Home, Garden and Homestead looked at the best cordless electric chainsaws and ranked them according to power, cutting time, and price. Our favorite battery-powered chainsaw models are described below. Editor’s note: A battery powered chainsaw is also known as a cordless electric chainsaw or cordless chainsaw. If you’re in the market for other cordless electric outdoor tools, read Best Cordless Leaf Blowers and Top Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers. Battery Power and Convenience How can a … [Read more...] about Best Battery Powered Chainsaws
Top Fruit Trees for Backyard Orchards
Plant a few top fruit trees for backyard orchards on your property, and your taste buds will thank you. There is nothing quite like fruit trees in the landscape to delight the eyes and nose with springtime blossoms. And there's nothing a wonderful as biting into freshly picked homegrown apple or peach. That's why we've chosen the top fruit trees for backyard orchards that will grow almost anywhere. Selecting the right kind of fruit tree to grow in a landscape comes down to two main factors: the varieties of trees that grow well in your area and your own personal taste. According to Ed Laivo, fruit tree specialist for Natural Hills Nursery, the top fruit trees described below have proven to be dependable growers in the widest range of climates and are better than others when it comes to consistent fruit production and flavor of the fruit. Here are Laivo’s top recommendations for backyard fruit trees that will produce bushels of delicious fruit, year after year. Top Fruit … [Read more...] about Top Fruit Trees for Backyard Orchards
