How to start a homestead

[Lifestyle] HOW TO START A HOMESTEAD

The desire to be more selfsufficient is increasing interest in homesteading. While most might imagine a cabin in the countryside, those who live in urban areas can also build a homestead by taking small steps to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.

Preparation

Define the vision for your homestead, then observe the property. Notice the sun exposure, shade sources and drainage areas.

Next, seek out resources and advice. Connect with like-minded people at local markets. First steps

Set realistic expectations, and don’t expect success without failure. Though people often refer to homesteading as living a more simple life, it takes hard work to maintain. It is easy to be overwhelmed with projects.

Begin composting. Then grow produce and preserve the harvest through methods like canning, dehydrating or fermenting food.

Many homesteaders graduate to raising animals for products like eggs, honey, milk and meat. Bees, chickens, ducks and rabbits are popular animals for beginners. Honing skills

Hunting, fishing and foraging are useful skills to aquire. Learning to handcraft other necessities increases self-sufficiency. Blacksmithing, general carpentry and woodworking are valuable trades to learn. Homemakers can also learn to create clothing and household goods, such as blankets and curtains, by mastering techniques like crocheting, knitting and sewing. Candle and soapmaking are also popular pastimes that people often fold into a sustainable lifestyle.

Starting a homestead can seem overwhelming if we lack specific sets of skills. Luckily, local organizations offer diverse learning opportunities from basic courses to one-onone programs led by experienced professionals. With enough dedication, any person can establish a homestead.