Self Reliance Archives - Page 4 of 11 - Homesteader DepotHomesteader Depot

Is Grass Fed Beef Really Better Than the Alternative?

As people work to become more health conscious, we are taking a closer look at the foods we eat regularly. And, while some have chosen to avoid animal products altogether, others have instead made an effort to find healthier versions of the product they already know and love. Take beef, for example. Most of us know from grocery shopping that it’s now possible to buy items like ground beef with different levels of fat in them. And, you would think that when spending the extra money per pound on 93% lean beef that, that is hormone/additive free you’d be getting […]

3 Surprising Ways to Reuse Old Electrical Cords and Cables

Since the dawn of cable TV, the number of electrical type cording we have around the house has expanded almost exponentially. What started with coaxial and extension cords now include shorted out or plain outdated AV connectors, HDMI wiring, and USB cords in about every shape, size, and color. If you are anything like my family, you have at least one box filled with outdated wiring, some of which is so old you probably have no idea what ancient piece of tech you’ve since gotten rid of it used to go to. The first idea we usually have is […]

9 Practical Emergency Foods And How to Store Them

Long term food storage is a good idea in many, many circumstances. There are several basic food types that you should consider stocking up on that will last for years if needed. Beans Dried beans of every variety are super cheap and even easier to store. Store them in a dark, dry and cool place for best results. Coffee and Tea Most of us consider ourselves in an emergency situation if we run out of coffee. So, try to imagine going through an actual emergency without it…OH…THE HORROR!!! Just make sure you keep it in the right […]

3 All Natural Homemade Flea Repellents

Fleas are miserable little creatures that can cause all kinds of discomfort and health problems for the beloved 4-legged creatures we call family. Not only do they cause uncontrolled itching and scratching they can also lead to other issues that could cost lots of money to remediate. Why Fleas Are More than Just a Nuisance Besides the obvious discomfort made by itchy flea bites, there are several other ailments that can result from them. They include: Flea allergies that can result in skin rashes and other issues. Fleas feed on your fluffy friends’ blood. Excessive numbers can lead […]

4 Critical Methods to Improve Your Garden Soil

You have the perfect spot picked out for your new garden. It gets just the right amount of sun, its easy to access and there is plenty of room to plant whatever your heart desires. Just one problem. The ground in your perfect spot is less than optimal for growing anything more than plastic plants. What do you do when your potential garden’s soil is more akin to just plain dirt that the rich compost you dream of getting your hands into? Pick another site? Probably now very practical. Fortunately, there are several natural ways you can inject your ground […]

5 Fantastic Benefits of Living in a Yurt

Yurts are the ultimate example of efficiency in residential construction. Their structural design, insulation and covering keep them cool in summer, warm in winter, and extremely wind resistant. A yurt’s round walls allow for much less surface area for interior heat to escape while letting the wind move more organically around it instead of pushing against it. The framing of the support system is completely self-sufficient and a wonder of engineering. The roof is supported by the use of a tension band and compression ring leaving the interior completely open and available to any interior design you could need. […]

8 Extremely Natural Ways to Treat a Rash

Rashes can be at the least, inconvenient, and at the worst incredibly painful. There is any number of reasons a rash may appear. Allergies, toxic plants, and illnesses are the main categories, but within those, especially allergies, it can sometimes be impossible to figure out why the rash is happening. Please note, if a rash progresses rapidly, appear for no external reason, or it accompanied by other symptoms like sinus or chest congestion or trouble breathing this may be a sign of a severe allergy. In these cases, you should seek medical treatment and work with your doctor to […]

Can You Grow Miniature Fruit Trees and Non-Native Plants?

Can You Grow Miniature Fruit Trees and Non-Native Plants? Well, the short answer? Yes. It is possible to grow just about anything on a homestead or even in an urban environment, with the right care and maintenance. And, if you are successful, you can provide yourself with your own rice, coffee, citrus fruit and more. The main trick? Growing everything in planters and pots, essentially creating a mobile farm. During the summer they can be kept outside. When it turns cold you have a few options: Cover the plants with clear plastic to create mini-greenhouses Move them inside your home […]

5 Wonderfully Natural Remedies to Fight Dry Skin

Dry skin can be extremely uncomfortable to those who suffer from it chronically. From cold weather to medications that bring about this most inconvenient side effect, it can sometimes feel daunting while trying to find a solution and get relief. Fortunately, there are some natural remedies that may be the answer you’ve been looking for. Avocados This wonderful fruit (yep, it’s in the pear family) is packed with Vitamin E plus Omega-3 fatty acids. It’s a very popular ingredient for people who suffer from chronic dry skin. How to Use Avocados Cut the avocado in half and scoop […]

Identifying and Understanding Poison Ivy

The bane of every campers’ weekend getaway, poison ivy, interestingly enough is not actually in the ivy family. It’s a relative of the almond family. Who knew? Most of the time, you only have to worry about avoiding it when you are in the great outdoors and away from urban areas. However, occasionally it will pop up in your yard. If this happens, you’ll want to make sure you wear protective clothing and accessories like gloves and even a mask to avoid the worst itching you can ever imagine. Also, you’ll want to be very cautious about how you dispose […]

DIY Recycled Planters

When you are getting ready to start seeds for spring planting, you may find yourself with more seeds than starter containers. Instead of running right out and buying some at your local garden center, try digging through your plastic recycling bin instead. Empty plastic soda and water bottles are durable enough to handle taking on plants but easy to cut down, trim and otherwise alter to create a handy little planter to suit your needs. Here are two options to create plastic planters. Standard Planter Cut or punch drain holes around the bottom of the bottle. Any easy […]

8 Amazing Uses for Tea Tree Oil

Contrary to its name, tea tree oil is not remotely related to the tea plant. It is actually native to and only grown in Australia. Which is probably why its benefits have gone largely unspoken of until recently. It is important to note that tea tree oil is very toxic if swallowed. However, it can be used topically, and its ability to disinfect naturally makes it a viable alternative to harsher synthetic products. Antiseptic and Antifungal One of the most popular uses of tea tree oil is as an antiseptic and antifungal treatment. Its antibacterial properties make it […]

Never Waste Water Again

Picture this, for every inch of rain that falls on a 500 square feet area of your roof; you can collect up to 300 gallons of it to use around your property. If you live in an area that doesn’t restrict the use of rain barrels, you could be saving money every month on water. Rainwater can be used for a variety of tasks including: Rinsing off your garage floor Watering your indoor plants Watering your outdoor plants Flushing your toilet Creating an outdoor shower And more I know a potter who has a studio in her garage. If […]

13 Drought Tolerant Plants for Low Maintenance Landscapes

Whether you live in a desert climate, or just don’t want to use a lot of water to have a beautiful landscape, drought tolerant plants are a great option. There are a large variety of species available to choose from, from succulents to blooming plants. To help you narrow down your options, here is a list for you to consider. Cactus Not just for the desert, cactus plants are an obvious choice for a drought tolerant garden. They can also serve a very practical purpose. Plant the lower lying varieties under exterior windows, and you automatically have an extra layer […]

Don’t Make These Common EDC Mistakes

When putting together an EDC kit, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between selecting an item because it could really be useful, and selecting an item because it’s really, really cool. To start, ask yourself some questions as you contemplate each possible item. Will this tool be helpful in the region I live in? Example, an ice pick is probably going to be of less use in a tropical or desert region. How many functions are included with this tool? Double check to see how many different uses you can get from a single item. […]

10 Loans and Grants to Help Your Homestead

Dreaming of a homestead but don’t have the cash? If money is the only thing stopping you, there are options that can get you the money you need to start or improve your homestead. These grants are low or no money down loans are specifically designated to rehab older farms or build new ones. From agricultural to livestock funding you can get the money you need to update or get started your homestead. 10 Grants and Zero or Low Money Down Loans Available for Homesteading Agricultural Reinvestment Fund Grants If you are an existing farmer in North Carolina, you […]

10 Amazing Uses for Lemons

Lemons, good for making lemonade, adding to your tea with honey, squeezing over fish, the list could go on and on. It even goes on to some amazing home remedies! Who knew? Someone apparently because we’ve been able to put together a list of 12 you can try in the comfort of your own home. Break up Congestion in Your Sinuses and Chest Getting that familiar sore throat or wheezing sound? No problem. Heat 4-6 oz of water and mix in 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 2 Tsp of honey. The honey will soothe your […]

Simple Reduce – Reuse – Recycle Methods

If you are a parent, the words “Reduce – Reuse – Recycle” may conjure up the theme music of Bob, the Builder. But, that’s not a bad thing, unless you can’t get it out of your head. I used to enjoy watching that show with my son when he was still part of “Bob’s” demographic because very often they gave the adults sitting through it really good ideas about upcycling stuff. If you’re looking for ways to put into action the three R’s at home, here are some ideas to get you started. Paper Products Egg Cartons – […]

The Undeniable Benefits of Coffee Grounds in Your Garden

Coffee grounds and gardening are naturally a good fit. Whether you are composting with them or applying them directly to your garden and around your yard, you’ll discover that coffee can affect your plants in much the same way it does you. If you think your garden is in need of a pick-me-up, get ready to be amazed at the effects it will produce. Used Coffee Grounds Make Great Fertilizer When added directly to the garden soil, the grounds add to the organic material makeup of the soil itself. This addition aids in the retention of water, improves […]

11 More Natural Mosquito Repellents

From the early 90’s encephalitis scares to today’s news of Zika and West Nile virus, people are looking for as many options for mosquito repellent as possible. And, thanks to the chemical scares that occurred long before, effective organic options are highly desired. Fortunately, there are a number of options to make spring and summer night much more comfortable and much less life-threatening. From Lemongrass to Citronella Oil One of the most well-known mosquito repellent plants is lemongrass. Lemongrass is the plant citronella oil is extracted from. Use as a natural spray, burn in candles or put in oil […]