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# The Homesteading RD

Master Health and Self-Sufficiency

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [The Best (and Worst) Cucumber Companion Plants](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/cucumber-companion-plants/) - If you're looking for that perfect companion for your cucumber plants, this article is for you! I'll fill you in on which plants will enhance their growth...
- [5 Best (and 3 Worst) Companion Plants for Tomatoes](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/companion-plants-tomato/) - Adding some companion plants for tomatoes is an excellent way to maximize the productivity and health of your tomato plants.
- [No Cook Refrigerator Pickles (Quick!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/no-cook-refrigerator-pickles/) - No cook refrigerator pickles are a summer staple on our homestead. They only take minutes to make and they are simply divine!
- [5 BEST Pumpkin Companion Plants (and 3 to AVOID!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/pumpkin-companion-plants/) - Are you wondering what the best (and worst) pumpkin companion plants are? It's an excellent way to maximize the health of your plants.
- [4 Steps to Introduce New Chickens to Your Flock](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/introduce-new-chickens/) - You definitely don’t want to just throw everyone together and hope for the best. If chickens aren’t properly introduced, the newcomers can face injury or death.
- [Ultimate Guide to Chicken Coop Flooring](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/chicken-coop-flooring/) - Picking the right chicken coop flooring is essential for your flock's safety, cleanliness, and comfort. Some materials are really great, whereas others can be risky!
- [Homestead Refried Beans (Plus, Canning Tips!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/canning-refried-beans/) - I’ll share how to properly soak dried beans and make the BEST refried beans you’ll ever have. Plus, I'll share tips on canning them for EASY refried beans later!
- [Topping Pepper Plants - Should You Do It?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/topping-pepper-plants/) - Topping pepper plants? While it may seem like a counterproductive thing to do, it can pay off if applied in the correct way - I'll show you how!
- [Water Bath Canning vs Pressure Canning vs Steam Canning](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/water-bath-canning-vs-pressure-canning/) - If you feel overwhelmed by all the canner options out there, this article is for you! We'll compare water bath canning, pressure canning, and even steam canning.
- [The 5 BEST Automatic Chicken Coop Doors in 2026](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-automatic-chicken-coop-door/) - It can be overwhelming to try to figure out the best automatic chicken coop door for you and your flock, but it doesn’t have to be!
- [The 8 BEST Egg Incubators in 2026](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-egg-incubators/) - I’ve been hatching chicks since 2014 and have used MANY incubators. In this article, I'll share all of my successes (and failures) with different incubators.
- [The 5 Best Soil pH Testers in 2026](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-soil-ph-testers/) - If your garden plants are stunted and not growing well, then acquiring the best soil pH tester on the market is a great first step to diagnosing the issue!
- [How to Make the BEST Garlic Powder](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-make-garlic-powder/) - Making garlic powder is one of the easiest food preservation methods out there; however, a few key steps can really turn the product from drab to fab.
- [How to Make Fermented Carrots Sticks](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/fermented-carrots/) - Fermented carrot sticks are delicious, nutritious, and SUPER simple to make! Move over, boring raw carrot sticks!
- [Water Glassing Eggs for Storage](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/water-glassing-eggs/) - Water glassing is a safe, traditional way to preserve fresh, unwashed eggs for 1–2 years without refrigeration.
- [Pressure Canning: A Step-By-Step Guide](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/pressure-canning/) - Pressure canning can feel really scary in the beginning, but with my step-by-step guide, it'll be a breeze and you'll wish that you tried it earlier!
- [Cucumber Leaves Turning Yellow? Here's WHY & What to Do!](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/cucumber-leaves-turning-yellow/) - Are your cucumber leaves turning yellow? This is a common occurrence in backyard gardens and can be disheartening. Here's why it's happening!
- [Can Chickens Eat Strawberries? What About The Stem?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-chickens-eat-strawberries/) - If you have some overripe strawberries lying around, you're probably wondering: "Can chickens eat strawberries?" You're not the only one!
- [How to Freeze Fresh Broccoli (The Right Way!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-freeze-fresh-broccoli/) - Freezing fresh broccoli is one of my favorite ways to preserve it, but there's definitely a right way and a wrong way to go about it.
- [Grilled Garlic Scapes - EASY and Delicious!](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/grilled-garlic-scapes/) - Simple grilled garlic scapes are the best and easiest way to prepare them. We look forward to them each year and I know you're going to LOVE them!
- [When to Harvest Garlic Scapes (& How to Do It!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/when-to-harvest-garlic-scapes/) - Are you wondering when to harvest garlic scapes and the best way to do it? You're not alone! There's an art to picking them at the right time.
- [How to Plant, Grow, and Harvest Onions](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-plant-onions/) - Knowing how to grow onions well and have them store for up to 9 months feels like a rite of passage for homesteaders, doesn't it?
- [What is a Fairy Egg? Is Your Hen Healthy?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/fairy-eggs/) - Fairy eggs can happen for many different reasons. Most of the time, they are nothing to worry about , but sometimes it can be a cause for concern
- [Essential Oil Tick Repellent Recipe (Dog-Safe!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/essential-oil-tick-repellent/) - After doing research, I discovered that essential oils are effective as long as the right ones are used at the proper concentration and applied reguarly.
- [The 6 BEST Chickens for Cold Climates](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/winter-hardy-chickens/) - If you live in a cold climate, choosing the right chicken breeds is important to ensure that your flock will thrive through those long and brutal winters.
- [The Best (and Worst) Zucchini Companion Plants](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/zucchini-companion-plants/) - We’re going to tackle the 5 BEST and the 3 WORST companion plants to plant alongside your zucchini plant so that you have a stress-free havest this season.
- [Canning Maple Syrup for Long-Term Storage](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/canning-maple-syrup/) - I’m going to teach you my way of canning maple syrup, which enables us to enjoy it in the years to come. This might make some of you cringe, and that’s okay!
- [The 22 BEST Homesteading Books](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-homesteading-books/) - If you’re looking for the BEST homesteading books to expand your skill set and prepare for anything that may come your way, look no further!
- [Bumblefoot in Chickens - Causes, Treatment & Prevention](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/bumblefoot-chickens/) - If you have chickens, then the chances are good that you’ll deal with bumblefoot at some point. I've successfully treated over 30 cases - I can help you!
- [The 7 Best Meat Chickens for Your Homestead](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-meat-chickens/) - What are the best meat chickens to raise? There are a lot of different breeds out there to choose from, each having its own pros and cons. I'll help you decide!
- [Cooking a Rooster: The Basics](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/cooking-a-rooster/) - Do you need help cooking a rooster? Read on to learn my tried and true method for a delicious, nourishing rooster soup. I've got you covered!
- [How to Test Seed Viability at Home](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/seed-viability-test/) - Have some old seeds? You're probably wondering if they are still good for planting or not. We've all been there! No one wants to wait around for dud seeds.
- [How to Predator Proof Your Chicken Coop](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/predator-proof-chicken-coop/) - I've dealt with intense predators over the past 10 years and have overcome each one. Knowing what I know now, we haven't lost a chicken in nearly 2 years!
- [How to Grow Chicken Fodder in ONLY 7 Days!](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/chicken-fodder/) - Did you know that you can easily grow chicken fodder in just 7 days? Heck yes! Chicken fodder is an amazing way to multiply your feed inexpensively.
- [Soothing Chickweed Salve Recipe](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/chickweed-salve-recipe/) - This soothing chickweed salve recipe is an staple on our homestead. When insect bites, rashes, and burns happen, my chickweed salve always saves the day!
- [How Much Space Do Chickens REALLY Need?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-much-space-do-chickens-need/) - Providing the right amount of coop space is essential to the well-being of your flock. Adequate space helps prevent issues like bullying, stress, and disease.
- [How to Pressure Can Bone Broth (Chicken, Beef, Venison)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-can-bone-broth/) - Canning bone broth is a great way to preserve it so you can grab a jar anytime! This quick and simple pressure canning method only takes 20 minutes!
- [The 5 Best Vertical Garden Kits in 2025](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/vertical-garden-kits/) - Vertical gardening is rapidly becoming a popular way to grow food and utilizing vertical garden kits makes it easier than ever!
- [DIY Lip Balm Recipe](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/lip-balm-diy-recipe/) - Ready to make your own DIY lip balm and toss the inflammatory store-bought stuff away? Heck yes! I'll show you how to make it.
- [How to Use Neem Oil on Tomato Plants](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/neem-oil-tomato/) - Have you been thinking about using neem oil on your tomato plants? Neem oil is a versatile product that all organic gardeners should have.
- [30 Useful Gifts for Homesteaders](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/gifts-for-homesteaders/) - Trying to find the perfect gifts for homesteaders? Look no further! These practical individuals appreciate tools that make their tasks more efficient.
- [How to Make and Preserve Pumpkin Puree](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-make-pumpkin-puree/) - Once you see how EASY it is to make pumpkin puree, you'll never go back to that bland stuff at the store again! Preserving it is just as easy - double win!
- [Homemade Ground Venison Jerky Recipe](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/ground-venison-jerky/) - Ground venison jerky is delicious and an exciting change up from traditional jerky. It's the perfect snack to have on hand and is fun to make.
- [5 Practical Uses for a Wood Chipper on a Homestead](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/wood-chipper-uses/) - A wood chipper is a game changer on a homestead, large or small! There are so many uses for wood chips that will save you time and effort in the long run.
- [Gluten Free Quiche With Garden Veggies](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/gluten-free-quiche/) - Making a gluten-free quiche is a great way to use up that pile of veggies from your garden or CSA. Plus, it's delicious!
- [Garden Fresh Rhubarb Crumble (Gluten Free!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/gluten-free-rhubarb-crumble/) - I’ve been making this gluten free rhubarb crumble for YEARS and it’s a classic in our home. Not only is it gluten free, but it’s a reduced-sugar recipe that you can feel good about using over and over.
- [Dried Radishes for Winter Storage](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/dried-radishes/) - If you are growing radishes this year, don’t miss this opportunity to preserve some dried radishes to enjoy during the cold days of winter!
- [Ultimate Guide to Chicken Nesting Box Size](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/chicken-nesting-box-size/) - Are you adding some chickens this year, but you’re not sure what chicken nesting box size to use? You’re in the right place!
- [What Type of Microgreens Should I Grow?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/type-of-microgreens/) - It can be hard to decide which type of microgreens to grow! There are hundreds of options out there, so which one is right for YOU?
- [5 Best Spinach Companion Plants (and 2 to AVOID!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/spinach-companion-plants/) - If you want to grow the best spinach ever, consider adding the best spinach companion plants nearby. Companion plants will improve their growth and production.
- [How to Plant, Grow, and Harvest Garlic](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-plant-garlic/) - You'll be surprised by how easy it is to plant and grow garlic, as long as you follow the few key steps discussed in my article. Let's dive in!
- [When to Harvest Butternut Squash](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/when-to-harvest-butternut-squash/) - Your butternut squash looking great, but is it really ready to harvest? Knowing the exact right time to harvest will ensure that it's delicious and stores well.
- [Homemade Fermented Hot Sauce - EASY and Delicious!](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/fermented-hot-sauce-recipe/) - If you're a hot sauce fanatic like me, then you HAVE to try making your own fermented hot sauce! It's seriously super easy and downright delicious.
- [Broody Hen Management - A Beginner's Guide](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/broody-hens/) - As much as I enjoy hatching chicks from my own incubator, nothing compares to the joy of watching a broody hen hatch out her own clutch of chicks.
- [15 Vegetables (and Herbs) That Grow in Shade](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/vegetables-that-grow-in-shade/) - Just because you have a shady yard doesn't mean that you can't grow your own food! There are quite a few veggies and herbs that THRIVE in a shady location!
- [Do Chickens Eat Meat? Is It Safe?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/do-chickens-eat-meat/) - You've heard of chickens eating bugs, but do chickens eat meat? This is a controversial topic in the world of chicken keeping, but we'll break it down together!
- [Fermented Honey Garlic (Plus, Tips to Avoid Botulism)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/fermented-honey-garlic/) - Making a batch of fermented honey garlic is one of the best things you can do to get ready for the upcoming cold and flu season.
- [Lemon Balm vs Mint: Which One Should You Use and Grow?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/lemon-balm-vs-mint/) - Lemon balm vs mint? They both look very similar, but they each have their own distinct aromas, taste profiles, uses, and growing habits.
- [How to Grow Broccoli Microgreens: A Complete Guide](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/broccoli-microgreens/) - Broccoli microgreens are rapidly becoming popular because they are delicious, nutritious and super easy to grow. I'll show you how!
- [How to Keep Your Chickens From Eating Their Eggs](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/egg-eating-chickens/) - Nothing is more frustrating than coming out to the coop to gather eggs, only to face a messy nest with empty eggshells. Argh!
- [Principles for Food Preservation](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/principles-for-food-preservation/) - This is your ultimate guide to mastering the main principles for food preservation while maximizing nutritional value. A win-win!
- [Using Mulch in the Garden: A Comprehensive Guide](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/mulch-for-garden/) - I’ll be honest, I haven’t always been a fan of mulch. I didn’t want to go through the hassle of locating it. I thought it wasn’t necessary. Boy, was I wrong!
- [Top 10 Perennials for a Low-Maintenance Vegetable Garden](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/perennial-vegetables-and-herbs/) - If the thought of starting fresh with a bare garden bed every spring is overwhelming, consider growing a low-maintenance perennial garden instead!
- [Rendering Fat: How to Make Tallow, Lard and Schmaltz](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/rendering-fat/) - Rendering fat is a traditional skill that involves slowly cooking down animal fats and it's making a comeback in homestead kitchens. It's easy to do, too!
- [How to Build a Covered Chicken Run (Step-By-Step!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/diy-chicken-run/) - Building a DIY chicken run can feel really daunting, but this project is easier than you may think! Plus, your chickens will love having a safe outdoor space.
- [Best (and Worst) Companion Plants for Thyme](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/companion-plants-for-thyme/) - Are you wondering what the best (and worst) thyme companion plants are? Then you’re in the right place! Here are the 5 BEST (and 3 worst) companion plants.
- [The 5 BEST Chicken Bedding Options](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/chicken-bedding/) - There are MANY different chicken bedding options, but which one is the best? Some swear by using sand, whereas others prefer straw - which one should YOU use?
- [Can Chickens Eat Pineapple? What About The Peel?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-chickens-eat-pineapple/) - If you have some extra pineapple lying around, you’re probably wondering “Can chickens eat pineapple?” You’re not the only one!
- [Essential Oil Mosquito Repellent Recipe (that WORKS!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/essential-oil-mosquito-repellent-recipe/) - Living in the north woods of Minnesota, mosquitoes are quite literally our state bird. It’s a DAILY battle not to be eaten alive from spring to fall.
- [How to Make a Predator Proof Chicken Tractor](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/predator-proof-chicken-tractor/) - Providing a predator proof chicken tractor is essential when raising pasture-raised broilers; here are my best tips and tools!
- [Homemade Drawing Salve (Bites, Stings & Slivers)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/homemade-drawing-salve/) - A homemade drawing salve is the perfect addition to your apothecary or homestead emergency kit for insect bites, stings, and slivers!
- [How to Make Dehydrated Carrots (EASY!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/dehydrated-carrots/) - Making dehydrated carrots is SO EASY and a great way to preserve your harvest to enjoy later on a cold winter day!
- [Don’t Feed These Foods to Your Chickens!](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/what-should-chickens-not-eat/) - Thankfully, chickens have a pretty good sense of what is safe, but there are some tempting plants (and human foods!) that should never be offered to your flock.
- [How Often to Water Seedlings](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-often-to-water-seedlings/) - Watering seedlings properly is one of the most challenging things to get right as a gardener. I still doubt myself from time to time!
- [5 Protein Sources for Chickens (Especially While Molting!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/protein-for-chickens/) - Providing enough protein for your chickens is essential for their proper growth, development, and egg-laying. However, it can be tricky to know how much.
- [The Ultimate Beginners Guide to Homesteading (5 Steps!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/homesteading-for-beginners/) - So, you want to start homesteading? I get it! There's nothing more satisfying than growing your own food and living a more sustainable life.
- [Should You Feed Eggshells to Chickens?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/feed-eggshells-to-chickens/) - Feeding eggshells to chickens might seem a bit odd, but it’s one of the best ways to reduce costs, repurpose waste, and support your flock simultaneously
- [Are Chickens Noisy?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/are-chickens-noisy/) - If you want to get chickens and have neighbors nearby, you’re likely pondering this question - “Are chickens noisy?”
- [How Long Do Chickens Live (and Lay Eggs)?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-long-do-chickens-live/) - So, how long do chickens live? You might be surprised by the answer! Chickens are predisposed to a shorter lifespan, they can enjoy a long life if cared for!
- [Determinate vs Indeterminate Tomatoes](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/determinate-vs-indeterminate-tomatoes/) - Understanding the difference between determinate and indeterminate tomatoes can bring your gardening game up to a whole new level. Let's dive in!
- [The BEST (and worst) Vegetables to Grow in Raised Beds](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-vegetables-to-grow-in-raised-beds/) - From vibrant greens to hearty root vegetables, we'll delve into the top 10 BEST vegetables to grow in raised beds, helping you cultivate a bountiful harvest.
- [What Is Homesteading? Here's the Inside Scoop](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/what-is-homesteading/) - So, you're curious about homesteading, huh? Well, you've come to the right place! We've been homesteading since 2013 and LOVE this lifestyle!
- [Can Chickens Eat Celery? Is Raw or Cooked Best?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-chickens-eat-celery/) - If you have celery lying around that looks a little limp, you’re probably wondering “Can chickens eat celery?” and "Does it need to be cooked first?"
- [5 Winter Tasks Every Gardener Should Do](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/5-winter-tasks-every-gardener-should-do/) - I know, I know. I just want to hibernate by the fire, too, but these tasks are essential to creating a productive garden this spring. Yes, you can just "wing it" by just grabbing whatever baby plants are available at your local nursery this spring and plop them in the ground randomly, but you'll likely
- [Best and Worst Rhubarb Companion Plants](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/rhubarb-companion-plants/) - If you will be growing rhubarb this year, this article is for YOU! Utilizing rhubarb companion plants will maximize your yield.
- [Homemade Granola (EASY & Gluten Free!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/homemade-granola/) - Are you eager to make your own homemade granola and ditch the expensive, sugar-laden, store-bought stuff? Heck yes! This recipe is for YOU!
- [Can You Reuse Canning Lids? Is It Safe?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-you-reuse-canning-lids/) - So, you’re neck deep in a canning session and gasp, you realize that you’re short on fresh canning lids. What do you do? Can you reuse canning lids? Is it safe?
- [DIY Toxin-Free Raised Bed Liner](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/raised-bed-liner/) - You're probably thinking about using a raised bed liner to create a safe barrier between your food and the raised bed materials, and I'll show you how to do it!
- [10 Tips for Starting Pepper Seeds Indoors](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/starting-pepper-seeds/) - It's that time of year when we're starting our pepper seeds indoors - wahoo! Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, this article will help you out!
- [Raising Baby Chicks - A Beginner's Guide](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/brooding-in-poultry/) - You just ordered some baby chicks, but now what? What do they eat? How much heat do they require? How big of a brooder box will they need?
- [The Health Benefits of Tallow and Lard](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/the-health-benefits-of-tallow-and-lard/) - You've probably been hearing people talk about the benefits of tallow and lard, but is there truth behind this movement? Are tallow and lard really healthy?
- [Tallow and Lard: The Saturated Fat Controversy](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/saturated-fat/) - Is tallow and lard really okay to use now? Isn't saturated fat bad for us? As a dietitian, I understand the hesitancy! Let's break it down together!
- [Tallow vs Lard: Which One to Use?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/tallow-vs-lard/) - When comparing tallow vs lard for the first time, it can be hard to know which one to use. Is tallow or lard better for candles? Cooking? Pie Crusts? Lotion?
- [How to Make Tallow Candles](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/tallow-candles/) - Making tallow candles is seriously SO easy, and inexpensive, supports local farms, and provides a toxin-free alternative to modern candles.
- [Why You Should Raise Ranger Meat Chickens](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/why-you-should-raise-red-ranger-chickens/) - If you've been questioning the quality of grocery store chicken and want to increase your self-sufficiency, you're in the right place!
- [How to Store Farm Fresh Eggs](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-store-farm-fresh-eggs/) - Whether you're a backyard homesteader or have access to a local farm, you may be wondering how to store farm fresh eggs the RIGHT way.
- [Chicken Coop Winterizing (6 ESSENTIAL Steps!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/chicken-coop-winterizing-6-helpful-tips/) - Chicken coop winterizing is an essential step if you live in a cold climate like me. Learn from my mistakes and get my best tips!
- [DIY Whipped Tallow Balm (Only 3 Ingredients!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/diy-whipped-tallow-balm/) - My whipped tallow balm recipe is a staple on our homestead and I know you'll LOVE it, too! It's inexpensive, easy to make, and toxin-free!
- [Where Can I Find Raw Milk Near Me?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/where-can-i-find-raw-milk-near-me/) - One of the most common questions I get asked is "Where can I find raw milk near me?" It's rare to find it at the grocery store, so here's where to look!
- [Growing Tomatoes in Grow Bags: A Comprehensive Guide](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/growing-tomatoes-in-grow-bags/) - Growing tomatoes in grow bags is rapidly becoming a popular way to garden in small spaces while reducing disease pressure.
- [The Best Compost for Your Vegetable Garden](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-compost-for-vegetable-garden/) - What makes the best compost for a vegetable garden? We’ll cover the 4 best bagged compost products, how to make your own and how to use it!
- [Fermented Turnips Recipe (Sauerruben)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/fermented-turnips/) - Fermented turnips (sauerruben) are super easy to make and are teaming with gut-loving probiotics, fiber and cancer-fighting properties!
- [Jalapeno Pickled Eggs (No Canning Necessary!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/jalapeno-pickled-eggs/) - Making jalapeno pickled eggs is a great way to use up those summer surplus eggs. Plus, they are a delicious high-protein snack!
- [Can Chickens Eat Blackberries? Are They Safe?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-chickens-eat-blackberries/) - If you have blackberries growing on your homestead, you may be wondering “can chickens eat blackberries?” I've done the research for you!
- [How to Dry Lemon Balm (3 EASY Methods!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-dry-lemon-balm/) - There is a right way and a wrong way to dry lemon balm. It is a delicate herb that can easily degrade. Let me show you the right way!
- [Delicious Soaked & Dehydrated Pumpkin Seeds](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/dehydrated-pumpkin-seeds/) - Have you been disappointed with the chewy texture of roasted pumpkin seeds? Then, you’re going to LOVE my soaked & dehydrated pumpkin seeds!
- [What is the Best Plastic for a Greenhouse?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-plastic-for-greenhouse/) - You have your greenhouse picked out, but wait… what’s the best plastic for a greenhouse? There are SO many options and I'm here to help.
- [Roasted Swede Soup with Chickpeas](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/swede-soup-with-chickpeas/) - Roasted Swede Soup is a delicious and nourishing dish to enjoy on a cold day. Topped with crunchy chickpeas, it's sure to delight.
- [Can You Freeze Mason Jars? 7 Common Mistakes to Avoid!](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-you-freeze-mason-jars/) - Freezing is one of the easiest food preservation methods out there, but can you freeze mason jars? The short answer is absolutely you can! 
- [Homemade Fire Cider Recipe](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/fire-cider-recipe/) - My homemade fire cider recipe is sure to fight inflammation, knock out a cold, and stimulate digestion, all in one swoop!
- [How to Care for Chickens: A Beginners Guide](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/how-to-care-for-chickens/) - When starting out, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to care for chickens. With my 7 easy steps, you'll be well on your way!
- [Can Chickens Eat Grapes? Are They Safe?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-chickens-eat-grapes/) - The answer to the question “Can chickens eat grapes” is YES! Grapes are a delicious, nutritious treat for your chickens to enjoy, on occasion.
- [The 5 Best Chickens for Meat and Eggs (Dual Purpose Breeds)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/best-chickens-for-meat-and-eggs/) - So, you want to raise the best chickens for meat and eggs, but what is the right dual-purpose breed for your homestead? I've done the research for you!
- [Inside a Chicken Coop: 5 Required Items (and 3 to AVOID!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/inside-a-chicken-coop/) - Are you wondering what should go inside a chicken coop? Or, more importantly, what shouldn’t go inside a chicken coop!? I'll show you what to do!
- [5 BEST Asparagus Companion Plants (and 3 to Avoid!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/asparagus-companion-plants/) - Utilizing asparagus companion plants is an excellent way to maximize the productivity and health of your asparagus patch. Which ones are friends?
- [Hatching Chicken Eggs: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/hatching-chicken-eggs/) - Hatching chicken eggs can be exciting, yet stressful. There’s nothing more heartbreaking than waiting 21 days only to have a failed hatch.
- [Can Chickens Eat Bananas? What About the Peel?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-chickens-eat-bananas/) - If you have some over-ripe bananas lying around, you’re probably wondering “can chickens eat bananas?” The short answer is YES!
- [5 Best Eggplant Companion Plants (and 3 to AVOID!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/eggplant-companion-plants/) - Wondering what the best eggplant companion plants are? The right plants can maximize the productivity and health of your eggplant seedlings.
- [Do Deer Eat Tomatoes? 6 Tips to Keep Them Away!](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/do-deer-eat-tomatoes/) - If you've ever pondered the question, "do deer eat tomatoes?" you're not alone. There’s nothing worse than losing your harvest!
- [Candling Chicken Eggs: Day-By-Day Development](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/candling-chicken-eggs-day-by-day/) - Have you wondered what you’ll see when candling chicken eggs day by day? Baby chicks fully develop in just 21 days, which is so fun to watch!
- [Basil Plant Flowering? Here’s What to Do About It](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/basil-plant-flowering/) - Have you noticed your basil plant flowering? Don’t panic, but it can mean that your harvest is coming to a close if you don't act fast.
- [5 BEST Dill Companion Plants (and 2 to AVOID!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/dill-companion-plants/) - Are you wondering what the best (and worst) dill companion plants are? Dill is an excellent addition to the garden, with a few exceptions!
- [Do Chickens Eat Ticks? (...Do Ticks Eat Chickens?)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/do-chickens-eat-ticks/) - If you're looking for some natural pest control strategies on the homestead, you may be wondering "do chickens eat ticks?"
- [Fermented Eggs Recipe (EASY!)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/fermented-eggs/) - Fermented eggs are delicious, nutritious, and SUPER simple to make! Move over boring hard-boiled eggs, fermented eggs are so much more fun.
- [Do Deer Eat Pumpkins? Plus, 6 Tips to Deter Them!](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/do-deer-eat-pumpkins/) - With your beautiful pumpkins ripening, you might be wondering “Do deer eat pumpkins? Are my pumpkins safe?” Then, you’re in the right place!
- [Topping Tomato Plants (Why, When & How to Do It)](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/topping-tomato-plants/) - So you’ve been hearing about people topping tomato plants, but it seems like such a drastic measure, doesn’t it? Let's chat about it!
- [How to Braid Onions for Long-Term Storage](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/braid-onions/) - Learning how to braid onions is fun, easy and very functional! Braiding allows for good airflow and they are easy to hang them up in storage.
- [Can Chickens Eat Apples? What About the Seeds?](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/can-chickens-eat-apples/) - If you have some extra apples (or leftover cores!) lying around, you’re probably wondering “Can chickens eat apples?” You’re not alone!
- [The BEST Kombucha Ratio for a Tasty Brew](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/kombucha-ratio/) - The key to a tasty brew is getting that kombucha ratio just right! My recipe has been perfected over many years of brewing. You're going to LOVE it!

## Pages

- [Home](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/) - You're here to opt out of the "modern" way of life. You're tired of being dependent on the food system, the medical system and everything in-between.
- [Links](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/links/) - The Homesteading RD's Links *Some are affiliate links, which means I may make a small profit (at no extra cost to you!). Thank you for your support! Special Offerings Gardening Nation Newspaper - Get your first issue FREE with my code THRD WIN a Freeze Dryer! Enter the Giveaway through 7/21! Katie's Resources GO ->
- [About](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/about/) - Hi friends! I’m Katie and I’m a dietitian who is obsessed with all things related to REAL food, self-sufficiency and independence.
- [Contact](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/contact/) - Let's Get in Touch! I love to hear from my readers! If you have a comment or suggestion to share, please feel free to reach out to me via e-mail. E-mail: Katie@thehomesteadingrd.com Collaboration or media inquiries can also be submitted to Katie@thehomesteadingrd.com. Find Me On Social (+1.1 Million followers)! Instagram Facebook Youtube Tiktok Pinterest Check
- [Blog](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/blog/) - Here you'll find my most recent blog posts. Explore everything from balancing your circadian rhythm to preparing your coop for winter. Don't miss my recipes!
- [From Scratch Recipes](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/farm-to-table-recipes/) - Looking for new recipes to try with your garden produce? Are you hesitant to sign up for a CSA because you don't know what to do with it all? Look no further!
- [Affiliate Disclosure](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/affiliate-disclosure/) - [aal_disclosure]
- [Disclosure](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/disclosure/) - Affiliate Disclosure The Homesteading RD contains affiliate links. Meaning I receive commissions for purchases made through those links, at no cost to you! I only recommend products that I personally use or believe in because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something. The
- [Preserve Your Harvest](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/food-preservation/) - Food preservation is a critical skill for those looking to become more self-sufficient. Having a full shelf of food through the winter is such a blessing!
- [Grow Your Own Food](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/grow-your-own-food/) - Starting a garden is one of the best places to begin if you are new to homesteading and self-sufficiency. It's low risk and fairly inexpensive!
- [Health & Homesteading](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/nutrition-health/) - I've been a dietitian since 2010 and have a passion for Integrative & Functional Nutrition (IFN). IFN seeks to identify the root cause of symptoms & disorders.
- [DIY](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/diy/) - Between my vision & Ryan's engineer background, we truly are the "dream team" for DIY. You'll find everything here from chicken coop plans to compost bins!
- [Raise Chickens](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/chickens/) - In case you haven't noticed already, I am obsessed with chickens! They are a great place to start when you're ready to expand your skills in self-sufficiency.
- [Privacy Policy](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/privacy-policy/) - Who I Am The owner of The Homesteading RD is Katie Krejci, MS, RD, LD, IFNCP. The website address is: https://thehomesteadingrd.com. Comments When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string
- [Test Blog](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/test-blog/) - Welcome to The Homesteading RD's Blog! Here you'll find my most most recent blog posts. Explore everything from companion planting and vertical gardening to raising meat birds and water glassing eggs. Don't miss my farm-to-table recipes! Grow Your Own Food The Best (and Worst) Cucumber Companion Plants If you’re looking for the perfect companion for
- [My Favorite Things](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/my-favorite-things/) - My Favorite Things Tools Seeds Books Courses My Etsy Store Get organized with my Ultimate Homestead Planner for 2023, Incubation & Broody Hen Records or Garden Growing Guide! Click Here to Shop! My Courses How to Plan a Garden: Step-By-Step Raising Pastured Meat Chickens: From Chick to Drumstick Click Here to Enroll! Organic Seeds High

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/uncategorized/)
- [Health & Homesteading](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/nutrition-health/) - I’ve been a dietitian since 2010 and have a passion for Integrative & Functional Nutrition (IFN). IFN seeks to identify the root cause of symptoms and disorders rather than just symptom management. It empowers the individual to truly heal vs “make do.” I am so excited to share this type of information with you! Health and homesteading really go hand-in-hand. Here you’ll also find core information related to what you need to know for homesteading. Everything from my favorite homesteading books, where to find raw milk, and more!
- [Grow Your Own Food](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/grow-your-own-food/) - If you want to learn how to grow your own food, you’re in the right place! Here you’ll gain access to my best tips and tricks for a bountiful harvest. Learn everything from growing tomatoes in grow bags, soil pH testers and how to grow microgreens!
- [DIY](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/diy/) - Between my vision & Ryan’s engineer background, we truly are the “dream team” when it comes to DIY. There really isn’t anything that we can’t build together. You’ll find everything here like predator proofing a chicken tractor, building a toxin-free raised bed and choosing the best plastic for a greenhouse. DIY doesn’t stop at building things, though. There are many household projects that you can make yourself! Follow along to learn how to make your own chapstick, tallow balm, and more!
- [Farm-to-Table Recipes](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/farm-to-table-recipes/) - Looking for new recipes to try with all of your garden produce? Are you hesitant to sign up for a CSA because you don’t know what to do with it all? My farm-to-table recipes are unlike traditional recipes. They are flexible and can adjust to whatever you have on hand! No more dependence on the grocery for missing ingredients. A true homesteading resource! Here you’ll find my Homestead Refried Beans, Garden Fresh Rhubarb Crumble and even tips for Cooking a Rooster!
- [Raise Chickens](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/chickens/) - Raising chickens is a great place to start when you’re ready to expand your skills in self-sufficiency because they are small in size, inexpensive compared to other livestock, and who doesn’t like delicious eggs?! I believe in a pastured-approach so that the resulting eggs and meat are nutritionally-dense while allowing the chickens to live a full and happy life out foraging for bugs & fresh greens. In this category, you will find information about treating bumblefoot, the best incubators, and even raising red ranger meat chickens.
- [Preserve Your Harvest](https://thehomesteadingrd.com/food-preservation/) - You’ve expanded your garden and have a surplus of produce… now what? Learning how to preserve your harvest is a critical skill for those looking to become more self-sufficient. There are many ways of preserving (freezing, pickling, dehydrating, fermenting, and water glassing – just to name a few!). I’ll fill you in on each and every one, plus the nutritional aspects that come along with processing.

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