Countryside Magazine Contributor, Author at Countryside

DIY Fence Installation and Maintenance on the Homestead

February 27, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Fences, Sheds & Barns

When building a new fence, you need to consider whether to go with DIY fence installation or hire it to be done. Probably the most crucial part of fence maintenance is whether the fence was put up well, with quality materials.

Artificial Insemination is No Bull (Literally)

February 24, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Cattle

Most homesteaders dream of having their own cow to provide fresh milk and dairy products for the whole family. The challenge is, a milk cow must become pregnant before she can lactate, and that means you’re going to need a bull—unless you use artificial insemination (AI).

A DIY Mobile Sheep Shelter

February 21, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Fences, Sheds & Barns

Do you really need a barn for small livestock? This was a question I pondered before we acquired sheep.

Hydrosol vs. Essential Oil: Practical Aromatherapy in the Home

February 20, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Soapmaking

Hydrosol vs. essential oil: what is the difference and how can you use them for soapmaking and aromatherapy?

In previous articles, we have discussed what are essential oils, how to make a hydrosol, and hydrosol vs. essential oil as an overview.

How to Treat Colicky Calf Bloat

February 20, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Cattle

Some calves develop calf bloat, an acute enterotoxemia (toxic gut infection), caused by bacterial toxins. These calves are usually about a month old but may be as young as a few days of age or as old as two to three months.

Raising Piglets: Ensuring Your Little Ones Are Born Safely

February 17, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Pigs

Springtime! The time of rebirth, awakening, and babies! For those of us raising piglets, this is a time of little ones running through the fields and nursing in the sunshine.

H-brace Construction For Your Permanent Fence Line

February 16, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Fences, Sheds & Barns

When homesteading or farming with livestock, fencing is arguably one of the most important considerations there are in regards to the containment and safety of your animals. Whether you’re planning fencing for chickens or cattle, H-brace construction is an important part of the permanent fencing process.

Build an Inexpensive Hay Shed

February 14, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Fences, Sheds & Barns

There are many ways to store hay and protect it from the weather, but some methods are more reliable than others. Some people put hay in their barns, but there is always the risk of fire when feed is stored in a barn, especially if hay is ever baled with too much moisture in it, causing fermentation and heating (which can lead to spontaneous combustion).

Your Guide to Farm Pond Design

January 20, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Self-Reliance

You can create an effective farm pond design, whether you live on a few acres or 500. The water from a small stream is sufficient.

Dairy Sheep – Consider Icelandic Sheep

January 19, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Sheep

What struck me right away when my first Icelandic sheep lambed were the similarities that these sheep had with dairy goats. I had a commercial goat dairy in years past and these ewe lamb mothers had udders that would be respectable for a good milking dairy goat.

Get An Early Start With Carrots

January 17, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Growing

Carrots are one of the most versatile vegetables I grow in my garden. We plant them once a month through spring, and again after Labor Day. Except during summer’s intense heat, I harvest a continuous supply for salads or for cooking.

All About Ankole Watusi Cattle

January 9, 2021 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Cattle

Ankole Watusi are known as the “Cattle of Kings.” Their unmistakably large horns can spear a lion. The tribes of Africa that rely on them for survival call them sacred.

A Market Garden Planner for Profit

December 31, 2020 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Growing

Whether you’re using paper and pencil or an online market garden planner, why not start dreaming? It could be the start of a long-term, sustainable business venture for you!

The Versatile Mint: Peppermint Plant Uses

December 18, 2020 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Growing

Peppermint plant uses are endless; this versatile mint does a lot more than make a refreshing drink. Peppermint is indispensable in my herb garden and so vigorous I can pull handfuls up by the roots and it always comes back, as fresh as ever.

What are Essential Oils?

December 18, 2020 · Countryside Magazine Contributor · Soapmaking

By now you have probably heard mention of essential oils even if you have not yet experienced them. However, with the rise in multi-level marketing of essential oils along with the increase in popularity of natural grocers and health food stores, perhaps you also have experienced an essential oil or two.

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