The Experimental Homesteader http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh Sheri Ann Richerson's exotic gardening, elegant cooking, crafty creations, food preservation and animal husbandry... all on two and a half acres in Marion, Indiana! Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:33:07 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 Homestead Changes http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/04/30/homestead-changes/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/04/30/homestead-changes/#comments Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:33:06 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=830

Our house with the new addition and the wheelchair ramp for my dad.

Somehow nothing is ever as easy as it might seem to be. While the major part of the remodeling was done months ago, the interior work and re-organization are still going on. I have not had a desktop computer set-up at home for months and I really miss that. In fact, since we opened our shop Family Computer Services on March 1, I have used my iPhone for most of my internet work. Hopefully that will change soon.

Jerry, David and my dad hanging drywall.

We are still insulating and putting up drywall. The small greenhouse is usable, but the large one still needs repaired. I did purchase a pop-up walk-in greenhouse to use this season. It is way too small, but it is better than not having one at all. Once the big greenhouse is up, I am going to use the smaller one for heat loving plants thus lowering my heating needs in the larger house.

Aquaponic set-up.

We have moved the aquaponic unit into the smaller greenhouse off my office and done some re-configuring of it. The smaller hoses were clogging which caused all kinds of problems. We swapped the hoses out for PVC and everything is going good now.

Lettuce and spinach bed.

I am late getting the garden in, but with everything that has been going on, that is no surprise.

My dad sitting in his new Laz-Z-Boy recliner.

My son, David. Boy does this look like a mug shot! LOL!

 

My dad – and my son David – have moved back home, so now there are four of us living on the homestead.

Two New Hampshire X Delaware and four Buff Orphington chicks.

I had to start all over with chickens this year since a fox got into my flock last August and killed them all. We are starting over with two older birds and six chicks.

Tulip with her baby Magnolia who was born last November.

The goats have not kidded yet this season, but that is not unusual. I am sure they are bred. I’m looking forward to having milk again and already have a large supply of heavy whipping cream in the freezer to combine with their cream to make lots of butter – which by the way, I found out is freezable and just as good as fresh butter when it is thawed.

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/04/30/homestead-changes/feed/ 0 The Remodeling Continues – http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/23/the-remodeling-continues/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/23/the-remodeling-continues/#comments Thu, 23 Feb 2012 19:13:43 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=817

The house certainly looks different now!

It’s been almost a month now since the first new nail went into the roof. The roof is complete and the area below is now dry. That is the good news. The siding is on and looking good – but the work indoors continues and may take another month or so to complete. Then there is the large greenhouse to begin to rebuild.

Our neighbor, Danny helping Jerry put up the drywall.

We started working on the craft room first. Insulation had to be put in and drywall put up, plus the floor boards laid. I haven’t decided if I am going to carpet this area or tile it. The process is slow. I wanted a window on the small wall so I could look down into the greenhouse and also see the side yard – that is until the greenhouse plants grow large enough to block the view. I also wanted some built-in bookshelves which is taking some time to do. There are two attic spaces up here as well – one for Jerry and one for me. More storage room is awesome!

Jerry securing the plexiglass on the outside of the wall. I can look into the greenhouse from the craft room now.

One corner of the new craft room.

Jerry has also been insulating the small greenhouse off the office area which will work as a “show house” for shooting video and growing plants that need temperatures over 70 degrees F year-round. We chose to insulate with foam – since that is waterproof and there was less to worry about should a water leak occur. I intend to use an automatic watering system in this particular greenhouse.

This is the green foam insulation we put between rafters in the greenhouse.

This silver reflective insulation is being put on the ceiling and the solid walls. It will help reflect both the natural and artificial light.

We haven’t started on either office yet. My office is going to have a mini-studio in it for making You Tube videos. In addition to having a specific place to work, the cabinets will offer storage for those kitchen appliances I don’t use much such as my Cricut Cake Machine.

We have a long way to go still – as I’m sure many of you know – but the process has begun and progress has been made. By fall – at the very latest – I hope to be moved into the new area and using it on a regular basis.

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/23/the-remodeling-continues/feed/ 0 Roof Repairs Day 2 – February 1, 2012 http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/01/roof-repairs-day-2-february-1-2012/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/01/roof-repairs-day-2-february-1-2012/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 22:52:01 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=811

A view from the front.

It’s been another long and productive day here. The contractors arrived bright and early – two of them today. Danny – our neighbor – came over and helped Jerry clean-up the yard and interior area inside the offices. I am very thankful for his help. There is a lot to do and I know it helps Jerry a lot to have someone to work with.

Shingles being delivered.

The contractors spent their day on the roof working. Right after their lunch break the shingles and the siding arrived. We chose estate grey for the shingles and Victorian grey for the siding. They have not put it on yet, but hopefully they will get it on tomorrow as there is a chance of rain in the forecast.

I am exhausted – and really have not done that much. I know Jerry is sore. Neither of us are used to lifting materials and doing this much moving of stuff. I will be glad when the project is complete – and feel I will like the area much better than I did. I know I will like having an area to store things and an area where I can weave, sew or spin to my hearts desire. It will be great to get organized.

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/01/roof-repairs-day-2-february-1-2012/feed/ 0 Roof Repairs Day 1 – January 31, 2012 http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/01/roof-repairs-day-1/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/01/roof-repairs-day-1/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:38:48 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=800

The new roof covered in roofing paper.

Remodeling a house is never an easy project but it sure helps when you have people who know what they are doing. We are working with a contractor by the name of Doug, who is just wonderful. He brought two other people along with him who were – obviously – experienced roofers. Our neighbor, Danny, also came over to help move materials and do some light clean-up work. With both Jerry and I outside working, things moved along a lot faster than anyone thought they might. In fact, at the end of the day yesterday – after just working the one day – the roof structure was up and the roofing paper was on.

The new roof area divided into three distinct sections.

When we started the project I told them I wanted a vaulted ceiling in my office. As the day went along and they continued to frame the room up, it became clear that the area was large enough to make a small room. I was still pretty set on having a vaulted ceiling, but Jerry convinced me another room would be nice. He wanted a storage area over his office area, which he will get – and there was a small area over the laundry room that will work perfectly for storing smaller items. The room will be home to my floor loom, spinning wheels, sewing machine, fiber and material. I think it will be perfect.

The roofers are back – bright and early this morning – ready to complete the project they started yesterday. Jerry must dig out two windows so there is natural light up there. One of the windows will eventually look directly into the large greenhouse. The other one will look out over the driveway. A small staircase must be installed at the back of my office to allow easy access to the upper area as well. The area under the staircase will allow for more storage. I can’t wait for this project to be complete so I can use these rooms!

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/02/01/roof-repairs-day-1/feed/ 0 Finally The Repairs Begin http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/01/28/finally-the-repairs-begin/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/01/28/finally-the-repairs-begin/#comments Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:24:10 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=786

Yucca in the snow.

It’s been a long winter here in Indiana. Thank goodness it hasn’t been too cold this year. As some of you know we underwent some major life changes at the end of last year. Tweetchat and the Blog Talk Radio Show has been put “on hold” for now – but never fear – we intend to reinstate these two items soon.

Jerry laying tile on top of the cabinets.

While we have been waiting for the money to start construction on the roof, we worked on other areas of the house using materials we already had on hand or using materials given to us. For example, we had to remove the tops of the old countertops. They were old and cracking. We thought we were going to sand them down and stain the countertop but the glue that held the backing was not coming off. A friend suggested we try using floor tile. She had a box, so we did. Eventually we will replace this, but for now it is clean and we can use our countertop once again.

Jerry texturing the ceiling with drywall mud.

Another area we worked on was the downstairs bedroom where my dad was staying. The walls are old in this house and like most old walls, are full of hairline cracks. I really hate looking at cracks in walls, so we are trying to fill those cracks in with drywall mud. Sometimes just rubbing a light coat into the cracks works well and sometimes texturing is necessary – or just a fun way to give a room a unique look.

This is how the room was when we started.

This is the room now.

One wall of the room needed to be left open for easy access to the staircase. It seemed like something was always being shoved against that wall, or the pictures were always being knocked off when people walked past, so I can up with an idea of my own. I decided to create a mural on that wall using a wood doll I bought at a garage sale, some mirrored butterflies I bought on clearance and a flowering tree. Here is what I came up with.

This wall mural - including a gallon of paint - cost less than $50 to create.

The next big project we are tackling is the roof and the three rooms that will be protected by that roof. The materials to put the roof back on the office and greenhouse area are ordered. We have a wonderful contractor working on this. We chose Estate Grey for the roof and Victorian Grey for the siding. The materials are expected to arrive on Monday and once they are here, work will begin.

The office area will have a vaulted ceiling as well as a “kitchen area” where I can do videos. It will be larger than my actual kitchen. The cabinets for this area are being donated by a dear friend who is getting new ones in her kitchen. They will be put to good use, that’s for sure!

I hope the room is large enough to handle my desk, floor loom and both spinning wheels plus give adequate space for the woodburner.

The large greenhouse must wait a few more months before repairs will begin, but the small one, right off my office will be ready for plants once the roof is on.

Jerry’s office will also be ready for him to move into once the roof is on. YAY! I will be glad for him to have his own space – and I am sure he will too. Every life change has required him to pack up his things and move them from room to room to make space for whatever we need to do. That won’t happen again!

Things are looking up. We have made it through thanks to the love and support of many dear friends and family. Thank you all for your prayers and concern during this time. I’m looking forward to spring. I’m looking forward to a large garden and having plenty of produce to share – again this year – with the less fortunate in our community who need it! This is our way of giving back.

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2012/01/28/finally-the-repairs-begin/feed/ 0 Life Changes http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/25/life-changes/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/25/life-changes/#comments Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:27:06 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=761

Our house.

2011 is coming to an end quickly. I am reflecting on a lot of things and trying to put everything that has happened over the past year and a half into perspective. It seems like some major changes loom on the horizon and while I really dislike change, sometimes it can’t be helped.

My dad in the hospital.

As some of you know, my dad came to live with us in September 2010 due to numerous medical conditions that left him unable to work or live alone. He lived in a rental home, so we had to move his things here as quickly as possible. That was a pure nightmare trying to find room for his things without literally moving our own things out. He wanted his own items and I am sure it was tough for him as well when he found out many of his items would not be coming into the house.

The week before Christmas 2010 I found him unconscious on the floor in his room. He was airlifted to Fort Wayne where he remained for several weeks before being sent to a nursing home where he resided until the Saturday after Thanksgiving 2011.

During the time he was in the nursing home we struggled to get our finances back on track. Buying medicine and special food for someone can sure cost a lot when they don’t have insurance. We finally got the bills caught up and was able to hire someone to fix our roof. I left for the Garden Writers Symposium. Things were looking up – then all hell broke out.

We put a tarp over the roof to try to block the rain.

I came home – after being gone just a week – to find the entire roof torn off our home. Yip – nothing was up there. The roofer had stashed stolen property here on top of all that. When he got caught he informed me he was not going to put the roof on. He laughed. He said he knew my husband couldn’t do it. He knew we would have no heat. He didn’t give a damn. After all, he wasn’t getting everything he wanted from me. Unfortunately I had trusted him and had already given him money, a chainsaw and food in good faith.

So, we bought a tarp. We hoped it would hold the rain out until tax time when we could hire someone else. Needless to say, the tarp didn’t help. I was at my wit’s end when I got the call from the nursing home about my dad. Yip – no 30 day notice, nothing other than he was leaving that day. Period – and no, they did not have to find a place to send him.

My dad – with dementia – walked out of the dining room door at the nursing home and wandered in the woods for 3 1/2 hours until some deer hunters spotted him. Thank goodness they didn’t shoot him. They called the police, who called me. By the time I got there he was laying down close to the water. He was ok though.

The next step was to get his medication. The nursing home would not give it to me. I had to take him to the ER to get his insulin. I could not afford all of his medication, so I just bought the insulin. Monday I took him to the Dr. who wrote him new prescriptions. I explained to the Meijer pharmacist what had happened and he made the appropriate phone calls to get us help with his first round of medications. I was so grateful!

Six days later Jerry lost his job. A job he had worked for 9 years and the one we relied on for income. They did not pay him his accrued hours and so far he has not received any unemployment compensation. The nursing home still has not issued a refund to my dad. It seems most programs around here have a year and a half waiting list, but there are some wonderful people in the community working on trying to find a way to help us get a roof on our house. There were also some wonderful people who came forward to help us through the holiday season. The bills are paid for this month thanks to their generosity and we have plenty of food to eat.

It is one day at a time from here on out. I have no idea what tomorrow will bring, but we will deal with things as they happen. There isn’t much else we can do at this point.

Beauty eating hay.

I hope we will not have to sell the animals due to this situation. That would almost be more than I could deal with after everything we have been through to keep them. We have hay for now and I hope we can find a way to keep buying hay. It is $4 a bale here and they eat a bale a day. I did set up a fundraiser several months ago when feed costs went up hoping to keep our head above water. I never dreamed when I set it up that we would be in dire need later in the year.

My Christmas present from Jerry was an aquaponics set-up made from items we already had on hand and he is working on finishing the large tunnel house. We started with 12 small Tilapia, known as fingerlings and a 20-gallon fish tank.

As long as we can keep the house, we will be fine – and that is our main goal. I don’t want to lose the vehicles because that will put us at a real disadvantage, but the house is more important. My dad is getting along ok this time – much better than he was before.

Due to these unexpected changes, I have discontinued my Blog Talk Radio Show and I am seriously considering stopping the weekly #homesteadchat unless I can find some volunteers to help moderate it. Caring for someone who is unable to care for themselves is a 24/7 job. Finding time to do anything on a set schedule is becoming increasingly difficult.I do not have any family I can get to help out.

We have also started taking Jerry’s mom back and forth to work again, plus we take her to other places she needs to go such as the grocery store and pharmacy since she does not drive and his father is unable to drive due to illness. The stress level is quite high here and I just feel like there isn’t enough hours in the day. I don’t feel like I am getting enough sleep and I always seem to have a headache. Hopefully once I can get outside and start planting again that will relieve some of the stress.

Jerry is looking for a job – and is taking on freelance jobs such as website design – but jobs in this area are hard to find. If you know of any computer-related jobs in the Grant County, Indiana area, please let us know. The sooner he can get back to work, the better.

I hope all of you have a safe and happy holiday season – and please do stay in touch. I know things are hard for all of us right now, but as long as we have a place to live and can continue to grow our own food, there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel!

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/25/life-changes/feed/ 2 #homesteadchat – December 22, 2011 – Homemade Christmas Gifts http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/25/homesteadchat-december-22-2011-homemade-christmas-gifts/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/25/homesteadchat-december-22-2011-homemade-christmas-gifts/#comments Sun, 25 Dec 2011 17:23:42 +0000 admin http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=756

Join #homesteadchat on Twitter every Thursday night at 7pm Eastern!

 

@SheriARicherson: Welcome to tonight’s #homesteadchat. Please take a moment to meet and greet. I need to check my dad’s sugar levels – BRB! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatTalking homemade gifts tonight. Come join us.
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – Hello!n Welcome to tonight’s chat! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Talking homemade gifts tonight. Come join us. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Do you have a homemade craft holiday tradition? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson #homesteadchatPeople sometimes think homemade gifts are the cheap way out. Not true.
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Ye. Those cookies better not be late or burnt or it’s a tough year for everyone. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Talking homemade gifts tonight. Come join us. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatFood gifts are a family tradition. If you have a special dish, plan to give or be asked for it for Christmas.
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I hear you there! We just received a plate of homemade cookies and fudge. It is so appreciated! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatWhat about yours.
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: Food gifts are a family tradition. If you have a special dish, plan to give or be asked for it for Christmas. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: I made handwoven rugs a few years ago. It was a very unique gift. I love handmade gifts! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatMy sister knits and crochets. My hands are cold because I know I’m getting new mittens for Christmas. lol
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – we do not because the extended family places more emphasis on how much $ was spent. It is sad. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – those mittens sound wonderful! I so wish our family did things like this. I try to make something every year. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @SheriARicherson: I made handwoven rugs a few years ago. It was a very unique gift. I love handmade gifts! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatWe did a spends the least challenge once (kids gifts were excluded). Changed the way we gift forever.
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: We did a spends the least challenge once (kids gifts were excluded). Changed the way we gift forever. < :) #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – what a wonderful idea! There are many challenges this year to reduce the money spent or not buy at all. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: What are some other traditions? Who is out there lurking? Please jump right in! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatHoping I get canning going so I can give gifts of canned fruits. The kids love homemade applesauce.
@homesteadchat: Wrapping presents in the funny papers is a tradition some families have. Best of all it’s a great way to recycle! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatSome of the gardeners use pages from garden catalogs as wrapping paper also.
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – gifts of canned foods are always appreciated. They can use it then or use it later.n #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: Wrapping presents in the funny papers is a tradition some families have and its a great way to recycle! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: Hoping I get canning going so I can give gifts of canned fruits. The kids love homemade applesauce. #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchatTalking homemade gifts tonight. Come join us.
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Some of the gardeners use pages from garden catalogs as wrapping paper also. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Make cards using seeds. The cards can be planted come spring! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatI like that idea.
@SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil – Welcome Annie! Moo Poo Tea is a wonderful handmade holiday gift – think about it peeps! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Don’t forget about seed bows that can be unwrapped and used in the garden! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Other ideas? #homesteadchat
@GardenVibe: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchatTalking homemade gifts tonight. Come join us.
@SheriARicherson: @FarmerBillOhio – welcome Bill! Lovely items to give – especially the honey! Yum! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatHi, Bill, central Ohio
@SheriARicherson: @GardenVibe – welcome to #homesteadchat!! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatGifts from your harvest are great. Generally well received.
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Gifts from your harvest are great. Generally well received. #homesteadchat
@FarmerBillOhio: #homesteadchatWaving at y’all-Merry Christmas! We give home-crafted cards, too. Anybody can spend money; time is the one unique gift.
@jchapstk: RT @FarmerBillOhio: #homesteadchatWaving at y’all-Merry Christmas! We give home-crafted cards, too. Anybody can spend money; time is the one unique gift.
@SheriARicherson: RT @FarmerBillOhio: Waving at yall-Merry Christmas! We give home-crafted cards. Anybody can spend money; time is unique gift. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Merry Christmas everyone! Chat is going to be short tonight due to personal obligations! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Understood. Have a great Holiday. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday season. #homesteadchat
@FarmerBillOhio: #homesteadchatTis the season, perhaps, to turn techs off & return to card parties, eggnogs & friends by the fire.
@GreenSoil: RT @SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil – Welcome Annie! Moo Poo Tea is a wonderful handmade holiday gift – think about it peeps! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatHave a great Holiday, everyone!
@wateringwoman: RT @FarmerBillOhio: #homesteadchatTis the season, perhaps, to turn techs off & return to card parties, eggnogs & friends by the fire.
@Mya_NZ: You too @jchapstk #HappyHolidays #homesteadchatpeeps – all the best for 2012!
@FarmerBillOhio: #homesteadchat Thanks for the RTs and chat, & the spirit of the season to @jchapstk @SheriARicherson @wateringwoman @GreenSoil..peacebe yrs
@homesteadcanada: Darn, I missed it! #homesteadchatHave tried to make this year as handmade as possible! Achieved about 30%. Not bad for 1st year!
@jchapstk: @homesteadcanada Hi. It starts at 7 ET. Congratulations on your first effort. #homesteadchat
]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/25/homesteadchat-december-22-2011-homemade-christmas-gifts/feed/ 0 #homesteadchat – December 15, 2011 – Winter Seed Sowing http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/15/homesteadchat-%e2%80%93-december-15-2011-%e2%80%93-winter-seed-sowing/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/15/homesteadchat-%e2%80%93-december-15-2011-%e2%80%93-winter-seed-sowing/#comments Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:35:11 +0000 admin http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=739  

Join #homesteadchat on Twitter every Thursday night at 7pm Eastern!



@SheriARicherson: Welcome to tonight’s #homesteadchat. Our topic is winter seed sowing. How many of you already winter sow seeds? Meet & greet! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Winter sowing and direct sowing are two of the easiest methods of germinating seeds. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – hello! Nice to see you here tonight. Do you winter sow? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson I have in the past, but sometimes I get burned when winter is too mild. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – direct sowing is a wonderful way to go, but you need to make sure you don’t sow the seeds too early. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Winter-sowing is nothing more than sowing seeds outdoors during winter and letting nature do the work of stratification. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Winter-sowing is nothing more than sowing seeds outdoors during winter and letting nature do the work of stratification. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: December 21 is the “official” winter sowing date BUT watch out for weather that is too mild. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Seeds may germinate, then die once severe weather sets in. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – thank you! It is a very timely topic. Welcome to tonight’s chat! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Waiting for January. It was 60 today. RT @SheriARicherson: Seeds may germinate, then die once severe weather sets in. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: So what are some of your favorite seeds to winter sow? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: Waiting for January. 60 today. RT @SheriARicherson: Seeds may germinate, then die once severe weather sets in. #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson What is the benefit to winter-sowing? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson peas, cole crops, anything I expect to eat by June 1st. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – the seeds stratify naturally. It eliminates the spring rush of sowing & harden off naturally. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – winter sown seeds are used to the elements because – as they grow – you continue to expose them to weather. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatFor me, it eliminates the waiting until June for the soil to dry out. We get some wet springs sometimes. Like last spring.
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – don’t forget wildflowers and perennials – love sowing peas, lettuce, spinach, radish, potatoes, carrots #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Winter-sown seeds do best in mini-greenhouses, which are simply small protective structures #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Make protective structures from recycled materials such as plastic pop or juice bottles #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat For me, it eliminates the waiting until June for the soil to dry out. We get some wet springs. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatcold frames are great too. Sometimes heavy mulching is enough.
@SheriARicherson: Winter sown perennials often bloom the first year as well. #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson I live in the NW I wonder if seeds could rot in the heavy winter rain? #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: WOOT late to the party Annie So Cal #moopootea http://t.co/wGijR2cZ #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: — and vegetables produce earlier than those that are spring sown. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat cold frames are great too. Sometimes heavy mulching is enough. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatPlants drop their seeds every year and they manage just fine without us. Take a tip from mother nature.
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – yes the seeds will rot. Protect them with mini-greenhouses made out of pop bottles, milk jugs, etc. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil = Welcome to tonight’s #homesteadchat! Do you winter sow seeds? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Plants drop seeds every year – they manage just fine without us. Take a tip from mother nature. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – the seeds will rot if there is extreme moisture, otherwise, under normal circumstances you are ok. #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: Yes, here in Southern California can get aways with growing year round @SheriARicherson #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson I love milk jug greenhouses :) #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchat @GreenSoillives in a milder zone and probably can garden year round for most crops. So jealous.
@GreenSoil: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Plants drop seeds every year – they manage just fine without us. Take a tip from mother nature. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Choose a high-quality, well-draining soil especially recommended for seed starting to prevent rot and dampening off #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: RT @MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson I love milk jug greenhouses :) great way to Upcycle them too #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – milk jug greenhouses are a wonderful way to recycle plastic! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – milk jug greenhouses are a wonderful way to recycle plastic! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil – I do a lot of year-round gardening here in Indiana, but not as much as you do. #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: Yes @jchapstk: I live in a milder zone and can garden year round for most crops. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – you can do a lot more than you think. Each layer of plastic adds one growing zone. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – the problem comes at night when there is no sunlight. #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: @jchapstk – you can do a lot more than you think. Each layer of plastic adds one growing zone. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Sowing the seeds at the right time is the biggest key to success. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Cycles of warm/cold/warm can cause seeds to germinate too early, and your seedlings won’t survive. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatI have the luxury of hoop houses.
@GreenSoil: we are #spoiled here in So Cal @SheriARicherson try to take advantage of the growing seasons #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Quite a few half-hardy annual seeds are ideal for winter sowing. Look to see what self-sows for great ideas! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat I have the luxury of hoop houses. > I have hoop houses as well. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @GreenSoil: we are #spoiled here in So Cal @SheriARicherson try to take advantage of the growing seasons #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Good half-hardy seeds include Celosia, Cosmos, Petunias, Sunflowers, Cleome, etc. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: What are some of your favorite half-hardy annuals to winter sow? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson I just leave those to self-sow. If they didn’t do well, I may add some new seed. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: @SheriARicherson I just leave those to self-sow. If they didnt do well, I may add some new seed. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I always collect some to save and sow myself just in case something happens to the ones that self-sow. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatGrowing my own food has taught me the value of Plan B.
@SheriARicherson: This way I know that birds, mice, or other critters won’t carry away the seeds or eat the young seedlings. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – having an alternate plan is always important. This is why saving seeds is so essential for success. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – having an alternate plan is always important. This is why saving seeds is so essential for success. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Seeds and young seedlings greatly benefit from being protected from the elements, pests, and disease. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatWinter sowing can help you get ahead of the pests also.
@SheriARicherson: When you receive seeds, inspect them for cleanliness and signs of problems before you store or sow them. #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson Love feeding my furry and feathered neighbors with my garden :) #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Winter sowing can help you get ahead of the pests also. > So true! #homesteadchat
@cfnursery: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchatGrowing my own food has taught me the value of Plan B.
@SheriARicherson: Creating mini-greenhouses from recycled materials saves money, reduces waste, is an ideal way to protect seeds & seedlings. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @cfnursery: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Growing my own food has taught me the value of Plan B. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson Love feeding my furry and feathered neighbors with my garden :) > I do too! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Creating mini-greenhouses from recycled materials saves money, reduces waste, is an ideal way to protect seeds & seedlings. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Use lightly colored plastic containers for shade loving plants. Clear containers for plants that prefer full sun. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Use lightly colored plastic containers for shade loving plants. Clear containers for plants that prefer full sun. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Always label winter sown seedlings! Cut up old window blinds to make excellent plant markers. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatGarden Centers are responding to this need. I saw a site with a plastic dome that fits over a standard raised bed.
@SheriARicherson: What are some other good tips for those new to winter sowing? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Always label winter sown seedlings! Cut up old window blinds to make excellent plant markers. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: Garden Centers are responding to this need. Saw site with a plastic dome that fits over a standard raised bed. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Straw mulch. Can’t get enough of it. Using pine branches from Christmas tree as a cover also. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: A pencil or botanical marking pen are the best writing instruments to use. Permanent marker’s often fade. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Straw mulch. Cant get enough of it. Using pine branches from Christmas tree as a cover also. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I like pine needle mulch best. It seems to remain dryer. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: The seedlings will burn up if the mini-greenhouse isn’t ventilated. Make sure you put air and drainage holes in top & bottom. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: The seedlings will burn up if the mini-greenhouse isn’t ventilated. Make sure you put air and drainage holes in top & bottom. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: On warm, sunny days, simply remove the cap of the mini-greenhouse. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: As the need for ventilation increases, unseal the container and open it a little at a time. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: On warm, sunny days, simply remove the cap of the mini-greenhouse. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: As the need for ventilation increases, unseal the container and open it a little at a time. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatRaised beds help when drainage is a problem.
@MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson RT Always label winter sown seedlings! Cut up old window blinds to make excellent plant markers. #homesteadchatGREAT IDEA!
@SheriARicherson: Too much humidity could cause disease such as dampening-off – so make sure to properly ventilate. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Questions? Comments? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatI’m thinking.
@SheriARicherson: Water early in the morning. When the seedlings are about a week old, give a weekly dose of fertilizer such as moo poo tea. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Water early in the morning. When the seedlings are about a week old, give a weekly dose of fertilizer such as moo poo tea. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil – come tell us about moo poo tea please and how it benefits young plants. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatTry to think of snow as white mulch.
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Try to think of snow as white mulch. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchat @GreenSoilgot distracted. Moo Poo tea is manure tea from grass fed livestock. It’s great for about everything.
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: @GreenSoil distracted. Moo Poo tea is manure tea from grass fed livestock. Its great for about everything. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatMoo Poo is nitrogen rich, but balanced fertilizer.
@SheriARicherson: Moo poo tea is fantastic! All natural and gives plants everything they need to thrive! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatMoo Poo contians a lot of the trace elements because it started as plant material.
@SheriARicherson: Here is a link for moo poo tea – http://t.co/0QIm5ccW #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Moo Poo contians a lot of the trace elements because it started as plant material. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchatRaised beds help when drainage is a problem. I use raised beds to improve the soil too
@SheriARicherson: The first week, use only about 10 percent of the recommended dosage of fertilizer. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Increase that percentage each week – by the time the seedlings are 8 weeks old, they are getting a full-strength feeding. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: RT @SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I like pine needle mulch best. It seems to remain dryer. #homesteadchat< doesn’t that raise the ph?
@SheriARicherson: Raised beds are ideal for direct sowing. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: The first week, use only about 10 percent of the recommended dosage of fertilizer. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Increase that percentage each week – by the time the seedlings are 8 weeks old, they are getting a full-strength feeding. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @DollarSeed: RT @jchapstk:Raised beds help when drainage is a problem. I use raised beds to improve the soil too #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – pine needle mulch can change the pH – but changing the pH of soil is harder than changing the pH of water. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Direct-sowing flower seed in winter is a great way to create a lush-looking, colorful garden come spring. #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: One of my container peppers started sprouting (I think I brought it in doors to early) what should I do? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Direct-sowing flower seed in winter is a great way to create a lush-looking, colorful garden come spring. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson This is the Season of Giving, I like what you’ve got going here. Want to win some free #garden #seeds? #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: #MooPooTea good for everything & compost & worms love it too makes for richer tea @SheriARicherson @jchapstk #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson Look like a raised bed to anyone?? #homesteadchat http://t.co/JbtwsnMB
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – grow it indoors under lights. It will produce as long as it gets plenty of light. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – Thank you! I would love to win some free garden seeds! #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: #homesteadchat it’s a beautiful book GIVEAWAY by Timber Press Hurry you can’t WIN if you don’t enter ends 12/16/11 http://t.co/qHx3Xq90
@SheriARicherson: RT @GreenSoil: #MooPooTea good for everything & compost & worms love it too makes for richer tea @SheriARicherson @jchapstk #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – a very nice raised bed! #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson And tonight’s winner is our host. DM me w/ mailing address #homesteadchatcan also add your chat to our calendar will link
@SheriARicherson: RT @GreenSoil: its a beautiful book GIVEAWAY by Timber Press Hurry enter to WIN – ends 12/16/11 http://t.co/hS46fRKc #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @MyGardenApps like a very expensive one. That’s some nice woodwork. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Questions? Comments? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – thank you! I will as soon as the chat is over!! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: @MyGardenApps like a very expensive one. Thats some nice woodwork. – Very nive woodwork! #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson It’s @jchapstk that brought me to you. Jeavonna is a true #FF among many others #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Off topic question – I downloaded your 101 Self-sufficiency. How much freezer space is that. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @DollarSeed AWW that’s sweet. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson Its @jchapstk that brought me to you. Jeavonna is a true #FF among many others #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – Freezer space for ??? We have a tiny freezer – can most things. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Don’t forget to mark the spot where you direct-sow seeds by using plant labels in the ground – make a paper drawing too!! #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: RT @SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – Freezer space for ??? We have a tiny freezer – can most things. #homesteadchatafter my own heart there
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson The book seemed to recommend freezing everything. I used to have a large freezer, but no more. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Don’t forget to mark the spot where you direct-sow seeds by using plant labels in the ground – make a paper drawing too!! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Herbs are also great for direct-sowing in winter. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Herbs are also great for direct-sowing in winter. #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson @jchapstk Great! thanks guys for your feedback #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – saves worry if electricity goes off. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Yes, perfect for direct sowing. RT @SheriARicherson: Herbs are also great for direct-sowing in winter. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: RT @SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – saves worry if electricity goes off. #homesteadchat<and doesn’t get freezer burned..lol
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – get 101 Secret Gardening Tips if you like the first book. Was very limited in what I could write. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: That was my concern. I lose power more often in winter.RT @SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed- saves worry if electricity goes off. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – you are welcome! Feel free to message me anytime with questions!n #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Learn more about seed sowing, including winter sowing – Complete Idiot’s Guide To Seed Saving & Sowing – http://t.co/eFALe4YC #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: @jchapstk @SheriARicherson I was going to start some chives next week. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Okay, I get that one next. Thanks RT @SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – get 101 Secret Gardening Tips if you like the first book. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson I seen a shrimp farm that raised herbs on floating beds #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Learn more about seed sowing, including winter sowing – Complete Idiot’s Guide To Seed Saving & Sowing – http://t.co/eFALe4YC #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Sounds like a good plan. RT @MyGardenApps: @jchapstk @SheriARicherson I was going to start some chives next week. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – was in the Dining Section of the New York Times for my canning efforts – almost 800 quarts. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – we have been looking into aquaponics. I want to raise catfish in the greenhouse. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @MyGardenApps my last chives tasted like grass. Something missing there..lol #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – chive blossoms are wonderful for making vinegar. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – hmmm – did they get enough water? #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: RT @SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – hmmm – did they get enough water? #homesteadchatI hope so, don’t really know broke rain guage in spring
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – sometimes plants taste funny if they don’t get what they need to thrive. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @DollarSeed soil might be too rich also. They don’t need rich soil. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson I was thinking major nutrients lacking, especially calcium. Bad year in new beds #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: I have canna seedlings, clove seedlings and amaryllis seedlings growing under lights indoors. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: @DollarSeed soil might be too rich also. They dont need rich soil. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: I have canna seedlings, clove seedlings and amaryllis seedlings growing under lights indoors. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson So pretty too! > yes, they sure are! Plant near roses to increase scent and detour pests! #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson New beds can create that too #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson @DollarSeed I was going to try to raise talapia next season in a small pond. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: RT @MyGardenApps: @SheriARicherson So pretty too! > yes, they sure are! Plant near roses to increase scent and detour pests! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – add crushed egg shells – and kelp to improve the soil plus moo poo tea and compost! #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson Used powdered milk, all that did was grow cats…lol #homesteadchat
@MyGardenApps: Thanks for the chat! #homesteadchat. I got to get to choir practice!
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – we use spoiled milk on plant that get powdery mildew such as phlox #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatI grew my chives in recycled potting soil and yard dirt. They were very garlic-y and prolific.
@SheriARicherson: @MyGardenApps – thank you for coming! Have a good practice! Hope to see you next week! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – mine are very prolific! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Are there any last minute questions? #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson I work for a bicarb plant and that too works on killing some mildews if used weak #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson I work for a bicarb plant and that too works on killing some mildews if used weak #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Thanks for a great chat session. RT @SheriARicherson: Are there any last minute questions? #homesteadchat
@texomagardening: #homesteadchatLate coming in! I love chives too as an indoor herb, but I learned the hard way that seeds are only reliable for a year!
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson For the unknowns, Bicarb is baking powder but has a ph or real close to 7.8. Potent #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: Thanks for a great chat session. RT @SheriARicherson: Are there any last minute questions? >thanks for coming! #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson Oops, bicarb is baking soda…lol #homesteadchat
@texomagardening: @SheriARicherson Any quick tips on growing parsley from seed indoors? I have the worst luck! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson See you next week! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @texomagardening: Late coming in! I love chives too as an indoor herb, I learned that seeds are reliable for a year! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson Oops, bicarb is baking soda…lol #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson For the unknowns, Bicarb is baking powder but has a ph or real close to 7.8. Potent #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @texomagardening: @SheriARicherson Any quick tips on growing parsley from seed indoors? I have the worst luck! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – night!! Thanks for coming! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @texomagardening – pre-chill parsley seed or sow outdoors in August and bring container in for winter. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: @texomagardening – pre-chill parsley seed or sow outdoors in August and bring container in for winter. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @texomagardening – growing parsley now in my aerogarden. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson Time for the Xfactor will talk again soon. I followed you to make it easy #gardenchat #herbchat #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @DollarSeed – thanks so much for coming! Send you a pm with address! Have a great night! #homesteadchat
@texomagardening: @SheriARicherson #homesteadchatThanks! I’ve never tried that! I will now.
@SheriARicherson: @texomagardening – you’ll be glad you did! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Thanks to everyone for coming to tonight’s #homesteadchat! Hope to see you all next week! Have a safe & happy holiday season! #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson Nice to meet you. Let’s keep this on going #homesteadchat
@texomagardening: @SheriARicherson Thanks, Sheri! Happy Holidays to you too! Hasta next week! #homesteadchat
@texomagardening: RT @SheriARicherson: Winter-sowing is nothing more than sowing seeds outdoors during winter and letting nature do the work of stratification. #homesteadchat
@texomagardening: RT @SheriARicherson: December 21 is the “official” winter sowing date BUT watch out for weather that is too mild. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson Nice to meet you. Lets keep this on going > that is fine! Let me know the details! #homesteadchat
@texomagardening: RT @SheriARicherson: When you receive seeds, inspect them for cleanliness and signs of problems before you store or sow them. #homesteadchat
@DollarSeed: @SheriARicherson The chat calendar lists just days and times so all can keep track and see what is going on each day #homesteadchat
@SubSuburbanite: Great idea. RT @SheriARicherson: Always label winter sown seedlings! Cut up old window blinds make excellent plant markers. #homesteadchat
]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/15/homesteadchat-%e2%80%93-december-15-2011-%e2%80%93-winter-seed-sowing/feed/ 0 #homesteadchat – December 8, 2011 – Winter Care of Livestock http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/08/homesteadchat-december-8-2011-winter-care-of-livestock/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/08/homesteadchat-december-8-2011-winter-care-of-livestock/#comments Fri, 09 Dec 2011 03:01:55 +0000 admin http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=729  

Join #homesteadchat on Twitter every Thursday night at 7pm Eastern!

@homesteadchat: Time for another #homestead chat – this week – Winter Care of Livestock #homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: does anyone have any best practices for taking care of their livestock during the winter? #homesteadchat

@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: Time for another #homestead chat – this week – Winter Care of Livestock #Homesteadchat

@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: does anyone have any best practices for taking care of their livestock during the winter? #Homesteadchat

@SheriARicherson: Bedding animals down in dry hay is essential to their well being. #Homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: For chickens you need to make sure that you give them lukewarm water, not cold, to drink #homesteadchat

@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: For chickens you need to make sure that you give them lukewarm water, not cold, to drink #Homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: although chickens can handle being in the cold, they cannot handle drinking cold water #homesteadchat

@SheriARicherson: And chickens will stop laying if there feet get cold. Winter is an ideal time to let them rest. #Homesteadchat

@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: although chickens can handle being in the cold, they cannot handle drinking cold water #Homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: RT @SheriARicherson: And chickens will stop laying if there feet get cold. Winter is an ideal time to let them rest. #homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: also a little extra food will help them maintain their heat to stay warmer #homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: anybody have any practices that you use yourself? #homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: sealing areas of your barn can help livestock that are affected by drafts like goats #homesteadchat

@BillyeRampuria_: @homesteadchat Hi! Look at how much time you’ve wasted on Twitter with http://t.co/WTxDHffjand laugh at yourself!

@homesteadchat: also with goats laying some straw every once in a while will help maintain a warmer area for them and make cleaner areas #homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: anybody else with more ideas? #homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: one suggestion is not to use a heat lamp for your livestock #homesteadchat

@homesteadchat: that is just asking for bad things to happen, the high heat will promote bacterial growth which could make your animals sick #homesteadchat

@jchapstk: #homesteadchatHello. Sorry I’m late.

@homesteadchat: That’s going to be all with #homesteadchat tonight – see you next week #homesteadchat

@jchapstk: RT @homesteadchat: RT @SheriARicherson: And chickens will stop laying if there feet get cold. Winter is an ideal time to let them rest. #homesteadchat

@jchapstk: RT @homesteadchat: also a little extra food will help them maintain their heat to stay warmer #homesteadchat

@jchapstk: RT @homesteadchat: sealing areas of your barn can help livestock that are affected by drafts like goats #homesteadchat

@jchapstk: RT @homesteadchat: although chickens can handle being in the cold, they cannot handle drinking cold water #homesteadchat

@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Bedding animals down in dry hay is essential to their well being. #Homesteadchat

@punkrockgardens: @jchapstk My chickens seem to hate wind. I’m moving the new small coop into a more protected area. #homesteadchat

@GreenSoil: Sliding in late So Cal http://t.co/dmlD6jXv but first must lock the coop door WAVING to all #homesteadchat

@punkrockgardens: @jchapstk @sheriARicherson They have space protected from wind, but they don’t use the run much when it’s a blow hard day. )) #homesteadchat

@jchapstk: @punkrockgardens I’m picturing chickens flying around in a tornado. LOL. #homesteadchat

 

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/08/homesteadchat-december-8-2011-winter-care-of-livestock/feed/ 0 #homesteadchat – December 1, 2011 – Color in the Winter Garden http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/01/homesteadchat-december-1-2011-color-in-the-winter-garden/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/01/homesteadchat-december-1-2011-color-in-the-winter-garden/#comments Fri, 02 Dec 2011 01:10:57 +0000 admin http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=724

Join #homesteadchat on Twitter every Thursday night at 7pm Eastern!

 
@homesteadchat: Welcome to tonight’s #homesteadchat. Tonight’s topic is Color In The Winter Garden. Hellebore, witch hazel, pansy and more! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @SheriARicherson: http://t.co/VW0BhyvI Yucca remains green all winter long. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @SheriARicherson: http://t.co/CAxR0W0D Hellebore – depending on variety – bloom in winter. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Take a moment to meet, greet and share with us what your favorite winter blooming flowers are…………… #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: My favorite winter blooming flower is hellebore because it is so carefree and comes in many different flower shapes & colors. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: Take a moment to meet, greet and share with us what your favorite winter blooming flowers are…………. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatHello. My favoirte is the Amaryllis. Can’t get enough of them.
@SheriARicherson: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – Amaryllis are wonderful! I love the double ones! #homesteadchat
@Daeryn: Witchhazel is pretty neat #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – do you have any outdoor blooming winter flowers you like? #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @Daeryn – yes, it is – and fragrant too! I love the confetti-like blooms. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Who else is out there lurking in tweetchat land? Jump right in! Don’t be shy! We’re talking color in the winter garden! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson outdoors in 7b its mostly bulbs and trees like witchhazel. Mums will last a long time. The Knockout roses #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Witchhazels are really cool shrubs. Plant a variety and have blooms from November through end of winter. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – I noticed this year my knockout roses were blooming considerably longer. In fact, they just faded a few days ago. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: I’m in Indiana, which is a zone 5/6 depending on where you are in the state. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatThey are still coming on like gangbusters here. Wet late summer and fall. Mild temperatures.
@Daeryn: RT @homesteadchat: – I noticed this year my knockout roses were blooming considerably longer. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Winter is a great time to garden because there is less weeding and fewer pests. Love seeing flowers above the snow. #homesteadchat
@Daeryn: sometime you can see the flowers under the ice #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – we just had a pretty wet, nasty snow. I imagine that will put them to rest for the winter, but maybe not. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @Daeryn – yes, you can see the flowers under the ice and they look so pretty. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: What is really amazing is the ice can melt and the flower isn’t harmed at all. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatPansies can handle that kind of treatment.
@homesteadchat: Anyone grow winter pansies or winter sweet peas? #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @jchapstk: #homesteadchat Pansies can handle that kind of treatment. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @Daeryn: sometime you can see the flowers under the ice #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: Anyone grow winter pansies or winter sweet peas? #homesteadchat
@Daeryn: RT @homesteadchat: Anyone grow winter pansies or winter sweet peas? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatI have planted pansies in the fall and they lasted through the next spring.
@SheriARicherson: I’ve grown winter pansies, but never had success with the sweet peas. I must get more seed so I can try again. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – they sure do – and if you are lucky, they set seed and give you another crop the following fall. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatMy soil’s too wet most winters for peas. There’s an art to catching the soil dry enough to plant.
@SheriARicherson: @7TREES4VICTORY – #homesteadchatnight! Hope you can join us!
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – interesting! There are winter blooming container sweet peas – I’m talking about the ornamental variety. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatAre winter pansies a type of pansy? Mine were the regular ones, the white ones survived best, purple had the most casualties
@SheriARicherson: @BG_garden – sorry I missed #gardenchat this week. Lots happening. Talking color in the winter garden on #homesteadchatnow.
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatI don’t like the cold. Except for tree and shrub plantings, I garden indoors all winter.
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I don’t like the cold either, so I choose plants for the winter garden that fend for themselves. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I do grow inside of cold frames – vegetables – but select warm days to go out and pick. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatGood move.
@homesteadchat: There are a lot of vegetables that add color to the winter garden – Brussels sprouts – red and green, kale, lettuce mixtures #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Japanese red mustard is very hardy and ornamental looking as well. It will grow in the open garden all winter long. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Don’t forget snowdrops and crocus which are some of the earliest spring blooming bulbs! #homesteadchat
@Daeryn: RT @homesteadchat: vegetables that add color to the winter garden – Brussels sprouts – red and green, kale, lettuce mixtures #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @homesteadchat: Japanese red mustard is very hardy and ornamental looking as well. It will grow in the open garden all winter long. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @homesteadchat: There are a lot of vegetables that add color to the winter garden – Brussels sprouts – red and green, kale, lettuce mixtures #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – what are some of your favorite indoor winter blooming plants? #homesteadchat
@Daeryn: we have tomatoes blooming right now #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatIndoors – Amaryllis, forced bulbs – hyacinths, daffodils. I have a lemon tree blooming right now.
@SheriARicherson: RT @Daeryn: we have tomatoes blooming right now < growing tomatoes during the winter is awesome! Way to go! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @Daeryn what zone are you in. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – lemon tree blossoms smell so good! Do you plant your forced bulbs come spring? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – have your grown that green amaryllis? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @homesteadchat I used to, but they take too long to recover. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson haven’t tried it yet. Still smitten with the reds and pinks. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – this is true, they do. I usually plant mine anyway, but tuck them in among other bulbs so I don’t notice. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @Daeryn Ah. I lost my last tomato today. It never turned red. I was hoping it would, but it feel off in the wind. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I love the double blooms. Haven’t tried the green yet, but want to. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson I like the dbl blooms too, but they are sometimes heavy and fall over. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – I bet if you had put it under a cold frame it would have made it a little longer. We lost our last ones Nov. 20 #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: @SheriARicherson I like the dbl blooms too, but they are sometimes heavy and fall over > so true, staking helps #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: We’re going to end #homesteadchat a little early tonight. It’s been a really crazy week here. Thanks so much for coming! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: I hope to see everyone back here again next Thursday night at 7pm Eastern time! Have a wonderful week! #homesteadchat
]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/12/01/homesteadchat-december-1-2011-color-in-the-winter-garden/feed/ 0 #homesteadchat – November 17, 2011 – Homestead Holiday Celebrations http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/18/homesteadchat-november-17-2011-homestead-holiday-celebrations/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/18/homesteadchat-november-17-2011-homestead-holiday-celebrations/#comments Fri, 18 Nov 2011 06:50:01 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=704

Join #homesteadchat on Twitter every Thursday night at 7pm Eastern!

 

 

 
@SheriARicherson: Welcome to tonight’s #homesteadchat! Please take a moment to say hello! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @SheriARicherson: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: I’m having a little trouble staying logged in tonight. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – Hello! So glad you could make it! Are you ready for the holidays? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson No. My tiny little freezer doesn’t hold much. Still got to get everything. Farmers Market Sat/Sun #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – that is wonderful! I love shopping (and selling) at the farmers market! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – are you getting a fresh turkey this year? We had one last year and it was the best I’d ever ate! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: I’ve been making homemade soap and potpourri all day in preparation for the holidays – http://t.co/KqjgpBlr #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: yes, I love fresh turkey. Also turkey breast. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – the thought of turkey breast is making me hungry! lol! Yum, yum, yum! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: #homesteadchatI get the turkey breasts year round for sandwiches and salads
@SheriARicherson: My latest must have is chicken skin. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: my garden was a bust this year. I’m buying almost everything.n #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I usually eat turkey once a year. I should eat it more. It is really good and I just love it. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: chicken skin? n #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – that makes two of us. I did some things – and have some stuff given to me, but was too busy writing to garden. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: turkey breasts are quick and easy. we do that a lot.n #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – yes! It is a gourmet food now – believe it or not! Fried, crispy chicken skin! I found story in New York Times. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: the weather was not kind. too wet, too hot , then two hurricanes. yuck.n #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Does anyone make their own holiday decorations using items from their garden? #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – I know what you mean. No hurricanes here, but plenty of high winds. My fall/winter garden is doing great! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: that’s funny. I usually remove the skin except for fried. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – It is becoming impossible to find chicken breast with skin on it now around here. Back to butchering. #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: @SheriARicherson Yes I made these Thanksgiving kitchen decor soaps with my seminole pumpkins: http://t.co/G1Ek3wvC #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I collect things from the park or friends yards for wreathes or table decorations.n #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – what items from your garden are going to be part of your holiday celebration? #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: RT @SheriARicherson: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @aquarianbath – welcome to #homesteadchat! I love those soaps! So cute! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @aquarianbath – addding you to my favorites! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: pine cones, fragrant herbs, holly which is covered in berries now, pine branches. storms left lots of downed branches #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: @homesteadchat I have also about a doze pumpkins that will be ready for Christmas display. Plenty for pies and soup too. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – do you use any of them as gifts or just decor? #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Homemade wrapping paper made with plant material from your garden is wonderful! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: decor mostly. most of my friends are teaching me how to do these things. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @aquarianbath – it is such fun to use stuff from your garden year-round, isn’t it? #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: @jchapstk We have mistletoe here, but I’m not so fond of it. #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: RT @homesteadchat: Homemade wrapping paper made with plant material from your garden is wonderful! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I hear you there. I am buying books by an author named Christina Stapley that are full of ideas! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: mistletoe is poisonous, so be careful with it. it can cause irritation and nausea and more. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @aquarianbath – I’d love to grow mistletoe. Does it kill the host plant eventually? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: mistletoe is poisonous, so be careful with it. it can cause irritation and nausea and more. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – true about mistletoe, but it is an interesting plant. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/s4f3i91w #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: @SheriARicherson It’s very not good for the host plant #mistletoe #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: RT @jchapstk: mistletoe is poisonous, so be careful with it. it can cause irritation and nausea and more. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Who else is lurking out there tonight? Don’t be shy! Jump right in and let us know what cool things you use from your garden! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @aquarianbath – I kind of figured. I’ve never been lucky enough to see it growing live. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: pets and kids have kept me shy of mistletoe. never thought of growingit myself. usally grab some at the store. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – sometimes I buy mistletoe and sometimes not. I have holly and bittersweet I can pick from my yard. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I saw it grwoing once at an arboretum. can’t remember which one. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Using herbs – fresh or dried is another great way to use homegrown items during the holidays. Love sage stuffing! Yum! #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: RT @homesteadchat: Who else is lurking out there tonight? Don’t be shy! Jump right in and let us know what cool things you use from your garden! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I prefer the holly since it’s growing where I planted it at my sister’s house. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: ….and an herbal turkey is to die-for! Use the same types of herbs you use for chicken. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – I grow my own. I must have green in the garden year-round! lol!~ #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Yes, I had potted sage, thyme and rosemary that I brought in (just in case). It will be out for the smell and the kitchen. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Does anyone else have hellebores blooming now? They are so lovely! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I started some herbs in my aerogarden – basil, oregano, marjoram, mint and something else…. :) #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Does anyone make their own plant based greeting cards for the holidays? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I’ve heard of these aerogarden’s but have not seen or tried that yet. #homesteadchat
@holyloner: RT @homesteadchat: Who else is lurking out there tonight? Don’t be shy! Jump right in and let us know what cool things you use from your garden! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – aerogardens are nice. You get a lot of herbs in a small space. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @holyloner – welcome to #homesteadchat. What do you use from your garden during the holidays? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Don’t forget table decor! Or fresh produce for those of you with a fall/winter garden. Tomatoes are still alive under cover. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: When I had roses I would bring those in. Usually grow one in a protected spot so it will last this long. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: We will have fresh salad from our garden for Thanksgiving here in Indiana. Lettuce, tomatoes, radish, carrots….. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – my roses are still blooming their little heads off. It has been a very mild winter so far. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Farmer’s Markets are great for getting the stuff you don’t have in yout garden #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – and local grown, organic meat! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Including local turkeys! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @aquarianbath – are you making your own essential oils at home? I love doing that. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – Oh yes, local turkeys! Yum! – and don’t forget hams! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: I’m really getting hungry now~ I’ll be raiding the fridge when the #homesteadchat is over! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: It’s going to be brisk (40s) but 730 am Sat and Sun – I’ll be there. This is their busiest weekend here. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I think we are going to be in the 30′s now and there is only one market still open – two hours away. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: My friends (master gardeners) taught me how to make those things, but I have allergies and…. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @FreeRangeTweets #hobbyfarm is a different chat than #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: @SheriARicherson I make herb infused oils and put them into balms. I have lemon eucalyptus leaves infusing right now #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I have allergies to synthetic scents, but am ok with natural scents. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – welcome Chris! Glad you could make it. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson @jchapstk We’re getting a storm rolling in slowly tonight — gonna be COLD #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I feel blessed living in the city. We have two near me, one is year round. That one is walking distance. Bus back. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @aquarianbath – I have a still and distill my own oils but getting the hydrosol and oil seperated is tricky! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – it’s been horribly windy here today! #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: RT @SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I have allergies to synthetic scents, but am ok with natural scents. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I would love that! Maybe someday farmers markets will catch on here. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson We haven’t had wind…but my bones are starting to freeze, LOL #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @aquarianbath – the link isn’t opening. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson @jchapstk We have a ton of Farmer’s Markets here — very popular! Also Agri-tourism #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: It was the rage here. One everyday somewhere close (local bus). I haven’t had much canned or even frozen for a while. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – It’s cold here. We had someone drop off a hen last night. Now I have just one. Eggs will be great! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – I think we live in an area that is not very educated. They go to the store and that is about it. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I bet you love that! Do you have any that are strictly organic? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: “My” park has hoop houses in it. I can get fresh from them year round also. #homesteadchat
@aquarianbath: @SheriARicherson awesome! I have so much lemongrass here. First thing I want to try when I get a still #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I don’t know how strict they are, but they are too cheap to buy any chemicals or additives.n #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – that’s what we have small hoop houses and cold frames. I really love growing my own food year round. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @aquarianbath – I bought mine on ebay. It is a large one, but it works. It was around $100 which is a lot cheaper! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – lol! Organic by cheapness! I guess there is more than one way to get that done! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Our farm is organic. I use compost, but that’s it. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @aquarianbath – I’m wondering if it’s IE. The link still isn’t opening. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson Awwww…you only have one hen? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: http://t.co/aa4nAJim That’s in Clifton Park. I’ve lived within two blocks of that park most of my life. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson Bear with me — I’m running in between the chat, LOL #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @Suburban_Farmer – yes, when I was at GWA a fox got into my coop and ate my flock. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – that would be home indeed! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @aquarianbath – it’s not opening in Safari either. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I use manure a lot. @greensoil made using manure tea eaisier. I’m loving that. Lot’s of compost and leaf mold too. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @homesteadchat Oh no! There’s a wiley guy watching our yard everyday now UGH. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – what will you use for the holidays from your garden? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – yes, I must try manure tea from @greensoil. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – oh no! I hope he goes away! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson Oh my. Not much, LOL. We moved here in the middle of the growing season I didn’t get to do a lot just yet. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Oh my goodness. It is so easy to have some else bag it up for you. Just drop it in the bucket and 2 days later – done! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – are you using any canned goods from your garden? I will make an apple pie. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I used to hate bagging it up. Not smelly but messy and time consuming. Never could keep track of the cheesecloth. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson Me, too! He’s just gorgeous but I LOVE my hens #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: WOOT WOOT we’ll be by there @Suburban_Farmer @jchapstk got my #gardenparty hat on wonderful things happening <|;-) #moopootea #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – you are right about that! @greensoil has such cute little bags. I brought some back from GWA. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Clifton Park is more than 3 miles inside the city line and we have foxes too. Irritating. They want chickens at the Farm. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson I already canned apple butter for holiday gifts (& grape jelly) #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: RT @SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – you are right about that! @greensoil has such cute little bags. I brought some back from GWA. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – I know what you mean. This one is so small. The tiniest full grown hen I’ve seen. Must get pics. #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: sliding in the the barn on Coyote watch scatter gun at the ready #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – way cool! Now how do I get on your guest list? lol! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @GreenSoil Be by WHERE?? Here?? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @GreenSoil: WOOT WOOT @Suburban_Farmer @jchapstk got my #gardenparty hat on wonderful things happening <|;-) #moopootea #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I made applesauce to can, but the kids ate it. Tried twice. My mom warned me to do it whenthey were away. Shouldda listened #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil – come on in! The #gardenparty is in full swing! #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: I’m here I’m here <|;-) #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson Awwww..is it a bantam? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – yes, you should have listened! #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: @jchapstk like making herb butter can’t make it fast enough or enough of it #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil – welcome to #homesteadchat! What’s on the menu from your garden for the holidays? #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @jchapstk Hahaha…for sure! Delish =stuff! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: They ate the pears before I even cooked them. Little crumb snatchers. hehehe #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil – coyotes are trouble! Hope you get him out of there. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @GreenSoil Ohhh..shoot. i thought you meant you were going to be HERE #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – rofl! crumb snatchers! Sounds like my dogs! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @GreenSoil Hope you can come by #hobbyfarm later too #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: #moopootea on page 40 right click to enlarge Green Profit September 2011 – Standing for Something http://t.co/m2i08LYJ #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: I bought a jar of applesauce for them to eat while I made mine. They opened it. It molded. They bought me more apples #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: RT @SheriARicherson: @GreenSoil – coyotes are trouble! Hope you get him out of there. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: RT @GreenSoil: @jchapstk like making herb butter can’t make it fast enough or enough of it #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: @Suburban_Farmer Oh, honey I’m out on the twitter town you know I’ll be to #hobbyfarm chat <|;-) #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – I’ve noticed that about store bought applesauce. I wonder why it molds? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Wow. Annie. That’s very cool. #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: RT @GreenSoil: #moopootea on page 40 right click to enlarge Green Profit September 2011 – Standing for Something http://t.co/m2i08LYJ #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @Suburban_Farmer – I love herb butter and are you planning to make cheese? Love dill and garlic cheese. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: All that processed sugar, probably. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @GreenSoil: @Suburban_Farmer Im out on the twitter town you know Ill be to #hobbyfarm chat <|;-) > twitter town fun! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @GreenSoil Hahahaha…love you! #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: Merchant Success Story “Authentic Haven Brand – Fortifying Plants and Local Economies.| http://t.co/Zlo308eB #moremoopootea #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – true! Or GMO sugar! Yuck! So unhealthy #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: the homemade kind never lasts long enough to mold. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @GreenSoil: Success Story “Authentic Haven Brand – Fortifying Plants & Local Economies http://t.co/PlzQW0Ti #moremoopootea #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @homesteadchat: RT @GreenSoil: Success Story “Authentic Haven Brand – Fortifying Plants & Local Economies http://t.co/PlzQW0Ti #moremoopootea #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: @Suburban_Farmer hey your the dirtiest friend I have in the #VirtualGarden <|;-) would’nt miss out in less in #twitterjail #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Thanks to everyone who came out to tonight’s #homesteadchat! The #gardenparty continues at 9pm EST with #hobbyfarm! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @GreenSoil Damn striaght! Dirt Divas untie! Er…unite! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Any links for the soaps and oils. I might try making it with gloves on – for gifting. I haveplenty of herbs. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Happy Thanksgiving! I hope to see you all again in 2 weeks on #homesteadchat! 7pm Eastern! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @homesteadchat Oh thank you! Hey — is #handmadechat tonight too? #homesteadchat
@1OrganicGardens: RT @GreenSoil: Merchant Success Story “Authentic Haven Brand – Fortifying Plants and Local Economies.| http://t.co/Zlo308eB #moremoopootea #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: drum roll #MooPooTea on page 86 of Garden Up! by @susanlmorrison &sweetrebecca it just made Best Seller List 2011 Amazon. com #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – http://t.co/sQtPLVrV – and you can always ask me questions if you like! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @homesteadchat Have to go feed the critters here at Hawk Hill — be back #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @Suburban_Farmer – yes, #handmadechat is next. #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: Thank you #homesteadchat for letting me blow my #moopootea success horn #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Why can’t my work hours be this short? #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: @Suburban_Farmer see you here or over at #hobbyfarm #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Thanks. I will take you up on that offer. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @GreenSoil – you are welcome! Love #moopootea! #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: @jchapstk hee hee I hear you on that work hours fly by like chats #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: Thank you @homesteadchat <|;-) #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: Your #moopoo success story is mine too. Got some great herbs and my fig tree went crazy. #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: your a big part of the #moopoocrew @jchapstk and I am humbled & honored to be packaging for you <|;-) #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @GreenSoil: drum roll #MooPooTea on page 86 of Garden Up! by @susanlmorrison &sweetrebecca it just made Best Seller List 2011 Amazon. com #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: @jchapstk trees of all kinds love it! 400+ not doing good now getting Moo Poo Tea growing crazy Love it! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @GreenSoil My blueberry bushes are doing great, too. #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: well #homesteadchat and friends shall we stop have a drink on our way over to #hobbyfarm hee hee #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: as Granddad and Dad always said they had not found anything that did not like #MooPooTea @jchapstk accept the chemical co. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: New friend #homesteadchat #gardenchat http://t.co/jwJ0V3BD @aquarianbathNice to meet you.
@jchapstk: Another new friend #homesteadchat #gardenchat http://t.co/61lofO4C @1OrganicGardens
@GreenSoil: RT @jchapstk: New friend #homesteadchat #gardenchat http://t.co/jwJ0V3BD @aquarianbathNice to meet you.
@aquarianbath: @jchapstk Nice to meet you too : ) #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @GreenSoil: as Granddad and Dad always said they had not found anything that did not like #MooPooTea @jchapstk accept the chemical co. #homesteadchat
@homesteader: Can’t believe I just found out about #homesteadchat!! Writing it down on my calendar from now on! ;)

@Mya_NZ: @jchapstk @SheriARicherson *waves* from #NZ – we love your tweets TY! #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: hey how are you just did two hours of #homesteadchat & #hobbyfarm @miriamwildflr @fromthesoil#saymooo
@Mya_NZ: @NaturallyTrisha our pleasure! Enjoy your great tips thank you #homesteadchat #WBchat
]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/18/homesteadchat-november-17-2011-homestead-holiday-celebrations/feed/ 0 #homesteadchat – November 10, 2011 – Homemade Ice Cream http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/10/homesteadchat-november-10-2011-homemade-ice-cream/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/10/homesteadchat-november-10-2011-homemade-ice-cream/#comments Fri, 11 Nov 2011 01:23:34 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=682

Join #homesteadchat on Twitter every Thursday night at 7pm Eastern!
 

@SheriARicherson: Welcome to tonight’s #homesteadchat. Our topic tonight is homemade ice cream. Please take a moment to meet and greet! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
 

@BossyAcres: @SheriARicherson #homesteadchat ?!?! Wow….so many good chats…I had no idea! Will have to lurk around on this one tho.
 

@SheriARicherson: I’m wondering how many of you raise your own dairy animals? Sheep, goats, cows – once you have them you always abundant milk. #homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: Hello! New here. Don’t think I’ll be able to contribute much. Homemade ice cream is my husband’s jurisdiction, lol!#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - hello – and welcome to #homesteadchat! What is your favorite type of homemade ice cream?#homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: I will say that we got into making our own ice creams after discovering what gunk there is in store bought versions.#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @BossyAcres - thank you! Please feel free to lurk – and chime in whenever you wish! Homemade ice cream is a wonderful treat! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - isn’t it awful all the crap they put into ice cream that simply doesn’t need to be there? So unhealthy! #homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: What is your favorite type of homemade ice cream? #homesteadchat We’re still exploring that. So far, lemon. Wow, that’s good!
 

@SheriARicherson: We have goats. One of our goats kidded last night. Once we start milking, we always have excess~#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - lemon sounds delicious. I should try to make some! Or lime – I have tons of lime juice!#homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: @SheriARicherson isn’t it awful all the crap they put into ice cream that simply doesn’t need to be there?#homesteadchat Yes, it’s criminal
 

@SheriARicherson: My favorite homemade ice cream is cinnamon – although with the holidays I like peppermint too – and bubblegum!#homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: @SheriARicherson What a blessing to have your own dairy source. We don’t as of yet & won’t on our homestead for a while. #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: RT @rightasrain13: isnt it awful all the crap they put into ice cream? #homesteadchat Yes, its criminal < worse than criminal #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - do you raise your own dairy animals? #homesteadchat
 

@7TREES4VICTORY: Somewhere I have an ice cream maker we have never used…I am going to go find it right now.#HOMESTEADCHAT
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - it is a blessing indeed! I suggest starting with goats. They are easy to milk and handle.#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @7TREES4VICTORY - you will be SO glad you found it! Homemade ice cream is wonderful! #homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: @SheriARicherson How do u handle the kids? Do u need 2 separate them from Mom as w/ cows? #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: This is a recipe for Spicebush ice cream - http://t.co/BbW9TzjK #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - I leave my goat kids on mama until I am ready to milk about a month after they are born.#homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: @SheriARicherson @7TREES4VICTORY It can also be the easiest thing to make! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - Once the goats are old enough, I seperate them only at night. I milk in the morning, leaving some for kids #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: RT @rightasrain13: @SheriARicherson @7TREES4VICTORY It can also be the easiest thing to make!#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Here is my favorite ice cream recipe – 2 c. cream, 2 c. milk, 1 c. sugar and 1 tsp. vanilla extract #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Then I add in strawberries, cherries, chocolate, cinnamon, peppermint, whatever I want to taste.#homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: @SheriARicherson So baby and humans get milk. Hmm. That’s pretty cool. #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: I might add I make my own vanilla extract. Here is the recipe - http://t.co/ii9lBNFC #homesteadchat
 

@cfnursery: RT @SheriARicherson: This is a recipe for Spicebush ice cream - http://t.co/BbW9TzjK #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - it really is – and best of all, you can freeze the excess milk. #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @cfnursery - welcome to #homesteadchat! Thank you for RT the spicebush ice cream recipe. #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Freezing goat milk - http://t.co/llmQy47e #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Homemade ice cream is a great way to impress your holiday guests. Hmmm – egg nog ice cream anyone?#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @7TREES4VICTORY - don’t miss the easy ice cream recipe I posted! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Another tip is to look for an electric ice cream maker that does not require salt. Simply keep the dish frozen until use! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: For those without access to fresh milk and cream – you can use store bought. Organic is best. #homesteadchat
 

@DSAldridge: @SheriARicherson Is this going on now? I somehow thought it started at 8. #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @DSAldridge - yes, it is happening now, from 7pm Eastern to 8pm Eastern. #homesteadchat
 

@DSAldridge: @SheriARicherson I had it written down wrong! Sorry. n #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Butter Pecan Ice Cream – 2 c. cream, 2 c milk, 2 T. butter, 1 c. brown sugar, 1 t. vanilla extract and 1/2 c. pecans…..yum! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Anyone care to share their favorite homemade ice cream recipe? #homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: Spicebush ice cream! I’d have to scout out a spicebush, hopefully free of those horrid caterpillars! Eeek! They look creepy! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @DSAldridge - it’s ok! You’re here now! I think it takes some time to get all the chats straight! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - those are swallowtail butterflies! They love those bushes! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - if you watch you will notice all the caterpillars don’t survive. I’ve been watching the past few years – sad #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Anyone make ice cream cubes? #homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: @SheriARicherson The eyespots freak me out, ha ha! #homesteadchat.
 

@SheriARicherson: Ice Cream Cube Recipe – 2 eggs, 1 c. sugar, 2 tsp. vanilla extract, 1/2 quart milk, 1/2 quart cream – blend, freeze - #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: When you want ice cream, add the desired # of cubes to blender, cover in fresh milk and blend until smooth#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - They do look scary, but that’s to protect them from predators! Human ones too I guess! lol#homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: RT @SheriARicherson: Ice Cream Cube Recipe – 2 eggs, 1 c. sugar, 2 tsp. vanilla extract, 1/2 quart milk, 1/2 quart cream – blend, freeze - #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: In addition to making ice cream, you can make sherbets – and ice cream toppings too! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: - and sorbets – Pear Cardamom Sorbet Recipe - http://t.co/O5RuVEEz #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: A basic lime sherbet is 2 c. milk, 2 c. cream, 1 c. sugar, 1 pkg lime jello, 1 t. lime rind and 3/4 c. lime juice#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Sorbets and sherbets are made the same way ice cream is. #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Questions? Comments?n #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: I want to encourage you to experiment. Now that you have some basic recipes, give homemade ice cream a try. You’ll be glad! #homesteadchat
 

@7TREES4VICTORY: Found my Rival ice cream maker! Never used it cause there are no instructions..so to the basement it went, now I have Google! #HOMESTEADCHAT
 

@BossyAcres: Nom Nom Nom! RT “@SheriARicherson: – and sorbets – Pear Cardamom Sorbet Recipe - http://t.co/f1tVvgpq#homesteadchat”
 

@SheriARicherson: Herbs and flowers are great additives too! I made a rose and honeysuckle sorbet this year! Yum!#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @7TREES4VICTORY - so glad you found it! Give it a try – and yes, you sure do have Google! Instructions are everywhere! #homesteadchat
 

@rightasrain13: @SheriARicherson Definitely. And thanks for the great recipes! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @BossyAcres - Nom Nom Nom is the word for sure! Give that Pear Cardamon Sorbet recipe a try!#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @rightasrain13 - you are very welcome! I always try to link or give recipes on #homesteadchat so peeps can try things out! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: Experimentation is the fun part of homesteading and that is why I started this chat - #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: For more cool recipes, check out 101 Secret Gardening Tips on Amazon Kindle - http://t.co/qyJ2vSpq#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: — and that books playmate 101 Self-Sufficiency Gardening Tips on Amazon Kindle - http://t.co/XBloXwEw#homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: With that – I would like to thank everyone for coming to #homesteadchat tonight. #homesteadchat
 

@7TREES4VICTORY: found instructions! How easy! I think I will make sorbets! Lots of them! Oh, how exciting! #HOMESTEADCHAT
 

@SheriARicherson: I hope to see you all here again next Thursday night at 7pm Eastern! #homesteadchat
 

@SheriARicherson: @7TREES4VICTORY - YAY! I am so happy you found them! Yes, it is easy! Let me know what you make!#homesteadchat
 

@homesteadchat: — and because I’m silly, I forgot to login using the #homesteadchat Twitter page – you can join me there if you like. #homesteadchat
 

@DSAldridge: @SheriARicherson I wrote it down right now. I don’t homestead, but I used to, so hope I can contribute something eventually. #homesteadchat
 

@homesteadchat: I hope everyone has a great night – and a great weekend! Let me know how your homemade ice cream, sorbetsm etc. come out! #homesteadchat
 

@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson Dang it! I missed it — out feeding critters before darkk #homesteadchat
 

@homesteadchat: @DSAldridge - wonderful! I am sure you will be able to eventually. Thank you for coming! #homesteadchat
 

@DSAldridge: @Suburban_Farmer I came in halfway through, then had to leave for a phone call. Oh well, there’s next week#homesteadchat
 

@homesteadchat: @Suburban_Farmer - we had a new baby goat last night – a girl! Glad you made it! Hope to make your #hobbyfarm chat in an hour #homesteadchat
 

@7TREES4VICTORY: Well, nice to chat with you all! Once again I have been inspired by this chat! Need to go make room in the freezer! #HOMESTEADCHAT
 

@Suburban_Farmer: @homesteadchat Oh YEAH! Congrats on the new baby!! #homesteadchat
 

@homesteadchat: @DSAldridge - yes, there is always next week and I do post archives at http://t.co/gMJBFeaV #homesteadchat
 

@homesteadchat: @7TREES4VICTORY - lol! I am so glad I am inspiring people! That is exactly what I want to do! #homesteadchat
 

@homesteadchat: @Suburban_Farmer - thanks! She is a sweetie! #homesteadchat
 

@homesteadchat: Catch you all later! The homestead dinner bell just rang! Be sure to check out #hobbyfarm chat tonight at 9pm Eastern. #homesteadchat
 
]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/10/homesteadchat-november-10-2011-homemade-ice-cream/feed/ 0 #homesteadchat is now on Twitter And Twubs.com http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/08/homesteadchat-is-now-on-twitter-and-twubs-com/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/08/homesteadchat-is-now-on-twitter-and-twubs-com/#comments Tue, 08 Nov 2011 16:21:32 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=620

Join #homesteadchat on Twitter every Thursday night at 7pm Eastern

As many of you know, I have started a seperate page on Twitter for #homesteadchat. You can access it at https://twitter.com/#!/homesteadchat

#homesteadchat happens every Thursday night at 7pm Eastern. You can access #homesteadchat at http://tweetchat.com or join us using any of the Twitter chat options that you prefer – simply type in #homesteadchat in the hashtag box to join.

In addition to the Twitter page, #homesteadchat is also on Twubs at http://twubs.com/homesteadchat/

I hope you will take a moment and join one or more of the options above! There are lots of exciting options in store for you!

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/08/homesteadchat-is-now-on-twitter-and-twubs-com/feed/ 0 Homestead Photo Projects Day – November 6, 2011 http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/06/homestead-photo-projects-day-november-6-2011/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/06/homestead-photo-projects-day-november-6-2011/#comments Sun, 06 Nov 2011 14:17:33 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=611 Welcome to the homestead projects photo day! This is a new part of the blog that allows you, the reader, to post photos you have taken of your homestead projects and will re-occur on the 6th day of every month.

Please post photos that you have taken – not ones you have come across on the internet.

So – let’s see all those photos! Go ahead and show off your creative talent. I’m looking forward to it. Let me get the ball rolling with a photo of one of my homestead projects.

A raised bed that was just top-dressed with compost.

]]> http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/06/homestead-photo-projects-day-november-6-2011/feed/ 0 #homesteadchat – November 3, 2011 – Growing Windowsill Herbs http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/03/homesteadchat-november-3-2011-growing-windowsill-herbs/ http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/2011/11/03/homesteadchat-november-3-2011-growing-windowsill-herbs/#comments Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:36:58 +0000 sheriannricherson http://experimentalhomesteader.com/eh/?p=608  

@homesteadchat: Welcome to #homesteadchat. Our topic is growing windowsill herbs. Time to meet, greet & tell about your favorite indoor herb! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Welcome to #homesteadchat. Our topic is growing windowsill herbs. Time to meet, greet & tell about your favorite indoor herb #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: I love growing scented geraniums! The scents are wonderful – rose, mint, chocolate mint, lemon – yum! The leaves are edible! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: What are some of your favorite indoor herbs? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: What are some of your favorite indoor herbs? #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/s4f3i91w #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: I really like overwintering tender herbs indoors. All they need is adequate light – from a window, from a grow light. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @SheriARicherson: I like overwintering tender herbs indoors. All they need is adequate light – from a window or grow light #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: RT @SheriARicherson: I love growing scented geraniums! The scents are wonderful – rose, mint, chocolate mint, lemon – yum! The leaves are edible! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Don’t be shy! Jump right into the conversation! Tell us about your favorite herb! Questions on how to best overwinter them? #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: I’ll be lurking for the most part, making dinner tonight. Favorite indoor herb is rosemary. Will do basil and cilantro too #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson I prefer grow lights for that time. The window light makes them leggy #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @Suburban_Farmer – welcome to tonight’s chat! So glad you could make it! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @brianelgin – welcome! That is fine! Rosemary is so wonderful! Love basil and cilantro too! Planted basil last night! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @brianelgin Me, too….canning jelly & making dinner…blanketing horses #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson I prefer grow lights for that time. The window light makes them leggy #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – you are right about that! I am using an AeroGarden here. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @Suburban_Farmer – oooo – what kind of jelly? Love canning jelly! Made some wonderful herbal jellies! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: RT @SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson Me, too! LOVE scented geraniums #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: @Suburban_Farmer @SheriARicherson Fluorescent grow lights have come a long way, but remember to change the bulbs yearly #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @Suburban_Farmer: @SheriARicherson Me, too! LOVE scented geraniums < the leaves are especially good in cakes and tea! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @brianelgin: @Suburban_Farmer Fluorescent grow lights have come a long way, but remember to change the bulbs yearly #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: @SheriARicherson @Suburban_Farmer The AeroGarden can do great job w/ new pump and new bulbs. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @brianelgin – and use one hot and one cool fluorescent bulb to get the maximum color spectrum! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @brianelgin: @SheriARicherson @Suburban_Farmer The AeroGarden can do great job w/ new pump and new bulbs. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @brianelgin – I found one in good shape last night at the Goodwill store! It was a mere $6.99 – plus had extra bulbs & seeds #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @brianelgin Our rosemary overwinters outdoors. But I love basil in the house for the winter #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: @homesteadchat True grow lights are full spectrum w/ peaks were the plants need them, prob. 3X better than mixed reg. bulbs #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Fresh herbs make all the difference in so many culinary creations plus they smell so wonderful! Everyone should grow a few! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @Suburban_Farmer: @brianelgin Our rosemary overwinters outdoors. But I love basil in the house for the winter > Lucky you! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @brianelgin True grow lights are full spectrum w/ peaks were the plants need them, prob. 3X better than mixed reg. bulbs #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @brianelgin Agreed but they can be expensive comparatively #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: @SheriARicherson Nice score! Was going to suggest buying a used one. Many first gen failed from bad pumps. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @brianelgin – a lot of places don’t sell the true grow lights around here. I could order them, but use T8 bulbs instead. #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: @Suburban_Farmer I RT’ed an article earlier on why most rosemary fails indoors. Ours does very well, but we have ideal sunrm #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: Be back in a few — have to take care of outdoor critters — storm moving in #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @brianelgin – wow! I will watch for that! I have two now. I just couldn’t resist. The manager said this was 2nd one they sold #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @brianelgin: I RTed an article earlier on why most rosemary fails indoors. Ours does very well, but we have ideal sunrm #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @Suburban_Farmer: Be back in a few — have to take care of outdoor critters — storm moving in > stay safe! c u shortly! #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: @SheriARicherson Check Lowe’s near the house plants. Or Rural King. Both stores carry 24″ bulbs here. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @brianelgin – do you still have the link to that article? I put my rosemary in my greenhouse! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @brianelgin: Check Lowes near the house plants. Or Rural King. Both stores carry 24″ bulbs here. > not here :( #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/s4f3i91w #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: Join me for a #homesteadchat TweetChat at: http://t.co/vaDlbBT3 #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: @homesteadchat I RT’ed it this morning do it’s not too far down my TL, will grab it in a second. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Hello. Lowes does online shopping. But I got my bulbs from HomeDepot. It’s closest to me. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: A really cool way to get the most out of basil if you have excess is to line the bottom of jars of spaghetti sauce before can #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @homesteadchat: A really cool way to get the most out of basil if you have excess is to line the bottom of jars of spaghetti sauce before can #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @brianelgin: @homesteadchat I RTed it this morning do its not too far down my TL, will grab it in a second.> thank you! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Hello. Lowes does online shopping. But I got my bulbs from HomeDepot. > welcome to #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – what is your favorite indoor herb? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Found out tonight you can save a lot by shopping online! Many store have horrible mark ups! Buy lots of plants online! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @homesteadchat Love the smell of rosemary, but it never lasts for me. Learned today that I was keeping it too wet. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson That’s kiling my wallet. LOL you can find just about anything on the internet. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – I have a tendency not to water rosemary often enough. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @jchapstk: Thats kiling my wallet. LOL you can find just about anything on the internet. > You are right about that! #homesteadchat
@brianelgin: Ok, have to sign off, I’ll tag the rosemary article with the #homesteadchattag later tonight during hobbyfarm chat.
@SheriARicherson: When you have so many plants it is hard to find something different unless you do shop online~ #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @brianelgin – ok, thank you! Have a great night! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: So – who all is on here still? #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Anyone have questions or comments on growing herbs indoors? #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @homesteadchat: Anyone have questions or comments on growing herbs indoors? #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson My window sills are so narrow (new windows) I’m looking for some kind of shelf to install. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – we build tiny fences around the bottom of the windowsills. We used 1 x 2′s. Ran two across like split rail fence. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Love the way it “smells” up the house. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – nailed those in and they helped balance the pots. It worked very well! #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @jchapstk sounds interesting. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: @SheriARicherson Love the way it “smells” up the house. > so do I~ aromatherapy at its best! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – It worked very well and was quite decorative. Another interesting idea – I picked up picket fence pieces #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson The pots that fit on the windowsill are too small. Herbs, even pinched can grow quickly in at humid, warm.. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – yesterday that had shelf brackets on them and pieces of pallet board to hold plants! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: The pots that fit on the windowsill are too small. Herbs, even pinched can grow quickly in at humid, warm.. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @homesteadchat do you have a picture or diagram. I’m trying to picture that. limited imagaination #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – you are right about that. Sometimes I root trim. Sometimes not. Just depends on the herbs. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – let me look! Give me a sec. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – going to upload it now. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @homesteadchat I have a plant stand with 5 24″ tubes on it. I use that to overwinter. First frost this week. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: Railing to hold plants on narrow windowsill. #homesteadchat http://t.co/pzHnf7NN
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – you are welcome! I see it just came through. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson that is very nice. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – we’ve had our first frost. I made a plant stand out of metal garage shelves and lights! Works well! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: RT @jchapstk: @SheriARicherson that is very nice. > thank you! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I had some larger plants on that windowsill too at one point. It held them. I used clay pots too. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson I go tthe shelves from Ikea. Added the fluorescent tubes. It’s been my standby for years. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – very nice! I have several of those little greenhouses. They work well! #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I have a greenhouse – but sometimes it just isn’t warm enough for some of the tropical plants that I grow. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson I live in 7B MD. My Mom has a greenhouse in Central VA. She says it freezes inside somethimes. No heater. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson As you can see, mine is in my house. I use it mostly to maintain a high enough humidity. Gets dry in here. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I’m in Indiana – zone 5/6 – I have a heater, but it gets expensive trying to keep it above 70 degrees at night. #homesteadchat
@SheriARicherson: @jchapstk – I know about dry air. Sometimes I sit plants on a humidifier! I like growing rainforest plants best. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @SheriARicherson maintaining the humidity is the hardest part since I grow indoors. I have a few tropicals. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: RT @jchapstk: @SheriARicherson maintaining the humidity is the hardest part since I grow indoors. I have a few tropicals. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – I found that clustering the plants and using water + pebbles in the bottom of the trays helped a lot. #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: @homesteadchat Yes, I had success with that too. Alhough my cat thniks the water is for him. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: I mist frequently too. #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: @jchapstk – I have dogs that think that! lol #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: That’s it for tonight’s #homesteadchat. I’d like to thank everyone for dropping by! I hope to see you all next week! #homesteadchat
@homesteadchat: Don’t forget #handmadechat is next followed by #hobbyfarm at 9pm Eastern #homesteadchat
@7TREES4VICTORY: Ohhhhhh! I just logged on and missed this chat. Oh well maybe next time :( #homesteadchat
@jchapstk: RT @WherePlantsRock: “@landisj: Why it’s tricky to grow rosemary in the winter (even indoors) http://t.co/7eeTXyIm #homesteadchat#herbchat
@jchapstk: @brianelgin I posted the one from @WherePlantsRock If that’s the one you are talking about. #homesteadchat
@chocolate_heals: RT @SheriARicherson: I love growing scented geraniums! The scents are wonderful – rose, mint, chocolate mint, lemon – yum! The leaves are edible! #homesteadchat
@Suburban_Farmer: @homesteadchat Thank you! Sorry I’m back so late— storm moving faster than I thought LOL #homesteadchat
@GreenSoil: RT @homesteadchat: Dont forget #handmadechat is next followed by #hobbyfarm at 9pm Eastern #homesteadchat#handmadechat
@Crabapple_Inc: RT @GreenSoil: RT @homesteadchat: Dont forget #handmadechat is next followed by #hobbyfarm at 9pm Eastern #homesteadchat #handmadechat
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