The Pitcher Plant • Insteading
Discover the native pitcher plants of the Southeast, their role in wetland ecosystems, and how to grow these carnivorous beauties on your homestead.| Insteading
“I love morning primrose. You have a large patch here.” I leaned in to smell the sweet lemon scent of the yellow flowers, then glanced at my friend, who smiled. “They’re actually evening primrose,” she corrected. “Really? What’s the difference?” “They’re evening primrose that just happen to open in the morning,” she explained. “And they’re Originally published on The Morning Evening Primrose © Insteading| Insteading
Discover the native pitcher plants of the Southeast, their role in wetland ecosystems, and how to grow these carnivorous beauties on your homestead.| Insteading
Overlooked but unstoppable, turnips are fast-growing, hardy, and delicious, an underdog crop ready to earn its place back in the homestead garden. Originally published on Stop Ignoring Turnips! © Insteading| Insteading
A fascinating feat of gardening, the pomato plant grows both tomatoes and potatoes on a single stem. Learn how this grafted wonder works, how to grow your own, and why it’s a space-saving favorite among curious gardeners. Originally published on The Pomato Plant © Insteading| Insteading
In the homestead garden, there are a variety of eggshell uses ranging from starting seeds to enhancing soil.| Insteading
Overlooked but unstoppable, turnips are fast-growing, hardy, and delicious, an underdog crop ready to earn its place back in the homestead garden.| Insteading
If you've been reading (and watching) Insteading awhile, you may remember that I wrote an article about some things that pop culture gets wrong about| Insteading
Ocotillo, also known as coachwhip, Jacob’s staff, vine cactus, or by the scientific name of Fouquieria splendens, is a flowering spiny shrub that’s a| Insteading
This article will cover a few “main characters” of the Southwestern ecoregion (who they are, what they do, and why they’re important) and how to incorporate| Insteading
For the average suburbanite, wood ashes are something you probably encounter once a year during a summertime campfire, and quickly forget once the s'mores| Insteading
Trilliums are three-petaled wildflowers that brighten spring gardens. Easy to grow in shade, they return year after year in the right woodland conditions.| Insteading
Storing food without electricity isn’t just possible, it’s practical, empowering, and deeply rewarding. From canning and drying to fermentation and root cellars, learn how to preserve food the old-fashioned way, no fridge or freezer required.| Insteading
The only real barrier to this wonderful food source is acquiring the small amount of effort and education needed to grow your own sprouts, and the will to do| Insteading
Discover the phalaenopsis gigantea, the world’s largest orchid with giant leaves and citrusy blooms. Learn how to grow and care for this rare tropical beauty. Originally published on The Phalaenopsis Gigantea Orchid © Insteading| Insteading
Modern chickens can lack the instincts to brood and raise chicks naturally, and incubators offer a way to restore those lost traits. Learn how thoughtful hatching strategies can help rebuild self-sufficient, mothering flocks for the homestead. Originally published on Why I (Currently) Use an Incubator to Hatch Chicken Eggs © Insteading| Insteading
For the vast, vast majority of time, humans lived and cooked without electricity or gas. Yet, within less than two centuries under the influence of electricity’s convenient grid, people in the developed world cook with nothing but electricity or supplied gas. Not only that, they’ve totally forgotten how to cook any other way. I grew Originally published on Cooking Off-Grid: Fire, Sun, and Earth-Powered Methods © Insteading| Insteading
I don’t know what caused it or when raising quail became a hot topic, but I’ve definitely noticed an influx of interest. My first interaction with these beautiful birds was over 12 years ago. I was apprenticing at an organic homestead where we prepared fresh food baskets for the market. I was surprised at how Originally published on Why Raise Quail? Benefits of Keeping Quail Over Chickens © Insteading| Insteading
The Darwin orchid, known for its star-shaped blooms and connection to Charles Darwin’s predictions, is a rare and fascinating flower. Discover about its history, unique pollination, and how to grow it. Originally published on Darwin Orchid © Insteading| Insteading
Uncommon yet flavorful, these homegrown spices add depth to your cooking. Learn how to grow and use eight unique spices like turmeric, Sichuan peppercorn, and star anise. Originally published on 8 Uncommon Spices You Can Grow at Home © Insteading| Insteading
Lady’s slipper orchids are rare tropical flowers with distinctive pouch-like blooms. Learn about the most common varieties, and how to grow and care for these unique orchids. Originally published on Lady’s Slipper Orchid © Insteading| Insteading
Save lettuce seeds the easy way and keep your garden going season after season. Learn when and how to harvest, dry, and store seeds so you can grow fresh, homegrown lettuce year after year! Originally published on Saving Lettuce Seeds © Insteading| Insteading
Skip the soil and grow fresh herbs year-round with nothing but water and a few simple supplies. This low-maintenance method keeps basil, mint, and other favorites thriving on your windowsill with minimal effort. Originally published on Growing Herbs in Water © Insteading| Insteading
The String of Buttons (Crassula perforata) is a striking succulent known for its stacked, geometric leaves. With the right light and minimal watering, this hardy plant adds a unique touch to any garden space. Originally published on String of Buttons © Insteading| Insteading
When it comes to composting bins, there’s truly something for everyone, whether you're working with a tight budget or looking for a hands-off solution. From simple piles to high-tech tumbling bins, each option has its own perks and trade-offs, so finding the right one is all about matching your needs to your composting style. Originally published on Types of Compost Bins: Which One Is Right for You? © Insteading| Insteading
Discover how to grow your own luffa, from seed planting to harvesting your own natural sponges or edible veggies. Get tips on the best growing conditions, care, and how to avoid common pests for a healthy, productive luffa vine. Originally published on Growing Your Own Luffa © Insteading| Insteading
If raising chickens isn't in the cards for your homestead, you can still support ethical egg production by choosing eggs that come from humane, sustainable sources. This article dives into the importance of supporting farmers who raise happy chickens and helps you navigate misleading egg labels to find truly ethical options. Originally published on Which Eggs Are Best? How to Buy Eggs Ethically © Insteading| Insteading
Saving squash seeds is a rewarding way to keep your garden thriving year after year. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to choose, save, and store seeds from your squash harvest for a successful growing season ahead. Originally published on Saving Squash Seeds © Insteading| Insteading
Okra intrigued me as a child. My classmates had never eaten it — betraying our northeastern roots where the plant would have struggled to survive, and the pods weren’t part of our regional fare. But when my family went to Cracker Barrel on Sunday afternoons, I’d always order a side of the curious, deep-fried pods Originally published on Saving Okra Seeds © Insteading| Insteading
As gardeners, homesteaders, and off-grid types of all sorts, we know the importance of compost – it adds essential nutrients back to the soil and can help transform a lackluster, underperforming garden into an extremely productive oasis. But how do you go about making it? And what exactly is the difference between hot and cold Originally published on What’s the Difference Between Hot and Cold Compost? © Insteading| Insteading
I have been on the hunt for a good granola recipe for years, and when I mean “good” granola recipe, I mean something that doesn’t taste like caramel with a few odd oat bits as pretense for health food. After healing my taste buds from the over influence of sugar so common in processed food, Originally published on Low-Sugar Granola Recipe for Overripe Bananas © Insteading| Insteading
“Oh my! Is that what I think it is?” I was admiring a friend’s lily patch. “Parrot lily. Very rare — especially in this climate.” I’d heard it called parrot tail lily (among other names) and was surprised to see one. I had just finished reading and reviewing a delightful children’s book by Tuula Pere: Originally published on All About the Parrot Lily © Insteading| Insteading
Nutritious and versatile, arugula is an excellent leafy vegetable to grow at home. Fresh arugula work well in salads and sandwiches, adding unique flavor and distinct crunch. Originally published on Types of Arugulas © Insteading| Insteading
In the past, I’ve had a love-hate relationship with cucumbers. I loved their crisp, sweet flavor, so cooling to crunch on a hot summer day, and the way their aroma filled the kitchen with a fresh scent. I hated when the summer droughts would come and deform my cucumber crop into awkwardly-shaped spheres with squiggles Originally published on Saving Cucumber Seeds © Insteading| Insteading
With plenty of culinary uses, parsley can be a valuable addition to your home garden. Get to know the two primary types of parsley and their unique varieties. Originally published on Types of Parsley © Insteading| Insteading
Mustard is one of the most nutritious leafy green you can grow at home. Aside from its versatile culinary uses, some mustard varieties can serve as cover crops to your vegetable garden. Originally published on Types of Mustard © Insteading| Insteading
Now that’s an old-fashioned favorite!” I came to a stand by my friend’s display of hollyhocks. “Purple, pink, red … these midsummer bloomers are real gems. Are they perennial?” “Actually, biennial,” she replied. “Alternate years?” I mused. “But yours grow every year.” “I collect the seeds and, yes, they can appear every year, but they Originally published on Hollyhocks © Insteading| Insteading
Peppers started out as a tiny berry hidden on perennial bushes in the mountains of Mexico and Central America, but they’ve come a long, long way since they were domesticated 6,000 years ago. Ever since people around the world got a taste of these spicy, sweet, colorful fruits, we don’t seem to be able to Originally published on Saving Pepper Seeds © Insteading| Insteading
Country life (or rural life for some folks): What sort of images come to your mind at this phrase? The beauty of nature on full display? The fresh smell of grass? Large open fields of grain under a picturesque blue sky with fluffy white clouds? A small town with cows lowing and sheep bleating in Originally published on Things They Don’t Tell You About Living in the Country © Insteading| Insteading
Swiss chard is a colorful leafy vegetable that can brighten up your garden and meals. Learn different varieties of swiss chard, their unique characteristics and growth needs with this comprehensive guide! Originally published on Types of Swiss Chard © Insteading| Insteading
Over the last couple of years, modern discussions about meat consumption have reached a strange, sensitive place. Some unequivocally state that all our global problems would be solved if we stopped eating meat and switched to alternative protein sources. Others staunchly defend their right to eat as much meat as they want, while still others Originally published on How to Feed a Family With a Cup of Meat or Less © Insteading| Insteading
“Isn’t that a weed?” I asked, staring at the gangly plant growing with vigor between the cracks of the patio. The white flowers dangled from tall stems that waved in the wind. My friend shrugged and chuckled. “One person’s weed is another person’s wildflower.” She reached down and tore off one of the leaves spread Originally published on All About Ribwort Plantain © Insteading| Insteading
Whether you like them raw or cooked, zucchinis are one of the most versatile crops you can grow a home. Discover different zucchini varieties and their unique traits with this comprehensive guide! Originally published on Types of Zucchini © Insteading| Insteading
“Don’t throw that out,” my friend scolded (I was about to compost the core of a lettuce head)! “Why not?” I asked. “It’ll grow more lettuce and provide you with an economical source of food. Most produce can easily be regrown, so to speak. Leafy veggies, root crops, and many others.” I was keen to Originally published on Growing Food From Scraps © Insteading| Insteading
Summer is waning, which means if you’re in elderberry territory — and most of us are — there are literal buckets on buckets of fruit available to anyone who doesn’t mind having purple fingers. If you read my last article on foraging for American elder, you should be a pro at finding and identifying this Originally published on Making American Elderberry Syrup © Insteading| Insteading
I have an awkward confession to make. I’m watching “The Office” for the first time (belatedly), and getting up to speed with all the jokes my friends made back in 2007. While I have enjoyed the show (all the while giving thanks that I don’t work in an office anymore), I couldn’t let this scene Originally published on The Difference Between Hay and Straw © Insteading| Insteading
Fire can be beautiful, pleasant, and calming when properly tended. Fire can also be hazardous and full of rage. Depending on where you find yourself homesteading in the United States, you may not be aware that it is wildfire season. For those of us who are in fire-prone areas, it feels strange to know there Originally published on Practicing Wildfire Safety on Your Homestead © Insteading| Insteading
Multiple uses of pumpkin make it one of the most beneficial crop to plant in your home garden. Get to know these popular pumpkin varieties and their unique characteristics before purchasing your seeds. Originally published on Types of Pumpkins © Insteading| Insteading
A particular quote comes to mind when I think of the patience required for a happy, healthy homestead: “The key to everything is patience. You get the chicken by hatching the egg, not by smashing it.” —A. H. Glasow I’ve been homesteading (in one way or another) since before I knew a term existed to Originally published on Homesteading Patience © Insteading| Insteading
I truly enjoy foraging in my neck of the Ozarks. As I venture out to collect the abundant wild spinach, pokeweed, and mulberries, my neighbors seem to think I’m mysteriously gifted with esoteric forest knowledge (which, of course, isn’t true), or just quaint and a little weird (which is actually pretty true). But for all Originally published on Foraging for American Elderberries: Identification and Harvest © Insteading| Insteading
“What’s that horrible smell?” I pinched my nose. As always, my friend’s sunroom was filled with plants of every description. But there was a new one that caught my attention, and I leaned in for a closer look. “It smells like skunk.” “You just brushed against the leaves of my latest addition. It’s called a Originally published on The Scaredy-Cat Plant © Insteading| Insteading
You’ve seen all the social media and glossy-paper magazine gardens. They’re lush. They’re perfectly weeded. Their plants are in proportioned rows without a single hole in any leaf, and they fill baskets of picturesque produce without a hitch. In short, they are photogenic perfection with huge amounts of repost-ability and very low amounts of achievability. Originally published on A Toast to the Realistic Garden © Insteading| Insteading
Summer is here, the air is warm, and you may be feeling the heat! Where I live in the central valley of California, the temperature has been tipping the scales at 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Whether or not you’re in extreme weather, it’s the time of year to talk about how to beat the heat and Originally published on Off-Grid Tips for Staying Cool Without Electricity © Insteading| Insteading
“Did you know this little treasure is actually a weed?” A friend was showing me the latest addition to her orchid family. “In countries like Cuba" she| Insteading
Melons are one of the best refreshing treats you can plant in your home garden. Get to know various types of melons, ranging from the common honeydew to rarer varieties of cantaloupe!| Insteading
Crisp and nutritious, radish is a well-known root crop with varieties suitable for planting in spring, summer, or winter. Before growing your radishes at home, learn the unique characteristics of common radish varieties.| Insteading
When you imagine a "garden," what comes to mind? Ripe, red tomatoes? Golden stands of jewel-like corn? Green beans, squash, potatoes, and peppers? These| Insteading
Now that we've covered how to find your land, build your home, and keep things warm or cold in the previous article, let's get into the nitty gritty of| Insteading
“Butterfly gardens,” she answered, pausing to read more. “People are becoming more astute about planting pollinator-friendly plants. There are public gardens| Insteading
