Cultivate a thriving homestead with insights from our seasoned writers, offering advice on a spectrum of topics from sustainable practices to hands-on experiences.
shop suppliesMeet Jill Ragan, the heart and soul behind Whispering Willow Farm, nestled in the picturesque hill country of Central Arkansas. Jill's journey in garden-growing and homesteading spans over a decade. Her story is one of passion and resilience, marked by a deep connection to the land.
Drawing inspiration from her roots—an honest lineage of growerss who cultivated sustenance out of necessity and cultivated with unwavering passion—Jill's commitment to sustainable farming and her genuine love for the soil shine through in every aspect of Whispering Willow Farms.
Homesteading requires a wide range of skills, which means learning what you can now, even without land, will help you be better prepared if you ever have the desire or opportunity to expand your idea of homesteading to a plot of land. Being a homesteader is more about state of mind than owning the perfect acreage.
The best layout for a homestead vegetable garden often includes raised beds or rows oriented in a north-south direction to maximize sunlight exposure.
We recommend gradually starting with smaller sections and expanding as you gain experience and resources.
The best homemade compost is a balanced mixture of nitrogen-rich, green materials such as kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and fresh plant material, and carbon-rich, brown materials such as dried leaves, straw, and cardboard. It should also include adequate moisture and oxygen to support microbial activity and decomposition. Regular turning or aerating of the compost pile helps ensure proper decomposition and aeration. Aim for a diverse mix of organic materials and maintain the right balance of greens and browns to create nutrient-rich compost for your garden.