Julie Martin

Do Pigs Need a Wallow?

Pigs have a natural inclination to wallow, particularly in hot weather, to cool down and protect their skin from the sun. But when it comes to raising pigs on pasture or using paddock rotation systems, the question often arises: do pigs really need a wallow? The answer is yes, wallows are imperative for pigs, but managing them effectively requires careful...Read More

How to Use a Pressure Canner: A Comprehensive Guide

Pressure canning is an essential method for preserving low-acid foods like meats, vegetables, and broths. Unlike water bath canning, pressure canning reaches higher temperatures, ensuring food safety and that harmful bacteria are eliminated. This guide will teach you how to use a pressure canner, providing a step-by-step process for canning bone broth, meats, fish, vegetables, and beans. User manuals are...Read More

Starting a Homestead: Agricultural Exempt Taxes

When Neil told me he wanted big acreage in the country, I told him it was a pipe dream. Then I learned about agricultural exempt property taxes in Texas and suddenly swapping our City of Austin taxes for agricultural exempt land made our initial 20 acre purchase feasible. Embarking on the journey of homesteading brings a myriad of rewards: self-sufficiency,...Read More

Natural Treatment and Prevention for Fleas on Dogs, Puppies, Cats, and Kittens of All Ages

Flea infestations can cause significant discomfort and health issues for pets and their families. A holistic approach to flea prevention and treatment includes natural remedies, environmental control, and preventive strategies. Here’s a comprehensive plan for managing and preventing flea infestations in dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens. Understanding Fleas and Their Lifecycle Fleas are parasitic insects that feed on the blood...Read More

The Allure of Pink Verbena: Cultivation, Symbolism, and Ecological Significance

Pink Verbena (Glandularia pumila), with its delicate petals and enduring beauty, stands as a testament to nature's artistry and resilience. Native of North and South America, this captivating perennial offers not only visual delight but also ecological benefits and cultural significance. Let's dive into the world of Pink Verbena, from its cultivation techniques to its symbolic meaning and contributions to...Read More

Hoary Bowlesia: From Growth Habitat to Culinary and Medicinal Wonders

Despite its unassuming appearance, Hoary Bowlesia (Bowlesia incana) holds a plethora of uses, from culinary delights to medicinal remedies. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into its growth habitat, nutrient profile, medicinal uses, and provide step-by-step recipes and remedies. Growth Habitat: Hoary Bowlesia thrives in dry, rocky soils and can be found adorning roadsides, meadows, and disturbed areas here in...Read More

The Wonders of Wild Geranium: Cultivation, Identification, and Medicinal Potential

Nestled within the serene landscapes of North America, Wild Geranium (Geranium carolinianum) is revered for its delicate allure and diverse array of applications. This native perennial plant, adorned with lobed leaves and charming pink to lavender blossoms, graces woodlands, meadows, and prairies with its presence. In this article, I unveil the splendor of Wild Geranium, exploring its cultivation techniques, identification...Read More

Henbit: A Guide to Identification, Harvesting, and Utilization

Amidst verdant landscapes across the globe, a humble yet versatile herbaceous plant known as Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) emerges as a delightful botanical treasure. From its distinctive purple flowers to its nutrient-rich leaves, Henbit offers a bounty of benefits for foragers and herbalists alike. Identification and Habitat: Henbit can be identified by its square stems, opposite leaves with rounded edges that...Read More

Discovering Shepherd’s Purse: A Herbal Gem for Health and Harmony

Shepherd's Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris), is a resilient herbal ally that deserves a prime spot in your wellness toolkit. Let's unravel the mysteries of this remarkable herb. Where It Grows: Shepherd's Purse is a hardy herbaceous plant that can be found across various planting zones, ranging from USDA zones 3 to 9. It favors disturbed soil in locations such as fields,...Read More

Cultivating Change: The Social Impact of Organic Cotton Farming

In the sprawling fields where cotton blossoms under the sun, a quiet revolution is underway—one that goes beyond sustainable agriculture and reaches deep into the social fabric of communities. Organic cotton farming, with its commitment to environmental stewardship, is not only about cultivating a cleaner, greener crop but also about sowing seeds of positive change in the lives of those...Read More