Urban Homesteads


Book Description

* A beautifully illustrated book to inspire any would-be urban homesteader, or anyone who wants to grow their own produce within arm's reach* Engaging descriptions of each project by the owners, detailing challenges and benefits, as well as tips and tricks from the experts* Covers a wide range of garden possibilities, including from the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and EuropeIn a fast-paced world with mega upheaval, including climate crises and a global pandemic, the allure of growing your own food, being self-sufficient, and living green is immense. This yearning for not being wholly reliant on the supermarket, and the growing concerns over pesticides and food miles has led to the resurgence in seeking old-world skills. As showcased in Urban Homesteads, the benefits of a productive garden on your doorstep or within arm's reach, tending to chickens, harvesting your own honey, and using eco-friendly water-harvesting techniques are clear: fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruit on tap, fresh eggs, delicious honey; plus living at a slower pace, better value for money, and a more soothing and mindful existence. Of course, a healthy garden and environment also attracts beneficial insects and birds. Get inspired with this book's range of eco-friendly possibilities from around the globe. With beautiful full-color photos, gathered here are stories of people who have set up their own productive and abundant back yard or patio, as well as examples of great vertical planters, indoor gardens, and those who have reached into the urban community allotment. Use this book to start your own journey with an urban homestead lifestyle, with lots of generous tips, modern green concepts as well as a twist of modern, technically savvy know-how. All the practical guidance you need on how to be the change you want to see.




Rural Renaissance


Book Description

In the ’60s it was called the "back to the land" movement, and in Helen and Scott Nearings’ day, it was "living the good life." Whatever the term, North Americans have always yearned for a simpler way. But how do you accomplish that today? Blending inspiration with practical how-to’s, Rural Renaissance captures the American dream of country living for contemporary times. Journey with the authors and experience their lessons, laughter and love for the land as they trade the urban concrete maze for a five-acre organic farm and bed and breakfast in southwestern Wisconsin. Rural living today is a lot more than farming. It’s about a creative, nature-based and more self-sufficient lifestyle that combines a love of squash, solar energy, skinny-dipping and serendipity . . . The many topics explored in Rural Renaissance include: "right livelihood" and the good life organic gardening and permaculture renewable energy and energy conservation wholesome organic food, safe water and a natural home simplicity, frugality and freedom green design and recycled materials community, friends and raising a family independence and interdependence wildlife conservation and land stewardship. An authentic tale of a couple whose pioneering spirit and connection to the land reaches out to both the local and global community to make their dream come true, Rural Renaissance will appeal to a wide range of Cultural Creatives, free agents, conservation entrepreneurs and both arm-chair and real-life homesteaders regardless of where they live. Lisa Kivirist and John Ivanko are innkeepers, organic growers, copartners in a marketing consulting company, and have previously published books. John is also a photographer. Former advertising agency fast-trackers, they are nationally recognized for their contemporary approach to homesteading, conservation and more sustainable living. They share their farm with their son, two llamas, and a flock of free-range chickens. Rural Renaissance also offers a foreword by Bill McKibben.




The Urban Homesteading Catalogue


Book Description













Urban Homesteading Mastery


Book Description

Step into a world where concrete jungles become lush, edible oases. "Urban Homesteading Mastery" is your comprehensive guide to transforming your city dwelling into a sustainable, thriving homestead, where self-sufficiency is not only possible but highly rewarding. Embark on an enlightening journey through 18 comprehensive chapters that meticulously guide you from welcoming the urban homesteading concept into your life, to mastering the advanced techniques that will make your green dreams a flourishing reality. Dive into the compact yet incredibly potent spaces of balcony, patio, and window gardens in Chapter 2. Picture your very own balcony oasis, bursting with life, providing fresh, organic produce at your fingertips. Navigate the intricate complexities of urban soil in Chapter 3, learning the secrets to creating a goldmine for growth, right in your apartment or small city lot. Water, the source of all life, takes on new meaning as you uncover the innovative techniques of collection and management in Chapter 4, ensuring every precious drop supports your homesteading endeavors without waste. The tantalizing allure of your own food crops beckons as Chapter 5 takes you through the essentials of container gardening, crop selection, and succession planting – all you need for a year-round harvest. Experience the joy of plucking ripe fruit from your very own urban orchard in Chapter 6, and discover the buzz of urban beekeeping in Chapter 7. Meanwhile, Chapter 8 illuminates the path to energy independence through renewable solutions tailored for the bustling cityscape. Savor the fruits of your labor long-term with the preservation insights in Chapter 9, giving you a taste of summer in the depths of winter. Connect with your community in Chapter 10, creating a network of like-minded urban homesteaders, and embark on exciting DIY projects as outlined in Chapter 11. Chapters 12 through 17 will invite you to explore the nuanced elements of foraging, holistic health, and innovative agricultural techniques – all while maintaining an eco-conscious and financially savvy approach to city living. Finally, ponder the promising horizon of urban homesteading with Chapter 18's visionary prospects for a greener, more sustainable world. "Urban Homesteading Mastery" is not just a guide – it's a gateway to a lifestyle transformation where self-reliance and urban living harmoniously blend. No matter the size of your dwelling, unleash the homesteader within, and make every square inch count. Embrace this journey toward a greener, healthier, and more fulfilled life in the heart of the city – no backyard required. Welcome to your homesteading future; it's ripe for the taking.




The Prairie Homestead Cookbook


Book Description

Jill Winger, creator of the award-winning blog The Prairie Homestead, introduces her debut The Prairie Homestead Cookbook, including 100+ delicious, wholesome recipes made with fresh ingredients to bring the flavors and spirit of homestead cooking to any kitchen table. With a foreword by bestselling author Joel Salatin The Pioneer Woman Cooks meets 100 Days of Real Food, on the Wyoming prairie. While Jill produces much of her own food on her Wyoming ranch, you don’t have to grow all—or even any—of your own food to cook and eat like a homesteader. Jill teaches people how to make delicious traditional American comfort food recipes with whole ingredients and shows that you don’t have to use obscure items to enjoy this lifestyle. And as a busy mother of three, Jill knows how to make recipes easy and delicious for all ages. "Jill takes you on an insightful and delicious journey of becoming a homesteader. This book is packed with so much easy to follow, practical, hands-on information about steps you can take towards integrating homesteading into your life. It is packed full of exciting and mouth-watering recipes and heartwarming stories of her unique adventure into homesteading. These recipes are ones I know I will be using regularly in my kitchen." - Eve Kilcher These 109 recipes include her family’s favorites, with maple-glazed pork chops, butternut Alfredo pasta, and browned butter skillet corn. Jill also shares 17 bonus recipes for homemade sauces, salt rubs, sour cream, and the like—staples that many people are surprised to learn you can make yourself. Beyond these recipes, The Prairie Homestead Cookbook shares the tools and tips Jill has learned from life on the homestead, like how to churn your own butter, feed a family on a budget, and experience all the fulfilling satisfaction of a DIY lifestyle.