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It’s Cold Out There!

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 Take care of your health in these frigid temperatures!  As temperature drops protect your skin with  Extra Moisturizer Join our FB group  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086511424072 https://www.marykay.com/mclark/en-us

Build a beautiful garden

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  Sure, a garden of zinnias is a beautiful sight. Zinnias are easy to grow flowers that come in a wide variety of colors,shapes, and sizes. They are a great choice for beginner gardeners because they are relatively low-maintenance.   Here are some tips for planting a zinnia garden: Choose a location that gets full sun. Zinnias need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to bloom their best. Plant your zinnias in well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, you may need to amend it with sand or compost to improve drainage. Sow your zinnia seeds directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. You can also start your zinnia seeds indoors a few weeks before the last frost date and then transplant them outdoors once the seedlings are a few inches tall. Space your zinnia plants according to the variety. Dwarf zinnias can be spaced as close as 6 inches apart, while giant zinnias may need up to 3 feet of space between plants. Water your zinnia plants regularly, e...

Boer Goats on the Homestead

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  Boer goats can be a great addition to your farm, especially if you're interested in meat production. Here's a rundown on what you need to know about raising Boer goats: Before you get started: Research: Boer goats have specific needs. Research their temperament, typical health concerns, and any regulations in your area regarding raising livestock. Land and Fencing: Boer goats are active browsers and need ample space to roam. Aim for at least an acre per few goats, with additional space for kidding (birthing). They're known for being escape artists, so a secure fence at least 4 feet high is crucial. High-tensile electric fencing is a popular option. Shelter: Importance: While Boer goats are fairly hardy, they still need some protection from the elements. Provide a well-ventilated shelter with a dry floor, especially in harsh weather or for kidding does. Feeding: Grazing: Boer goats are primarily browsers, so good quality pasture is essential. Supplement the...

Chickens on the Homestead

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  Chickens can be a fantastic addition to your homestead! They provide fresh, delicious eggs, natural pest control around your garden, and even some entertainment with their quirky personalities. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know about raising chickens on your homestead: Getting Started: Research Local Laws: Before diving in, check your local ordinances to see if there are any restrictions on keeping chickens in your area. Breeds: There are many chicken breeds to choose from, each with its own temperament, egg production, and cold-hardiness. Popular choices for homesteading include Rhode Island Reds, Plymouth Rocks, and Buff Orpingtons.Consider your goals (eggs, meat, or both) and climate when selecting a breed. Chicks or Hens?: You can buy chicks and raise them from scratch, or purchase pullets (young hens) that are close to laying age. Chicks are adorable, but require more care and a brooder to keep them warm. Pullets provide eggs sooner but cost more upfront. ...

Raised flowerbeds

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  Raised flowerbeds are a fantastic way to add beauty and interest to your garden. They offer a number of advantages over traditional in-ground gardens, making them a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some of the benefits of raised flowerbeds: Improved Drainage: Raised beds allow for better drainage, which is essential for healthy plant growth. This is especially beneficial in areas with clay soil, which can retain too much water and drown plant roots. Better Soil Quality: You have complete control over the quality of the soil in your raised beds. You can fill them with a high-quality potting mix or garden soil that is amended with compost and other organic matter. This will give your plants a strong foundation for growth. Easier Maintenance: Raised beds are easier to maintain than traditional in-ground gardens. The sides of the bed help to keep weeds at bay, and you don't have to worry about tilling or amending the soil as often. Less Bac...

Raising Alpaca

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  Raising alpacas can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to do your research before bringing these adorable animals home. Alpacas are domesticated relatives of llamas, and they're known for their soft fleece, gentle nature, and grazing habits. Here's a basic overview of what you need to know about raising alpacas: Considerations before raising alpacas Climate: Alpacas are native to the Andes Mountains in South America, so they're adapted to cool, dry climates.They can do well in other climates, but they'll need shelter from extreme heat and humidity. Land: Alpacas are social animals, and they need enough space to roam and graze. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least 2 acres of land for a small herd of alpacas. Fencing: Alpacas are good at escaping from fences, so it's important to build a secure fence that's at least 5 feet tall. Shelter: Alpacas need a shelter to protect them from the elements. The shelter should be well-ventilate...

Watermelon patch

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  A watermelon patch is a field where watermelons are grown. They are large, sprawling vines that creep along the ground.The plants flower yellow flowers, and then produce large, round or oval fruit. The flesh of a watermelon is typically sweet and juicy, and it is a popular summer fruit. Watermelon patches are typically found in warm climates with plenty of sunshine. Watermelons need a lot of water to grow, so they are often grown in areas with irrigation. The fruits are harvested in the late summer or early fall, when they are