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Beginning Homesteader Basics
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items If you are just getting started in your homestead journey, no matter how big or how small, these are some items that you absolutely must have.
Sections
2
Preserving/Canning
Chicken Keeping
Preserving/Canning
A pressure canner will come in super handy for putting up vegetables, stock, and much more. This model has a wiggle weight so no need for a gauge. As long as the weight is doing a steady “hula dance” you’re good!
Presto 16 Quart Pressure Canner
If you’re canning, canning jars are a necessity. I actually prefer the Mainstays brand over the Ball brand.
Mainstays Regular Mouth 16 oz Mason Jars 12pk, Pint Canning Jars and Lids
Water bath canning doesn’t have to be complicated. A tall enough stock pot that allows you to have 1-2” of water over the top of your jars is really all you need.
Mainstays 12 Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot
You don’t need anything fancy for your canning tools. This basic kit will do just fine.
Canning Supplies Starter Kit, 6 Piece Set
Chicken Keeping
If you decide to have backyard chickens, a brooder heating plate is a must. It is so much safer and easier than a heat lamp. It also uses less electricity.
Chick Brooder Heating Plate
Even if you only have 6 chickens, go for the 10lb feeder not the 7lb. You’ll save yourself time on having to refill it.
Flock Party 10 lb. Hanging Poultry Feeder
If you live where it gets cold in the winter you will need a way to keep your chickens’ water from freezing. I have tried different waterers and methods but this waterer is by far the best one I have used.
Farm Innovators Heated Chicken Waterer 2 Gallon
I used a traditional style chick waterer for the first week or so then switch to this. Less mess and helps teach the chicks how to use a nipple since I use that style waterer with the big chickens.
ZenxyHoC Baby Chick Waterer 0.26 Gal Nipple
I love this food for my hens in the fall and into winter when they are molting. It gives them the support they need nutritionally. I also think it helps the molt stop sooner.
Nutrena NatureWise 20% Protein Feather Fixer Pellet Poultry Feed