Black Oil Sunflower Seeds vs Corn for Chickens

We use Black Oil Sunflower Seeds (BOSS) for our chickens instead of corn. Especially in colder weather, I supplement our birds extra protein, where most people supplement more grain, usually corn. I have a few reasons for doing it differently. First off, BOSS is roughly 17% protein, 44% fat, 24% NDF (fiber)ยน Corn, however, is … Continue reading Black Oil Sunflower Seeds vs Corn for Chickens

Rushing Winter Prep

It. Is. Cold! Last year we had a much more mild transition from fall to winter. This year, we had a ton of autumn rain and it snapped cold pretty quickly. I'm already having to break up frozen chicken water! Good grief. So much for living in the south. Anyway, with all the rain, my … Continue reading Rushing Winter Prep

More Winter Work

This weekend we've been focusing on the hugelkultur swale. And by we, I mean I've been telling my husband what needs to get done and he's been doing it... Because the 3rd trimester of pregnancy turns me into a foreman rather than a laborer... Until actual labor happens... Anyway, we had a ton of weeds … Continue reading More Winter Work

Shaggy Maple Homestead Update

We applied for our agricultural sales and use tax exemption! It's supposed to take about 3 weeks to hear back from the state. I don't really know why I'm so nervous; worst case scenario we're told "no" until we actually sell some of our produce. In other news, we are awaiting to hear from a … Continue reading Shaggy Maple Homestead Update

Over Wintering our Chickens

We've had some below freezing temps. As such, our concerns for the chickens are 3 fold: There are a couple going through a molt, so they lack feathers for body heat retention. Their water has been freezing. There's less sunlight and they aren't laying as prolifically as in the summer. The first issue of molt … Continue reading Over Wintering our Chickens