How to Start Homesteading Without a Farm: 3 Simple Steps for a Sustainable Lifestyle
When you think of homesteading, the image of sprawling land and a self-sufficient farm might come to mind. But you don’t need a huge farm or acres of land to embrace a homesteading lifestyle. All it takes is a positive attitude and a mindset geared toward sustainability. Whether you live in a city apartment or a suburban home, there are easy ways to start your journey toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Here are three simple steps to begin your homesteading journey.
1. Start in the Kitchen
Your kitchen is the heart of your home, and it’s the perfect place to begin your homesteading journey. You don’t have to start with the most challenging tasks, like making sourdough bread (though it’s a great skill to learn!). Instead, start small with manageable changes that make a big difference.
- Bake Your Own Bread: Begin by baking your own bread. It’s simpler than you might think and doesn’t require any special skills. The satisfaction of pulling a fresh loaf out of the oven is unmatched.
- Homemade Staples: Experiment with making your own butter and seasoning mixes. Not only do they taste better, but they also reduce your reliance on store-bought, processed foods. We make our own ranch, taco seasoning, and other spice blends.
- Sustainable Kitchen Swaps: Switch from plastic containers to glass, and replace plastic wrap with beeswax wraps. These small changes can significantly reduce your kitchen waste.
- Learn Canning: Canning is an excellent skill for preserving seasonal produce and reducing food waste. Start with simple recipes and work your way up.
2. Embrace Gardening
You don’t need a big backyard to grow your own food. Even if you’re living in an apartment, gardening is still an option.
- Container Gardening: If you have a patio or balcony, you can easily start a container garden. Research plants that thrive in your zone, and start with easy-to-grow varieties like peppers, strawberries, lettuce, and herbs.
- Hydroponics: No outdoor space? No problem! Hydroponic systems allow you to grow herbs, lettuce, and even cherry tomatoes right on your kitchen counter. I started with a small hydroponic system and loved it so much that I expanded to a larger setup in my classroom to teach kids about growing their own food.
3. Buy Local
While having a garden that supplies all your produce might not be feasible, you can still support a sustainable lifestyle by buying local.
- Farmers Markets: Purchase produce, meat, eggs, and dairy from local farmers’ markets. Not only are you supporting your local economy, but you’re also reducing the carbon footprint of your food.
- Sustainable Meat Options: Consider buying a quarter or half cow from a local cattle ranch. It’s a great way to ensure that your meat is sourced sustainably.
- Refillable Stores: Look for stores in your area that offer refillable options for body products and cleaning supplies. Bringing your own containers helps cut down on single-use plastic waste.
By making these simple changes, you can begin your journey toward a homesteading lifestyle no matter where you live. Remember, it’s not about doing everything at once; it’s about taking small steps that lead to a more sustainable and fulfilling life.