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What a weekend it has been! From First Bananas to the Surprise Hatchlings on Our Homestead, it has not been a dull moment! As a homesteader, every day on our little piece of land brings new lessons and excitement. This past weekend, however, was particularly special, filled with delightful surprises that will surely become cherished memories. From our first crop of bananas to the unexpected hatchlings of turkeys and chickens, I invite you to join me as I share the magic that unfolded right here at our homestead. The First Bananas on Our Tree The excitement began when I strolled through our garden on Saturday morning. I was on a mission to check on our fruit trees when something bright and red caught my eye. Could it be? I rushed over only to be greeted by a delightful sight: bananas! Growing Bananas Finally, after two years of nurturing, one of our banana plants had borne fruit! The little green bananas are still developing and will take a few months to ripen before begging to be picked. I stood there and marveled at Mother Nature, but my mind is already racing with ideas. Imagine this: homemade banana bread, creamy smoothies, or fluffy banana pancakes! The possibilities seem endless, and knowing these fruits come from our own garden will make them taste even sweeter. Harvesting Forgotten Onions The banana excitement didn’t stop there. As I moved through the garden, making a diagram for Chris so he'd know which beds to clear, I came across a garden bed where I had planted onions earlier in the season. Life had gotten busy, and it slipped my mind. When I finally made my way over, I was pleasantly surprised to see Onions peeking through the soil. With a little digging, I unearthed a generous harvest of vibrant onions! Granex Hybrid Onions These onions ranged from medium-sized to big and will be bursting with flavor. They were a reminder of how rewarding it is to grow your own food. I could already picture caramelized onions sizzling in a pan, enhancing a comforting soup, or adding a crunchy twist to fresh salads. I hung them up to cure on our deck, knowing they will taste much better than any store-bought variety. The experience highlighted the priceless connection we have with our food and nature for me as it is always a rush to harvest something we grew ourselves! The Surprise Hatchling Bonanza The weekend surprises were still unfolding. While enjoying my banana and onion discoveries, our morning was not over yet. While walking over to show a friends a Jersey Giant Flock they were considering buying from us, we heard unexpected peeping sounds coming from the run. Intrigued, we looked down and here comes our Turkey Hen Romulus with two newly hatched Turkey Chicks AND two newly hatched jersey Giant Chicks. The Chickens loved the Turkey nest so much that they had squeezed in there with the Turkeys to lay some eggs too and Romulus simply tugged them in with her own batch. What I found was heartwarming. Our turkey hen, who had been patiently sitting on her nest, had finally hatched her eggs - not just turkeys, but also a few adorable little chicks! Turkey Hen with Turkey and Chicken Chicks There they were, fluffy little bodies covered in soft down, peeping and wobbling around their mother. It was a delightful sight that reminded me why I love being a homesteader. Seeing life emerge from our hard work makes every late night and early morning worth it. I squealed in delight, soaking in the moment as the mother hen lovingly guided her hatchlings. These curious little creatures were exploring their new world, a reminder of life's beauty. She simply accepted them as her own. Sadly, the next morning, we discovered one of the Jersey Chicks had not made it and unfortunately, as much as new life is part of homesteading, so is death. Bringing It All Together With my harvest of onions and new bananas, I felt energized and inspired. This is the essence of homesteading; it is about embracing little surprises and moments of joy. The satisfaction of growing your own food, caring for animals, and watching nature thrive is unmatched. By the end of the weekend, we had gotten quite a bit done outside. As for the hatchlings, I look forward to watching them grow and integrate into our farm life. A Reflection on the Weekend Weekends on our homestead are always full of adventure, and this past one was a beautiful reminder of that. From our first bananas to a bountiful onion harvest and the adorable hatchlings, I felt a wave of gratitude. Each surprise brought smiles and renewed my passion for homesteading. If you are a fellow homesteader, I encourage you to enjoy the simple pleasures and surprises that come your way. From planting to harvesting, remember that every step of this journey is as enriching as the food we grow. Cheers to more weekend surprises and the joy of living close to the land! I cannot wait to see what the next weekend has in store for us!

Mulberries are enchanting little fruits that can bring a burst of sweetness to your garden and your palate. Whether you're an experienced gardener or someone just starting out, growing mulberries can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this post, we'll explore the intriguing world of mulberries, covering how to cultivate them and when to pick them for the best flavor. The Beauty of Mulberries Mulberries are not just tasty; they are incredibly versatile. You can use them in pies, jams, or enjoy them fresh off the tree. Many people say their flavor is a delightful mix of blackberries and raspberries, although we find they are just sweet little juicy, seedless delights! These berries can thrive in a variety of climates, making them accessible for many gardeners. With their lovely heart-shaped leaves and dense branches, mulberry trees also enhance the beauty of your landscape, plus you can make Mulberry tea from the leaves! Additionally, the trees create shelters for birds and pollinators, enriching the biodiversity of your garden. Choosing the Right Variety Selecting the right type of mulberry tree is crucial for successful growth. Here are the three main varieties: Red Mulberries : Known for their rich and sweet flavor, red mulberries grow well in most areas and adapt to a variety of soil conditions. In regions with moderate climate, these trees can yield up to 40 pounds of fruit per tree annually. We just purchased a Pakistani Mulberry about 4 weeks ago so the jury is still out on how it produces for us. White Mulberries : Often grown for their leaves, which feed silkworms, white mulberries are also tasty when eaten fresh. These trees are drought-resistant and can thrive in poor soil. We have one white mulberry tree in our yard, but it is still young and is now just slowly starting to produce berries in year two. Black Mulberries : Black mulberries are particularly sweet and can be a great choice if you prefer intense, sweet flavors. On average, black mulberry trees can produce 30 to 50 pounds of fruit per year, depending on their environment. We have an everbearing mulberry that with some tips and tricks produces about 3 flushes of berries all year long. Consider your growing area and personal taste when choosing your variety and research what is best for your growing zone. Ideal Growing Conditions Mulberries are quite adaptable but thrive best under certain conditions. Here are some recommendations to ensure optimal growth: Sunlight : Mulberry trees need full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily, yep, even full-on Florida sun. Proper sunlight encourages healthy growth and abundant fruit. Water : While mature trees can be drought-tolerant, young trees need regular watering until they are established. Consistent moisture during dry spells helps them flourish. HINT : If you plant them right before the rainy season starts, you do not have to worry about watering them. Space : Mulberry trees can grow large, so planting them about 20 feet apart is ideal for allowing ample room for growth. Pruning : Regular pruning is essential, especially in the early years, to encourage air circulation and shape the trees for better growth. Unfortunately, we have not stayed on top of that and are now struggling to get to the tallest branches. I guess it's more for the birds, right? :) Everbearing Mulberry Tree Planting Mulberry Trees Planting mulberry trees is a simple process, making it perfect for gardeners of all skill levels. Follow these steps for success: Select Your Location : Pick a sunny spot with good drainage, avoiding areas prone to pooling water because they do not like that much. Prepare the Soil : Enhance the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for better fertility. We opt to grow pretty much everything in compost, so compost is what we usually choose. Dig a Hole : Make a hole about twice the size of the root ball, ensuring that the depth matches the height of the root ball. This is solid advice if you plant an adult tree, but Mulberry propagation is so super simple because you can just cut a branch of a tree and stick it straight into the ground. 99% of the time it will take! Position the Tree : Place the tree in the hole, keeping the root flare level with the soil surface. Backfill the Hole : Fill in around the roots with the original soil, gently packing it to eliminate air pockets. This allows it to be sturdy. Water Well : After planting, give the tree a thorough watering to settle the soil. Mulch : Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to help retain moisture and control weeds. Here in Florida, that is just about a must-do for all things. Caring for Your Mulberry Trees Once planted, proper care is crucial for a fruitful harvest. Here are some care tips: Watering : Consistent watering is vital, especially during dry spells and in the first few years. Since we go through rainy season here in Florida we generally do not worry about it since we propagate right at the start of rainy season and so the watering takes care of itself. Fertilizing : Mulberries don’t need heavy feeding, but applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring can boost growth, in short you can just toss a cup of 10-10-10 at the base and that will do the job. Pest Control : Watch out for pests like aphids and spider mites. Using neem oil can be an effective natural solution, although the only thing we've ever had an issue with was Silkworms (Yep, the ones that spin actual Silk!). We tackle that by catching it early on and cutting off the effective branch, and feeding it to our chickens. They love a good Silkworm! Weed Control : Regularly pull weeds and grass around your trees to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Harvesting Mulberries After all your hard work, it’s time for the rewarding harvest! Mulberries typically ripen between late spring and early summer, depending on the variety and climate. Here’s how to determine when they are ready to pick: Color : Ripe black mulberries should be deep purple to black, while red ones should have a vibrant hue. Firmness : Ripe berries feel plump but slightly soft when squeezed. Drop Test : Gently shake the branches; ripe mulberries will easily fall. All over the Place. They will also turn everything purple so gloves are a solid choice! Mulberry harvest contraption As you can see above, this year, we are using 4 electric fence poles and a big queen-sized fitted sheet to catch all of the mulberries. We simply shake each branch (much like an Olive tree is harvested in Italy) and move the contraption around the tree to catch our harvest. It beats purple fingers and is much faster ;) Enjoying Your Harvest Once your mulberries are picked, the fun really begins! Here are some delightful ways to enjoy them: Fresh Eating : They make a delicious and healthy snack straight from the tree. They are rather addicting as well but if you're going for healthy snacking, this one is golden! Baking : Use them in muffins, pies, or crumbles for a tasty treat that showcases their sweet flavor. You can make just about the same things with mulberries that you can make with Blueberries, Raspberries or any other type of berry. Preserves : Mulberries are perfect for making jams, allowing you to enjoy their flavor long after harvesting them. And if you've never had Mulberry jam, you're in for a treat! Smoothies : You can also blend them into smoothies or even turn them into ice cream. 3rd harvest of one of our trees A few hints and tricks! Two years ago, we came across a YouTube video (see below) which was about a Mulberry Farmer in the Phillipines. Every 3-4 months, he cuts back all of his branches by 50% and defoliates all of his trees. He provides the scientific reason for this about 4:30 minutes into the video. As you can imagine, the idea seems bizarre, and the first time we did this, we nearly choked at the idea but thought, let's do it and see what happens. So we did precisely that, and 2 months later, we had brand new leaves, brand new berries, a healthy tree, and most amazing, a whole new flush of Berries, and the tree was loaded again! Ever since, this is what we do every year and we enjoy three full flushes of Berries throughout the year! Thats'a LOT of Mulberries! So, don't wait! Get a mulberry tree or a cutting, plant it in your garden, and soon you will experience the sweet delight of your very own mulberries!

Growing tomatoes can be a delightful and rewarding experience, especially in sunny Florida, where warm weather creates ideal gardening conditions. Among the many varieties of tomatoes, Everglade tomatoes stand out for their sweet flavor, bite-sized perfection, and near-indestructible nature. Imagine plucking fresh, juicy little flavor-bomb tomatoes right from your backyard! This post will guide you through the process of growing Everglade tomatoes here in Florida, ensuring you can enjoy a bountiful harvest. Why Choose Everglade Tomatoes? Everglade tomatoes are small, bite-sized fruits that pack a punch with their sweet taste. With varieties like red as well as yellow, you can add versatility to your dishes. Whether in snacks, salads, or as a flavor booster in meals, these delightful gems taste what a tomato SHOULD taste like! Growing Everglade tomatoes in Florida is straightforward since they thrive in warm climates. With the right conditions and a little care, you will find them easy to grow and nearly maintenance-free, offering you both beauty and flavor. Preparing the Soil Healthy soil is the foundation of any successful garden. To prepare your bed for currant tomatoes, follow these steps: Choose the Right Spot : Everglade tomatoes thrive in full sun (Yes, Florida full sun!), requiring at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. A south or west-facing garden is ideal. Soil Testing : Conduct a simple soil test to determine pH levels and nutrients. Everglade tomatoes grow well in slightly acidic to neutral soil, ideally between a pH of 6.0 and 7.0. but they aren't horribly picky! Amend the Soil : Based on your soil test results, consider adding organic matter. For instance, incorporating 2-3 inches of compost can improve drainage and nutrient levels, creating a rich environment for your tomatoes. From our experience, compost is the way to go for just about everything in our garden. Once your soil is prepared, it is time to transplant your seedlings or sow seeds so they can soak up that warm Florida sun. Planting Your Everglade Tomatoes Timing is essential when planting Everglades. In Florida, late winter to early spring or late summer are the best times to plant. Follow these guidelines: Seedlings vs. Seeds : You can start with seedlings from a nursery or plant seeds directly in the garden. If planting seeds, space them about 1/4 inch deep. Spacing : Ensure good air circulation by placing plants 18 to 24 inches apart. This spacing allows room for growth and helps prevent diseases. Watering : After planting, water your plants thoroughly. Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging, as too much moisture can lead to root rot. Once the plants are in the ground, you'll soon see vibrant green leaves emerging! Caring for Your Plants Proper care is vital for the success of your Everglade tomatoes. Here are essential tips to keep your plants thriving: Watering : Maintain soil moisture consistently, especially during dry spells. Aim for about 1-2 inches of water per week. Avoid wetting the leaves to reduce the risk of disease. Mulching : Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around your plants. This helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps soil temperatures stable. Fertilizing : Use a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season. An NPK fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 can provide the necessary nutrients during the early stages. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks for optimal growth. Once your plant starts to flower and fruit, a higher phosphorus and potassium content like 5-10-10 comes in handy. That said though, Everglades can thrive perfectly without any fertilizer, depending on where and how you originally planted it. With a little care and attention, you can look forward to a fruitful harvest! Managing Pests and Diseases While Everglades are pretty much drought-resistant, bug and disease-resistant, and like the heat, do take into consideration that occasionally, even healthy plants may encounter pests and diseases. Here are common threats to watch for: Pests : Keep an eye out for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. You can manage them using insecticidal soap or attract beneficial insects like ladybugs to your garden. Personally, we opt for the Ladybug approach here. Diseases : Monitor your plants for signs of diseases like blight or mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize these risks. Air Circulation is much less of a problem with Everglades due to their growing structure. Regularly inspect your plants and quickly address any concerns for the best results. Time to Harvest Your Everglade Tomatoes After weeks of care, it’s finally time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Currant tomatoes typically mature in about 60-70 days after planting. Here’s how to tell when they are ripe: Color : Look for bright, vibrant colors—red or yellow, depending on the variety. Texture : The tomatoes should feel firm yet slightly soft to the touch, indicating they are ready to eat. Picking : Use scissors or clippers to carefully harvest the tomatoes. This protects the plant and allows for continued growth. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce even more tomatoes, so keep a close eye on your garden! Your Gardening Adventure Awaits and Helful Tips Growing Everglades tomatoes in Florida is an exciting journey that brings delicious rewards to your kitchen while allowing you to connect with nature. Everglade Tomatoes will grow like a bush, so trying to contain them upright is often a pointless venture as these do not like to be contained. They will also very likely self seed simply from a dropped tomato and don't be surprised if they pop up elsewhere on your property as well LOL Enjoy growing those little perfect Flavor Bombs!

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