Spring! Clifton always says there’s nothing quite like the feeling of the earth waking up, and he’s right. The air is sweeter, the days are longer, and the little ones, well, they just make it all brighter. And speaking of little ones, our spring chicks are thriving, chirping their way into our hearts (and soon, the coop!). But knowing when to move those fluffy bundles of joy from the cozy brooder to the big, wide world outside is key to their health and happiness.

The most important factor? Temperature. Those little chicks need consistent warmth. They arrive from the hatchery unable to regulate their own body temperature, and rely entirely on you to provide the proper conditions. In the brooder, we start them off around 95 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week, lowering it by 5 degrees each week after that. We use a heat lamp and keep a close watch on their behavior. If they’re huddled together directly under the lamp, they’re too cold. If they’re panting and spread out away from the heat, they’re too hot. Happy chicks are active, eating, drinking, and exploring.

Outside, we're looking for consistently warm weather. Daytime temperatures should be consistently above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and nighttime temperatures shouldn't dip below 50 degrees. A sudden cold snap can be devastating to young chicks, even if they're feathered out. We usually aim for late spring, around May here at Trinity Falls Farm, but it depends on the year.

Feather development is another key indicator. Fully feathered chicks are much better equipped to handle the elements. Check their wings, back, and chests. If they still have bare patches or downy feathers, they're not quite ready for the fluctuations of outdoor temperatures. This usually takes about 6-8 weeks, coinciding with the temperature guidelines.

Before the big move, we start acclimating them to the outdoors. On warm, sunny days, we’ll put their brooder, or a small pen, outside for a few hours, allowing them to experience fresh air and sunshine. This helps them adjust to the change in environment and get used to the sights and sounds of the farm. It also helps them build immunity to outdoor bugs and pathogens.

When we finally do move them, we make sure their coop is secure, draft-free, and well-bedded with clean, dry straw. We also make sure they have easy access to food and water. It's a good idea to confine them to the coop for the first few days, allowing them to adjust to their new surroundings and learn where their food and water are located. After a few days, we’ll let them out to explore their run, always keeping a watchful eye for predators.

Moving chicks outside is a rewarding milestone. Watching them scratch, peck, and explore their new world brings so much joy to Clifton and me. With a little planning and attention to detail, you can ensure your spring chicks thrive and become happy, healthy members of your flock.

The Farm

Good morning from Trinity Falls Farm! Clifton is out early, tending to the south pasture – he's such a dedicated man. Makes my heart swell just watching him work the land.

We often think of homesteading as a return to simpler times, a life lived close to the earth and far from the distractions of modern technology. And while that's certainly true in many ways, completely shunning the digital world is like leaving a perfectly good tool rusting in the shed. Technology, used wisely, can be a powerful ally for the modern homesteader.

One of the most obvious benefits is expanding your reach. Perhaps you're looking to sell your surplus eggs, homemade jams, or hand-knitted wool socks. Setting up a simple online store, even just a Facebook page, can connect you with customers far beyond your local farmers market. Clifton is always amazed by the orders we get from folks who would have never known we existed otherwise. He says, "Carrie, you've built yourself a right proper little empire there!" And he's not wrong.

Beyond sales, technology can connect you with a vast network of knowledge. The internet is a treasure trove of information on everything from organic gardening techniques to raising chickens, preserving food, and even building your own solar power system. Need to diagnose a mysterious ailment in your prize-winning hen, Henrietta? A quick search can often point you in the right direction. Of course, it's important to vet your sources carefully. Look for reputable websites, university extension programs, and experienced homesteaders sharing their knowledge.

Social media, though often criticized, can be a powerful tool for building a community. Join online homesteading groups, share your experiences, ask questions, and learn from others. I've met so many wonderful people online who share my passion for this way of life. It's incredibly encouraging to know that you're not alone in your journey. Plus, it gives me a chance to share photos of Clifton looking ruggedly handsome while fixing the fence – a win-win, if you ask me!

Don't overlook the practical applications of technology on the farm itself. Weather apps can provide up-to-the-minute forecasts, helping you plan your planting schedule and protect your crops from frost. GPS technology can be used to map your property and plan irrigation systems. Even simple spreadsheets can be invaluable for tracking expenses, inventory, and yields, helping you manage your farm more efficiently. Clifton uses an app to track when to rotate the cattle, and he swears it saves him hours each week.

Of course, it's important to strike a balance. Don't let technology consume your life. Remember, the goal is to enhance your homesteading experience, not replace it. Set boundaries, limit your screen time, and prioritize spending time outdoors, connecting with nature, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

And most importantly, don't forget to unplug and spend quality time with the ones you love. There's nothing quite like sitting on the porch with Clifton, watching the sunset, and listening to the crickets sing.

The Farm

Howdy, folks! Carrie here, from Trinity Falls Farm. Clifton's out in the hayfield today, a sight that always makes my heart sing. While he's busy with that, I thought I'd chat with you about something near and dear to our hearts: raising meat rabbits. We've been doing it for years, and it's a truly rewarding endeavor. If you're considering starting your own rabbitry, you've come to the right place.

First things first, let's talk about breeds. For meat production, you want rabbits with good growth rates and a decent meat-to-bone ratio. New Zealand Whites, Californians, and Champagne d'Argents are all excellent choices. We personally raise New Zealand Whites; they're hardy, prolific, and they dress out beautifully. Do your research, though, and see which breed best suits your climate and preferences.

Next, you'll need housing. Rabbits need secure, clean, and dry hutches. Wire-bottom cages are common, as they allow droppings to fall through, keeping the rabbits cleaner. However, be mindful of wire gauge, as rabbits can develop sore hocks if the wire is too thin. We prefer a combination of wire and solid flooring with bedding to give them some relief. Adequate ventilation is crucial, especially in warmer climates. Protect your rabbits from predators like foxes, coyotes, and even the neighbor's dog. A well-built hutch, raised off the ground, will go a long way.

Feeding is another key aspect. A good quality rabbit pellet should be the base of their diet. Supplement with fresh greens, like clover, dandelion greens, and carrot tops. Avoid iceberg lettuce, as it has little nutritional value. Always provide fresh, clean water. We use automatic waterers, which save us time and ensure the rabbits always have access to hydration. Be sure to research safe and unsafe vegetables before feeding anything new.

Breeding rabbits is relatively straightforward. A doe (female rabbit) can be bred as early as five or six months, depending on the breed. The gestation period is about 31 days. Provide the doe with a nest box lined with hay or straw a few days before she's due to kindle (give birth). She'll usually pull fur from her belly to line the nest. Leave her alone as much as possible during this time to minimize stress. Keep a close eye on the kits (baby rabbits) to make sure they're healthy and nursing. Weaning usually occurs around four to six weeks.

Finally, let's touch on processing. This is perhaps the most challenging part for some. It's important to learn humane and efficient processing methods. There are many resources available online and in books. We recommend attending a workshop or finding a mentor who can teach you the proper techniques. Remember, raising meat rabbits is about providing healthy, sustainable food for your family and community.

Starting a rabbitry takes time, effort, and dedication, but it's an incredibly rewarding experience. There's nothing quite like knowing you're providing fresh, wholesome meat for your table. Clifton and I are always happy to share our experiences and knowledge with others, so don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.

The Farm

Hello friends! It's Carrie from Trinity Falls Farm, back with a subject near and dear to my heart – and to Clifton’s, of course. We all know how much Clifton loves his work and how he's always out there making sure our farm is running smoothly.

Today, let's talk about something that can significantly enrich a man’s life, especially a man who works hard and appreciates the beauty of the land: a horse. I know, I know, it might seem like a big commitment, but trust me, the rewards are immense. Here's why I believe your husband absolutely *needs* a horse:

A Connection to the Land: For a man who toils outdoors, a horse provides an unparalleled connection to the land. It's one thing to drive a tractor, but it's entirely different to feel the rhythm of a horse beneath you, traversing fields, crossing creeks, and truly experiencing the landscape. Clifton says it's like becoming one with the earth, feeling every contour and nuance. He speaks of the land and the horse together, like partners in a shared dance.

A Physical and Mental Challenge: Horses aren’t just lawn ornaments; they demand respect, skill, and patience. Learning to ride, care for, and train a horse is a constant challenge, pushing your husband to learn and grow. It's exercise, of course, but it is mental acuity and thoughtful problem solving.

A Stress Reliever: Life can be stressful, especially when running a farm or working a demanding job. There is something profoundly therapeutic about spending time with a horse. The quiet grooming sessions, the gentle nuzzles, the rhythmic sway of riding – it all melts away the day's worries. Clifton always comes back from a ride looking refreshed, and I find that a gift for us both.

A New Hobby (and a Shared One!): A horse introduces a whole new world of possibilities. From trail riding and Western games to dressage and even therapeutic riding, there are endless avenues to explore. Plus, it can become a wonderful shared hobby. I find myself learning as much as Clifton is and its wonderful learning something new with the man I love.

A Confidence Booster: There's something undeniably empowering about controlling a thousand-pound animal with just subtle cues and body language. Mastering horsemanship skills can significantly boost your husband's confidence, translating to other areas of his life. It's about trust, respect, and a quiet sort of authority.

A Practical Farmhand: While horses are wonderful companions, they can also be practical on a farm. From checking fences and herding livestock to light plowing or harrowing, a horse can be a valuable asset, reducing reliance on machinery and providing a sustainable alternative.

So, there you have it. These are just a few of the reasons why I believe your husband needs a horse. It's an investment in his well-being, his connection to the land, and his overall happiness. It's not just about the horse; it's about the life that horse can bring.

The Farm

There’s a certain kind of tired that only comes from homesteading. It’s a bone-deep satisfaction that settles in after a long day of honest work. I saw it on my husband’s face just yesterday. He’d spent the entire day in the sun, wrestling with that stubborn stretch of fence by the creek, and he came in covered in dirt, sweat, and a few fresh scratches. He was exhausted, but he was proud. In moments like that, a simple nod or a “thanks, dear” just doesn’t seem to cut it. A hard-working man deserves a proper reward, and a smart homestead wife knows that a little appreciation is the best fuel for keeping the whole farm running.

Life out here is a team sport, y'all. Between the critters, the garden, and the constant repairs, it’s far too easy to slip into being just business partners. You become a well-oiled machine of chores and to-do lists, and you can forget to be lovers and friends. Acknowledging your fella's hard work isn't about giving him a gold star like he’s a schoolboy. It's about showing him he's seen, that his effort is valued, and that he’s still the man who makes your heart flutter, even when he smells like sawdust and goat. It keeps the morale high and reminds you both that you’re building more than just a farm; you’re building a life together.

So, what does a good reward look like? Well, let’s start with the tried-and-true classics. You can never go wrong with his absolute favorite meal. Not the quick Tuesday night supper, but the Sunday-best pot roast or the from-scratch berry pie that tells him you were thinking of him all day. Have a cold beer or a tall glass of sweet tea waiting the moment he washes his hands. Sometimes the best gift is peace. Take the evening chores off his plate and tell him to go take a long, hot shower and put his feet up. A well-timed, “Honey, you did an amazing job. Thank you,” can mean more than any material gift ever could.

And now for the fun part. Let's talk about stoking the home fires, if you catch my drift. *Wink, wink.* After a day of slinging hay bales or chopping wood, a man feels powerful and capable. It's the perfect time to remind him he's more than just your resident handyman. A reward can be a good, long back rub that doesn't necessarily have a time limit or a set of rules. It can be a suggestion to meet you for some private “stargazing” out in the hayloft after the kids are asleep. It might be surprising him by wearing that one special dress to dinner, even if you’re just eating at the kitchen table.

This is about creating a little magic. A homestead is a place of creation, after all, and that doesn't have to stop with the garden beds. Light some candles, put on some music, and break out the good stuff you’ve been saving. The goal is to flip the switch from “work mode” to “romance mode.” We could call it a different kind of “choreplay,” where the task at hand is simply reconnecting. A whisper in his ear about what’s waiting for him after his shower can do more for his motivation than any energy drink. It’s about making him feel like the king of his castle, not just the guy who cleans the gutters.

At the end of the day, showing your appreciation isn't a transaction; it's an investment in your partnership. It’s the glue that holds things together when the rains don’t come or a predator gets into the coop. Tending to your homesteader is just as important as tending to the homestead itself. It’s what makes this dusty piece of land a real home.

- The Farm

Howdy, friends. Down here at Trinity Falls, the sun is high and the days are long. The corn is getting tall, the tomatoes are blushing on the vine, and we’ve been eating our fill of early peas and lettuce. It’s a wonderful time of year, but as those first crops finish up, we see something that makes any good homesteader antsy: empty space in the garden.

Now, some folks might look at that bare patch of dirt where the spinach used to be and think, "Well, that's it for that spot 'til next year." But we see an opportunity. That empty bed is prime real estate for a second act! This, my friends, is the simple magic of succession planting. It’s the art of following one crop with another, keeping your soil working and your pantry filling up all season long. It’s how you turn a short, frantic harvest into a steady, delicious marathon that lasts well into the cool days of autumn.

So, where do you start? First, take a look at what’s finished its run. Did your lettuce bolt and turn bitter in the heat? Are your radishes pulled and your sugar snap pea vines starting to yellow? These early-season sprinters have run their race. It's time to gently pull them up, thank them for their service, and toss them on the compost pile. By clearing out these finished plants, you’re opening up brand new possibilities for the months ahead.

[Image: A garden bed at Trinity Falls Farm, half cleared from a spring crop and half freshly planted with new seedlings for fall.]

Once you have your space, the question is what to plant. In the heat of mid-summer, you need crops that can either take the heat or that will grow now and mature in the cooler, gentler weather of fall. For a quick turnaround, you can’t go wrong with more bush beans. They grow fast and will give you a beautiful crop before the frost. But the real secret to a late-season bounty is planting for autumn. This is the perfect time to sow seeds for fall carrots, beets, and turnips. They'll germinate in the warm soil and sweeten up as the weather cools.

This is also your second chance for many cool-weather favorites. We’re putting in our fall broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower right now. They much prefer maturing in the crisp days of October to the sweltering heat of July. And don't forget the greens! Sow another round of kale, Swiss chard, and spinach. They will thank you for it, producing tender leaves right up until a hard freeze. Just imagine making a fresh kale salad for Thanksgiving—it's entirely possible!

A few simple tips will set you up for success. The most important one is timing. Grab your seed packet and look for the "days to maturity." Then, find your area's average first frost date. You'll want to plant with enough time for the crop to mature before that frost arrives. [Link: You can find your average first frost date using the Old Farmer's Almanac calculator here.] Also, remember that your first crop used up a lot of nutrients. Before you plant again, work a generous helping of compost into the soil. That fresh boost will give your new seedlings everything they need to thrive. Finally, keep those new seeds consistently moist. Summer soil can dry out in a hurry, so water deeply and consider a light mulch of straw to hold that moisture in.

There ain't nothing more satisfying than walking out to your garden in the middle of October and harvesting fresh food for dinner. Succession planting isn't complicated; it's just about seeing the potential in every patch of dirt and every moment of the season. It’s about working with nature’s rhythm to get the most from your land. So go on, get out there and get planting!

All the best,
The Farm

Howdy, friends. A little warmth on your back, the smell of turned earth... there's nothing quite like a summer garden coming to life. But just as your tomato plants start to stand proud and your squash vines begin their march across the patch, the uninvited guests arrive. We're talking about the nibblers, the chewers, the sappers – the pests. It can feel like a declaration of war. But here at the farm, we fight our battles a little differently. We don't reach for the harsh chemicals. We work with nature to build a resilient, productive, and truly organic garden.

Your first move in this campaign is simple: reconnaissance. Put on your boots, grab a cup of coffee, and take a walk through your garden every morning. Look under leaves, check the stems. Who’s out there? Are those tiny green bugs aphids on your kale? Is that a big, green caterpillar feasting on your tomatoes? (That's a hornworm, by the way). Just as important, look for the good guys! Spot a ladybug or the delicate, lacy wings of a lacewing? Those are your allies, a free pest-control service, so you want to make sure they stick around. A good pocket guide or a site like the University Extension's insect guide can be your best friend.

The best defense is a good offense. Strong, healthy plants are like well-fed soldiers – they're much better at fending off attacks. This starts with healthy soil, rich in compost and organic matter. But you can also be strategic with your planting. This is called companion planting, and it’s an old farmer's trick. Planting marigolds around your tomatoes can help deter hornworms and nematodes. Nasturtiums are not only beautiful and edible, but they act as a "trap crop" for aphids, luring them away from your prize vegetables. Think of it as placing sentries around your fort.

For some particularly stubborn enemies, you need fortifications. We’ve all seen our beautiful broccoli or cabbage leaves turned into green lace by cabbage moths. And don't get me started on the dreaded squash vine borer. An easy and effective solution is to use physical barriers. Lightweight fabric row covers, draped over hoops, can prevent the moths and beetles from ever laying their eggs on your plants in the first place. It’s like putting up a wall they just can’t get through. Just remember to remove the covers when the plants start to flower so the pollinators can do their essential work.

Sometimes, the battle has to be fought hand-to-hand. It’s not glamorous, but it’s incredibly effective. See a cluster of squash bug eggs on the underside of a leaf? Scrape them off. See a big ol' tomato hornworm? Pluck it off and drop it into a bucket of soapy water (our chickens also consider them a fine delicacy). This is the most targeted approach you can take, ensuring you only remove the problem-causers without harming any of the good bugs.

When you need to bring in the artillery, keep it organic. We keep a few key tools in our armory. Neem oil is a fantastic, all-around option. Derived from a tree, it doesn't kill insects outright but messes with their hormones, stopping them from eating and reproducing. Just be sure to spray in the evening, after the bees have gone home for the day, so you don't harm your pollinators. For a quicker knockdown of soft-bodied pests like aphids, a simple insecticidal soap spray works wonders by breaking down their outer shell. And for crawling critters like slugs, a light dusting of food-grade Diatomaceous Earth at the base of plants creates a barrier that’s deadly to them but safe for you.

Winning the war on pests isn't about one magic spray or a single secret trick. It's about creating a balanced, thriving little ecosystem right in your own backyard. It’s about observation, patience, and working with nature, not against it. Some nibbled leaves are a small price to pay for a harvest that is safe, healthy, and all your own.

Happy gardening, folks.

The Farm

Good morning from all of us here at Trinity Falls! The sun is just peeking over the big oak, and the hens are already clucking away, announcing their morning's work. There's nothing quite like walking out to the coop with a basket and collecting warm, smooth eggs, each one a little gift. It gets you thinking about the simple things, and one question we get asked all the time is, 'What's really the difference between your eggs and the ones at the grocery store?' Well, pull up a stool and let's crack this one open.

The first thing you’ll notice is the color. Not just the shells, which can be a beautiful rainbow of brown, cream, blue, and green depending on the breed of hen, but the yolk. When you crack open a true farm fresh egg, you’re greeted by a deep, vibrant orange yolk. That color isn't a trick; it’s a sign of a happy, healthy hen with a varied diet. Our girls spend their days scratching for tasty bugs, nibbling on green grass, and enjoying all the nutrients nature provides. A store-bought egg's pale yellow yolk often comes from a hen that has eaten a standardized grain-based diet its whole life. As the folks at Penn State Extension explain, a hen's diet directly paints the color of her yolk. You can find their great article here: The Many Colors of Egg Yolks.

[Image of a basket of colorful farm fresh eggs with one cracked open showing a deep orange yolk]

Next up is the taste and texture. That rich diet doesn't just change the color; it packs the egg with flavor. Farm fresh eggs have a creamier, richer taste that stands up on its own. The whites, or albumen, are firmer and less watery. If you fry one, you'll see how it holds its shape beautifully instead of spreading out thin across the pan. This makes for the perfect poached or fried egg, where the egg is the star of the show.

Then there's the freshness. This might be the biggest difference of all. An egg can be sold in a grocery store up to 30 days after it's been packaged, and it might have been laid weeks before that. By the time you buy it, it could be a couple of months old! Our eggs? They were likely laid yesterday or this morning. A fresh egg has a protective natural coating called the 'bloom' or 'cuticle.' This coating seals the shell's pores, keeping bacteria out and moisture in. It's why unwashed fresh eggs can sit on your counter for weeks, no refrigeration needed. Store eggs are washed, which removes this bloom and requires they be kept cold.

We know that with egg prices making headlines lately, it can be tempting to just grab the cheapest carton. But a farm fresh egg isn't just an ingredient; it's a connection to the animal that laid it and the land it was raised on. You're getting a more nutrient-dense food—studies often show higher levels of Omega-3s and vitamins in pasture-raised eggs. More importantly, you're supporting a system where hens live happy, healthy lives. So next time you have the chance, pick up a dozen from a local farmer. We think you'll find the difference is as clear as a sunny day.

All the best,
The Farm