Understanding Zone 4 Climate

In the diverse landscapes of Zone 4, timing is crucial for starting seeds indoors due to the region’s frost dates and relatively short growing season. The last and first frost dates serve as essential bookmarks in the gardener’s calendar, bracketing the period when conditions are suitable for plant growth.

Significance of Frost Dates

Frost dates are vital for gardeners in Zone 4 because they indicate the usual end of the cold weather in early spring and the onset of freezing temperatures in autumn. These dates are not exact but give gardeners a rough guideline for when it’s safe to plant outdoors without the risk of frost damaging tender seedlings. The last frost date typically signals that it’s time to transition from indoor seed starting to planting outdoors.

To find your first and last frost dates you can put in your zip code at the Farmer’s Almanac. It’s generally pretty accurate, but if you live in a micro-climate you may find you’re in-between certain zip codes. I technically have a Westcliffe zip code, but I know from experience that we more accurately fall in between the zones to our south and our north.

Selecting Seeds for Zone 4

When gardening in Zone 4, one must carefully select seeds that will thrive in its cooler climate. Not all seeds are equal; therefore, choice pivots crucially on climate adaptability and maturity time.

Vegetables Suited for Zone 4

Cold-hardy vegetables are ideal for Zone 4 gardens, where early frosts are common. These vegetables can endure cooler temperatures and are perfect to start indoors:

• Broccoli: Initiating broccoli seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
• Cabbage: Start cabbage 6-8 weeks before the last anticipated frost to ensure they are ready for transplant.
• Pea: While peas are typically direct-sowed, starting them indoors can give a head start to the growing season.
• Kale: Hardy and nutritious, kale seeds should be started indoors roughly 6 weeks before the last frost.
• Lettuce: A cool season crop; lettuce can be started indoors around 4-6 weeks before transplanting outdoors.
• Spinach: Known for its cold-hardiness, spinach can be started 6-8 weeks prior to the last frost.

For other vegetables like eggplant, tomato, and pepper, which need more heat, use seed warmers or heat mats to ensure germination as they require a longer season to mature. Precisely starting these seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the final frost date is advisable.

Flowers Suitable for Cold Climates

We grow a large flower garden, even with our short season at 8,000 feet elevation. These rate among my favorite cut flowers:

• Sunflowers: Sunflowers have a pretty quick growing time for the high-impact they offer. We put our out the end of May and do a mix of direct seeding and transplanting.
• Zinnias: Zinnias like heat, but still do well in our sunny, mountain climate. We only get one succession of them, but these cut-and-come-again blooms last all summer long. We transplant them out the first of June.
• Cosmos: Cosmos do great in our zone 4 garden.
• Snapdragons: Snaps love cold weather and can be put out early. They really thrive on our mountain farm.
• Mint: I know it’s not technically a flower, but this is my favorite greenery for bouquets. It grows easily and smells great.
• Dahlias: Dahlias grow well in Colorado and come in all manner of shapes and sizes.
• Peonies: Peonies have an impressively long vase life, and are absolutely stunning. We have 75 plants and are already planning to add more. They are very low maintenance and actually need cold winters to do well.

Planning Your Planting Schedule

For gardeners in Zone 4, timing is crucial for starting seeds indoors. A proper planting schedule ensures that young plants will thrive after transplanting outdoors. Identifying the right dates for sowing seeds can be calculated by understanding the local frost dates and the needs of specific plants. Let’s jump in so you can make a detailed plan around when to start seeds indoors for zone 4.

Creating a Zone 4 Planting Calendar

One begins by identifying the last spring frost date, then works backward to determine the ideal seed-starting times. A seed starting chart typically categorizes plants based on their growth rates and frost tolerance. For Zone 4, where the last frost usually occurs around late April to early May, one might schedule seed starting as follows:

• Hardy vegetables: 10-12 weeks before the last frost date (e.g., onions, leeks, and cabbages)
• Semi-hardy vegetables: 6-8 weeks before the last frost date (e.g., beetroots and carrots)
• Tender vegetables: 4-6 weeks before the last frost date (e.g., tomatoes and peppers)

It is important to adjust the schedule for different varieties as necessary, keeping in mind the specific germination time for each plant. A detailed planting calendar can be crafted using this information, aligning with the unique climate of Zone 4.

Adjusting Planting Times for Microclimates

Even within Zone 4, microclimates can cause significant temperature variations, necessitating adjustments to the planting schedule. Gardeners should evaluate their specific location, looking for factors such as elevation, proximity to water bodies, and urban heat effects, which can shift the safe planting times. For instance, areas near a lake may experience milder temperatures, allowing one to start seeds a week or two earlier. On the other hand, elevated regions might require delaying seeding due to cooler temperatures.

By tailoring the planting schedule to the microclimate, gardeners will promote the most conducive growth environment for their seedlings. Monitoring local weather forecasts and keeping detailed records from year to year will further refine the accuracy of the Zone 4 planting calendar.

Seed Starting Basics

When embarking on indoor seed starting, especially in Zone 4, strict attention to the seed-starting mix, precise germination conditions, and consistent water and warmth management, is crucial for successful germination and healthy seedling development.

Preparing Seed-Starting Mix

The foundation of success in seedling emergence lies in a well-prepared seed-starting mix. It should be sterile to prevent disease, and lightweight to allow tender roots to push through effortlessly. One may opt for a commercially available mix or create a custom blend using equal parts peat, perlite, and vermiculite. Ensuring the mix is moist prior to sowing seeds is essential for supporting germination.

Optimal Conditions for Germination

Each plant species has specific needs, but generally, seedlings require a consistent temperature of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination. Adequate sunlight or artificial grow lights are also non-negotiable; they should provide seedlings with about 12-16 hours of light each day to avoid leggy growth. Placing the seeds in a warm location with stable temperatures can greatly improve germination success rates.

Managing Water and Warmth

Balancing water and warmth is a delicate task. The seed-starting mix should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Lightly watering with a fine mist helps prevent disrupting the seeds or overly compacting the soil. Providing bottom heat with a heat mat can be particularly beneficial, as it encourages faster germination and vigorous seedling growth. However, precautions should be taken so that seedlings do not overheat or dry out.

Indoor Seed Starting Techniques

Starting seeds indoors can be a strategic approach for Zone 4 gardeners to extend their growing season. Employing proper techniques ensures healthy seedlings ready for transplanting when conditions are ideal.

Using Grow Lights

When starting seeds indoors, consistent light is crucial. Grow lights provide controlled illumination that can prevent seedlings from becoming “leggy,” which is when they stretch toward a light source and become weak. For optimum growth, seedlings require around 14-16 hours of light per day. Position the lights a few inches above the seedlings, adjusting the height as they grow to maintain this ideal distance.

Preventing Common Issues

Starting seeds indoors can lead to issues if conditions aren’t ideal. To prevent problems such as damping off (a fungal disease), provide adequate air circulation around seedlings. Use a small fan on a low setting to improve airflow. Additionally, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Matching the right soil moisture to each plant’s requirements is crucial for development.

Spacing and Transplanting Seedlings

It’s important to give seedlings enough space to grow. Start with seeds spaced properly according to their size; typically, small seeds can be sown closer together than large seeds. As the seedlings grow, thin them out to prevent overcrowding. This promotes stronger growth and prepares them for easier transplanting. About a week before transplanting, begin to harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions to reduce transplant shock.

Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors

When the time comes for gardeners in Zone 4 to move their tender seedlings outdoors, the process must be managed with care to ensure successful transplanting. Each step, from acclimating plants to outdoor conditions to post-transplant care, is crucial for the survival and growth of young plants.

Acclimating Plants to Outdoor Conditions

Before transplanting seedlings outdoors, it is essential that gardeners acclimate, or “harden off,” their plants. This process involves gradually exposing seedlings to outdoor temperatures, sunlight, and wind over a period of 7-10 days. Starting with just a few hours a day, gardeners should slowly increase the plants’ outdoor exposure to toughen their foliage and stem, and reduce transplant shock.

Timing the Transition

The ideal time to transplant seedlings into the garden in Zone 4 is after the last frost date when soil temperatures have consistently warmed. Usually, this occurs from late May into early June. Gardeners should consult their local frost dates and weather forecasts to determine the precise timing. It’s also important to transplant on a cloudy day or in the late afternoon to minimize stress on the plants.

Post-Transplant Care

Once seedlings are in the ground, they require attentive care to establish their roots and begin healthy growth. Gardeners should water the plants thoroughly immediately after transplanting and add a layer of mulch to conserve moisture. For the first week or two, gardeners should keep the soil consistently moist and protect the seedlings from extreme weather, such as heavy rains or strong winds, which might otherwise damage them.

Extending the Growing Season

Extending the growing season in Zone 4 involves strategic planning due to its short and cool climate. By starting seeds indoors, gardeners can gain a substantial head start on the season, overcoming the limitations of early spring frost.

Advantages of Starting Seeds Indoors

In Zone 4, gardeners often face the challenge of a brief growing season. Starting seeds indoors before the last frost-free date can lead to hearty seedlings ready for transplanting as soon as winter recedes. This method not merely advances the harvest time but can also assure better germination rates in the controlled indoor environment.

Using Protective Structures

Utilizing protective structures such as cold frames or hoop houses can also be pivotal in extending the growing season. These structures provide insulation against the cold and can help in:

• Warming the soil in early spring
• Shielding plants from spring frosts
• Maintaining favorable growing conditions for a wider variety of plants

Fall Planting Considerations

For certain crops, fall planting can be advantageous in Zone 4. Selecting cool-season crops that can withstand low temperatures can maximize the harvest. It’s essential to consider:

• The crop’s tolerance to cold
• Timing the planting to allow the plants to establish before winter
• Utilizing techniques such as mulching to protect the plants from early frosts

By taking these steps, gardeners can effectively extend their growing season in Zone 4, ensuring that they can not only start their gardens earlier but also potentially enjoy a longer harvest period into the fall.

Regional Variations and Tips

When starting seeds indoors, gardeners in Zone 4 must adapt their strategies to the region’s unique climate and hardiness zone characteristics. Timing is critical, as Zone 4 has a shorter growing season and requires early planning to ensure a successful harvest.

Local Resources and Gardening Groups

Local resources and gardening groups are invaluable for Zone 4 gardeners seeking region-specific advice. These groups often share insights on the best seed varieties and planting times for the local climate. Gardeners can benefit from:

• Community Workshops: These are often hosted by local garden clubs or extension offices and provide hands-on experience with starting seeds indoors.
• Gardening Groups: Online forums and social media platforms can connect gardeners with peers in their area, allowing for the exchange of tips and resources.

Zone-Specific Gardening Catalogs

Zone 4-specific gardening catalogs can be a gardener’s best guide for selecting seeds. They offer a curated selection of plant varieties that are suitable for the cooler and shorter growing seasons typical of this hardiness zone. When perusing these catalogs, gardeners should:

• Look for “Zone 4 Compatible” labels that denote seeds with a proven track record of success in similar climates.
• Seek out early-start varieties that can withstand a frost and still produce a robust yield, as the last frost date in Zone 4 can be as late as mid-May.

FAQ: When to Start Seeds Indoors for Zone 4

Gardeners in Zone 4 often have questions about the best practices for starting seeds indoors due to the region’s shorter growing season and cooler climate.

What is the ideal soil temperature for germinating seeds indoors in Zone 4?

The ideal soil temperature for germinating most seeds indoors in Zone 4 varies between 65°F and 75°F. Consistent warm temperatures are critical to ensuring successful seed germination.

How can you determine the best time to begin seed-starting indoors for Zone 4b vegetable gardens?

For Zone 4b vegetable gardens, counting back 6 to 8 weeks from the expected last frost date is a reliable way to determine the best time for seed-starting indoors. Using a planting calendar specific to Zone 4b can help with accuracy.

What are the risks of starting seeds indoors too early, and how can it affect plant growth?

Starting seeds indoors too early can lead to leggy plants and root-bound conditions, which may result in poor establishment or reduced vigor when transplanted outdoors.

For Zone 4 flower gardens, what is the recommended schedule for starting seeds indoors?

For Zone 4 flower gardens, seeds of most annuals should be started indoors about 4 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost. Timing varies by species, and it’s essential to check specific requirements for best results.

How can last frost dates in Zone 4a and 4b influence indoor seed-starting timelines?

The last frost dates in Zone 4a and 4b are crucial to determining the indoor seed-starting timelines. Seeds should be started indoors in time to be ready for transplanting after the danger of frost has passed.

What are some essential tips for successfully starting seeds indoors for Zone 4 climates?

For successfully starting seeds indoors in Zone 4, gardeners should use high-quality seed-starting mix, provide adequate light and moisture, and harden off seedlings before planting them outside.

The post When to Start Seeds Indoors for Zone 4? appeared first on Wild Mountain Homestead.

These three steps will help your carrot seed germination rate, and once you have them growing a bit the rest is easy. It’s not rocket science, but these are the three steps that lead to carrots becoming the top seller for use week after week at the farmer’s market (and our kiddo’s favorite snack:).

Enhancing Carrot Seed Germination

1. Optimal Soil Preparation

Carrots thrive in environments that offer rich, loose, and well-draining soil conditions. Digging at least eight inches down, break up the soil and integrate aged compost or slow-release organic fertilizer which provides the necessary nutrients for root development. The more fine and crumbly the soil, the better it is for the elongation and straightness of the carrot roots.

Here’s an effective planting approach to consider:

• Create a furrow about half an inch deep.
• Blend in your organic matter uniformly for consistency in soil structure and nutrients.
• Consider direct sowing two carrot seeds per inch to anticipate some not germinating.

Remember, sowing carrot seeds in moist soil—neither flooded nor parched—lays the groundwork for successful germination.

We do successfully grow carrots straight in the ground, but our easiest, best harvest comes from our raised-bed garden where we grow cut-flower dahlias and garlic. The soil in this area is perfect and incredibly loose. And not having to crawl around to pull carrots is a nice bonus!

2. Consistent Moisture Is Key

To encourage carrot seeds to sprout, it is crucial to maintain a consistently moist soil environment, especially since these seeds can take two to three weeks to emerge. Covering your seedbed with an aged floating row cover can retain soil moisture while also slightly elevating the soil temperature, which can facilitate quicker germination.

Apply these tips to ensure proper soil moisture:

• Use a floating row cover to evenly distribute moisture and protect seeds.
• Water your seeds in the evening to minimize evaporation and maximize absorption.
• If using sandbags or rocks to anchor your row cover, place them strategically to prevent damage to the material and ensure full coverage.

This method not only preserves soil humidity but also adapts to various weather conditions, reducing the reliance on perfect weather patterns for germination.

3. Strategic Timing

The germination of carrot seeds is affected by the timing of your planting. For an optimal growing season, begin sowing in early spring and continue through late summer. Cooler soil temperatures will extend the duration of germination, leading to potential additional weeding.

To make the most of your planting schedule:

• Plan to plant your final successive round of carrots, such as those ideal for containers, approximately eight weeks before the anticipated first frost.
• For fall harvests, calculate the planting date by considering the local frost dates and succession planting guidelines.
• If you’re in a cooler growing zone, start your planting later in the spring, once the threat of frost has subsided.

By adhering to these focused strategies, you can boost your confidence as a gardener and look forward to a bountiful harvest of crisp, sweet carrots straight from your garden.

Common Queries About Carrot Seed Sprouting

Carrot Seed Germination Duration

It typically takes 14 to 21 days for carrot seeds to begin sprouting, but this can vary based on conditions such as soil temperature and moisture.

Preferred Temperature Range for Sprouting

The ideal temperature range for carrot seeds to germinate successfully is between 10°C and 25°C (50°F and 77°F).

Water Germination Method for Carrot Seeds

Yes, you can start carrot seeds in water using the following process:

1. Place seeds on a wet paper towel.
2. Enclose in a plastic bag to maintain moisture.
3. Check frequently and plant them once they’ve sprouted.

Tips for Sowing Carrot Seeds

• Use fine soil, free from stones, directly in the garden bed.
• Sow seeds shallowly, about 0.6 cm (1/4 inch) deep.
• Space seeds or thin seedlings to 2-3 cm (1 inch) apart.

Pre-soaking Carrot Seeds

Soaking seeds overnight in water can speed up germination. Ensure the seeds do not become waterlogged and plant them promptly after soaking.

Challenges with Carrot Seed Germination

Common issues that hinder germination include:

• Inadequate watering: Seeds must stay moist but not waterlogged.
• Improper planting depth: Too deep can prevent sprout emergence.
• Soil conditions: Heavy, compacted, or nutrient-deficient soil can affect growth.

If you’re having issues, take a hard look at these three issues, they are the main culprits for carrot seeds not germinating well.

It may take a season or two to get it right, but don’t give up. Our first two seasons on our mountain farm, we’re fairly disastrous. Not many carrots grew and the ones that did were small. But by focusing on these three tips we started growing large, delicious carrots.

The post Carrot Seed Germination: 3 Tips for Success appeared first on Wild Mountain Homestead.

While living and gardening at 8,000 feet elevation presents a lot of challenges, we’re also supremely grateful for cool mountain nights. The afternoons are still incredibly hot, but come sundown the temps drop and we can comfortably sleep with that fresh mountain air blowing in.

Enough about that, let’s get to the fun stuff – strawberries, sprouts, peonies & puppies! Ohmy.

We’ve successfully been growing strawberries in Colorado for years now, but we planted a fresh bunch of strawberry plants this year. On a whim, I ordered 500 strawberry plants. And bless that sweet husband of mine, he happily (for the most part!) took on the planting of said berries.

This year we decided to plant strawberries in plastic. Worry not, it’s a biodegradable weed fabric made from all natural ingredients. It’s a bit more work upfront to properly hill the strawberries in plant in plastic, but overall we’re really happy with the results. The strawberries are thriving and by using the bio plastic, we’re able to keep weeds at bay and reduce water needs.

I’ll keep you updated on how it goes. The strawberries are putting on a lot of blooms, but won’t fruit this year. It’s best to pinch the blooms in the first season to allow the plants to develop larger roots.

The peonies came on strong this year and were absolutely stunning. We cut peonies for the vase to enjoy around the house, but we didn’t actually sell many this year. Without a cooler, it’s hard to store them and then they bloomed all at once.

It’s honestly one of the challenges of being a small family farm (especially living so remotely). Each year we adjust to find the balance of earning an income from the homestead and enjoying life on the homestead. This year that meant enjoying the abundance of peonies in the field and not worrying about selling any.

The garden continues to grow and thrive. As soon as one thing wraps up, another begins. The next round of radishes are coming up and looking great. Matt sells them (and so much more!) every week at the Westcliffe Farmer’s Market. If you’re ever in town be sure to visit every Friday morning.

And get ready for a cuteness overload, because we’ve got Colorado Mountain Dog puppies for sale! These pups are unbelievably cuddly and large. If you’ve been around a while you know we love and rely on our Colorado Mountain Dogs. They protect our off-grid homestead and regularly chase off bears and mountain lions.

We definitely would not have chickens free-ranging and goats wandering about without these amazing livestock guardian dogs working hard all night. Plus they’re just super sweet and fun to have around.

Matt keeps everything running around here and spends long days (and nights) planting, harvesting, and watering. And he usually does it with a little sidekick shadowing him and stuffed animals in his pocket. He’s the best farm dad and we sure do love him.

It’s not lost on me that this life would not be nearly as possible or fun without all of his hard work.

And let’s end on that bit of gratitude. Life out here isn’t always easy but we sure are feeling blessed.

The post This Week on the Homestead: Peonies & Puppies appeared first on Wild Mountain Homestead.

Matt has an endless list of farm to-dos and I’m maxed out trying to wrangle three kiddos under 5, cook, clean, start seeds, and get them involved in the garden whenever possible. We run around a bit wild much of the day. And then enjoy a sunset farm walk, which makes it all feel worth the effort.

Here are a few bits from the week. May we always remember, learn, and grow.

The most exciting news – we got dairy goats! We’re lucky to be surrounded by many enterprising and talented farmer friends. Among them the dairy goat king and queen, aka Anne and Jerome of the Westcliffe Cheese Co.

Meet Floppy (cream colored female) and Stuart (the dark colored male). They are a mix of Nubian and Saanen dairy goats. They are sweet little ones and we can’t wait to one day be able to have our own milk and cheese.

The garden is filled with lettuces, leafy greens, kohlrabi, cabbage, beets, carrots, and radishes.

Spring in a high altitude garden means the plant babies require constant care and attention. The covers must go on at night as temps dip to freezing. But our strong Colorado sun means tunnels will quickly overheat if not opened first thing in the morning.

Luckily, Juniper is always ready to help in the garden. As soon as Matt gets his shoes on she runs for the door. “I need my boots!” she hollers. “I go outside to help dad!”

To be honest, it can be a bit of a hassle sometimes to include so many little hands. But then I remember that’s the entire point of being out in the middle of nowhere. The efficient-driven person inside of me needs to step aside and remember the entire goal of all of this is to be in the garden together as a family.

It’s the process, not the end point. Breathe, slow down, repeat.

The peonies are budding and I cannot wait for the explosion of color. Peonies are quickly becoming my favorite flower. And I may have impulsively ordered 240 more peony plants that will arrive in October.

Those are the weekly highlights. Of course there were also endless snacks, walks, silly songs, and never-ending chores. Such is life on the homestead.

The post This Week on the Homestead: May 29th, 2023 appeared first on Wild Mountain Homestead.

Living in rural America is no doubt beautiful and filled with amazing opportunities. That said, it can also be lonely and inconvenient to be so far from modern conveniences. There are certainly days where I begin to wonder if life wouldn’t be easier if we lived closer to restaurants, stores, and educational opportunities.

And then, inevitably, I spend a day in the city and I’m so, so grateful for where we live. And never am I more grateful that we have a flexible life, filled with digging in the dirt, than we get to spend time with family.

These are the things I hope my kids remember.

I pray they remember that when it comes time to build a garden, we show up and work together. I pray they always know that their extended family is always there for them.

That no matter what, we’re always ready to lend a hand. And that a helping hand is always just a phone call away.

That’s what this memory will always encompass to me. We’re a family and we stick together. Matt did most of the hard labor, digging, dragging irrigation. Kelsey and I did the kid wrangling and cooking. And we all came together to plant.

Little hands getting dirty. Seeds getting spread willy nilly. Stories being told, laughter shared, memories made.

Rural America at its best.

The post Gardening is Better Together appeared first on Wild Mountain Homestead.

Starting an off-grid homestead with young children hasn’t always been easy. But the one thing we’re always agree on, is spending time in the garden. It’s good for the soul, body, and mind.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the many benefits of gardening with kids, as well as provide tips and ideas for making it an enjoyable and successful activity.

The Benefits of Gardening with Kids

Introducing children to the world of gardening can have numerous benefits, ranging from physical and mental health improvements to promoting environmental awareness. Here are some of the key advantages of engaging in gardening activities with your kids:

Physical Health

Gardening is a great way to get kids moving and spending time outdoors. Digging, planting, watering, and weeding are all activities that help to develop gross motor skills and improve physical fitness. In addition, exposure to sunlight can help boost vitamin D levels, which is essential for healthy bone development.

Mental Health

Gardening can have a positive impact on a child’s mental health. Spending time outdoors and participating in hands-on activities can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve mood, and promote a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, gardening can help teach patience and perseverance, as children learn to wait for plants to grow and understand the effects of their efforts.

Cognitive Development

Gardening with kids provides numerous opportunities for learning about science, math, and the environment. Children can explore concepts such as plant life cycles, photosynthesis, and the role of insects and other organisms in the garden ecosystem. They can also practice measuring, counting, and problem-solving skills as they tend to their plants and plan their garden layout.

Environmental Awareness

By engaging in gardening activities, children can develop a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the natural world. They will learn about the importance of sustainable practices, such as composting, water conservation, and organic gardening, and become more aware of their impact on the environment.

Bonding and Family Time

Gardening together can help strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories. Spending time outdoors, working together towards a common goal, and sharing in the joy of watching your garden grow, can all contribute to a sense of connection and shared accomplishment.

5 Tips for Getting Started Gardening with Kids

Now that we’ve explored the benefits of gardening with kids, let’s discuss how to get started. Here are some tips and ideas to help make gardening an enjoyable and successful experience for the whole family:

1. Choose the Right Space

The first step in starting a garden with your kids is to choose the right space. Consider factors such as available sunlight, soil quality, and accessibility for watering and maintenance. Even if you don’t have a large yard, you can still create a thriving garden using containers, raised beds, or vertical gardening techniques.

2. Involve Your Kids in Garden Planning

Allow your children to have input in the planning process. Discuss what types of plants they would like to grow, and help them research the specific needs of each plant, such as sunlight, water, and soil requirements. This will help them feel more invested in the garden and excited about the process.

3. Start with Easy-to-Grow Plants

When gardening with kids, it’s important to choose plants that are easy to grow and maintain. Some beginner-friendly options include:

• Vegetables: cherry tomatoes, lettuce, radishes, beans, and peas
• Herbs: basil, parsley, chives, and mint
• Flowers: zinnias and sunflowers are some of my favorite cutting garden flowers

These plants are generally low-maintenance, have a high success rate, and provide quick results, which can help keep children engaged and excited about gardening.

4. Teach Proper Gardening Techniques

Take the time to teach your children proper gardening techniques, such as how to plant seeds or seedlings, the correct way to water plants, and how to identify and manage common garden pests. This will help ensure the success of your garden and give your children the skills they need to become confident and capable gardeners.

5. Make Gardening Fun and Engaging

To keep children interested and excited about gardening, try to make the experience fun and engaging. Consider the following ideas:

• Create a theme garden, such as a pizza garden with tomatoes, peppers, and basil, or a butterfly garden with flowers that attract butterflies
• Add whimsical elements like painted rocks, fairy houses, or homemade wind chimes
• Encourage your kids to keep a gardening journal where they can record their observations, draw pictures, and track the growth of their plants
• Grow things your kids like to eat. My little ones love growing strawberries because they love eating them.

Safety Tips for Gardening with Kids

While gardening is a fun and educational activity, it’s essential to keep safety in mind. Here are some tips to ensure a safe gardening experience for your children:

Supervise Young Children

Always supervise young children while they are in the garden. This will help prevent accidents, such as tripping over tools or accidentally ingesting harmful plants or chemicals.

Use Child-Friendly Tools

Invest in child-sized gardening tools, such as small shovels, rakes, and watering cans. These tools are easier for children to handle and can help prevent accidents or injuries.

Teach Safe Tool Use

Teach your children how to use gardening tools safely, and establish clear rules for tool use. For example, remind children to carry tools with the sharp end pointing down, and to never run while holding a tool.

Avoid Harmful Chemicals

When gardening with kids, avoid using harmful chemicals, such as synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Instead, opt for organic alternatives, and teach your children about the importance of environmental stewardship.

Be Mindful of Allergies and Insects

Be aware of any allergies your child may have to plants, pollen, or insect bites. Take precautions, such as wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and avoiding plants that may cause allergic reactions.

Fun Gardening Projects for Kids

To keep your children engaged and excited about gardening, consider incorporating some fun, kid-friendly projects. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Painted Garden Rocks

Gather some smooth rocks and have your children paint them with colorful designs or encouraging messages. Place the painted rocks throughout your garden as a cheerful and fun decoration.

DIY Plant Markers

Have your kids create their own plant markers using popsicle sticks, wooden spoons, or even painted rocks. Encourage them to get creative with their designs, and use the markers to label the different plants in your garden.

Mini Greenhouses

Teach your children about the greenhouse effect by creating mini greenhouses using clear plastic cups or small glass jars. Plant seeds in the containers, and watch as the seeds germinate and grow in their mini greenhouses.

Seed Bombs

Make seed bombs with your kids using a mixture of soil, clay, and wildflower seeds. Shape the mixture into small balls, and let them dry. Your children can then “bomb” your garden or other outdoor spaces with the seed bombs, and watch as the wildflowers grow and bloom.

Worm Composting

Set up a worm composting bin with your kids, and teach them about the important role that worms play in breaking down organic matter and creating nutrient-rich compost. They can help maintain the bin by adding food scraps and monitoring the worms’ progress.

Conclusion

Gardening with kids is a rewarding and educational activity that can provide numerous benefits for both children and adults. By involving your children in the planning, planting, and maintenance of a garden, you can help foster a love for nature, teach valuable life skills, and create lasting memories. With a little planning, creativity, and patience, you can cultivate a thriving garden and a lifelong passion for gardening in your children.

Resources:

• Science Daily: Gardening can cultivate better help
• The Nature Conservancy: Getting kids outside: one of the best things a parent can do

The post Gardening With Kids: Dig in the Dirt Together appeared first on Wild Mountain Homestead.

The Best Dogs for Guarding Chickens

There are a few things to consider when choosing the right dog breed to guard chickens. First, the dog needs to be large enough to defend against the predators in your area.

Our homestead is located in a remote part of the Rocky Mountains. We regularly see bears, coyotes, and mountain lions. With that in mind we knew we needed a large dog. In fact, we have three since our property is large and the livestock we keep are spread out.

Next, even though you want a large dog that’s ready to fight off predators, it also needs to be able to reign in its instinctual prey drive and refrain from chasing and eating the chickens.

In my experience, this is the hardest part. LGDs have a deep instinct to chase and protect. Pair that with flighty chickens and you have a challenge on your hands. While every dog breed will require training (see below for tips), these breeds will have an easier time adapting to life with chickens.

Colorado Mountain Dog

It’s no secret that this is among my favorite livestock guardian dog breed. This is a relatively new breed, designed to protect livestock on small homesteads. They’re friendly, great with kids, and expert guardians. I love that Colorado Mountain Dogs are incredible athletes, with a very kind heart.

In my experience, they do an excellent job guarding chickens, pigs, goats, sheep, and horses. They come from lines of Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherd dogs, and really bring the best of both breeds to the forefront. I’ve written an in-depth article all about Colorado Mountain Dogs, if you want to learn more.

Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees are a well known and beloved livestock guardian dog. When people think of an LGD, the Great Pyrenees is often what comes to mind. Large, white and fluffy these dogs are as cute as they are reliable.

Slovensky Cuvak

Also known as the Slovak Cuvac or Slovak Chuvach, this large white dog is one of the only LGD breeds historically known to protect poultry. It has been well documented back to 17th century and was known for watching over sheep, cattle, and turkeys.

Other Dog Breeds to Guard Chickens

Can you use another dog breed to guard your chickens? The short answer is yes, of course. That said, there are certain breeds that will take to it more naturally.

But a lot of it depends on the demeanor of your particular job. And while there are many friendly family pets that will easily become friendly with your chickens, they may not properly defend against threats. So that depends on what predators you have in your area.

I once had an adorable Labrador Retriever who was convinced he was part of the flock. He would spend hours each day wandering the yard with them and hanging out. But he was a big softie and would never have stood up to a bear or other large threat. He did great in the urban homestead setting I lived in at that time, but wouldn’t have been a good fit for wild mountain living.

Training a Dog to Protect Chickens

Even a Livestock Guardian Dog from the best lines will still need some training to safely be around chickens.

We got our first Colorado Mountain Dog as a 10-week old puppy. He was a heart-melting ball of fluff. And while he had great breed lines and natural instincts, he still had a lot to learn. At about 6-months-old, he took to chasing chickens and even killed one. We quickly realized training was necessary. Here’s what worked for us:

1. Consistent Exercise Time – We dedicated ourselves to a long walk around the property every morning and evening, plus several play times throughout the day. Helping our giant puppy expel energy was critical.
2. Consistent Training Time (Away from Livestock) – My husband and I took turns each day working on basic commands (sit, down, stay).
3. Supervised Time with Chickens – We slowly reintroduced our LGD to the chickens. First through the chicken coop, then on a leash, and finally with free range. Any display of lunging or getting too excited was quickly shutdown with a verbal warning.
4. Use a Leash or Dog Run during Peak Hours – The evening time was our most difficult. Not only was it peak crazy hours for taking care of two young children, but it’s when our puppy wanted to get the zoomies and go crazy. During these hours, we put our dog-in-training in a dog run to avoid any unwanted incidents.
5. Send Your Puppy to LGD Bootcamp – To finish it all off, we were blessed to be able to send Wyatt to spend a week with a local Colorado Mountain Dog breeder. Being able to see how the seasoned dogs act was paramount for him. We made several months of progress in a short time thanks to this mentoring.

And that’s one of the best things about having an older dog when you get a puppy. They immediately learn the ropes with far less effort on your part.

FAQ About the Best Dog for Guarding Chickens

Conclusion

A well-trained dog will become a requisite part of the team and excellent chicken guardian. We rely on our Colorado Mountain Dogs to protect our chickens from bears, foxes, mountain lions, and all manner of predators. For the best success, choose a skilled Livestock Guardian Breed and take the time to train your dog to protect chickens.

The post The 3 Best Dogs for Guarding Chickens appeared first on Wild Mountain Homestead.

After being disappointed by countless listings, we decided to take a chance on a property with an unclear location and terrible property photos. It had a long, four-wheel-drive-required driveway and was only equipped with a basic hunting cabin. It was perfect.

We quickly made an offer and moved in.

The only problem was, it didn’t have a well. Hauling water would work for a short time, but if we were going to grow a garden of any substantial size we were going to need water.

The first hurdle was getting a well company to even consider driving our incredibly rough two-mile long driveway. Luckily we got a recommendation fro Finney Drilling.

If you’ve never seen a well-man look for water it is an experience. Here comes a burly, completely salt-of-the -earth, blue collar man, who then pulls out a “witching” stick and lets it lead him to the water. Finney noticed us watching and shrugged, “I don’t know, it just works.” He marked a spot with his boot, the stick had spoken. This was where we would drill.

The drilling day arrived and we held our breath. You pay whether they find water or not – and we didn’t have any money to spare. You also pay more for every foot deeper they need to drill before hitting water.

The rig set up and rumbled to life. Finney and his sidekick fed pipe after pipe into the ground. When suddenly water started pouring out. We were in luck. We hit water and it was flowing strong.

This homestead dream stood a chance. We could hydrate animals, fill a bathtub, and water a garden. No more watering the fruit trees with a watering can, it was time to get serious about farming.

The post Let There Be Water appeared first on Wild Mountain Homestead.