-
The Best Companion Plants for Tomatoes
Planting the best companion plants for tomatoes can make a big difference in how your garden grows — and how pest-free your harvest stays. Over the years, I’ve found a handful of reliable companion plants that not only boost my tomato yield but also help keep pests like hornworms to a minimum. In fact, since I started using companion planting, I rarely see more than one hornworm all season — and that alone is reason enough to give it a try! Scroll through the list to see which plants I always include in my tomato beds each year. This post contains affiliate links. This will not cost you anything but…
-
Pizookie Recipe: How to Make a Big Cast Iron Cookie
I grew up loving to bake but I do not like making batches or cookies. I want to make my dessert, throw it in the oven, and be done. That’s why this Easy Pizookie Recipe is PERFECT. It’s got the ooey gooey delicious center, and there’s no need to make batches and batches of cookies. Grab your ingredients, throw them in the cast iron, and in the oven it goes. Top with ice cream, and you’ve got a new favorite dessert. For more dessert recipes, check out my From Scratch Dessert Collection. This post contains affiliate links. This will not cost you anything but will help us offset the cost…
-
Low Sugar Black Raspberry Currant Jam Recipe and How to Juice Red Currants
Black Raspberry Currant Jam is a unique, richly flavored preserve made with foraged or garden-grown berries. This combination balances the deep sweetness of black raspberries with the tartness of red currants for a jam that’s both bold and beautiful. It’s one of our favorite ways to use up a variety of berries, and it’s easy to customize with what you have on hand. Whether you’re picking from your own yard or a neighbor’s, homemade jam always tastes better. Want more ideas like this? Visit our Jams and Jellies page to learn how to make homemade jams and jellies. This post contains affiliate links. This will not cost you anything but…
-
The Ultimate Monthly Canning Guide For Zone 5 Gardeners
It can be so overwhelming during the spring and summer months when you’re garden is ready to harvest and you’re trying to preserve what you can. Having a Monthly Canning Guide for Zone 5 Gardeners can be very helpful during the planning process. If you’re just starting your gardening or canning journey, don’t feel like you have to do it all. Start with a few things this year and step up when you’re ready. You’ll find ideas for canning, dehydrating, and making fresh recipes with your produce & herbs in the post. Canning Supplies & Common Ingredients: Prepare your canning supplies. Make sure you have jars, rings, and lids in…
-
How to Dry Calendula Flowers 3 Different Ways
There are many ways to dry herbs and flowers; learn How to Dry Calendula in 3 ways in this article! If you’re short on time, you can use the oven or dehydrator method, and if you have lots of time, you can set your calendula flowers out to dry. Regardless of how you dry your calendula, you’re going to love these dried flowers in any DIY skincare recipe. Once you have your dried calendula, try this Calendula-Infused Coconut Oil Recipe so you can start to see the amazing benefits! If you want more DIY herbal recipes, check out our page on Natural Living. This post contains affiliate links. This will…
-
How to Start Seeds Indoors in Zone 5: Tips, Timeline, and Best Plants
Learn when to Start Seeds Indoors in Zone 5 plus grab some tips and tricks along the way. If you’re new to gardening, this is a great place to start! Starting your seeds indoor can help combat the shorter growing season that we have in zone 5. Learn when to start some popular seeds to they are ready to be transplanted after the danger of frost has passed. If you’re thinking big learn about Planning Your Homestead. This post contains affiliate links. This will not cost you anything but will help us offset the cost of running the blog. We only share products we use and would recommend to a…
-
Easy Penne Pasta Bake Recipe with Mozzarella and Marinara
A delicious twist on the classic mostaccioli, this Easy Penne Pasta Bake is just as comforting with its delicious cheesy goodness and rich marinara sauce! You can call it mostaccioli, baked ziti, or penne pasta bake; this classic recipe is versatile and customizable with whatever kind of noodles you have. If you’re in the mood for more cozy, satisfying meals, browse our favorite Comfort Foods and Classic Recipes. This post contains affiliate links. This will not cost you anything but will help us offset the cost of running the blog. We only share products we use and would recommend to a friend. Thank you for your support! Click ‘HERE’ for more info.…
-
How to Make Calendula-Infused Coconut Oil | Gentle Enough for Babies
I’ve been searching for a gentle but powerful herb-infused oil for my toddler’s diaper rash. Calendula flowers have a laundry list of benefits, traditionally used for calming and soothing the skin. Calendula-Infused Coconut Oil is a powerful natural remedy that is gentle on babies’ sensitive skin but also very healing. I hope you’ll give this simple and effective infusion a try. Want to explore more ways to use herbs in everyday life? Don’t miss our complete guide to Herbal Oil Infusions. This post contains affiliate links. This will not cost you anything but will help us offset the cost of running the blog. We only share products we use and…
-
12 Easy Jam and Jelly Recipes for Beginners
Easy Jam and Jelly Recipes for Beginners are a great place to start if you’re new to making homemade preserves. These simple recipes also make sweet gifts any time of year. Whether you’re learning the basics or looking for no-canner-required options, this collection has something for every comfort level. Even experienced canners might find a new favorite. Looking for more ideas? Visit our Jams and Jellies page to learn how to make homemade jams and jellies. This post contains affiliate links. This will not cost you anything but will help us offset the cost of running the blog. We only share products we use and would recommend to a friend.…
-
How to Make Lemon Balm Lip Balm for Cold Sores
This Natural Lip Balm for Cold Sores recipe is a great one to have on hand for when you are in need. Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, is great for naturally treating cold sores because of its anti-viral properties. A large majority of the population has been exposed to the cold sore virus, so it is great to have this lemon balm lip balm available to fight the symptoms and help resolve them quickly. This lip balm uses lemon balm-infused olive oil and melissa, peppermint, and tea tree essential oils, all of which have cold sore-fighting properties. It also incorporates beeswax and grass-fed tallow to deeply nourish and protect lips.…
