Welcome back to Rainy River Homesteaders! After a long winter, it's time to start thinking about spring cleaning on the homestead. Spring cleaning is an important annual ritual for homesteaders, as it helps to maintain a clean and healthy living environment, and sets the stage for a successful growing season.
Here are some tips for spring cleaning after winter on the homestead
Declutter: One of the first things you should do when spring cleaning on the homestead is to declutter. Go through your homestead and get rid of anything that you no longer need or use. This will help to create more space and make it easier to keep your homestead clean and organized.
Deep Clean: The winter months can leave your homestead dusty and dirty. It's important to do a deep clean to get rid of all the accumulated dust and grime. This includes cleaning the floors, walls, and other surfaces thoroughly. Use a steam cleaner or other cleaning solutions to ensure that your homestead is as clean and healthy as possible.
Check for Damage: The winter weather can cause damage to your homestead. Check for any damage to your roof, windows, and doors. Make sure that everything is in good repair before the spring rains start.
Organize: Organizing your homestead is an important part of spring cleaning. Make sure that everything has a place and that it's easy to find what you need. This will help to keep your homestead clean and clutter-free.
Take Care of the Outdoors: Don't forget to take care of the outdoors during your spring cleaning. This includes cleaning up any debris that has accumulated over the winter, trimming trees and bushes, and preparing your garden for planting. It's also a good time to check your fencing and repair any damage.
Get Ready for Spring Planting: Spring cleaning is also the perfect time to get your garden ready for planting. Start by preparing your soil and clearing any weeds. Make sure that your garden tools are clean and in good working order.
Get your Equipment Ready: As the weather warms up and the days get longer, it's time to start thinking about getting your lawn mower, tiller, tractor, and hand tools ready for summer on the homestead. Taking care of your equipment is an important part of homesteading, as it can help to extend the life of your tools and keep your homestead running smoothly.
Here are some tips for getting your equipment ready for summer on the homestead
Lawn Mower: Start by checking the oil and air filter on your lawn mower. If the oil is dirty, change it. Also, clean or replace the air filter. Sharpen the blades and fill up the gas tank with fresh fuel. Inspect the tires and make sure they're properly inflated.
Tiller: Check the oil and air filter on your tiller, and change them if needed. Inspect the spark plug and replace it if necessary. Check the fuel lines and make sure they're not cracked or leaking. Lubricate the tiller's moving parts and adjust the tines.
Tractor: Check the oil, air filter, and fuel filter on your tractor. Replace any filters that are dirty or worn out. Inspect the battery and make sure the terminals are clean and tight. Check the tires and make sure they're properly inflated. Lubricate the tractor's moving parts.
Hand Tools: Clean and sharpen your hand tools, such as shovels, hoes, and pruning shears. Check for any signs of rust or damage, and repair or replace as necessary. Lubricate any moving parts with a light oil.
Safety Gear: Finally, don't forget to check your safety gear. Make sure your work gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection are in good condition and ready to use.
Get the Chicken Coop Ready: As winter comes to an end and spring approaches, it's time to start thinking about getting your chicken coop ready for summer. A clean, dry, and well-maintained chicken coop is important for the health and happiness of your flock, and can help to prevent disease and parasites.
Here are some tips for getting your chicken coop ready after winter
Clean the Coop: The first step in getting your chicken coop ready is to clean it thoroughly. Remove all of the bedding and debris from the coop, and dispose of it properly. Compost Pile anyone!
Repair Any Damage: Check the coop for any damage that may have occurred during the winter. Repair any holes or cracks in the walls or roof, and replace any broken or damaged hardware, such as latches or hinges. This will help to keep your flock safe and secure.
Check the Ventilation: Proper ventilation is important for your chickens' health, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure that the ventilation openings in the coop are clear and unobstructed, and add additional ventilation if necessary.
Inspect the Roosts: Check the roosts in the coop for any signs of wear or damage. Make sure they're secure and stable, and replace any roosts that are in poor condition.
Add Fresh Bedding: Once the coop is clean and dry, add fresh bedding. Make sure to add enough bedding to keep the coop dry and comfortable for your flock.
Treat for Parasites: Spring is a good time to treat your coop for parasites such as lice and mites. Use a natural treatment or pesticide, and make sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid harming your flock.
Spring cleaning after winter is an important annual ritual for homesteaders. By following these tips, you can ensure that your homestead is clean, healthy, and ready for the growing season ahead. Happy spring cleaning!
Recent Posts
The Benefits of Incorporating Omega-3 in Your Winter DietIn CookingOctober 28, 2024Omega-3 fatty acids are a simple yet powerful addition to your winter diet. They provide numerous benefits that support the body and mind through the colder months, helping to boost immunity, improve mood, reduce joint pain, support heart health, and keep skin hydrated—all essential during winter. […]
Ruffed Grouse Hunting Tips: A Fall Favorite in Northwestern OntarioOctober 22, 2024Grouse hunting is one of the great joys of fall in northwestern Ontario. It’s not just about the hunt—it’s about the time spent in the woods, the challenge of spotting these elusive birds, and the satisfaction of bringing home a wild game dinner. Whether you’re hunting for the first time or have been doing this for years, following these tips will improve your chances of success and make your time in the field more enjoyable. […]
Foraging Safety: What You Need to Know Before Heading OutOctober 15, 2024Foraging is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy wild foods, but it’s essential to do so safely and responsibly. By learning to identify plants accurately, foraging in clean and legal areas, and practicing sustainable harvesting, you can enjoy the rewards of foraging without putting yourself or the environment at risk. […]
Planning Your Spring Garden Now: What to Do Before the Snow FallsOctober 9, 2024As homesteaders, we depend on our gardens not just for food, but also for the satisfaction that comes with growing our own sustenance. And in regions like northwestern Ontario, where the growing season can be unpredictable and short, every bit of preparation counts. The more you do now, the less you’ll have to worry about in the spring, allowing you to focus on planting, growing, and enjoying the fruits (and vegetables!) of your labor. […]
Creative Ways to Use Fall Forage in Your Holiday CookingOctober 7, 2024Incorporating these foraged items into your holiday cooking is not only a creative way to celebrate the season, but it’s also sustainable, cost-effective, and a great conversation starter when you’re serving family and friends. […]
Sustainable Meal Planning: How to Save Time and Money with Smart Leftover UseOctober 5, 2024As homesteaders, we’re always looking for ways to simplify our lives while living in harmony with the land. Smart meal planning with leftover use is a key piece of that puzzle, helping us balance the demands of the homestead while ensuring we’re feeding our families in a sustainable and thoughtful way. […]
Zenni Optical: A Homesteader’s Take on Affordable EyewearOctober 4, 2024For homesteaders looking for affordable, customizable eyewear, Zenni is a great option. Just be mindful of the quirks that come with high-tech lenses like the Eyeqlenz. After all, as homesteaders, we’re no strangers to adapting and making things work—whether it’s in the garden, the barn, or with our tech! […]
Stockpiling and Organizing Pantry Essentials for WinterOctober 3, 2024Taking the time now to stock and organize your pantry will save you so much hassle later when the snow is falling and the roads are icy. Not only does it ensure you’re prepared, but it also gives peace of mind knowing that your family will be well-fed no matter what the weather throws your way. […]
How HP Instant Ink Made Printing Easier on the HomesteadOctober 1, 2024Whether you’re printing for your family, your work, or just for fun, HP Instant Ink takes the hassle out of the equation. You’ll never run out of ink, never have to drive hours just to restock, and your prints will look professional every time. Plus, with flexible subscription plans, you can tailor the service to your needs without breaking the bank. […]
Homestead Craft Projects for Cozy Fall DaysSeptember 30, 2024These homestead craft projects are the perfect way to embrace the slower pace of fall while still staying creative and productive. Whether you’re foraging for materials, repurposing old items, or learning a new skill, these projects bring a little bit of handmade warmth into your home as the weather turns colder. […]