Stewardship – Homestead on the Range

The Paradox of Timing

If you have time, don’t wait for time. Timing is everything. Which philosophy is right? Or is there truth in both?

Switchgrass

Switchgrass is one of the dominant plant species of the tallgrass prairie, and it alone accounts for much of the natural soil-building that occurs on native prairies.

Grazing Management by Species: Sheep

While sheep consume grass as 60% of their diet, they more than any other type of livestock will also eat forbs (non-woody flowering plants, commonly known as “weeds”).

Grazing Management by Species: Swine

Swine are not exactly grazers. They will eat some grass, but they typically prefer legumes, weeds, roots, and other types of food.

Improving Garden Soil Over the Winter

There are two main ways to approach winter soil improvement: the mulch method and the cover crop method.

Virginia Wild Rye

Virginia wild rye (Elymus virginicus) presents a somewhat variable appearance. To identify it quickly, look for a bunchgrass that resembles wheat or rye.