When it comes to saving seeds, it’s important to consider the long-term storage of those seeds. Proper storage can help extend the viability of your seeds and ensure that they are ready to use when you are ready to plant them. Here are some tips for storing seeds for the long term. Choose the right storage container: It’s important to choose a container that is airtight and moisture-proof. One common mistake when storing seeds is using containers that are not airtight. Air can cause seeds to dry out, which can…
Read MoreAuthor: JM Mason
Wild Edibles: Cattails
Cattails, also known as bulrushes, are a type of wetland plant that can be found in marshes, swamps, and along the edges of ponds and lakes. They are a very versatile plant and can be used for a variety of things including shelter, food and fuel. The fluff acts as a good insulation material as well. But most importantly they are actually a delicious and nutritious wild food that can be eaten in a variety of ways. One of the most well-known parts of the cattail plant that is edible…
Read MoreHow to Render Lard
Rendering lard is a process by which the fat from a pig is melted and separated from any bits of meat or tissue, resulting in a pure fat product that can be used for cooking or other purposes. Lard has a high smoke point and a rich, savory flavor, making it a popular choice for frying, baking, and other cooking methods. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to render lard at home: 1. Start by obtaining some raw pig fat, also known as leaf lard. This can often be…
Read MoreWinter Wild Edibles (Part 2)
Yes there are options for wild edibles even in winter! 8. Maple Sap February is usually the best month to tap trees for their sap. Then boil it down for some delicious maple syrup. 9. Mullein The leaves can be brewed into a tea. 10. Chicory The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked but has a bitter taste. The roots can be roasted and steeped for a coffee tasting drink. Although it will be decaf! 11. Hickory Nuts These nuts are very calorie dense and taste similar to pecans.…
Read MorePlantain for Wounds
Plantain is a plant that has multiple uses, not only is it edible but it’s also great as an antibacterial poultice for wounds. 1. Grind plantain leaves into a paste. If it’s too dry you can add a little water but you want a paste that holds together. 2. Apply the paste generously to the wound. 3. Cover the paste and wound with clean bandages. If you don’t have clean bandages then you could use the bigger leaves from the plantain plant or large mullein leaves to cover it and…
Read MoreWinter Wild Edibles (Part 1)
Yes there are options for wild edibles even in winter! 1. Cattails Although the cattail has many edible parts, in the winter, the best part to eat is the starchy roots. You can use it to thicken soups/stews or grind into flour. 2. Persimmons These fruits taste best in late fall through January when they are wrinkled and squishy. You can eat them raw, make them into jam or ferment them into a wonderful wine. 3. Rose Hips The skin and pulp can be eaten raw or you can use…
Read MoreHow to Find a Local Community
I see this question asked over and over in prepper groups. People want to know how to find like-minded preppers in their local community to connect with but don’t know where to look. Most of these people have already googled “prepper groups near me” or some version of that search term, and found nothing. These people understand the value and importance in having those local connections. Because if SHTF, you and your family have a much higher chance of survival if you are a part of a larger group that’s…
Read MorePreparing For Spring Storms
As we welcome spring and the wonderful things it brings we also need to remember to prepare for spring weather. Here are a few tips to get you ready: 1. Clean gutters and downspouts 2. Check your roof and the exterior of your home for any damage 3. Sign up for weather alerts on your phone 4. Review your storm safety plan 5. Repair any leaks 6. Check your go bags and emergency kits to replace/replenish 7. Plan your evacuation routes 8. Check surrounding trees and trim as needed 9.…
Read MorePrepper Acronyms
If you’ve spent any time in a prepper chat forum or reading prepper blogs then you’ve come across these acronyms. Most seasoned preppers already know these but I wanted to put this out there for those of you who may be new to prepping. There’s nothing more frustrating than not being able to understand what someone is talking about. So take the time to browse through this list and get familiar with them. This isn’t an all inclusive list because there’s so many out there but these are the most…
Read MorePrepper Pantry: Spices
Spices for your Prepper Pantry Having spices in your prepper pantry is important. It’s important because it will allow you to add variety to your meals. You can start with the same basic ingredients but if you change the spices, then it can taste like something completely different. And because spices take up very little space you can greatly expand your meal options without sacrificing too much room in your pantry. Food will play a huge role in our survival if we ever find ourselves in that situation. And not…
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