Homesteading Vs. Farming

So, you've got a patch of land and dreams of living off the grid. But wait, are you homesteading or farming? Let's break it down for you in a way that even your grandma's chickens would understand!

Homesteading and farming are both ways people use land to grow food, but they are a bit different in how they work and what they focus on.

What's the Deal with Homesteading?

Homesteading is when a family or person lives on a piece of land and grows their own food. Homesteaders usually have a small garden where they grow vegetables and fruits. They might also keep animals like chickens for eggs or goats for milk. One of the fun things about homesteading is that it allows families to be self-sufficient. This means they try to do things by themselves, like making their own bread, preserving fruits and vegetables, and even raising their own animals. It’s like creating a little world where everything is made and grown right at home!

Okay, But Isn't That Farming?

Now, farming is like the OG of the agriculture world. It's all about mass production, big tractors, and probably a few more regulations than your average homestead. Think rows and rows of crops, herds of cattle, and a whole lot of early mornings. On the other hand, farming is typically larger in scale. Farmers grow a lot of food, often in big fields, and their main goal is to sell that food to others. They might grow crops like corn, wheat, or soybeans and often use machines to help with planting and harvesting. Farmers work hard to produce food for grocery stores, restaurants, and markets so that everyone can buy fresh produce and ingredients. 

In summary, while both homesteaders and farmers work with land and plants, their focus is different. Homesteaders concentrate on their own home and family needs, while farmers grow food for many people. Both play important roles in providing food and supporting communities, showing how people can connect with the land in different ways!

There is no clearcut winner when we're talking about lifestyles and livelihoods. Make this decision based on the needs of your family, households and communities. In the words of Jeremy Clift, "Grow where God planted you."  Whether you're a homesteader or a farmer, one thing's for sure: you're definitely not afraid to get your hands dirty!

I recently visited Wakatomika Homestead and released an interview on YouTube. Click this link to see the full interview. We talk about everything from livestock to produce to storing and preparing food items. 

Have grace with yourself and good luck on your journey!