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In this episode of Apothecary February, we’re talking through the best herbs to grow for a home apothecary—and where to plant them so they don’t take over your garden. We cover essential garden basics like annual vs. perennial herbs, direct sow vs. starting seeds indoors, and growing herbs in containers versus in the ground. You’ll learn which herbs are beginner-friendly, which ones self-seed or spread aggressively, which can be invasive in North America, and which herbs are often better to buy than grow in small spaces. This episode is a practical, realistic guide to growing medicinal herbs in any size garden, from raised beds to patio containers.   https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/common-herbs-for-herbal-remedies/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity    

In this first episode of Apothecary February, we’re setting realistic expectations for using herbs at home and building a strong, safe foundation for beginner and intermediate herbalists alike. This episode focuses on practical herbal education—without pressure to become an expert or “natural doctor” overnight. In this episode, we cover: What Apothecary February is (and what it’s not) Why herbs are supportive tools, not standalone cures Buying herbs vs. growing your own (and why both are valid) Which herbs are best for beginners Where to buy high-quality herbs online Wildcrafted vs. organic herbs Common beginner mistakes when buying herbs Herbal safety basics and why contraindications matter How to read herbal books and monographs without overwhelm Why calendula and chamomile are “gateway herbs” Different ways to prepare herbs (teas, infusions, tinctures, oils, salves) Herbs Mentioned Calendula Chamomile Echinacea Feverfew Mullein Nettle Dandelion Resources & Links Mentioned Supplies for Apothecary February: https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/2W4977LYCHIZU?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_GEED11EVRXAZ61SSCS4W   Free Calendula Salve Ebook Learn how to make calendula oil and salve—an easy, beginner-friendly first herbal project. https://thehomesteadchallenge.kit.com/a9dc7c0be5 Herb Buying Guide: Wild Harvested vs. Organic A deep dive into sourcing herbs and choosing between wildcrafted and certified organic options. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wild-harvested-vs-organic-herbs/   Herbal Safety Basics Learn how to research herbs, understand contraindications, and use herbs safely at home. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-safety-basics/ Beginner Herbal Book List (Being Updated) A curated list of trusted herbal books for beginners—without the overwhelm. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/7-best-books-on-herbalism-for-beginners-without-the-overwhelm/ Spring Gardening Summit (Free Online Event) A free online summit covering gardening, herbs, fermentation, gut health, and more. https://thehomesteadchallenge--audreyslittlefarm.thrivecart.com/gsk26-fast-action/679740ca1cb5c/ Recommended Herb Suppliers Frontier Co-op Mountain Rose Herbs Starwest Botanicals Final Note This episode is about learning slowly, safely, and realistically. You don’t need to memorize everything, grow all your herbs, or feel perfectly confident to get started. Apothecary February is about building skills and confidence over time—without pressure or fear.

Winter can feel long and heavy, and sometimes leaning into “slow and cozy” just isn’t enough. In this episode, we’re talking about simple homesteading projects that bring spring energy into the dead of winter—like organizing seeds, fermenting, making jam from your freezer stash, growing microgreens and herbs indoors, and tackling garden-adjacent projects. These small, hopeful actions help beat the winter blues and remind us that growth doesn’t have to wait for spring. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com  

In this episode, I'm sharing exactly what I'm planting in the garden in 2026 on my 1/4 acre homestead in the city and why these choices make sense for our real life, space, and season. We talk through what’s staying, what we’re letting go of, and how we’re planning a garden that feels nourishing instead of overwhelming. If you’re craving a more intentional, low-pressure garden plan this year, this one’s for you. 🌱   Sign up for the FREE Spring Gardening Summit: https://thehomesteadchallenge--audreyslittlefarm.thrivecart.com/gsk26-fast-action/679740ca1cb5c/  

We’re talking about the fail days — and even fail seasons — that come with this lifestyle and why they don’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. From flat sourdough and bitter canned fruit to recipes that just don’t work, we’re sharing why trial and error is actually the point and how learning what fits your family, your taste, and your schedule is where real progress happens. If you’ve been feeling discouraged, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone and that slow, imperfect effort still counts.   https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity  

In this episode, we talk through a slower, more nourishing approach to homestead goal planning. Instead of big overhauls that lead to burnout, we focus on 12-week goals, micro habits, and habit stacking to turn good intentions into systems that actually fit real life. We also walk through a real-life example of how we’re using our word of the year, Nourish, to plan goals that support our families without adding stress.   https://thehomesteadchallenge.com  

In this episode, we’re sharing our word of the year—nourish—and what that actually looks like in real life. Instead of chasing big goals or a “new me,” we’re focusing on supporting our body, home, routines, creativity, and mental load in a slower, more sustainable way. This episode is a gentle reminder that consistency often comes from care, not pressure.   https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity  

Before you start setting garden or homestead goals for the new year, there’s something important to do first: prepare instead of rushing. In this episode, we talk about the simple things you can do right now to set yourself up for success—without pressure or overwhelm. We cover reflecting on last year, clearing physical and mental clutter, taking inventory of what you already have, deciding your real capacity, and why it’s okay to make a “not this year” list. I’m also sharing a gentle challenge to help you prepare one area of your home or homestead before you ever write a goal. Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity  

I’m sharing a quiet end-of-year check-in, reflecting on what worked (and what didn’t) in the past year, and talking through what I’m dreaming up for the year ahead. From reimagining community and challenges to launching a tiny local farm stand, this episode is all about planning gently—without pressure or overwhelm. Resources & Links Mentioned: Join the Homestead Challenge Private Facebook Group to vote on challenge names and join the conversation Sign up for emails at thehomesteadchallenge.com to stay in the loop Farm Stand Planner (coming soon to Etsy) Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates

Seeing people seed starting in December can make it feel like you’re already behind — especially if you live in a colder growing zone. In this episode, we’re talking about what’s actually worth planning for the garden this time of year, what can wait, and how to figure out your real planting timeline based on where you live (not what the internet is doing). If you’re a new or intermediate gardener — or just need a gentle reminder to slow down — this episode will help you plan with confidence instead of stress.   In This Episode, We Talk About: Why December gardening content can feel confusing The difference between planning season and planting season Why seed starting in December isn’t necessary for most cold climates How to find your exact garden zone and last frost date The seed-starting calculator I personally use every year What is worth doing for your garden in December How I batch seed-starting dates to make spring easier Reflecting on last year’s garden successes and flops Choosing garden priorities that actually fit your life Why rest is an important part of the growing season Helpful Garden Planning Links Mentioned: Find Your Last Frost Date Use your ZIP code to find your exact last frost date: https://www.almanac.com/gardening/frostdates   Seed Starting Date Calculator (My Favorite) This is the most robust and easiest-to-use calculator I’ve found: https://www.johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/seed-planting-schedule-calculator.html     Garden Planner + Seed Organizing Binder Inserts If you like having everything organized in one place, I have both available in my Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/HomesteadChallenge Join the Community: Come share your garden plans (or seed-starting photos!) inside our free Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity    

In this episode, we’re walking through a simple Friday Reset designed specifically for busy December weekends. With holiday activities filling up our schedules, we’re focusing on quick, doable steps that help us lower stress, clear a little space in our homes, and set ourselves up to actually enjoy the magic instead of rushing through it. We talk about choosing our non-negotiables, doing a fast holiday tidy, prepping food for the weekend, setting up cozy moments like a hot cocoa station, and reconnecting with homestead rhythms—whether that’s grabbing a few herbs from the garden, foraging evergreens, checking the pantry, or doing a quick emergency prep check. A little bit of intention on Friday can shift the entire tone of the weekend, helping us feel calmer, more present, and ready to savor the parts of December that matter most. Links Mentioned: Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Homemade gifts can be thoughtful and practical — if people actually know how to use them. In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite high-compliance DIY gifts for non-crunchy friends and family, so your handmade presents don’t end up forgotten in the back of a cabinet. We talk about why most homemade gifts fail (lack of familiarity, unclear instructions, or feeling too “crunchy”) and how to fix that by making your gifts familiar, foolproof, and easy to use in real life. These ideas are perfect for last-minute holiday gifts or any time you want to give something personal without pressure. 🎁 High-Compliance DIY Gift Ideas Covered: Herb salts (with easy everyday uses) Homemade vanilla extract (with a local twist) One-and-done dip mixes Jam with cream cheese dip instructions Loose leaf tea paired with a proper tea strainer DIY herbal bug spray (perfect for families and warm climates) Shower steamers for people who don’t take baths If you’re trying to move away from consumerism without giving gifts that feel “weird” or unused, this episode will help you confidently gift homemade items that people genuinely love. 🔗 Helpful Links: DIY Herbal Bug Spray: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/diy-herbal-bug-spray/ Herb Salt Recipes: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/rosemary-salt/ The Homestead Challenge Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com 💛 Join the Community: Share photos of your homemade gifts and connect with other low-pressure homesteaders in our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity  

Five years into my homesteading journey, I’m looking back at what actually worked, what caused burnout, and what I truly wish I had known as a beginner. In this episode, I’m walking you through the exact roadmap I would follow if I were starting completely over today — with less pressure, fewer gadgets, and a whole lot more joy. This is a gentle, realistic look at modern homesteading for real life — especially if you’re in the city, short on space, time, or energy. In this episode, we cover: Why joy should always be your starting point How trying to learn everything at once leads to burnout Choosing 1–2 skills at a time to focus on Building skills before buying tools and equipment Learning preservation before growing everything yourself Why consistency beats perfection every time How social media comparison derails beginners Homesteading in small spaces without waiting for “someday” Why the long game creates real sustainability 🌿 Join the Homestead Challenge Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity 🏡 Visit the blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

It’s officially December, and we’re starting our year-end reflection a little early around here. In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we talk honestly about what actually worked on our city homestead this year—and what completely flopped. From simplifying garden projects and freezing tomatoes to sourdough struggles, slow home projects, and a few disappointing garden losses, this is a real-life look at homesteading without the highlight reel. If you’ve had a year with both wins and messy moments, you’re not alone—and this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why choosing only one big garden project changed everything How freezing tomatoes instead of canning immediately reduced burnout A DIY herbal bug spray win that actually worked Leaning into convenience appliances like the crockpot, bread machine & air fryer How meal planning around milk & meat delivery simplified grocery shopping The power of habit stacking (laundry + breakfast) An incredible herb harvest that’s still producing in December Why my sourdough starter died twice Projects that took way longer than expected (hello, brick patio) Garden disappointments: no pumpkins, no zucchini, small garlic Why every garden has failures—and that’s normal This episode is all about realistic homesteading, adjusting expectations, and giving yourself permission to grow slowly and imperfectly. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here: [Insert podcast link] 🌿 Find recipes, resources & more at: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com 🐝 DIY Bug Spray Recipe Mentioned: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/diy-herbal-bug-spray/   💛 Let’s connect: Instagram: @brittanylgibson Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity   What worked for you this year—and what didn’t?

Winter is supposed to be the season where everything finally slows down… but for many of us, it quickly becomes another round of pressure to plan next year’s garden, stock the pantry, bake everything from scratch, and add even more to our already full plates. In this episode, I’m sharing the three homesteading tasks I’m not doing this winter so I can actually rest—and the two cozy, meaningful projects I am embracing to stay connected to my homestead in a way that fits my real life. We’re talking about: Why I’m not starting every seed in January How I’m resisting the urge to buy another pantry shelf’s worth of groceries The kitchen gadgets I’m saying no to (even on Black Friday!) The herbal products I’m creating with what I dried over the summer Why winter preserving—like dealing with those freezer tomatoes—actually feels easier If you’ve felt the pressure to “do all the things” in the winter homestead season, this episode will give you permission to simplify, slow down, and choose what truly matters in your current season of life. Related Episodes Ep 159. Pantry Restock The Smart Way: How to Refill without Overwhelm or Overspending Ep 5: Homestead Confessions: Expensive Kitchen Gadgets I Regret Buying (Don’t waste your money!)