A smallholding or homesteading in America, refers to small-scale agriculture in practical terms but for me and many others it represents, a yearning for self-sufficiency. Not quite farm territory, smallholding is that happy in-between space for the nature-minded and autonomy-seekers.
Whether the goal is owning and managing livestock, growing and harvesting crops or responsibly stewarding any size of land, smallholding is mostly about developing a mindset that embodies a sovereign life. A lifestyle that is in resonance with the natural cycles and patterns of nature. Imagine, it would be impossible to nurture any fruit tree or vegetable bed without first having an awareness of natural life cycles and the impact seasonal change has upon plant’s growth.
Many smallholders strive to produce all their produce for their own consumption and use - and sometimes these are also sold to create additional revenue to support the smallholding’s up-keep. Think, honey, eggs, wool and veggies, as well as any products made with smallholding produce. Home-made soaps, preserves and seasonal crafts are also attractive options for smallholders as well as renting out spaces such as barns, venues or additional dwellings on the land.
Of course these all require quite a bit of effort and management but there are possibilities to explore in generating additional income, particularly when the smallholding is providing produce that is surplus to the requirements of the owners. Depending on the size of the smallholding, costs can run high for maintenance of the land, animal husbandry and general upkeep of the house and buildings, so additional revenue is welcome.
But don’t be daunted. It is certainly possible to start a smallholding life, and below I share some practicalities and ideas for how to get started and how we are shaping ours. Know that I am not in any way a smallholding expert as we are so new to this ourselves, but it might be useful to read what we are doing and the steps that we have taken to get here. Remember too, that if acquiring land is out of reach right now, adopting a smallholding mindset is the first place to start. Here are some steps to get you started: