Hi Mary Ellen, when our chickens free range there is no manure to save as it is mixed into the earth by the chickens themselves. The only manure that is possible to save is from their coop or run where they reside once it’s dark. From there you can store the manure in a compost tumbler of sorts but you need to age it for at least 6 months before it is safe to use in the garden or with any other plants. As far as tackling projects, it is best to have a priority list and if they are all a priority, start with one section at a time. That is how we transformed our yard was by working on certain sections, and making sure to complete the job before we started another. Nothing happens overnight and our small homestead transformation spanned at least 5 to 6 years. Hope that helps and good luck!

Hi Susie, we are glad you found us as well!

That’s amazing to hear Douglas, we had to move to a bigger property as we are “compulsive” gardeners (haha). Glad you found inspiration and helpful information on our site and we hope to see you around here in the future!

After months of searching my questions via Google, I was lucky to find your fantastic website!
Your postings are among the best I’ve read: clearly-written and very informative.

My wife and I are “compulsive” gardeners (we can’t stop creating new gardens on our rural Vermont property), and your photos are an inspiration to us.

Best wishes,
Doug & Deb

Thanks Patrick! Check out this article or this one to see more. Thanks for reading.