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These are the books that I’ve never read cover to cover, but refer to often for inspiration and advice. A treasure trove of information from people much smarter and more experienced than me! Here are nine of my favorites:
The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It: The Complete Back-to-Basics Guide by John Seymour
If you’re at the beginning of your homestead adventure or dreaming of one in the future, this is the book for you. It gives a general overview of all the pieces needed for a self-sufficient life, everything from gardening to animals to energy. When I’m looking for inspiration, I grab this book.
Square Foot Gardening by Mel Bartholomew
When we created our first fenced-in garden in 2020, we heavily used this one for guidance and inspiration. I still often refer to the pages in the back that answer the question I always seem to be asking: “How many seeds can I plant in each square?”
Carrots Love Tomatoes: Secrets of Companion Planting for Successful Gardening by Louise Riotte
This one is a new addition to my bookshelf this year and I’ve already used it multiple times! Companion gardening can be a little tricky and this resource is laid out in an easy way. So helpful.
The Backyard Homestead Seasonal Planner by Ann Larkin Hansen
I LOVE this planner! Each month clearly shows you the tasks you need to prioritize in your garden, orchard, barn and pasture. I have definitely needed the direction.
Terrific Garden Tonics: 345 Do-It-Yourself, Fix ’em Formulas for Maintaining a Lush Lawn & Gorgeous Garden by Jerry Baker
This is the frugal gardener’s guidebook to prosperous gardens on a shoestring budget. His recipes include lots of common household items. I especially appreciate the ones to deter pests.
Dirt to Soil: One Family’s Journey into Regenerative Agriculture by Gabe Brown
This is the only book on the list that I am reading cover to cover because it is just so good. I’m taking lots of notes on cover crops and pasture rotation.
The Chicken Chick’s Guide to Backyard Chickens: Simple Steps for Healthy, Happy Hens by Kathy Shea Mormino
This book is a great one for someone just starting out with chickens. She covers everything in such an easy to understand way and I still refer back to it when I look at a chicken and think, “Is that normal?”
Storey’s Guide to Raising Pigs
This has been my go-to book as of late! There is so much information inside to fully help me understand this animal. I’m currently learning all I can about breeding and the gestation period.
Butchering Poultry, Rabbit, Lamb, Goat, and Pork: The Comprehensive Photographic Guide to Humane Slaughtering and Butchering by Adam Danforth
Last but not least, if you ever plan to butcher your own animals, consider adding this book to your shelves. The layout and pictures are clean and clear and the directions are great. We studied the chicken section before our first processing day and have even checked out the pork section, just in case we need it in the future.
