Maggie Ray
Local Food Systems and Small Farms Program Coordinator
Keywords
Local Foods and Small Farms
Modern Homesteading Series
Modern Homesteading Series
Whether you live in the third story of an apartment or on a 10-acre plot of land, homesteading skills can help bring you and your family closer to the food you eat. Collecting eggs, tending the garden, canning, drying herbs - all these things and so much more can help you in your everyday life to become more connected to your food, family, and community.
This past year, we offered monthly programs related to modern homesteading. We're excited to announce plans for another series in 2025! Come to one, come to a few, attend them all - there's something for everyone in this series!
2025 Modern Homesteading Program Schedule
Scheduled Topics
The following programs have been scheduled for the 2025 season. The series is free and open to the public. Unless otherwise noted, all events will be held at the Jackson County Extension office at 402 Ava Rd. in Murphysboro.
- Introduction to Modern Homesteading - Jan 21
- Introduction to fruit trees - Jan. 16
- Introduction to small fruits - March 11
- Modern Homesteading Book Club - Feb 11, 25, and March 11, 25
- Canning Strawberry Jam - March 27
- Composting - April 1
- Seed Saving - June 3
- Seed Saving - June 10
- Organic Gardening - July 15
- Giving the Gift of Flowers - August 12
- Chicken Processing - August 22 & 23
- Growing Great Sweet Corn - October 21
- Soap Making for the Homestead - December 2
Growing great Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is the taste of summer in Illinois. Growing it fresh in your backyard is simple, fun, easy, and it might even be profitable! Learn how to grow a successful sweet corn patch during this lunchtime webinar with Dr. Talon Becker, Commercial Agriculture Specialist.
Soap Making for the Homestead
Soap is made with a few simple ingredients that you can find in your local grocery and hardware stores! This class will teach you how to make soap using the same timeless methods our ancestors likely used.
Seed Saving
Seed saving is a great way to utilize plants and flowers growing in your garden for future planting. Learn about how to collect seeds, store them and the stratification process during one of the two seed saving programs.
For More Information
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