It describes a lifestyle centered around self-sufficiency, sustainable living, and often a close connection to nature. The term originated in the United States, where the “Homestead Act” of 1862 allowed pioneers to claim land and cultivate it through hard work.
Today, homesteading is much more than that and can be practiced both in rural and urban areas. It is a conscious decision for a simpler, slower-paced life that aligns with natural cycles while combining modern technology with traditional knowledge.
Homesteading is not a strictly defined concept but rather an individual approach to life. For some, it means a complete departure from modern society and striving for full independence, while for others, it is about making certain aspects of daily life more sustainable and mindful. In today’s world, where climate change, environmental issues, and resource scarcity are becoming more critical, homesteading concepts are experiencing a renaissance.
For us homesteading is not just a way to live more sustainably, but also a conscious decision to actively support and protect nature. The goal is to produce high-quality, nutrient-rich food through local, environmentally friendly means—without exploiting nature, but rather enriching it. Agriculture does not have to be synonymous with environmental destruction; on the contrary, it can contribute to protecting ecosystems and preserving biodiversity. This is why homesteading often incorporates regenerative methods that enhance soil and environmental health.
An important aspect of our homesteading approach is the ethical decision to live a plant based lifestyle and not keep livestock (except for rescued or previously adopted animals). This choice reflects our belief that sustainability includes respecting other living beings and finding alternatives that do not involve exploitation. Additionally, homesteading strengthens community connections by encouraging knowledge-sharing, supporting others in building their own self-sufficient systems, and collaborating on solutions that reduce dependence on global markets. Homesteading, therefore, is not just a personal lifestyle but also an opportunity to demonstrate that alternatives exist and that sustainable, mindful living can be fulfilling.
What Does Homesteading Involve?
Homesteading is a multifaceted lifestyle encompassing various aspects of self-sufficiency, craftsmanship, and sustainable living. The key principles include:
Self-Sufficiency:
One of the central aspects of homesteading is food production. This includes growing fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs while incorporating permaculture principles. Instead of relying on monoculture or artificial fertilizers, cultivation methods are designed to maintain long-term soil fertility and improve soil quality.
Craftsmanship and Practical Skills:
The ability to create and repair things is a fundamental aspect of homesteading. Construction projects using natural materials, making household products like soaps, or fermenting foods are skills that contribute to greater independence. Developing these skills fosters a deeper connection to the resources used and the items produced.
Sustainability & Self-Reliance:
A conscious approach to resources forms the foundation of homesteading. Rainwater harvesting, composting, and natural farming methods that avoid pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are essential elements. The goal is to reduce reliance on global supply chains and achieve sustainable yields even on small plots of land.
Minimalism & Upcycling:
A minimalist lifestyle in homesteading is not about deprivation but about freedom. Reduced consumption allows for more creativity, and instead of purchasing new products, emphasis is placed on repurposing and reusing existing materials. Upcycling, repairing, and consciously evaluating needs play a crucial role.
Community & Knowledge Sharing:
Homesteading is not about isolation but about sharing knowledge with others. Whether through workshops, community projects, or exchanging ideas with like-minded individuals, homesteaders seek to inspire others to adopt sustainable and self-reliant ways of living.
Health and Mindfulness:
The close relationship with nature, the mindful production of food, and hands-on craftsmanship positively impact physical and mental well-being. Homesteading can be a form of self-care—slowing down, staying grounded, and learning to appreciate life more consciously.
Our Start on Newly Cleared Land
Our journey began on land that was previously covered by dense coniferous forest. The soil was extremely acidic, low in humus, and filled with stones—far from ideal conditions for sustainable farming. Such soils often have a low pH level, making nutrient absorption more difficult for plants. Additionally, the essential humus layer was missing, and soil life was significantly reduced.
To establish a foundation for permaculture, we created what we call our starter area. This serves as a hub for growing and propagating plants, which will gradually be distributed across the entire property.
At first, the soil was manually tilled, with trenches approximately 50 cm deep being dug. The soil was sifted to remove stones, and the trenches were refilled with a mixture of the siftet soil, high-quality compost, purchased garden soil, and activated biochar. Biochar not only improves the soil’s water retention capacity but also provides an ideal environment for microorganisms that contribute to long-term soil fertility.
Additionally, large stones (which had been removed from the soil before) were intentionally placed around the plants to further enhance soil quality and the microclimate. These stones serve two primary purposes: first, they act as natural drainage by preventing waterlogging and allowing excess moisture to flow away; second, they absorb heat during the day and gradually release it during cooler nighttime hours. This creates a more stable microclimate that helps plants withstand temperature fluctuations and supports growth. This effect is particularly beneficial in regions with cooler nights or strong temperature variations.
To further protect and enrich the soil with nutrients, we applied a mulch layer to the freshly planted areas. This consisted of grass clippings sourced from the neighborhood and wood chips derived from the land-clearing process. Mulch prevents soil dehydration, suppresses unwanted plant growth, and fosters a thriving habitat for soil organisms such as earthworms and beneficial microorganisms.
A healthy soil ecosystem is crucial for sustainable farming. Earthworms decompose organic material, aerate the soil, and improve its structure. Microorganisms such as fungi and bacteria play a key role in the nutrient cycle by breaking down organic matter and making essential nutrients available to plants.
Our Progress in the First Year
Over the first year, the starter area has undergone visible transformations. The initial plants have become established, the soil is beginning to regenerate, and the microclimate has improved due to the mulch layer and strategically placed stones. The increase in soil organisms has significantly enhanced soil structure, leading to better overall growing conditions. Below are some images documenting the development of our starter area:
Conclusion
Homesteading is a fascinating way of life that can be adapted to individual needs and practiced in different ways. Whether living on a large plot of land with full self-sufficiency or starting small in an urban apartment by baking homemade bread and collecting rainwater—homesteading is accessible to everyone. It blends tradition with modernity and offers a sustainable, rewarding alternative to mainstream living.
Ultimately, homesteading is not only about material self-sufficiency but also about a mindset of mindfulness and connection to nature. It encourages conscious resource use, fosters a deep bond with the environment, and promotes a lifestyle that values sustainability. For us, it is a way to produce high-quality food, create a thriving ecosystem, and contribute positively to both nature and our community. Those who embark on this journey will find that homesteading is not just about independence but also about discovering deep satisfaction and fulfillment.