Think you can't garden in the South past May? A veteran gardener and survival expert shares the best veggies to grow in summer, plus essential tips...

Kentucky farmwife Catherine S. Pond shares how she designed, sourced materials and built a farm mudroom addition in their 1900s farmhouse.

Have you heard (or noticed)? Beavers are back in the Southeastern United States! Learn more about these furry mammals and their contributions to...

Looking for land for sale in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana? This article offers an overview of what it’s like living, playing and exploring in...

Looking for a unique summertime trip or day trip in Alabama? Humor writer, outdoorsman and dog lover Jim Mize shares his experience visiting the Coon...

We're celebrating Earth Day by sharing 7 ways landowners can use their property (large or small) to protect nature, preserve biodiversity, and help...

An outdoor mom and blogger shares her top 10 picks for mother's day gift ideas.

Struggling with invasive plants on your rural property? A forester shares how to identify and control them for a healthier forest, land and...

An expert gardener shares how to propagate tomato plants from existing plants for a bountiful crop at a great price.

Callahan’s small-town charm offers big-time rural appeal. Learn all about the benefits of living in Callahan, and why so many people are calling it...

Having trouble keeping your fishing gear organized and mobile? Get tips from an expert angler on how to carry your fishing gear (so you can fish more...

Looking for gardening advice and inspiration? Check out our top gardening resources including tips on how to plan a garden, source seed, start seeds,...

Wondering how to grow medicinal herbs for your homestead without a lot of experience? An herb farmer shares how to grow five perennial medicinals...

Looking for reasons to get outdoors more in your golden years? This article, the first in our active senior series, explores seven proven health...

Looking for another compelling reason to move to the country? Research shows urban noise pollution can contribute to various health problems,...

Get the scoop on Rethink:Rural's new look from our editor, Kristen Boye.

Looking for land for sale in Polk County, Texas? This article offers an overview of how to find your perfect property and do your due diligence, plus...

Interested in learning how to start seeds? A regenerative farmer compares three low- to no-waste seed starting methods perfect for beginners and...

Got land, livestock and trees? Then silvopasture may be a practical, economical and eco-friendly way to reduce feed costs and create a unique...

From how to build an earth-sheltered home to raising grassfed beef on less acreage, enjoy this compilation of our top five most-read articles of the...

Looking for a last-minute holiday or christmas gift for an unexpected guest or host/hostess gift? Check out these five handmade gifts you can make...

Warm up the season with these easy-to-make homemade hot winter beverages.

Wondering if your grandfather's old knives or grandmother's gardening tools are worth saving? In some cases, they may be better than buying new. A...

Need some fun winter break activities for the kiddos or grandkids? Check out these 14 days of holiday-themed activities you can enjoy on the...

Award-winning author and outdoorsman Jim Mize shares some of his favorite relaxing, entertaining and constructive fireside reads, including...

Whether you celebrate friendsgiving, thanksgiving or both, Kentucky farmwife Catherine S. Pond's reflections and original recipes will get you into...

From field to feast, we share a step-by-step guide to preparing the perfect wild turkey for Thanksgiving dinner this year.

Dad, Grandpa, award-winning writer and outdoorsman Jim Mize shares practical and fun gift ideas for outdoorsy, homesteady and rural Dads.

Finding the perfect gifts for homesteaders & hobby farmers can be a challenge, but we’ve got you covered with over 30 practical and meaningful ideas.

Wondering what it was like to survive Hurricane Helene in the Carolina Mountains? Two natives and Rethink:Rural writers share their experiences and...

Celebrate the fall season on the homestead with a glass of homemade cider. Follow our easy step-by-step guide on how to press and make your own cider...

A homesteader shares beginner tips on how to harvest, season cut and split your own firewood for greater self-sufficiency and a cozier home this...

A homesteader, bulk buyer, mom and chef shares how to choose the best deep freezer (including chest freezer versus upright) for your home, hobby farm...

Mara Watts, a Rethink:Rural writer and homesteader, shares her comical experience adding goats to the farm.

Looking for a way to get rid of those pesky fall leaves? Here we share the environmental, gardening and time-saving benefits of leaf mulching and how...

Finding a reputable contractor to build your dream country home can be challenging, especially if you're new to the area and/or have never built a...

Fall is the perfect time to plant perennials. Expert gardener L. Woodrow Ross shares his advice and tips on choosing money-saving and functional...

Homestead sheds and garden buildings don’t have to be cookie-cutter and boring! Three DIYers from around the world (literally!) share their creative...

Habitat restoration and preservation is essential in all parts of the world. Learn what's being done, what's working (and what's not) and what you...

They say you've never had honey until you've tried pure wild sourwood honey, a rarity now in the South. Here, Jim Mize shares his experience growing...

Buying a high tunnel is a big investment for homesteaders, farmers, or hobby farmers, and it raises many questions. Here, a farmer shares his...

An expert on water systems and water quality explains why your pond needs a management plan rather than piecemeal solutions.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to raise pigs on your hobby farm, look no further. We spoke with Deborah Niemann, a homesteader, writer...

Armadillos have been appearing in new Southeastern states, such as the Carolinas, surprising many residents. In this article, humor writer Jim Mize...

Long-time gardener, grandpa, survival expert and great-grandpa, L. Woodrow Ross share his experience of the joy and wonder of teaching his...

How do you keep a pond healthy? Follow these tips to prevent common problems and nurture a thriving aquatic ecosystem.

You've finally got the big country yard you've always wanted for your growing family...now what? A homesteading family of four shares how they...

Looking for an educational summer project that will keep your kids engaged (even when it's hot outside)? Try a solar oven. In Part 4 of our Summer...

A regenerative herb farmer shares a simple guide on how to grow garlic plus the benefits of doing so in your home garden, hobby farm or homestead....

Are you looking for ways to make money from your rural land or to self-fund your future or present homestead? In this preview article, we cover 3...

In Part 3 of our Summer Science Series, outdoor mom Corey Hunt shares how to build a DIY Terrarium step-by-step with your kiddos at home.

In Part 2 of our summer science series, outdoor mom Corey Hunt shares how to create a DIY ant farm with your kiddos at home.

Got kids at home this summer? Then you'll love this summertime science series by outdoor mom, Corey Hunt. In this first article, she shares how to...

Building a new home gives you a unique opportunity to take advantage of modern fire safety tools and systems. Protect your home and family with these...

Looking for natural weed killers that work? Here, our editor (and regenerative herb farmer) shares and compares 5 simple DIY non-toxic weed killers,...

Americans south of the Canadian border got a real treat this month: a chance to see the Aurora Borealis as far south as North Carolina, with even...

Looking for the perfect strawberry jam recipe to preserve the season's garden or roadside stand harvest? Kentucky farmwife Catherine S. Pond shares...

Ignore the marketing hype and get real about why you want an RV/camper before you start shopping.

Looking for Mother's Day gardening and homesteading gift ideas? We've got you covered with 10 gifts for moms who love getting their hands dirty,...

As spring sets in, gardeners everywhere begin to get the itch to go outside to till the garden. But before you crank up the tiller, allow us and a...

Are you considering adding trees or shrubs to your rural land this spring? Check out these 5+ beautiful multi-functional trees, shrubs and plants...

Happy Earth Day 2024! This year, we’re celebrating Earth Day’s theme, Planet vs. Plastics, with a few tips for reducing plastic waste on the...

Planning a camping, floating or backpacking trip this Spring? Get tips from a rafting guide on how to pack perishables for safe, substantial and...

Kentucky farmwife and author Catherine S. Pond shares the poetic glory of springtime in the South in words and photographs from her family farm in...

Springtime is perfect canoeing weather in the South! Here, an outdoor expert and mom shares tips she learned from their recent family canoeing trip...

Ample research across decades has shown lifestyle plays a primary role in heart health and heart disease risk. Here we explore 10 ways a rural...

Tap into the many benefits of companion planting as an alternative to pesticides in the garden this spring. Use certain flowers and herbs to repel...

When catastrophic events occur, how do you access clean water? A survival expert weighs in on the basics, and importance, of water and how to...

Are you looking for land in Texas? If so, here are 9 reasons to consider looking for land for sale in Walker County, Texas plus tips and resources on...

Are you looking for land for sale in Texas? Here, we share 10 compelling reasons to consider buying land in beautiful Polk County, Texas.

In an unexpected Valentine's Day ode, outdoor mom Corey Hunt recounts her newlywed and early parenting adventures spent driving and off-roading...

Have you recently moved to the countryside? Often, meeting new people and socializing in a rural area can pose a challenge. Here we share 8 creative...

Are you curious about the wildlife that shares or runs through your property? While trail cams can help, there's no substitute for developing keen...

The front porch has become symbolic of the rural South and a cherished place for folks to relax, regroup and even make sense of world's problems....

Winters in the South may not always mean snow, but it does get cold! Especially for those who have farm chores or outdoor projects to attend to. A...

Rural crime rates are about half that of urban crime rates (which is why many people are moving to the country), but that doesn't mean you should...

Learn how to put your children's or grandchildren's passion for the outdoors into action by applying for the annual Outdoor Journalist Education...

Father, Grandpa, and outdoorsman L. Woodrow Ross reflects on the wonders of childhood during the holidays, how we can help preserve that and how...

Have you heard of glimmers? They're considered the opposite of a trigger, something that sparks momentary joy, inspiration and peace, and they are...

Whether you're hosting a big family gathering or just have your kiddos home for the holidays, these 10 creative holiday activities will help keep...

Looking for some useful and practical dog or dog owner gift ideas? Dog-lover and outdoorsman Jim Mize shares his favorite accessories for the family...

This year's dry summer and fall have many landowners thinking about wildfires. Fortunately, there is much you can do to reduce your home's risk of...

This state’s diverse features—from Appalachian forests to open prairies to Gulf Coast beaches and bayous—make it the perfect haven for pursuing an...

Where is the best place to live in Florida? That question has been on the minds of many as Florida's population continues to boom. In this article,...

Are you hosting Thanksgiving on your homestead this year? Whether it's your first time hosting or you've been at it for a while, some fresh...

Kentucky farmwife Catherine S. Pond shares three Thanksgiving recipe favorites for Turkey "Jam", Jalapeno-Orange Cranberry Sauce and Catherine's...

Discover 20 one-of-kind hobby farming & homesteading gift ideas any back-to-the-lander, off-gridder, gardener or farmer will love.

Looking for a practical gift for the homesteader or hobby farmer on your holiday list? To help out, we’ve collected an assortment of kitchen gift...

Country living gives us a front-row seat to listen for and observe various nocturnal creatures. In this article, outdoorsman Jim Mize shares tips on...

As the days get shorter and the nights chillier, there's nothing like the comforting feel of an old quilt. Writer Jim Mize shares the story of his...

As soon as fall arrives, so do the ornamental (and edible) pumpkins. Rethink:Rural writer, Mara Watts, shares a few ideas for minimizing waste and...

Learning how to build a campfire is a rite of passage for country and city kids, but it must be done with great adult intention and attention to...

Looking for fun fall activities to do in your rural area or small town? Check out these 10 creative ideas the whole family will enjoy, from picking...

Country living near forests affords one a beautiful view of fall colors. But have you ever wondered why leaves change color in Autumn? Read on to...

Have you ever wondered what school was like in a one-room country schoolhouse? In this nostalgia piece, L. Woodrow Ross shares colorful and beloved...

One new hunter shares the joys and challenges of her journey of getting started hunting as an adult.

In some rural places, the weather can vary significantly from the local weather report. Outdoorsman Jim Mize shares his favorite low-tech and...

Discover how wildlife corridors are helping reconnect fragmented sections of animal habitat while increasing human safety, plus how to use your rural...

How does news get around rural communities these days? Hint: it's not all by social media or newsfeed. Humor writer, outdoorsman and rural-living...

If you are planning to join the homesteading movement, we at Rethink:Rural recommend seeking out reliable resources to guide you on your way. In this...

Discover how Alabama Audubon’s Black Belt Birding Festival helps birds, ecosystems and people in the state’s rural south-central region. 

The final days of summer are upon us! A gardener and nature lover shares recipes and musings to inspire appreciation of the season.

Get step-by-step tips on how to convert your freshwater fishing gear to salt water from an angling expert.

A powerful connection with nature created during childhood can have lasting impacts. Learn how to start birdwatching with your kids (or any kids in...

Metal detecting is a wonderful hobby for adults and children, especially in rural places. A survival expert and outdoorsman shares stories from a...

Are you thinking about building a short-term rental on your rural land? If so, Mara has insider tips and adviceto share from her and her family's...

Wild blackberries, abundant and delicious, ripen between June and August in the South. Take your kids, invite a friend and make a summer...

Are you interested in fishing, either alone or with your children, but don't know where to start? An experienced woman angler, outdoors expert and...

Indulge in a rich story of yesteryear-homesteading, as author Jim Mize shares memories of visiting his Uncle Abe's off-grid farm 60 years ago.

Does the warm weather make you averse to turning on the oven? Then why not cook outdoors? Get tips and family recipes from an outdoorsman, survival...

Looking for ways to make extra money to support your rural lifestyle? An expert shares tips on how to make extra income, or an entire living, travel...

Attracting bats to your rural property has many potential benefits, including natural insect control, plant pollination and seed spreading. Learn how...

Could a portable sawmill be a wise investment for your rural land? L. Woodrow Ross interviews a band sawmill owner in rural South Carolina to get the...

What would you do if you were lost in the woods without a GPS or access to your phone? Expert outdoorsman Jim Mize shares potentially life-saving...

The southeast is the perfect place for growing a beautiful and abundant tomato crop. However, there are some best practices for growing tomatoes down...

Seed saving is a fun, easy, and valuable skill for homesteaders and gardeners alike. We talk with the founder of a seed company to learn more about...

The first step to a successful garden is to prepare the soil. A seasoned gardener shares his tips on evaluating, amending and preparing your soil for...

If your dream is to start a farm but you aren’t sure how to pay for it, you’re not alone — the start-up costs can be daunting. But the real farmers...

Are you looking for a peaceful and self-sufficient lifestyle? Do you dream of having your own homestead or hobby farm? If so, let us introduce you to

If you’re looking for land for sale in Louisiana, you probably have a lot of questions. In Part 2 of this series, local real estate and finance...

If you’re looking for land for sale in Louisiana, you probably have a lot of questions. Local real estate and finance experts offer tips on how to...

In part 3 of our series on How To Find Land For Sale in Baker County, Florida you'll learn the basics of what to expect when planning to build a...

A nature lover, gardener and outdoorsman shares his musings about the unique joys of springtime in rural America.

Looking for land for sale in Baker County, Florida? Here's how to do your due diligence when you find that perfect piece of land.

An outdoorswoman, mom, and outdoor adventure blogger shares her favorite 5 outdoor apps for camping, planning family trips, and outdoor adventures.

In the first article of our series on "How to Buy Land and Turn it Into a Homesite in Baker County Florida", we share how to find land for sale, how...

Just like homeowner’s insurance, farm insurance is critical to protecting what you have invested your time and money in. We speak with a farm...

Building a simple forge for metalworking is within the capabilities of most anyone. Those who enjoy a rural lifestyle or homesteading may find it a...

If food prices, supply issues and distance to the market have you rethinking your grocery strategy, this article is for you! Discover everything you...

A recreational property, or any piece of wooded land, is not complete without some type of trail system. A trail building novice turned expert shares...

If you’re not ready to turn your large tract of land into a permanent homestead, but still want to make the most of your recreational property,...

If this last year has left you craving more freedom and outdoor space, now could be the perfect time to invest wisely in recreational property. We...

Have you ever wondered what you would need to have on hand in the event of an emergency or disaster? A preparedness expert weighs in on how you, too,...

Searching for the perfect Valentine's day gift for your beloved homesteader, gardener, hobby farmer, outdoor enthusiast or nature lover? Check out...

Are you interested in starting a community garden in your neighborhood this year? With a few tips and action items, you can do just that. Bringing...

The homesteading lifestyle is about values like self-reliance, health and freedom. But what does homesteading look like today? Let’s look at the...

Recently, American public lands have garnered attention across the media. For someone that lives in an urban setting, the idea that public lands...

No matter where you live in America, plastic pollution from single-use items has become a big, ugly, and pervasive problem. 

Retirement is a big step and for most of us and it opens up a myriad of possibilities. Retiring to the country is a great step in the right direction...

As part of our "Rethink Rural Meet the Author" series, Jim Mize interviews outdoor family experts and award-winning writers Corey and Philip Hunt on...

A hobby farm, homestead, or recreational property requires the procurement of specific tools and equipment. Sportsman, woodworker and outdoorsman L...

Get rural land and homestead management tips on planning ahead for the new year, including master plans for gardening, pruning, painting lawn care,...

Take a break from the holiday hustle to enjoy this funny tale of a black lab whose sense of smell led him to a whole heap of Christmas trouble. This...

Winter sowing seeds is a fun and simple way to jumpstart your garden months ahead. Here we share the ins and outs of getting started and how to be...

'Tis the season for homemade holiday gift-giving. In this article, farmwife Catherine S. Pond, shares her go-to, perfected recipes for...

It's not too late to buy gifts for the country person in your life, from heirloom seed subscriptions to homemade laundry DIY kits, there’s still time...

Need some gift ideas for the outdoorsy off-grid enthusiast? Survival expert and outdoorsman, L. Woodrow Ross, shares his top gift ideas for the...

Support your hardworking loved ones this winter with gifts that nurture them and inspire their dreams. 

Get inspired to count your blessings and your bounty with Catherine S. Pond's reflections on 10 blessings of a country Thanksgiving.

This myth-busting article sets the record straight about the basics of buying rural land in the post-pandemic 21st century.

New hunter Sarah Seufer shares the podcasts that helped her get started hunting as an adult. 

If you live on a farm, it’s time to start thinking about preparing for winter. Homesteader Mara Watts shares her top tips on how to winterize your...

Wondering how to find raw rural land for sale? This article shares the best online and offline resources to help you find your dream property.

People who feed birds find it rewarding and time well spent. Usually, they can rattle off the species at their feeder like they were family names....

Regardless of where you live in the South, there is probably a healthy population of whitetail deer nearby. Even in a development located in a rural...

Experienced hunter, father, and grandpa Jim Mize reflects on the life lessons and self-sufficiency skills he learned during his first hunting...

Looking for ways to cut costs and save money at home? Farm wife Catherine Pond shares her advice on how country folks can take advantage of their...

Wildlife exists almost everywhere, even in the shadow of civilization. We have only to perceive it in another dimension. Our human senses have been...

Learn how to buy the right ATV or UTV for your rural land with these simple tips from a 20+ year industry expert.

As part of our "Rethink Rural Meet the Author" series, Sarah Asp Olson interviews our fearless editor, Kristen Boye on her au naturale upbringing,...

For many rural folks and homesteaders, a fireplace or woodstove is an essential part of the home. However, finding a safe and efficient place to...

We talked to a veteran homeschooling mom in Western North Carolina, for details on what a nature journal is, and how to get started with one.

It’s still hot, but the days are shortening as summer begins to slip into fall. Farm chores are adding up, especially as they pertain to the family...

Need a fun activity to occupy the kids before school starts? An outdoorswoman and mother of 2 shares her experience trying out worm charming with her...

Bug sprays are essential during the dog days of summer (especially in the hot, sticky South!). But you don't have to turn to toxic pesticide-based...

Farmers, rural entrepreneurs and even a celebrity survivalist have helped Rethink:Rural tell the story of country living throughout our 7 years of...

Homeschooling your children can be one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever embark on. But how do you fit it in when you are busy on the...

We're looking back at some of the best expert advice we've received about buying rural land in celebration of Rethink:Rural's seventh birthday.

When you live close to nature, you're bound to come across various wild creatures...big and small. Mice, for example, are common on many farms and...

How much acreage do you really need to create a homestead, farm, hobby farm or country home? Maybe less (or more) than you think! Learn more with...

When gardening or farming, having the right tool for the right job can make all the difference. A regenerative farmer and homesteader shares his...

Have you ever heard of the old Appalachian tradition of "planting by the signs"? This ancient method of garden planning relies on moon phases and the...

An outdoorsman, survivalist, gardener, primitive crafts hobbyist, hunter, fisherman, Dad and Grandpa shares his advice on great Father's Day Gifts...

Census data shows that the South is attracting newcomers like never before. Long-time Southerner, outdoorsman and author Jim Mize, shares some tips...

The last few years have been hard on children and families. However, uncertain times (and summer break) provide parents a unique opportunity to teach...

If you drive on country roads, chances are you've either hit or nearly collided with a deer frozen in the headlights. Deer collisions are common and...

Chickens and their eggs are easy prey for predators such as raccoons, coyotes and snakes. In this article, we're sharing expert advice on how to...

Camping brings you up close and personal with nature, whether you car camp or venture far into the backwoods. But when camping in bear country, it's...

It has been said that “Necessity is the mother of invention.” That is especially true in a rural environment. Rather than driving to a big box store,...

While the threat of avian influenza can be daunting, there are steps you can take to help prevent illness in your flock. In this article, we're...

Are you interested in investing in timberland but don't know where to start? We interviewed certified Forester and educator, Danielle Atkins of Land...

Tree identification apps are a helpful and handy tool for land owners, nature lovers and anyone interested in learning more about forests and...

Have recent events got you feeling in need of a brain boost? Research shows that living in the country can have numerous direct and indirect benefits...

Want a waste-free way to start seeds? Soil blocks are the answer. A farmer and soil consultant shares his tips for how to make your own soil blocks...

Walk behind tractors have been a small-farm equipment staple in Europe for decades and are becoming popular in the United States. To learn more, we...

Are you one of the many who don’t feel that you have adequate gardening space? Do you think it's not worth the effort to try to plant vegetables...

If you've been looking for land for sale in Texas, you probably have a lot of questions. Experts offer tips about buying land in Texas.

Check out these podcasts to learn new homesteading skills while doing simple tasks like cooking dinner, prepping your garden or collecting eggs. We...

It's already mid-February and although it's not quite planting time, there are signs of spring throughout the Southeast. Learn what you can do (and...

If you've been looking for land for sale in Florida, you probably have a lot of questions. Experts offer tips about buying land in Florida.

This year, we're celebrating rural Valentine's traditions that have been bringing couples closer together for centuries. Get 5 ideas for old...

Enjoying nature’s wonders captures the essence of our feature Rethink:Rural author: Sarah Seufer. Read on to learn more about this budding young...

Looking for a fun and purposeful project to ride out the last days of winter? L. Woodrow Ross shares how landowners can help enhance bluebird...

Cooler temperatures beckon for cozy nights spent around a campfire, bonfire, or relaxing in front of your fireplace. But do you really know where...

Investing in land has been shown to be a smart and lucrative way to diversify and grow your portfolio. However, just like with a traditional home,...

Wooded properties aren't just for growing timber! To learn more about agroforestry, we talked to Professor and Forest Management Extension...

Need some humorous inspiration to fuel your New Year's fitness resolutions? Jim Mize shares his first-hand experiences in woodland country...

These days, many people are seeking a farm or small holding of land to create a greater sense of freedom and well-being. And there is nothing better...

Times were simpler and trivial things took on more significance in those days. Holidays were special times when thoughts turned from the drudgery of...

The holidays are a wonderful time to reflect back on our roots and family traditions. In this heart-felt essay, L. Woodrow Ross shares his memories...