Tips & Tricks from the Farmer’s Almanac

The Farmer’s Almanac has been published and read for more than 200 years.  The first copy came on the market during George Washington’s presidency, in 1792.  Since then the almanac has become a household name and a treasured read by many.  But surprisingly many people, even backyard homesteaders, don’t read this annual publication.  So today I want to share with you my favorite Farmer’s Almanac Tips for 2015.

Tips & Tricks from the Farmer’s Almanac

I wasn’t always a fan of this vintage looking book but I sure am now.  I know many buy the Farmer’s Almanac for its weather predictions but it is so much more!  I’d like to share 10 sweet little tips and tricks that I picked up from the 2015 issue…you’ll have to get it for more details!

1. Weeds bring beneficial bugs
   Ok I sort of already knew this one but not in the detail that the Farmer’s Almanac gave me.
2. Apothecaries’ measurements
   Did you know that 1 scruple = 20 grains?  I didn’t.  There is a whole page dedicated to tables of measures and their conversions.
3. Beauty on a Budget
   Recipes for conditioners, cuticle massage, fruit facial, wrinkle relaxer, walnut scrub, herbal toner and more.  So cool!
4. A Gestation and Mating Table
   Proper age / weight for first mating, period of fertility, female to male ratios, etc – for most of our domesticated animals (pets and livestock).
5. The best fishing days for 2015!
   Not only a list of the best days in each month but tips on catching more and estimating fish weights.
6. Glossary of Almanac Oddities
   Friends, this might be my favorite 2 pages in the whole book!  Dog Days, Cat Nights…we have actual dates for this!
7. How to Grow Trash Can Potatoes in a plastic or galvanized trash can.
   Start with drainage holes and 5 or 6 inches of water!
8. The difference in plastic numbers
   If you are using and sorting plastic these numbers can help you know what they are used for, if they are food safe and if recycled what they become.
9. How long meat, vegetables, fruits and dairy can stay in the freezer.
   This is a good list and reminds me how important it is to date the items you put in the freezer.  This list would be great on the fridge too.
10. Substitutions for common ingredients.
    For instance, out of baking powder?  You can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda + 1/4 teaspoon of cornstarch + 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar.

It was hard to pick just 10 items out of the 2015 Farmer’s Almanac – you have to pick up a copy for yourself!