Today’s episode takes us on a journey into the growing world of suburban homesteading with Michelle Bruhn, a Minnesota native and passionate advocate for reconnecting people to the earth and their food. As a regenerative gardener, educator, and founder of Forks in the Dirt, Michelle helps people grow their own food, know their farmers, and embrace sustainable living.
Michelle shares her expertise on the rising popularity of homesteading as a way to reduce environmental footprints, promote healthier lifestyles, and foster community connections. In this episode, we explore what homesteading means and its benefits, from growing your own food to adopting sustainable practices in urban and suburban settings. Michelle dives into practical tips on soil management, companion planting, water conservation, and raising backyard chickens.
We’ll also discuss Michelle’s book, Small Scale Homesteading, co-authored with Stephanie Thurlow—a comprehensive guide to sustainable gardening and homesteading techniques. Michelle highlights the importance of building healthy soil, the benefits of community gardening, and the joy of involving family, especially children, in homesteading activities.
At home just north of St. Paul, Michelle practices what she preaches with her boys, “handy hubby,” and a backyard flock, showing that you don’t need acres of land to live sustainably. Whether foraging in nature or digging in her garden, Michelle believes plants and nature are our best teachers.
Get ready to be inspired by Michelle’s passion and practical advice as we explore designing, building, and growing a smarter garden that works!
Episode Timeline00:00 Introduction to Suburban Homesteading
02:34 Defining Modern Homesteading
04:00 Evaluating Your Space for Homesteading
04:55 Building and Improving Soil
05:48 Community Resources and Composting
08:29 Planting Techniques and Companion Planting
11:16 Extending the Growing Season
15:32 Balancing Animals and Crops
18:15 Winter Homesteading Tips
19:48 Efficient Water Use and Irrigation
21:55 Winter Activities for Homesteaders
22:39 About the Book: Small Scale Homesteading
23:55 Perennial Herbs and Companion Planting
24:06 Seed Starting and Saving
24:59 Community and Homesteading
26:19 The Importance of Soil
27:53 Garden Myths and Messiness
28:51 Early Garden Memories
30:21 Pursuing Horticulture Professionally
39:53 Companion Planting Insights
41:20 Lessons from the Garden
42:20 Future Garden Plans
43:31 Final Thoughts and Connections
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