Homesteading, DIY projects, and farm life can be incredibly rewarding, but let’s face it: it’s also a lot of hard work! Whether you’re tending to animals, fixing fences, or harvesting the fruits of your...
Have you ever set out to do a simple task…just mow the lawn, fix a fence, or water the garden…only to find yourself knee-deep in an unexpected repair, hours behind schedule, wondering why does...
People always told me I was crazy for choosing to commute by bicycle. They couldn’t wrap their heads around why someone would opt for a slower, sweatier, and seemingly inconvenient way to get from...
Did you know peanuts aren’t actually nuts? They’re legumes, related to beans and peas, and they grow underground, making them an incredibly unique crop. If you live in a hot climate like Arizona, peanuts...
There’s something truly special about collecting fresh eggs from your backyard. Not only do homegrown eggs taste better, but they’re also healthier, fresher, and more ethically produced than store-bought options. If you’ve ever considered...
Dreaming of starting a hobby farm but worried about the cost? Good news! You don’t need a massive budget to create a productive, self-sustaining mini-farm. With the right strategies, resourcefulness, and a little elbow grease, you can turn a small piece of land, even a backyard, into a thriving homestead.
Starting a homestead is one of the most rewarding decisions we’ve ever made. But let me tell you, there were plenty of surprises along the way! If you’ve ever dreamed of having a small...
Yesterday was National Pig Day, so what better time to celebrate the not-so-pint-sized members of our farm family–our beloved “mini” pigs! The name is somewhat of a misnomer, as many mini pigs weigh well...
There’s something truly special about simple pleasures on the farm–fresh air, the sound of animals, the scent of blooming citrus. But let me tell you about one modern luxury that has completely changed the...
Gardening in the desert might sound like a battle against nature, but with the right techniques and tools, it can turn into an incredibly rewarding experience. At Bleaves Farms in Gilbert, Arizona, we’ve learned...
Life has a way of stretching us thin. Between a demanding career, personal commitments, and the ever-growing to-do list at Bleaves Farms, I often find myself pulled in a dozen directions at once. Some...
This light and refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Salad, crafted by Jeff the Fire Chef, is a perfect blend of farm-fresh ingredients and bold Greek flavors. Tossed in a classic Greek dressing, this dish features tender orzo, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and creamy feta for the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and fresh.
Introduction If you’re looking for a unique, low-maintenance farm companion that also helps keep weeds under control, the Sulcata tortoise is an excellent choice. These gentle giants are fascinating to watch, require minimal care...
Our fresh, creamy Broccoli Soup is made with homegrown broccoli, harvested at peak flavor from our garden at Bleaves Farms. This wholesome, nutrient-rich soup is packed with vibrant greens, farm-fresh ingredients, and a touch of comforting warmth in every spoonful.
When we started experiencing issues with coyotes threatening our animals, we knew we needed a powerful and reliable livestock guardian dog. Enter Bowser, our Karakachan, a rare and ancient breed known for its fierce...
Pinto beans have been a staple in many cultures for generations, especially in Latin American cuisine. Not only are they delicious and versatile, but they also thrive in warm climates, making them an excellent...
At BLeaves Farms, we’re always looking for exciting additions to our homestead that bring both beauty and bounty. Our latest planting has us absolutely thrilled–a three-in-one peach tree featuring Desert Gold, Mid Pride, and...
In a world that moves faster every day, there’s something truly magical about slowing down, getting our hands in the soil, and savoring the simple pleasures of homegrown food. At BLeaves Farms, we embrace...
At BLeaves Farms, we pride ourselves on the freshness and flavor of our produce, and one of our crown jewels is our delightful Genovese basil. This herb is a must-have for farm to table cooking, adding a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. This season, our Genovese basil has grown vigorously, with an aroma that makes your mouth water. It has recently begun to go to seed. Rather than letting it go to waste, we decided to prune it back and collect seeds for next season. Here’s how you can do the same and make the most of this versatile herb.
Imagine this: nestled in a mansion-turned-firehouse in the scenic northwest foothills of Tucson, Arizona. The breathtaking view of the valley below, with twinkling city lights, a golden moon, and a sky full of stars, makes you forget the hardships of the day. After an exhausting ride, Jonathan and I are indulging in a sumptuous dinner of buttery mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, and a trio of decadent ice creams topped with chocolate cake. Firefighters, not just heroes but also gourmet chefs, know how to make you feel at home.
