Skip to content
Polystead
  • Home
  • Poultry
  • Goats
  • Gardening
  • Shop
  • Contact
  • Shopping Cart 0
    • No products in the cart.

Polystead
Shopping Cart 0

Author: Jade Polystead

Home / Jade Polystead
Jade is a homesteader with a passion for raising and caring for animals, specifically chickens, ducks, and goats. She was born and raised in a small town in the midwestern United States, where she learned to appreciate the simple pleasures of rural living. Jade's interest in animal husbandry began at a young age when her family kept a small flock of chickens in their backyard. She quickly fell in love with the birds and became fascinated by their unique personalities and behaviors. As she grew older, Jade's interest in animal husbandry expanded to include other domesticated animals, such as ducks and goats.
Senior Gardening Tools: Best Garden tools for the Elderly
Gardening

Senior Gardening Tools: Best Garden tools for the Elderly

ByJade Polystead July 24, 2023July 24, 2023

Today, I want to share my passion for gardening and introduce you to a world of possibilities with senior-friendly gardening…

Read More Senior Gardening Tools: Best Garden tools for the ElderlyContinue

Indoor Vegetable Gardening in Urban Apartments
Gardening

Indoor Vegetable Gardening in Urban Apartments

ByJade Polystead July 22, 2023July 22, 2023

Living in an apartment in the heart of the city doesn’t mean giving up on the simple joys of growing…

Read More Indoor Vegetable Gardening in Urban ApartmentsContinue

Winter Garden Prep: Protecting Raised Beds & Potted Plants
Gardening

Winter Garden Prep: Protecting Raised Beds & Potted Plants

ByJade Polystead July 22, 2023July 22, 2023

Winter might be a few months away, but it’s never too early to start thinking about preparing our beloved plants…

Read More Winter Garden Prep: Protecting Raised Beds & Potted PlantsContinue

Chickens | Poultry

Keeping Your Coop Cool: Exploring Heat and Fan Options

ByJade Polystead June 29, 2023June 29, 2023

As a responsible and caring poultry owner, ensuring the well-being of your chickens is of utmost importance. Providing a comfortable…

Read More Keeping Your Coop Cool: Exploring Heat and Fan OptionsContinue

Do I Need to Disclose Having Chickens to My Insurance Company?
Chickens | Poultry

Do I Need to Disclose Having Chickens to My Insurance Company?

ByJade Polystead June 29, 2023June 29, 2023

Have you ever wondered if you need to share the news about your beloved chickens with your insurance company? It’s…

Read More Do I Need to Disclose Having Chickens to My Insurance Company?Continue

The Impact of Wildfire Smoke on Chickens
Chickens | Poultry

The Impact of Wildfire Smoke on Chickens

ByJade Polystead June 28, 2023June 28, 2023

As I woke up this morning in Michigan, I couldn’t help but notice the thick blanket of smoke that enveloped…

Read More The Impact of Wildfire Smoke on ChickensContinue

Beyond Leaves: Easy-to-Find “Browns” for Composting.
Composting | Gardening

Beyond Leaves: Easy-to-Find “Browns” for Composting.

ByJade Polystead June 24, 2023August 16, 2023

While leaves are a common and valuable source of browns, they may not always be readily available, especially outside the…

Read More Beyond Leaves: Easy-to-Find “Browns” for Composting.Continue

Composting in Small Spaces: Navigating the Journey to Compost Completion
Composting | Gardening

Composting in Small Spaces: Navigating the Journey to Compost Completion

ByJade Polystead June 9, 2023August 16, 2023

I’ve had to get creative with my composting methods. One approach I’ve tried is using an old garbage can with…

Read More Composting in Small Spaces: Navigating the Journey to Compost CompletionContinue

Composting | Gardening

Harnessing the Power of Chicken Waste in Composting: Tips and Tricks

ByJade Polystead June 1, 2023August 16, 2023

I am always on the lookout for ways to maximize the benefits of chicken manure. Composting provides an excellent opportunity…

Read More Harnessing the Power of Chicken Waste in Composting: Tips and TricksContinue

Flock Size Limitations? Finding the Perfect Combination of Hens for Your Backyard Flock.
Chickens | Poultry

Flock Size Limitations? Finding the Perfect Combination of Hens for Your Backyard Flock.

ByJade Polystead May 17, 2023March 8, 2023

As a new chicken owner, I was excited to start my backyard flock. However, my town’s ordinance only allows me…

Read More Flock Size Limitations? Finding the Perfect Combination of Hens for Your Backyard Flock.Continue

Managing Chicken Allergies: Tips for Living with Chickens When Someone is Allergic.
Chickens | Poultry

Managing Chicken Allergies: Tips for Living with Chickens When Someone is Allergic.

ByJade Polystead May 16, 2023March 8, 2023

As someone who loves animals, I’ve always wanted to have chickens. Not only are they great pets, but they also…

Read More Managing Chicken Allergies: Tips for Living with Chickens When Someone is Allergic.Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Understanding the Phenomenon of Longer Tail Feathers in Young Chickens.

ByJade Polystead May 13, 2023April 29, 2023

You might have noticed that some of your chicks grow faster than others. In particular, you may have noticed that…

Read More Understanding the Phenomenon of Longer Tail Feathers in Young Chickens.Continue

Dealing with an Aggressive Rooster: How to Handle and Train Your Rooster for Better Behavior.
Chickens | Poultry

Dealing with an Aggressive Rooster: How to Handle and Train Your Rooster for Better Behavior.

ByJade Polystead May 10, 2023March 8, 2023

If you’ve rescued a rooster from a shelter, you may find yourself dealing with an aggressive bird that won’t let…

Read More Dealing with an Aggressive Rooster: How to Handle and Train Your Rooster for Better Behavior.Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Nursing a Broken-Legged Rooster: My Journey to Help My Feathered Friend.

ByJade Polystead May 8, 2023April 29, 2023

It’s been 6 weeks since my rooster broke his leg, and I’ve been doing everything I can to help him…

Read More Nursing a Broken-Legged Rooster: My Journey to Help My Feathered Friend.Continue

Can Citrus Prunings be Composted without Acidifying?
Composting | Gardening

Can Citrus Prunings be Composted without Acidifying?

ByJade Polystead May 6, 2023August 16, 2023

I recently pruned a couple of my citrus trees and found myself contemplating whether it’s safe to add the prunings…

Read More Can Citrus Prunings be Composted without Acidifying?Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Everything You Need to Know About Duncan Nesting Boxes for Your Backyard Chickens.

ByJade Polystead April 24, 2023April 29, 2023

I’ve tried many different types of nesting boxes over the years, but my favorite by far are Duncan nesting boxes….

Read More Everything You Need to Know About Duncan Nesting Boxes for Your Backyard Chickens.Continue

Summer Composting: Finding Brown Material for Your Compost Pile.
Composting | Gardening

Summer Composting: Finding Brown Material for Your Compost Pile.

ByJade Polystead April 17, 2023August 16, 2023

I am no stranger to the challenges of sourcing brown material during the summer months. Last fall, the abundance of…

Read More Summer Composting: Finding Brown Material for Your Compost Pile.Continue

Composting | Gardening

Geobin Or Tumbler? Choosing the Best Composting Solution for a Beginner.

ByJade Polystead April 9, 2023August 16, 2023

Moving into a new house with an overgrown lawn presents an exciting opportunity to start composting and transform that green…

Read More Geobin Or Tumbler? Choosing the Best Composting Solution for a Beginner.Continue

Composting | Gardening

Can You Compost Twigs and Branches as Brown Materials?

ByJade Polystead April 7, 2023August 16, 2023

Composting is an excellent way to reduce landfill waste and create nutrient-rich soil amendments. However, I often wondered if twigs…

Read More Can You Compost Twigs and Branches as Brown Materials?Continue

Mastering Compost Sifting: Achieving the Perfect Texture for Your Garden.
Composting | Gardening

Mastering Compost Sifting: Achieving the Perfect Texture for Your Garden.

ByJade Polystead April 6, 2023August 16, 2023

As compost enthusiasts, we know that the journey towards creating rich, nutrient-dense soil is a delicate and intricate process. One…

Read More Mastering Compost Sifting: Achieving the Perfect Texture for Your Garden.Continue

Testing My Heat Lamp: Tips Before Getting Baby Chicks
Chickens | Poultry

Testing My Heat Lamp: Tips Before Getting Baby Chicks

ByJade Polystead April 6, 2023March 8, 2023

As a first-time chicken owner, I was a bit overwhelmed when it came to preparing for my baby chicks. However,…

Read More Testing My Heat Lamp: Tips Before Getting Baby ChicksContinue

Understanding Feeding Schedules for Baby Chicks: To Leave Feed In or Not?
Chickens | Poultry

Understanding Feeding Schedules for Baby Chicks: To Leave Feed In or Not?

ByJade Polystead April 6, 2023March 8, 2023

One of the most common questions I receive from new chicken owners is whether they should leave feed in with…

Read More Understanding Feeding Schedules for Baby Chicks: To Leave Feed In or Not?Continue

Composting | Gardening

Bokashi vs. Vermicompost: Pros & Cons

ByJade Polystead April 3, 2023August 16, 2023

Composting is a natural process that breaks down organic matter like food scraps, yard waste and paper into a nutrient-rich…

Read More Bokashi vs. Vermicompost: Pros & ConsContinue

Understanding Fluid-Filled Growths in Meat Chickens: What You Need to Know
Chickens | Poultry

Understanding Fluid-Filled Growths in Meat Chickens: What You Need to Know

ByJade Polystead March 28, 2023March 8, 2023

I take pride in raising my own chickens for meat. However, during my last batch of 34 birds, I noticed…

Read More Understanding Fluid-Filled Growths in Meat Chickens: What You Need to KnowContinue

Chickens | Poultry

How I Treated and Prevented Mite and Lice Infestations in my Backyard Chickens

ByJade Polystead March 28, 2023April 29, 2023

I enjoy starting my day with fresh eggs from my backyard chickens. However, my excitement turned to dismay when my…

Read More How I Treated and Prevented Mite and Lice Infestations in my Backyard ChickensContinue

Effortless Composting: How an Auger Transforms Your Compost Pile.
Composting | Gardening

Effortless Composting: How an Auger Transforms Your Compost Pile.

ByJade Polystead March 25, 2023August 16, 2023

When it comes to composting, the key to success lies in achieving the perfect balance of organic materials, moisture, and…

Read More Effortless Composting: How an Auger Transforms Your Compost Pile.Continue

The Best Knives and Shears for Butchering Chickens – Our Top Recommendations.
Chickens | Poultry

The Best Knives and Shears for Butchering Chickens – Our Top Recommendations.

ByJade Polystead March 20, 2023September 18, 2023

I understand the importance of having a good set of knives. When it comes to dispatching and breaking down chickens,…

Read More The Best Knives and Shears for Butchering Chickens – Our Top Recommendations.Continue

Composting | Gardening

Dealing with Fruit Flies in Compost Tumblers: My Experience and Solutions

ByJade Polystead March 19, 2023August 16, 2023

I love the convenience and efficiency of using a compost tumbler. However, one issue that I’ve encountered is the presence…

Read More Dealing with Fruit Flies in Compost Tumblers: My Experience and SolutionsContinue

Chickens | Poultry

The Best Colors to Paint Your Chicken Coop for Optimal Well-Being.

ByJade Polystead March 14, 2023April 29, 2023

One of the most important decisions you’ll make is the color you choose to paint your coop. Not only does…

Read More The Best Colors to Paint Your Chicken Coop for Optimal Well-Being.Continue

Preventing and Responding to Roosting Accidents for Your Chickens
Chickens | Poultry

Preventing and Responding to Roosting Accidents for Your Chickens

ByJade Polystead March 11, 2023May 20, 2023

I have experienced my fair share of scares and surprises, but none quite like what I encountered this morning. I…

Read More Preventing and Responding to Roosting Accidents for Your ChickensContinue

Understanding Chicken Ownership Rules and Regulations in Urban and Suburban Areas.
Chickens | Poultry

Understanding Chicken Ownership Rules and Regulations in Urban and Suburban Areas.

ByJade Polystead February 26, 2023March 8, 2023

Owning chickens in urban and suburban areas has become increasingly popular over the years, but it’s also come with some…

Read More Understanding Chicken Ownership Rules and Regulations in Urban and Suburban Areas.Continue

Why You Shouldn’t Put Nesting Boxes on the Floor for Your Chickens.
Chickens | Poultry

Why You Shouldn’t Put Nesting Boxes on the Floor for Your Chickens.

ByJade Polystead February 23, 2023March 8, 2023

If you’re new to raising chickens, you might be wondering where to place your nesting boxes. When my husband and…

Read More Why You Shouldn’t Put Nesting Boxes on the Floor for Your Chickens.Continue

Composting | Gardening

How To Use Bokashi In The Garden

ByJade Polystead February 18, 2023August 16, 2023

In the realm of organic gardening, one method has been gaining popularity for its simplicity and effectiveness: Bokashi composting. But…

Read More How To Use Bokashi In The GardenContinue

Can I Give My Chickens Baked Potato with Skin On?
Chickens | Poultry

Can I Give My Chickens Baked Potato with Skin On?

ByJade Polystead February 16, 2023March 8, 2023

If you have chickens, you know that they will eat almost anything. However, you must be careful about what you…

Read More Can I Give My Chickens Baked Potato with Skin On?Continue

Why Did My Regularly-Producing Hens Lay a Small Egg After a Year?
Chickens | Poultry

Why Did My Regularly-Producing Hens Lay a Small Egg After a Year?

ByJade Polystead February 15, 2023March 8, 2023

As a proud owner of a flock of chickens, I have come to appreciate the importance of regular egg production….

Read More Why Did My Regularly-Producing Hens Lay a Small Egg After a Year?Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Finding Dark Cornish Roosters in Oregon: Tips and Resources.

ByJade Polystead February 2, 2023March 8, 2023

As a chicken enthusiast living in Oregon, I am always on the lookout for good places to purchase high-quality birds….

Read More Finding Dark Cornish Roosters in Oregon: Tips and Resources.Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Everything You Need to Know About Gravity-Fed Chicken Water Systems.

ByJade Polystead January 31, 2023April 29, 2023

As a backyard chicken owner, I understand the importance of providing my feathered friends with a steady supply of clean…

Read More Everything You Need to Know About Gravity-Fed Chicken Water Systems.Continue

Introducing a Rooster to a Flock of Hens: Tips and Tricks.
Chickens | Poultry

Introducing a Rooster to a Flock of Hens: Tips and Tricks.

ByJade Polystead January 30, 2023March 8, 2023

I recently joined a group of fellow chicken enthusiasts to learn more about these amazing birds. One question that came…

Read More Introducing a Rooster to a Flock of Hens: Tips and Tricks.Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Pros and Cons of Using a Feeder vs. Tossing Feed on the Ground.

ByJade Polystead January 21, 2023April 29, 2023

Raising chickens can be a fun and rewarding experience. It’s fascinating to watch these feathered friends pecking and scratching around…

Read More Pros and Cons of Using a Feeder vs. Tossing Feed on the Ground.Continue

Composting 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started
Composting | Gardening

Composting 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started

ByJade Polystead January 19, 2023August 16, 2023

If you’re intrigued by the idea of composting but don’t know where to begin, you’ve come to the right place!…

Read More Composting 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Getting StartedContinue

Chickens | Poultry

How to Correct Splay Leg in Chicks: Tips and Suggestions.

ByJade Polystead January 18, 2023May 6, 2023

I know how important it is to ensure the health and wellbeing of your feathered friends. That’s why it’s crucial…

Read More How to Correct Splay Leg in Chicks: Tips and Suggestions.Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Pellets vs Crumbles: Which is Best for Your Chickens?

ByJade Polystead January 13, 2023March 12, 2023

I understand the importance of providing my chickens with the right feed. After all, the quality of their diet can…

Read More Pellets vs Crumbles: Which is Best for Your Chickens?Continue

Keeping Chicks Warm without Power: Creative Solutions for Cold Emergencies.
Chickens | Poultry

Keeping Chicks Warm without Power: Creative Solutions for Cold Emergencies.

ByJade Polystead January 11, 2023March 8, 2023

I understand the anxiety that comes with unexpected situations. Recently, my power went out and my chicks were left in…

Read More Keeping Chicks Warm without Power: Creative Solutions for Cold Emergencies.Continue

Turning Your Compost Pile for Successful Decomposition.
Composting | Gardening

Turning Your Compost Pile for Successful Decomposition.

ByJade Polystead January 6, 2023August 16, 2023

I face challenges when it comes to finding the time and opportunity to turn my compost pile as frequently as…

Read More Turning Your Compost Pile for Successful Decomposition.Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Are Friendly Roosters Common? My Experience with a Surprisingly Affectionate Rooster.

ByJade Polystead January 5, 2023April 29, 2023

It’s not uncommon to hear stories about roosters being aggressive towards humans or even other chickens. However, I have a…

Read More Are Friendly Roosters Common? My Experience with a Surprisingly Affectionate Rooster.Continue

Chickens | Poultry

To Name or Not to Name Your Chickens: A Chicken Keeper’s Perspective.

ByJade Polystead January 5, 2023April 29, 2023

I can totally relate to the feeling of being left out when it comes to naming your feathered friends. It…

Read More To Name or Not to Name Your Chickens: A Chicken Keeper’s Perspective.Continue

Chickens | Poultry

Hydrating Your Chickens Made Easy: Alternative Water Containers and Maintenance Tips.

ByJade Polystead January 5, 2023July 14, 2023

Are you a chicken owner who’s tired of dealing with messy and dirty water containers? If so, you’re not alone….

Read More Hydrating Your Chickens Made Easy: Alternative Water Containers and Maintenance Tips.Continue

Composting | Gardening

Exploring the Use of Raw Wool in Composting: My Experience and Insights

ByJade Polystead December 26, 2022August 16, 2023

Recently, I came across the idea of using raw wool as a composting material. Intrigued by the concept, I decided…

Read More Exploring the Use of Raw Wool in Composting: My Experience and InsightsContinue

Chickens | Poultry

Why Are My Chickens Roosting on the Roof Instead of in the Coop?

ByJade Polystead December 22, 2022March 12, 2023

it’s not uncommon to encounter peculiar behaviors from our feathered friends. One such behavior that may leave you scratching your…

Read More Why Are My Chickens Roosting on the Roof Instead of in the Coop?Continue

Composting | Gardening

Bokashi Juice Smells Like Vomit

ByJade Polystead December 22, 2022August 16, 2023

Picture this: a magnificent elixir bubbling and fermenting, teeming with the secrets of nature’s decomposition process. Welcome to the enchanting…

Read More Bokashi Juice Smells Like VomitContinue

Page navigation

1 2 3 Next PageNext
Search
  • Eggcellent Kids Heavy Cotton™ Tee
    $15.42 – $15.67
    Select optionsContinue Loading Done
  • Eggcellent Infant Long Sleeve Bodysuit
    $26.00 – $27.97
    Select optionsContinue Loading Done
  • Eggcellent Women's Ideal Racerback Tank
    $19.75 – $22.32
    Select optionsContinue Loading Done
  • Eggcellent Unisex Jersey Long Sleeve Tee
    $30.77 – $46.02
    Select optionsContinue Loading Done
  • Eggcellent Unisex NuBlend® Crewneck Sweatshirt
    $29.25 – $43.80
    Select optionsContinue Loading Done
Follow @polystead

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Poultry
  • Goats
  • Gardening
  • Shop
  • Contact

About

  • About
  • Contact
  • Careers
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Disclaimer
YouTube Twitter Pinterest

© 2021-2023 Polystead

Polystead.com, is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking Amazon properties including, but not limited to, Amazon.com

Scroll to top
  • Home
  • Poultry
  • Goats
  • Gardening
  • Shop
  • Contact
Search