How-To Library

Tips for home canning

optimum planting dates, based on the upper south climate zone

Determine the plant hardiness zone as defined by the USDA

Knowing when to plant is critical to a successful garden

Fall is here and it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your barn.

You can help feed the birds in your neighborhood – it's not expensive and it can be a lot of fun. The bird experts at Southern States have five fun ornament crafts for the bird lovers in your family!

Making and canning your own blueberry jam is not as tricky as you might think! Whether you have years of experience making preserves or just a little, this simple recipe will tantalize you with the taste of summer blueberries year-round!

Watermelon Rind Pickle is an old southern favorite. There are many variations on how it is made. This recipe is a two day process.

Sometimes, even those who have been home canning for years may run into problems with their food-filled jars. Some problems are related to the condition of the jars or lids and/or how they were filled. Others relate to spoilage of the food or changes the food may have undergone during processing. We

Unsure what to do with that bumper crop of vegetables and fruits from the garden this summer? Southern States will guide you through preserving your fruits and vegetables by canning them in Mason jars to enjoy year round.

If you are new to home canning, don't be intimidated by thoughts of using a pressure canner. When used properly, pressure canners are very safe. At Southern States, we want to take the mystery out of pressure canning and provide you with answers to your pressure canning questions.

During winter storms, farmers need a snow plan. It's important to keep a watchful eye on structures with considerable loads and be ready to move equipment and livestock to an alternate location. But, how do you know when there is too much snow?