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How-To Library

  • Home Canning Series: I

    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.
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  • Home Canning Series: V

    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.
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  • Nationwide Roof Snow Loads - Farm Maintenance

    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?
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  • Attracting Wild Turkeys

    Wild turkeys, notoriously picky about their living conditions, require a more specialized environment than many other types of wildlife. You can, however, manage your land to attract and retain wild turkeys by knowing something about their preferred foods and habitat.
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  • Maintaining A Bird Feeder

    Bird feeders can benefit the local bird population, but without proper maintenance, they have the potential to do more harm than good. Cleanliness is key in preventing the spread of diseases. This article provides information on the best practices in bird feeder maintenance.
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  • Types of Bird Seeds - Attracting Wild Birds

    If you've decided to start feeding birds at home, one of the first questions you may be asking is: “What should I feed them?”. The wide array of seeds, birdseed mixes and other choices can be bewildering. This article provides an overview of the many common feed types and what birds they attract. It's a good review for both beginning and veteran bird feeding enthusiasts.
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  • Choosing a Bird Feeder

    Bird feeding can help benefit the local bird population and provide hours of enjoyment for homeowners. The first step in making your backyard a paradise for hungry birds is choosing the best type of feeder for you.
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  • Tips for Summer Bird Feeding

    You may have heard the myth that feeding birds in the summertime can be detrimental to wild birds because it causes them to avoid seeking their natural food sources and become dependent on feeders. However, birds search for food in a variety of places and typically receive no more than 25 percent of their daily food from feeders. Summer is a wonderful time for birders to enjoy the vibrant plumage of feathered friends, especially through the longer days.
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  • Hot Weather Pet Care

    Furry friends count on their owners to keep them cool and healthy. Dogs, cats and horses all require special attention to prevent heat-related illnesses.
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  • How To Keep Your Dogs Safe During Hunting Season

    As fall approaches and those mornings start to seem a little cooler, we know that hunting season is upon us. Whether you use your dog to help with hunting or bring your dog along as a companion, keeping them safe when you are in the woods is extremely important.
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