Fast and Easy Knit Hat

Make your own Fast and Easy Knit Hats with this free knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Make your own Fast and Easy Knit hats with this free knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Made using only knit stitches, this easy and fast hat is the simplest of all my hat knitting patterns. It knits up quickly because you will use super bulky yarn and large knitting needles.

Knit these hats with wool (as pictured) or substitute your favorite yarn material. Just be sure to choose “super bulky” weight yarn. Try any solid color you like or mix it up with a multi-colored yarn. (Amazon affiliate link.)

About This Free Fast and Easy Knit Hat Knitting Pattern

This simple ribbed hat is an easy-level knitting pattern. You will need to know how to make a long-tail cast on, knit, and draw yarn thru the remaining stitches. If you are not familiar with these skills, find quick, free lessons in my Learn to Knit Guide.

Make your own Easy  and Fast Knit hats with this free knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Materials

You will need the following materials, which you can purchase at your local yarn shop or on Amazon.com via the affiliate links below:

Knitting Needles:

Short Circular Needles


Yarn:

One 44-yard (100 gram) skein of super bulky weight yarn* (shown in KnitPicks Tuff Puff), in your choice of color.

  • Baby size uses about 22 yards (50 grams)
  • One-Size-Fits-Most uses about 44 yards (100 grams)

*Weights estimated with Knit Picks Tuff Puff yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 22 yards (50 grams.).

Tools:

A stitch marker, a measuring tape and a darning needle.

Gauge

20 stitches x 28 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 5 (3.75 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.)

Abbreviations

k = knit


Instructions: Baby Size Fast & Easy Knit Hat

(10.5-inch to 16-inch [26.67-cm to 40.64-cm] head circumference)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.

Row 1: Cast on 20 stitches.

Rows 2 – 21: k 20. (20 stitches) [Work should measure 6 inches at this point.]

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With a darning needle, draw yarn tightly through the remaining 20 stitches. Weave in ends.


Instructions: One-Size-Fits-Most Fast & Easy Knit Hat         

(16-inch to 25-inch [40.64-cm to 63.5-cm] head circumference)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.

Row 1: Cast on 32 stitches.

Rows 2 – 33: k 32. (32 stitches) [Work should measure 11 inches at this point.]

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With a darning needle, draw yarn tightly through the remaining 20 stitches. Weave in ends.


Printable version of this free knitting pattern

Printable Fast and Easy Knit Hat Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels


Find More Knitting Patterns

©2024, Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

Where I Keep Baby Chicks

Find out where I keep my baby chicks so you can build your own chicken brooder as well. Tips from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels.

Stopping at the farm store when baby chicks are in season means I’ll be unable to resist temptation. I brought home four new baby chickens this weekend. But, I already had a home for them. Here, I’ll show you where I keep baby chicks until they are big enough to live in the main coop. Hopefully, you’ll get some ideas to build your own chicken brooder.

Where I Raise Baby Chicks

Rabbit Hutch

Yes, we are talking about baby chickens. So why am I bringing up rabbit hutches? Well, my chicks go into a rabbit hutch to grow up. I used to do what many of you may do; raise the babies in a bucket in my bathtub. That got smelly fast! So, I came up with an alternative solution that has worked well for my last three groups of chicks.

Now, I set a rabbit hutch on the floor of my chicken coop. This allows the babies to get to know the big girls and roosters in a safe space. The weave of the bars is small enough that the babies can’t get through the holes and the hens can’t get into the chicks’ space. Believe it or not, hens will kill baby chicks so it is important to keep them separated.

Another useful thing about a rabbit hutch is that the kit I bought comes with a feeder; one less thing to pick out! The rabbit feeders do have a mesh bottom, which allows chick crumbles to fall out. This is not good! So I took a piece of cardboard, cut it to size, and lined the bottom of the feeder first. This does the trick to keep the baby chicken food inside the rabbit feeder.

You can get the same hutch I have from Amazon. I did not fully assemble mine, leaving the legs and tray off the bottom. But if you have some extra time, assembling the hutch completely would work just as well.

The links on this page are Amazon Affiliate Links.

Home
Rabbit Hutch Complete Kit – Easy to Assemble Housing, Feeder, & Water Bottle Kit

by Pet Lodge

Excelsior Pads

The floor of a rabbit hutch is not safe for delicate baby chick legs, though. To keep them from hurting themselves, I lay out excelsior pads as flooring. These pads come in squares are made of fine wood strands that have been woven together to create a soft, squishy mat. The babies don’t try to eat the flooring like they do with hay, so it lasts longer. They are also much less messy than wood shavings. The excelsior pads are easy to pick up and throw away once they’re too dirty to stay. (I also line my hens’ nesting boxes with excelsior pads. They’re pretty handy!)

Floor

Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior

by the Pecking Order Store

Heater

To keep the babies alive, it is very, very important to get them a heat source. If hatched naturally, a mama chicken would still be sitting on chicks well after they are hatched. Baby chickens cannot produce enough body heat to stay alive on their own. Many people get their chicks a heat lamp, but this poses a huge fire risk. I love using brooder plates instead. These little plastic trays warm up just enough to keep the babies comfy, but I’ve never had any worries that they will catch on fire while I am sleeping. Plus, the chicks can go under the plate when they are cold and leave if they get hot. It makes me feel better that they’re not trapped in a bucket under a hot lamp.

Heat
Thermo Chicken Brooder, Brooder Heater for Chicks

by K&H Pet Products

Waterer

There are tons of choices for water containers for little chicklets. I have a simple hanging poultry waterer for my chicks like the one shown below. I hang it on the roof of the rabbit hutch with a carabiner clip and it seems to work well for me.

Water
Plastic Poultry Waterer | Durable Watering Container | Hanging Chicken Waterer No Waste | 1.5 Quart Plastic Poultry Waterer | Durable Watering Container | Hanging Chicken Waterer No Waste | 1.5 Quart

by Double-Tuf®

Stainless Steel Carabiner Spring Snap Hook

by sprookber

Chick Feed

When you pick up those baby chicks, you’ll need to grab a bag of “Chick Starter” crumbles for them to eat. You will have about a million brands and types to choose among. But, from what I have seen, the brands offer roughly the same product with two main choices: medicated and unmedicated. What type you choose will be up to you. Medicated feed helps prevent bad bacteria from growing in a baby chick’s digestive system. But this also may prevent good bacteria from growing there, as well. I think your personal preference should win out on this choice.

Food
Non-Medicated Starter Crumble Feed for Chicks & Ducklings

by Manna Pro

Chick Starter Grower – Medicated Chick Feed Crumble for Young Chickens

by Manna Pro 

I am so glad I already had my chick brooder set up when I made my impulse purchase. If you haven’t, I hope this helps you get started raising your new chicks up to be the best hens ever!

Read More

Get Creative: Cozy Projects & Guides

Get creative cozy projects to DIY from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Your cozy lifestyle is about more than just comfort; it’s about creativity too. Check out these creative cozy projects and DIY tutorials to keep your hands busy and your home beautiful.

An up-cycled baby food jar is a great place to keep paperclips, from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Creative, Cozy Knitting Projects

Knitting is the coziest of crafts. Discover a world of stitches and patterns with my collection of knitting books! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, my guides offer clear instructions and practical patterns that make every project feel doable. From cozy scarves to charming home decor, there are creative cozy projects for every knitter to love. Ready to start your next project? Order now to get your hands on a guide that’ll have you knitting in no time!

Featured Knitting Projects

Fast and Easy Knit Hat

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Basic Cup Cozy Free Knitting Pattern You can make your own basic cup cozy with this free knitting…

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The Slipped Stitches Scarf Free Knitting Pattern I don’t usually share my knitting patterns…

All Knitting Projects

Find my knitting supply recommendations for beginners on Amazon (affiliate link).

Craft Your Way to Coziness

Beyond knitting, you can fill your life with creative cozy projects. Learn to handmake gifts for friends and family, craft adorable home accents, and add unique touches to holiday gatherings with the DIY guides on PurlsAndPixels.

Featured Cabin Crafts

Holiday Pattern Roundup

Holiday DIY Craft Roundup Knitting, Crochet, and Craft Patterns from Liz @PurlsAndPixels With the…

How to Wind a Center-Pull Yarn Ball

Whether you have unraveled a project or just have some leftover yarn, by now you probably have some…

Shipping Cookie Gifts

Shipping Cookie Gifts How to ship cookies for gifts and care packages This year the holiday budget…

Mickey’s Birthday Cake, Inspired by Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

Mickey’s Birthday Cake A Do-It-Yourself Guide from Liz @PurlsAndPixels When my little one…

DIY Learn to Knit Gift Set for Beginner Knitters

DIY Learn to Knit Gift Set A do-it-yourself gift idea from Liz @ PurlsAndPixels Do you have a…

All Cabin Craft Projects

Need supplies for your creative cozy projects? See my recommendations on Amazon (affiliate link).

Watch & Learn

If you prefer visual learning, check out my step-by-step video tutorials. From knitting your first scarf to creating cozy home accessories, these videos guide you through every step. Grab your yarn, settle in, and let’s make something together!

How to Start Your Knitting – The Long-Tail Cast On for Beginners

All YouTube Videos

Discover More Cozy Projects

Share with Friends

Cozy Lifestyle Basics

Find basics for a cozy lifestyle from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

When life feels hectic, there’s nothing like coming home to a cozy, welcoming space. Whether you live in a cabin in the woods, a quaint farmhouse, or a modern apartment, there are endless ways to add cozy lifestyle basics with simple, comforting touches. Here are some inspiring ideas to enhance your home and create a warm, inviting environment.

Learn about cozy lifestyle basics with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Introduce Natural Textures and Elements

Bringing the outdoors inside can instantly make your home feel more serene and connected to nature. Incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, wool, and cotton into your decor. Try adding a wooden coffee table, woven baskets for storage, or linen throw pillows to add warmth and texture. For a touch of greenery, place potted plants around your living space to purify the air and boost your mood.

The links on this page are Amazon Affiliate Links.

Teak Wood Stick Leg End Table

by WELLAND

Decorative Galvanized Metal Boxes with Wood Lids

by Glitzhome

Air Purifying Plants in Home Décor Plant Pots: Live Plants (3 Pack), Easy to Grow Real Indoor Houseplants

by Costa Farms

Layer Your Lighting for Ultimate Comfort

Lighting plays an important role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Instead of relying solely on overhead lights, mix and match different types of lighting to set the mood. Use soft-glow string lights, lanterns, or candles to add a warm, inviting ambiance. Table and floor lamps with adjustable settings can provide the perfect amount of light for any activity, from reading to relaxing.

Farmhouse Rattan Glass Nightstand Nightlight Lamps

by OYEARS

Cute Bird Lamps

by Deogos

Flameless Candles with Embedded Star String

by Eebuss

Bring Warmth to Your Floors with Rugs

Finding a place to add cozy lifestyle basics can be as simple as inspecting the floor under your feet. Fluffy rugs not only add color and style to your rooms, but they also provide an extra layer of warmth underfoot. Choose thick, soft rugs for areas where you and your family spend the most time, like the living room, bedroom, or play area. Look for patterns and colors that reflect your personal style, and consider layering rugs of different sizes and textures for a cozy, collected look.

Country Accent Vintage Style Distressed Boho Rug

by Mcadore 

Euston Collection Modern Abstract Area Rug

by LUXE WEAVERS

Fluffy Circle Rug

by MIEMIE 

Create a Reading Nook for Relaxation

Imagine curling up with a good book in a cozy corner that’s all your own. Set up a small reading nook with a comfortable chair, soft blankets, and a side table for your tea or coffee. Add a few plush pillows and a reading lamp with warm lighting to create a peaceful retreat. This little sanctuary can become a cherished spot for relaxation, whether you’re diving into a new novel or enjoying some quiet time.

The links on this page are Amazon Affiliate Links.

Contemporary Elegance Accent Chair with Footrest

by FIVESHOW

Six Tier Tree Bookshelf

by SUNMORY 

Designate a Family Game and Craft Space

Turn a corner of your home into a space for fun and creativity. Whether it’s a puzzle table, a crafting station, or a game shelf stocked with family favorites, this area can encourage bonding and laughter. Add comfortable seating, a table, and storage for supplies to keep everything organized. This special spot will be perfect for rainy day activities or family game nights.

Farmhouse Storage Cabinet with Barn Doors, Organizer, Drawer and Adjustable Shelves

by ACCOHOHO

Classic Connect 4, Classic Sorry!, & Classic Trouble

Exclusively Bundled by Brishan

Jumbo Arts and Crafts Supplies Box

by DEVELOPE BY PLAY

Industrial Large Long Dining Room Table for Big Family (Rustic Brown)

by Tribesigns 

Stock Up on Comfort Foods

Keep your pantry and fridge filled with the ingredients for comfort food classics. Soup, stew, pasta, and casseroles are easy to prepare and perfect for cozy dinners at home. A well-stocked kitchen makes it easy to whip up something comforting whenever the mood strikes, whether it’s a hearty meal or a quick snack.

Peanut Butter & Strawberry Jelly Oat Snack

by Bobo’s 

Real Aged Cheddar Microwave Mac & Cheese with Gluten Free Pasta

by Annie’s 

White Cheddar Popcorn

by Smartfood 

Snuggle Up with Soft Textiles

Soft blankets, throws, and cushions can instantly transform your space into a haven of comfort. Drape a knitted blanket over your sofa, add fluffy cushions to your chairs, and keep a basket of throws nearby for chilly evenings. Textiles add warmth, color, and personality to your home, making it feel more lived-in and loved.

Luxury Fluffy Faux Fur Throw Blanket

by BATTILO HOME

Chenille Chunky Knit Blanket Throw

by Maetoow

Double Wick Coffee Scented Candle

by YnM 

Finding your Cozy Lifestyle Basics

Creating a tranquil home doesn’t require a major overhaul. Just adding a few thoughtful cozy lifestyle basics can make your home feel more inviting and comfortable. So go ahead, light a candle, grab a soft throw, and enjoy the warmth and tranquility of your cozy space. Your home should be your sanctuary: a place where you and your loved ones can relax, unwind, and truly feel at peace.

Enhance Your Cozy Lifestyle: Essentials & Guides

Find ways to enhance your cozy lifestyle with tips and suggestions from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Discover some amazing ways to enhance your cozy lifestyle. These ideas can help you make your family and your home even more comfy!

Must-Have Cozy Products for the Ultimate Cozy Connoisseur

As a master of all things cozy, your home is a warm, inviting retreat where every detail has been carefully curated for comfort and relaxation. Whether it’s the softness of your blankets, the glow of your candles, or the aroma of your favorite brew, you’ve perfected the art of coziness.

But why stop now? There’s always room for a little more luxury in your cozy sanctuary. Check out these carefully selected essentials that will take your comfy home to the next level. From indulgent reads to must-have home accessories, find some new ideas enhance your cozy lifestyle.

Scented Candles That Set the Mood

The right scent can instantly transform the ambiance of your space. Scented candles with notes of vanilla, lavender, or cedarwood can create a soothing environment perfect for unwinding after a long day. Look for candles made from natural waxes, like soy or beeswax, with cotton wicks for a cleaner, longer burn. Display them in clusters on trays or shelves for an extra touch of elegance.

The links on this page are Amazon Affiliate Links.

EXTRA COZY
Cozy Season Candle

by Sweetwater Decor

Studio Medium Candle, Amber & Sandalwood

by Yankee Candle

Double Wick Coffee Scented Candle

by M&SENSE

Luxury Teapots and Mugs for the Perfect Brew

There’s something incredibly comforting about sipping a warm drink from a beautiful mug. Upgrade your tea or coffee ritual with a luxury teapot and a set of mugs that make every sip feel special. Choose designs that reflect your style, whether that’s rustic stoneware, sleek ceramics, or whimsical patterns. Display them proudly on open shelves to add a touch of personality to your kitchen.

VINTAGE VIBES
Electric Ceramic Tea Kettle

by Toptier 

Warm and Cozy Stoneware Coffee Mug

by Sweet Water Decor

Eduardo Recife Collaboration Electric Retro Tea Kettle

by Hazel Quinn 

Large Ceramic Coffee Mugs

by masoline

Pour Over Coffee Maker With Wood Sleeve

by HYAXGM

Chunky Knit Throws for Layered Comfort

Layering is key when it comes to creating a cozy space, and chunky knit throws are the perfect addition. These oversized blankets are both functional and stylish, adding texture and warmth to any room. Drape one over your sofa, armchair, or the foot of your bed for a relaxed, inviting look that’s hard to resist. Bonus: they’re perfect for impromptu naps!

EXTRA COMFY
Chunky Cable Knit Throw Blanket

by The Longhui Bedding Store

Chunky Knit Blanket Throw

by Bigacogo 

Cable Knitted Throw Blanket

by Bedsure

Ambient Lighting Solutions for a Soft Glow

Ambient lighting is essential for setting the mood in your cozy home. Opt for string lights, dimmable lamps, or lanterns that cast a warm, soft glow. Himalayan salt lamps are a popular choice for their unique look and the calming pink light they emit. The gentle lighting creates a serene atmosphere that encourages relaxation and mindfulness.

EXTRA AMBIANCE
Candle Warmer Lamp

by OHBET

Himalayan Salt Rock Lamp Natural Night Light in Forest Design

by Shineled

LED Lantern Flickering Flame Table Lamps

by LEDIARY

Home Accents to Add Charming Touches

Small touches can make a big impact when it comes to creating a truly cozy home. Thoughtful home accents like soft, textured pillows, decorative trays, and vintage-inspired clocks can add character and warmth to any room. Consider adding framed art prints or photographs that evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort, or display collections of your favorite items, such as old books, pottery, or keepsakes, to infuse your space with personal charm. Woven baskets are perfect for stylish storage, while handmade ceramics and pottery add a rustic, artisanal touch. Don’t forget about rugs—they not only warm up your room but also make it feel more cozy and inviting. These little details help create an inviting atmosphere where you and your family can relax and enjoy every moment.

EXTRA FUFFY
Hapsburg Moroccan Shag Area Rug

by Livabliss

Let’s Snuggle Decorative Lumbar Pillow Covers

by Sunkifover 

Vintage Table Clock

by NIKKY HOME

The Hygge Game: Cozy Conversation In Pleasant Company

by Hygge Games

Cozy Books for Your Reading Nook

Make a stack of beautiful books that will enhance your cozy lifestyle. Try the following reads to get you in the mood to snuggle up.

COZY WEEKEND
Cozy Sunday Crosswords

by Stanley Newman

COZY SNOW DAY
Let It Snow: A Novel

by Nancy Thayer

COZY FAMILY TIME
Cozy

by Jan Brett

Liz Chandler's Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns.
COZY CRAFTING
Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide

by Liz Chandler

Cuddle Up and Relax

Embracing the cozy lifestyle is all about indulging in the little things that bring comfort and joy. By adding these must-have items to your home, you can enhance your cozy sanctuary and make every day feel like a special, comforting retreat. So light your favorite candle, pour yourself a hot drink, and settle into the ultimate cozy experience—you’ve earned it.

Defeating Bindweed: A Gardener’s Battle

Pulling Weeds

I spent yesterday rehabilitating my overgrown garden and my enemy number one? Bindweed.

I left my garden for about three weeks, while I went on a work trip and then to visit family and friends in the big city. The weeds went wild! A thick carpet of vines smothered the other rogue plants that were trying to grow in the pathways.

Bindweed is a pretty, vining plant that produces dainty white and pink flowers, so you might be inclined to leave it in the garden. But don’t let it grow! Bindweed takes over everything.

Bindweed may have pretty flowers, but it will take over your yard. Make sure to pull the weed by its roots to keep it from coming back.

Instead of growing peas on my trellis Bindweed took over. This weed seems to steal nutrients from the other plants, as well. The peas are weak, the carrots tiny, and my squash and zucchini are basically non-existent.

One favor the Bindweed did for me? It entangled all the other weeds and I was able to roll up the mess like a fancy rug. Then, I tossed the whole thing into a garden bed I am letting rest this year. The nutrients will seep back into the soil, feeding next year’s veggies.

A Battle Worth Fighting

Although rolling up the bindweed gave me a moment of satisfaction, the real work was just beginning. Bindweed’s roots run deep, and simply pulling it out wasn’t going to cut it. I had to dig down and get as much of those stubborn roots out as possible. Even then, I know it’s only a matter of time before I see those vines trying to make a comeback.

Bindweed loves climbing the trellis; choking out the peas and beans meant for the arch.

Reclaiming the Garden

Once I had cleared the worst of the bindweed, I turned my attention to the rest of the garden. I re-staked the peas, giving them something to climb other than those aggressive vines. I added some compost to the soil, hoping to give my struggling vegetables a fighting chance. Then I sprinkled some fall-hardy seeds around like glitter. Hopefully I can salvage something from this growing season!

Bindweed steals sunlight, water, and nutrients from your garden plants. This sad squash has been stunted by bindweed.

Sad squash.

The Resilient Garden

This experience with bindweed highlighted how resilient nature can be. Even when life pulls you away and you have to leave your garden unattended, the garden is still there waiting for you to come back and set things right. It’s less about what went wrong and more about what you do next. And there’s something incredibly satisfying about rolling up your sleeves, taking back control, and making your space thrive again.

Turning Over a New Leaf

I know that bindweed is a tough opponent, but it’s not going to win this war. I’ll keep fighting, digging deep, and making sure my garden stays a place of growth and beauty, not a bindweed jungle. Whether I’m here every day or have to step away for a while, I’ll be ready to reclaim my garden whenever it needs me.

So, if you’re dealing with bindweed—or any other tenacious garden invaders—don’t worry about the time you’ve been away. With a little persistence and some hard work, you can take back your garden, too. Just remember: every setback is an opportunity to come back stronger.

Get rid of bindweed growing in your garden.

Planting Strawberries and Asparagus in Southwest Colorado’s Unique Soil

In southwest Colorado, gardening can sometimes feel like you’re trying to solve a tricky puzzle. The soil here isn’t like your typical garden dirt; it’s a mix of sandy and shale components that challenges even experienced gardeners. But if you’ve got this type of soil, you’re in luck if you like strawberries and asparagus because, oddly enough, these plants thrive here when others struggle. So, let’s dive into how to make the most out of these hearty plants and turn your garden into a part of the local food forest, complete with your piñon trees.

Why Strawberries and Asparagus?

During the 2020 Covid pandemic lockdown, gardening became my new hobby of choice. I tried planting all sorts of vegetables and herbs. Everything I planted just wouldn’t take. Brassicas like kale and broccoli were destroyed by bugs. My tomatoes barely budded before the weather turned cold. But, when I tried strawberries and asparagus, it was like they were meant to thrive in our unique soil.

Planting the Perfect Pair

To start planning this perennial garden patch, choose a spot you don’t intend to disturb with tilling or plowing in the future. Your plants will live in this space for a very long time. Make sure to select a sunny location in your garden, since both strawberries and asparagus thrive in sunlight.

Prepare the area for asparagus first, since they require deeper planting. Dig trenches about 6-8 inches deep, incorporating organic matter, such as compost, to add nutrients to the soil. Many planting guides suggest to slowly fill in these trenches as your asparagus grows. I did not take this step, and just smoothed the garden bed. My asparagus is still thriving; so if your soil is extra sandy, you may also be able to simply plant your asparagus in one step.

After you’ve established a your asparagus placement, you can plant the strawberries. Because strawberries do well in sandy soil, which naturally aids in drainage, there’s no need to create raised beds or mounds for them. This setup has encouraged my strawberries to produce runners prolifically.

Since we’re dealing with sandy and shale-type soil, adding compost is important. It helps retain water and nutrients that sandy soil often lacks, and it makes the hard shale parts easier for roots to penetrate.

Plants Spacing for Strawberries and Asparagus

Plant your strawberries about 18 inches apart and your asparagus crowns about a foot and a half apart in rows. Water them well after planting and keep the soil moist, especially during the dry months.

Companion Planting Under Piñon Trees

Planting under or near your piñon trees can create a mini food forest. The trees provide partial shade and help protect the plants from too much sun while also helping the soil retain moisture. Strawberries, in particular, can benefit from this arrangement as they like a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day. The asparagus, with its ferny foliage, can also look quite decorative underneath the spreading branches of piñon trees.

Understanding Our Soil: Mancos Shale

Now, what’s this about our soil? In our region, we deal with something called Mancos Shale. It’s a type of sedimentary rock that you can find spreading across the southwestern United States, particularly in Colorado. This shale is part of what makes our soil so unique and challenging. It doesn’t hold nutrients well and can be tough for roots to break through. But with the right approach, such as adding compost and choosing the right plants, you can turn this challenging soil into a productive garden.

Mancos Shale is a geologic formation predominantly found in the Western United States, particularly across Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. This formation consists of fine-grained sedimentary rock, primarily composed of shale, which is a type of clay-rich rock formed from the consolidation of mud and clay under pressure over millennia. Mancos Shale is known for its gray to black color and often contains marine fossils, like seashells, indicating that the area was once under a sea during the Cretaceous period.

In gardening and agriculture, Mancos Shale presents particular challenges due to its dense, compact nature and low fertility. It tends to be poor in nutrients essential for plant growth and can be hard for plant roots to penetrate. Its composition also means it has low water retention capabilities, making it difficult to maintain the moisture levels that many plants require. However, with proper management, such as the addition of organic matter to improve nutrient content and soil structure, gardeners can successfully cultivate certain hardy plants like strawberries and asparagus, which are adapted to less-than-ideal soil conditions.

Final Thoughts

With a bit of preparation and understanding of our unique soil, even a garden filled with sandy, shale conditions can become a lush, productive spot in your food forest alongside your piñon trees. So, don’t give up on your gardening dreams just because the soil is challenging—embrace what works, and you’ll be amazed at what can thrive!

Rural Road Courtesy: A Handbook for Urban Transplants

Rural Road Courtesy - small town traditions for driving and walking down backroads.

Are you a small-town newcomer? Welcome!

Let’s get you started with a guide to walking and driving on rural country roads using some typical small-town rural road courtesy traditions.

Rural Road Courtesy - small town traditions for driving and walking down backroads.

In the calm landscapes of rural life, where every bend in the road reveals a new view and neighbors are as familiar as family, understanding the unspoken rules of the road is key, especially for those transitioning from the hustle and bustle of city living. Here’s a practical guide tailored for urban transplants, offering advice on integrating respectfully into rural communities while honoring the essence of country living.

Rural Road Courtesy: Walking Etiquette

Adjust Your Stride: Transitioning from city sidewalks to rural pathways requires a mindful approach. Always walk facing oncoming traffic, stay on designated paths, and remain aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe journey.

A guide to country road etiquette. Learn the polite conventions of walking and driving on small-town country roads.

Acknowledge Drivers: Extend a courteous wave or nod to drivers who yield or slow down to accommodate pedestrians. This simple gesture acknowledges their consideration and fosters positive interactions on the road.

Rural Road Courtesy - small town traditions for driving and walking down backroads.

Enhance Visibility: In low-light conditions, prioritize safety by wearing reflective clothing or carrying a flashlight. By increasing your visibility to drivers, you contribute to a safer environment for pedestrians and motorists alike.

Rural Road Courtesy - small town traditions for driving and walking down backroads.

Respect Private Property: Stay mindful of property boundaries and refrain from trespassing on private land. Respect the rights of local landowners and follow designated routes to minimize disruptions to their livelihoods.

Embrace Local Wisdom: When offered advice or guidance by longtime residents, approach it with humility and an open mind. Engage in respectful dialogue, recognizing the value of preserving rural traditions and customs for generations to come.

Rural Road Courtesy: Driving Etiquette

Embrace Local Customs: When navigating the winding roads of the countryside, take note of the local customs, such as acknowledging fellow drivers with a friendly wave. It’s a small gesture that speaks volumes about respect and community spirit.

Exercise Caution: Rural roads may present unique challenges, from farm equipment to wandering wildlife. Exercise caution, adhere to posted speed limits, and maintain a vigilant mindset to ensure the safety of all road users.

Respect the Pace: Embrace the unhurried rhythm of rural life and resist the urge to rush. Adhering to the leisurely pace of the countryside not only enhances safety but also allows you to savor the beauty of your surroundings.

Preserve Rural Identity: While it’s natural to bring elements of urban life to your new environment, remember to respect the distinct character of rural communities. Avoid advocating for changes that would compromise the tranquility and charm of the countryside.

Preserving country living.

Safe Travels Y’all

For urban dwellers transitioning to rural life, integrating into the fabric of the community requires a blend of respect, courtesy, and appreciation for local customs. By embracing the unhurried pace, expressing gratitude for the kindness of neighbors, and preserving the intrinsic beauty of the countryside, newcomers can find fulfillment and belonging in their new surroundings. Remember, the roads of rural life may be winding, but each turn offers an opportunity to connect with the land and the people who call it home.

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