Why purchase from Leddy's Homestead?
Leddy's Homestead makes Premium Jams and Jellies from our locally grown fruits and vegetables. If needed, we purchase primarily from local farmers we know and trust. Also, we specialize in rare fruit, such as Medlar, lesser-known plums, and the almost-extinct Blenheim apricot.
We select only ripe fruit and capture the amazingly sweet flavors in Jars for you to enjoy all season long. We stand behind each Jam we create. Leddy's Homestead does not offer standard Jams that appear on the shelves of your local supermarket, we specialize in unique flavor combinations that will make you ask for more.
What is the difference between Jelly and Jam?
What is a Jelly?
Jelly is made from the finest fruit juices, and contains no pieces of fruit. Jellies maintain a consistent texture and see through appearance. Jellies are easy to spread and have a smooth even texture.
What is a Jam?
Jam is made from the whole fruit either cooked until the fruit starts to soften and break down to small pieces, crushed, or pureed to provide a thick, textured spread with the best flavor from the fruit. Because jams include the whole fruit, it will have a delicious, stronger flavor than the Jelly.
How to store Jam/Jelly?
All preserved fruits should be stored in a cool dry environment not susceptible to temperature change. When items go through temperature changes of cool to warm and vice versa, the moisture in the air tends to condensate inside the packages. This moisture allows mold to grow and your jam or jelly to spoil. Refrigeration is highly recommended, but only after the jam or jelly has been opened and the freshness seal has been broken. In addition, you should always make sure to use clean utensils when serving jams and jellies in order to avoid cross-contamination.
How to tell if Jam/Jelly is bad, rotten or spoiled?
The first sign of caution with most jams and jellies is when a liquid begins to form on the top of the product. It goes downhill quickly from there as the consistency becomes thicker and the color becomes darker. Then it can develop an unpleasant odor which is almost always followed by an unpleasant flavor and then mold. Once there is any mold at all present, the entire jar must be tossed. Mold spreads very quickly in a soft environment like jam or jelly, whether you can see it on the bottom of the jar or not.
Can all Dogs eat homemade treats?
Dogs of all shapes, sizes, breeds and temperaments love homemade Treats! It is important for you to use your good judgment and understand your dog when feeding your dog any type of dog treats.
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It is always important to observe your dog especially puppies when giving a treat to see if he/she is chewing and swallowing properly. When puppies are overly excited they may inhale and forget to chew. We suggest waiting until at least 12 weeks of age before using any type of treat with puppies.
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For older dogs with dental issues, ask for our Banana Bones, because they are easy to chew and our simple ingredients make them easy to digest. If your dog has any other medical issues, be sure to ask your veterinarian.
** Although our treat is all natural and wholesome it was not formulated as a complete diet and should not be used as a food replacement on a regular basis.
***Be sure to check the ingredient list before feeding to your dog. Pets can have allergies just like humans!!!
How many animals do you have?
The amount fluctuates with increases due to birth or acquisition and decreases due to death or sales. At the peak of our chicken raising, we had 200 chickens that our children raised. Currently, a home flock of about 30 is kept for eggs and culling for meat. As well as 13 breeding coops which around 5 chickens in each coop. 5-10 turkeys are kept for meat, also. Currently, we keep around 20 goats, at least one buck and one doe of Nubian, Lamacha and Nigerian Dwarf. 3 retired horses, one donkey and a mini-Zebu bull. 5 cats and 8 dogs run around, too.
Do your animals bite?
Most of the animals are tame but animals are very unpredictable and could nip or bite. Under Texas law, by agreeing to be on the premises, you understand that garden, farm, animal, and horse activities are risky. Also under Texas law, any responsibility for injury is waived.
In accordance with Texas HB 262 and Texas Law Chapter 75
*WARNING*
WARNING: UNDER TEXAS LAW (CHAPTER 87, CIVIL PRACTICE & REMEDIES CODE) AN EQUINE PROFESSIONAL IS NOT LIABLE FOR AN INJURY TO OR THE DEATH OF A PARTICIPANT IN EQUINE ACTIVITIES RESULTING FROM THE INHERENT RISKS OF EQUINE ACTIVITIES.
WARNING: UNDER TEXAS LAW (CHAPTER 87, CIVIL PRACTICE & REMEDIES CODE) A FARM ANIMAL PROFESSIONAL IS NOT LIABLE FOR AN INJURY TO OR THE DEATH OF A PARTICIPANT IN FARM ANIMAL ACTIVITIES RESULTING FROM THE INHERENT RISKS OF FARM ANIMAL ACTIVITIES.
What do I need to wear when I come to the farm for a tour or class?
Definitely wear close toed shoes. Flip flops or sandals are not a good choice for walking around the farm. Wear shoes and clothes that can get dirty.
Do I need to bring anything for my visit?
You may want to bring your own water bottle. It gets hot and you’ll probably get thirsty. You may also consider putting on sunscreen and/or mosquito spray. If you’re coming for a class, bring pencil and paper to take notes.
Most importantly bring an open mind and a positive attitude!
What sort of meals do you offer?
We serve a variety of dishes, but all are tasty and filling. “The food is so good that I ate too much” is about the only complaint we hear. All meals are made with farm-grown ingredients. Let us know your special dietary needs from vegetarian to gluten intolerance; we always help.
Is there medical care available?
15 minutes away, UT Health in Mineola offers basic health care from M-F, 8-5. Otherwise, hospitals with emergency rooms in Quitman – 25minutes away – are the closest. The majority of the staff are certified in CPR and trained in first aid.
Why are your rates so low?
Our priority is to make the Homestead experience available to anyone who wishes to join us. Our guests help with farm chores and clean and re-make their cabins at the end of their stay, allowing us to keep a smaller staff. Generous donations cover a portion of our operating expenses. If the fees are a burden, we have scholarship help available – please ask.