Preserve From the Garden
What does it mean to preserve straight from the garden? CANNING! That’s what I mean.
Canning Season is my favorite time of year. It does bring out a busier time for most of us but I love being able to grow, preserve, and share with our family and community. I am so excited to do this on a bigger scale once we have the means.
There are times that I hear people say they cannot garden because they don’t have enough property, but this is not always the case. Currently, we live on a quarter of an acre and our garden is as big as we can manage on the property but we make it work.
Ideas for small property gardening:
1. Raised beds are a great option for anyone! They are back savers and versatile. You would be surprised at how many plants you can grow efficiently in a 2ft x 4ft area. I would suggest either wood like these HERE or steel like these HERE.
2. Herb Gardens are perfect for anyone who is just starting. They are small plants and fairly easy to grow. You can even grow them inside if you would like. I like this indoor grower HERE.
3. Potted plants are another great versatile option. You can move when needed. I prefer the self-watering ones like these HERE.
Preserving Planning
By the end of January, I am starting to plan what I want or need to preserve and how to best utilize my garden. I take stock of what I have an abundance of and what I need to replenish, and that looks like Pasta Sauce, Salsa, Marinara, Cream of Soups, Broth, Stock, Pickles, Vegetables, Fruits, and Pie Fillings.
Once I have my list of what I need to restock I plan out my garden. What do I want to plant and where in the garden? I prefer to use Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds or MIGardener when I am purchasing seeds. This year we are going to be planting, tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, celery, carrots, cucumbers, beans, zucchini, and potatoes. I have never grown my potatoes but every year I try to go out of my comfort zone a little and try something new.
Check out my canning list HERE
See my Garden list HERE
Also, see my post on Homesteaders of America HERE
