Have you always wanted to have a canning garden? Canning has been used for generations to preserve a garden’s harvest for long-term storage. My family has held on to this old-fashioned method of preserving foods like green beans, homemade sauerkraut, and more. I want to be a helpful resource for you on all things canning.
In a world where sustainability and self-sufficiency are becoming more popular, the concept of canning gardens has emerged as a delightful way to connect with nature and our past, to enjoy fresh produce, and preserve the harvest for future use. A canning garden is more than just a typical vegetable patch; it’s a well-thought-out plot designed to grow fruits and vegetables specifically with the intent of preserving them through canning.
My Canning Journey
Although my family has canned food for generations, I have just recently been returning to my roots and canning more food from our canning garden on my own. We canned more than 40 quarts of our heirloom corn beans (a type of pole green bean), 20 pints of corn, along with tomato sauce, spaghetti sauce, salsa and my family’s famous spicy dill pickles. To fill up our cupboard with beautiful jars of homegrown food we canned ourselves has brought me so much joy. I’ve become a little obsessed with seeing how much I’m able to plant and harvest. My goal is to just do a little more than the year before. I want everyone who has had the desire to plant a canning garden to have the courage and knowledge to go for it. You won’t regret it!
You see, there’s more to it than just planting seeds in the soil. It’s a dance with nature, a conversation with the seasons, and a commitment to self-sufficiency. I can’t help but get passionate when I talk about the joy of growing our own food, knowing exactly where it comes from, and enjoying the nourishing fruits of our labor. And now, you’re here, eager to start on this homesteading journey.
Let me share some wisdom from our farming heritage with you. First and foremost, planning is key. Understanding the soil, the climate, and the needs of each crop is like knowing the characters in a story – it helps you create a harmonious narrative. Our ancestors knew that a well-thought-out garden is not just about what you want to eat but also about what the land wants to give.
Benefits Of Having A Canning Garden
- You get to decide how your garden grows. If you want organic gardening with no pesticides and natural fertilizers, you can make that happen.
- It’s cheaper!
- Growing your own garden allows you to harvest at the peak of ripeness. Vegetables that ripen in the garden are known to have more nutrients than vegetables at the store that are normally picked early.
- They taste better! Nothing compares to a fresh homegrown tomato.
- It helps you eat more vegetables.
- Last but not least, having a canning garden will bring you so much joy. The feeling of harvesting vegetables from plants you grew and then being able to preserve and use that harvest later is just the best. Trust me, you do not feel that same joy when you use a store-bought can of tomato sauce in your vegetable soup on a cold winter day.
Start Small, Yield Big
Avoid overwhelm and start small. You do not have to grow a large garden to have excess vegetables to can. Choose vegetables that have a high yield per plant to get the most out of a small space. Cucumbers, for instance, can produce 10-20 cucumbers per plant. A few cucumber plants would be more than enough to allow you to can your own stash of pickles. Likewise, a tomato plant like the mortgage lifter can produce 12-20 pounds per plant. This would definitely be enough for preserving some for later. Additionally, tomatoes can be grown in containers on balconies or raised beds. Look into what variety of plants grow best in your planting zone for the best possible yield
Plant Vegetables You’ll Actually Eat
I have often been tempted to plant exotic, beautiful vegetables only to learn that they weren’t something my family would eat. When planning a canning garden take into consideration what vegetables your family eats and plant those. If your family does not eat cucumbers, don’t plant cucumbers. You don’t want to waste space in your canning garden or in your cupboard with vegetables that will not be enjoyed.
Some Vegetables To Consider When Planning A Canning Garden
- Tomatoes – As I mentioned before, a hardy tomato plant can yield a lot of tomatoes.
- Cucumbers – This is another plant, as I mentioned, that can produce!
- Green Beans – Canned green beans are a staple in our pantry. We eat these for every holiday meal and almost once a week for an easy weeknight side dish. They are healthy and planting beans in your canning garden can add nitrogen to the soil, helping other plants thrive.
- Corn – Canned corn is another one of those staple easy weeknight side dishes. They are also a great companion plant for pole green beans. The pole beans trellis on the corn and you can grow two vegetables in essentially the same amount of space.
- Cabbage – Our family loves sauerkraut. We still make it the old-fashioned way; allowing it to ferment in a big crock in the cellar to later can for winter use.
- Peppers – Peppers are the perfect ingredient for home canned spaghetti sauce. They can also be added to home canned salsa. I have some delicious heirloom family recipes for both of these pantry staples.
A canning garden is one of the big checks on a homemaker’s list. There is so much pride in being able to provide home canned food for your family from your canning garden. These simple first steps to planning a canning garden is meant to get your heart stirred and to get you wanting to learn more about growing your own food to can.
Where To Source Your Seeds?
Selecting the right seeds is a crucial step in planning your canning garden. The quality of your seeds can significantly impact the success of your harvest. Here are some reliable sources to consider when acquiring the seeds for your garden:
Local Nurseries and Garden Centers
Start your seed search at local nurseries or garden centers. They often carry a curated selection of seeds tailored to the specific needs of your region.
Tips:
- Seek recommendations from experienced gardeners in your area.
- Check for any events or seed swaps hosted by local gardening communities.
Online Seed Companies
Numerous reputable online seed companies offer a wide variety of seeds, providing access to unique and heirloom varieties. Explore websites that specialize in organic or heirloom seeds. Read customer reviews and ensure the company has a good reputation for delivering quality seeds.
Tips:
- Look for companies with a diverse selection suited to your gardening goals.
- Check for any additional information on seed purity and germination rates.
a few of my personal recommendations…
– Baker creek heirloom seed co.
– Hudson Valley Seed Co.
– Trade winds Fruit
– Fruition Seeds
– MIgardener
Seed Exchanges and Community Events
Engage with your local gardening community by participating in seed exchanges or community events. These gatherings provide an opportunity to trade seeds with fellow gardeners, allowing you to diversify your collection and discover unique varieties that may not be readily available elsewhere.
Tips:
- Attend local gardening club meetings or events to connect.
- Be open to sharing your own seeds and experiences with fellow gardeners.
Seed Banks and Preservation Organizations
Consider supporting seed banks and preservation organizations dedicated to conserving heirloom and rare plant varieties. These entities play a crucial role in safeguarding genetic diversity. Some organizations may offer seeds for sale, and your contribution helps in the preservation of traditional crops.
Tips:
- Explore seed banks with a mission aligned with your interest in preserving heritage plants.
- Understand any guidelines or requirements for participating in seed preservation efforts.
Farmers’ Markets and Local Farms
Farmers’ markets and local farms often sell not only fresh produce but also seeds or seedlings. Purchasing seeds from these sources supports local agriculture and provides you with the opportunity to choose varieties that are proven to thrive in your area.
Tips:
- Inquire with farmers at markets about the seeds they use for their crops.
- Consider purchasing seedlings for certain crops if you’re starting later in the season.
Remember to check for any specific growing recommendations or guidelines provided by the seed source. By diversifying your seed selection and exploring various sources, you enhance the resilience and richness of your canning garden.
Get The Lay Of The Land
When planning your canning garden, it is important to take a close look at the space you have available. Whether you’re working with a backyard plot, a small urban garden, or even containers on a balcony, understanding your spatial limitations is crucial. Consider the layout and dimensions of your chosen area, and envision how your garden will fit into the overall landscape.
Tips:
- Measure the available space to determine the size of your garden.
- Take note of any existing structures, trees, or features that may impact sunlight exposure.
Consider Sunlight Exposure And Soil Quality
Sunlight and soil are the lifeblood of a successful garden. Paying attention to these two factors will greatly influence the health and productivity of your crops. Evaluate how much sunlight your chosen area receives throughout the day. Most vegetables and herbs thrive in full sunlight, so aim for a location that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight.
Tips:
- Observe the patterns of sunlight in your garden area at different times of the day.
- Perform a simple soil test to assess its composition and fertility.
Understanding Your Growing Conditions
Each garden is unique, and understanding your specific growing conditions is key to a thriving canning garden. Factors like climate, temperature variations, and local microclimates can all play a role. Research the ideal growing conditions for the crops you intend to plant and tailor your garden plan accordingly.
Tips:
- Consult local gardening resources or extension services for information on your specific region.
- Take note of any microclimates within your garden, such as areas that may be warmer or cooler.
By taking the time to assess your space, consider sunlight exposure, and understand your growing conditions, you set the foundation for a successful canning garden. This thoughtful planning ensures that your crops receive the optimal environment to flourish and provide a bountiful harvest for your canning endeavors.
The Home Preserving “Bible”
If you can only purchase one book for preserving your own food, let it be the Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving. With over 400 canning recipes, it is a must!
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