In times of uncertainty, having a survival garden with nutrient-dense, storable foods is essential. A well-planned garden, combined with effective preservation methods, can sustain you and your family for 3.5 years. In this guide, we will cover the best crops to grow and simple, reliable preservation methods. He that endures to the end shall be saved!
Why a Survival Garden?
A survival garden is not just about growing food; it’s about growing the right types of food that can be preserved and stored long-term. The goal is to grow foods that are:
- High in calories and nutrients
- Easy to store for long periods
- Versatile in recipes
Best Foods to Grow and Their Preservation Methods
1. Potatoes
- Why? High in calories and versatile in meals.
- Preservation Method:
- Curing and Storing: Cure potatoes by leaving them in a dark, well-ventilated area at 60-70°F for two weeks. Store them in a cool, dark place at 40°F. Lasts 6-9 months.
- Dehydration: Slice thinly and dehydrate for potato chips or rehydration later.
2. Beans (Dry Beans)
- Why? High protein and long shelf life.
- Preservation Method:
- Drying: Allow beans to dry on the vine, then store in airtight containers. Lasts up to 10 years if stored in a cool, dark place.
3. Corn (Dent or Flint for Drying)
- Why? High in carbohydrates.
- Preservation Method:
- Drying and Grinding: Dry the corn on the cob, then shell and store the kernels. Grind into cornmeal as needed. Stores up to 10 years if kept dry.
4. Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn)
- Why? High in vitamins and stores well.
- Preservation Method:
- Curing and Storing: Cure by leaving in the sun for 10 days. Store in a cool, dark place at 50-55°F. Lasts up to 6 months.
5. Carrots and Root Vegetables (Beets, Turnips)
- Why? Nutrient-dense and versatile.
- Preservation Method:
- Root Cellaring: Store in sand or sawdust in a cool, dark place. Lasts 4-6 months.
- Fermentation: Shred and ferment in salt brine for a probiotic-rich food. Lasts 6 months refrigerated.
6. Cabbage
- Why? High in vitamin C and stores well when fermented.
- Preservation Method:
- Fermentation (Sauerkraut): Shred and mix with salt, pack tightly into jars, and allow to ferment. Lasts 6 months refrigerated.
7. Onions and Garlic
- Why? Essential for flavor and medicinal uses.
- Preservation Method:
- Curing and Storing: Cure by hanging in a well-ventilated area. Store in a cool, dark place. Lasts up to 12 months.
8. Tomatoes
- Why? Versatile for sauces, soups, and more.
- Preservation Method:
- Canning: Make sauces, salsas, or whole canned tomatoes. Lasts up to 2 years.
- Dehydration: Make sun-dried tomatoes. Lasts up to 12 months.
9. Herbs (Basil, Oregano, Thyme)
- Why? Essential for flavoring preserved foods.
- Preservation Method:
- Drying: Hang in bundles or use a dehydrator. Store in airtight containers. Lasts 1-2 years.
Garden Planning Tips
- Choose Heirloom Varieties: They produce seeds you can save for the next planting.
- Stagger Planting: Ensures continuous harvests.
- Companion Planting: Grow complementary crops together for natural pest control.
Preservation Supplies Checklist
- Canning jars and lids
- Dehydrator or drying racks
- Airtight containers
- Root cellar or cool, dark storage space
- Salt (for fermenting and preserving)
Summary of Foods and Preservation Methods
| Food | Preservation Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | Curing and Storing, Dehydration | 6-9 months |
| Dry Beans | Drying | Up to 10 years |
| Corn | Drying, Grinding | Up to 10 years |
| Winter Squash | Curing and Storing | Up to 6 months |
| Root Vegetables | Root Cellaring, Fermentation | 4-6 months |
| Cabbage | Fermentation (Sauerkraut) | 6 months (refrigerated) |
| Onions/Garlic | Curing and Storing | Up to 12 months |
| Tomatoes | Canning, Dehydration | Up to 2 years |
| Herbs | Drying | 1-2 years |
Conclusion
By strategically planning your survival garden and utilizing these preservation methods, you can ensure a stable food supply for up to 3.5 years. This combination of high-calorie foods and efficient storage techniques provides the foundation for long-term survival and self-sufficiency. Tomorrow we will make another post on the best way to preserve what you grow with Fermentation.
Start your survival garden today and secure your food future!
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