To make purchasing trees, shrubs, flowering plants and vegetables easier on people who want to overhaul their gardens or become self-sufficient, the United States Department of Agriculture (U.S.D.A.) has divided the country up into 13 hardiness zones. These zones are determined by the lowest average temperature, and are color-coded to make it easier to figure […]
In order to be truly self-sufficient, you need to grow your own staple crops. A staple crop, according to the official definition, is one that sustains health by providing important nutrients, while at the same time, makes up a large part of any diet. These crops also can be used in many different dishes, and […]
Your plants are as susceptible to the heat as you are. They can become sunburned, and the vegetables growing on their vines can become warped and unpleasant to look at (although they are still edible.) Even those that are known to thrive in hot weather can wilt slightly and stop producing as many tomatoes, peppers […]
Growing your own vegetables serves several purposes. For one, doing so makes you truly self-sufficient, especially if you are concerned about the validity of organic produce. By planting your own crops, you know exactly which pesticides and fertilizers (if any) have been used. Knowing that your vegetables have been picked at the peak of ripeness […]
I get asked all the time where I learned what I know about gardening. The truth is it’s in my blood. My family has always been a self sufficient bunch. Ever sense I can remember I’ve been around a vegetable garden. I felt inspired to write this because I visited my Grandfather’s house in Galveston,TX, […]
Fall is a great season where the weather slowly begins to cool down and prepare for the winter chill. It’s a wonderful time to plan a fall garden so you can harvest delicious ingredients for hearty and healthy dishes and even prepare for favorite holidays that are just around the corner. To make the most […]
Herbs are a wonderful part of any garden. They offer a great display of color and texture while also releasing delightful scents into the air. Starting a herb garden is a wonderful opportunity to be self sufficient. Most herbs are ideal for beginner gardeners, and most gardeners whether they’re beginners or not, love to grow […]
Gardening is a great way to be self sufficient. But, where to garden is always the question. Traditionally, people plant gardens in long rows. While that is a feasible way, many of us do not have the space needed to grow the volume of produce we want. Raised bed gardening has become the new way […]
One of the best choices to grow in a garden, the yellow crookneck squash provides delicious flavor to many dishes during the summer season. This particular squash belongs to the cucurbita species along with other favorites like pumpkins and zucchinis, and is one of the top summer squash to grow in the garden because its […]
So you’ve decided that you’re tired of paying the high prices for fresh vegetables and have started (or want to start) your own garden? Growing sweet corn is a great idea. Sweet corn is one of the best vegetables to start with and will yield much with a little work and care. There are several […]
At some part in your quest to be self sufficient, you will begin to use seeds you save from last year’s garden. This is a significant step. But, growing from seed uses an extra skill or two. You will know how hearty your seedlings will be by the size of their seeds. If the seed […]
