Introduction
Survival gardens are designed to provide you with food in the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster or major societal upheaval. While you can grow almost any crop in a survival garden, some are better suited to this purpose than others.
Best foods to grow in a survival garden
If you’re looking to grow your own food in a survival garden, there are certain types of foods that are better suited for this purpose than others. In general, you’ll want to choose plants that are easy to grow, produce a lot of food, and are nutrient-dense. With that in mind, here are some of the best foods to grow in a survival garden:
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes. Tomatoes are easy to grow and can be grown in a small space.
Sweet potato
There’s something about sweet potatoes that just makes them irresistible. They’re sweet, nutritious, and can be used in so many different recipes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to traditional potatoes or just want something different for your next meal, sweet potatoes are a great option.
While sweet potatoes can be enjoyed cooked in a variety of ways, they’re also delicious when used in sweet dishes. Sweet potato pies, cakes, and even ice cream are all popular options. If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to sugary sweets, sweet potatoes are a great option.
Sweet potatoes are also a great source of vitamins and minerals. They’re a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. Sweet potatoes are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy option for those watching their weight.
So, next time you’re looking for a new vegetable to try, don’t forget about sweet potatoes. They’re versatile, delicious, and good for you, too!
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a climbing or trailing vine plant belonging to the gourd family. They are long and cylindrical with smooth or bumpy skin, and they can range in color from deep green to yellow. Cucumbers are 95% water, so they are an excellent source of hydration, and they also contain nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.
Cucumbers can be eaten raw, pickled, or cooked, and they are a common ingredient in salads, sandwiches, and soups. In the survival garden, cucumbers are best grown on a trellis or fence so that the fruits don’t touch the ground. Cucumbers prefer warm weather and well-drained soil. They will begin to produce fruit about 50 days after planting.
Peppers
Peppers (Capsicum spp.) are a staple in many cuisines and an essential ingredient in many dishes. They are also one of the best crops for a survival garden. Peppers are easy to grow and can be harvested in as little as 60 days. They are not only a good source of vitamins and minerals, but they can also be dried or canned for later use.
There are many different varieties of peppers, from the small, hot chili peppers to the large, mild bell peppers. Peppers can be grown in both cold and warm climates and will thrive in most soil types. They are a relatively low-maintenance crop and can be grown with minimal effort.
Squash / Winter squash
Squash, especially winter squash, is an excellent crop for long-term survival. It stores well, is packed with nutrients, and can be used in many different ways. Winter squash includes pumpkins, acorn squash, butternut squash, and others. All of these varieties are relatively easy to grow and store well.
Beans
Beans are among the most versatile and nutritionally complete foods in the world. A one-cup serving of cooked beans provides about 12 grams of protein and 13 grams of dietary fiber. In addition, beans are an excellent source of iron, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
There are many different types of beans, including black, kidney, lima, navy, pinto, and white. Beans can be eaten fresh, canned, or dried. They can also be ground into flour that can be used for baking or cooking.
Beans are a staple crop in many parts of the world and have been cultivated for thousands of years. They are relatively easy to grow and require very little maintenance. Beans can be grown in a wide range of climates and soil types.
Corn
Corn is a dietary staple for many cultures and can be a key ingredient in many survivalist recipes. It is a hardy crop that can be grown in a variety of climates and soil types, making it a good option for those who are just starting out with gardening. While corn does require some space to grow, it is a relatively low-maintenance crop.
Eggplant
Native to India, eggplant is a member of the nightshade family and related to tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes. While it is technically a fruit, it is most often used as a vegetable in cooking. Eggplant has a mild, slightly bitter flavor and a meaty texture. It can be eaten cooked or raw and is a good source of fiber, vitamins C and B6, potassium, and manganese.
Melons
Melons are not the first plant that comes to mind when looking for a crop to include in a survival garden, but they should not be overlooked. Melons are an excellent source of hydration and nutrients, and can help prevent dehydration in hot weather. They are also relatively easy to grow.
There are many different varieties of melon, but some of the best for a survival garden include:
-Honeydew melons: These melons have a thick, green skin and white or pale green flesh. They are very sweet and have a high water content. Honeydew melons can be sliced or eaten whole.
-Cantaloupe melons: Cantaloupes have a orange or yellow skin and orange or red flesh. They are also very sweet and have a high water content. Cantaloupes can be eaten whole or sliced.
-Watermelons: As the name suggests, these melons contain a lot of water (about 92%). They have a green or yellow skin and red, pink, or yellow flesh. Watermelons can be eaten whole or sliced.
Pumpkins
Pumpkins are a member of the squash family and are related to cucumbers and melons. They are one of the oldest vegetables known to man, with evidence of their existence dating back more than 7,000 years. Pumpkins are native to North America, and their name is derived from the Native American word “pakon,” which means “large melon.”
Pumpkins are an annual plant that grows best in warm weather. They require full sun and well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Pumpkins can be started from seed or transplanted from seedlings. If you live in an area with a short growing season, it’s best to start with seedlings.
Pumpkins are a warm-season crop that takes between 90 and 120 days to mature. The fruits of the pumpkin plant are large, round, and have thick, orange skin. Pumpkin flesh is pale orange in color and is very nutritious. It’s an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and potassium.
Pumpkins can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. They are often used to make pies, breads, soups, stews, casseroles, and even beer. Pumpkins can also be carved into jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween décor.
Storage pumpkins will keep for several months if they are stored in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. Smaller pumpkins can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Radishes
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables, often being ready to harvest in as little as 28 days. They are a great crop to grow if you have limited space, as they only need around 4in (10cm) of soil to root in. Radishes come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from small round red varieties such as ‘Cherry Belle’, to longer white types such as ‘Daikon’.
Radishes are relatively undemanding and can be grown in most soils, although they will produce the best results in a light, well-drained soil. They can be sown directly into the ground or started off in seed trays or modules before transplanting into their final position. Sow radish seeds thinly at weekly intervals from late March to mid-July for a continuous supply of roots from June to October.
Radishes are best harvested when they are around the size of a golf ball, although larger varieties such as ‘München Bier’ can be left to grow to twice this size if you prefer. To harvest, carefully lift the plants out of the ground with a fork, taking care not to damage the roots of neighboring plants. Store radishes in a cool place; they will keep fresh for up to two weeks when stored in this way.
Turnips
Turnips are a root vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they can also be used as a source of food for livestock. Turnips can be stored in the ground for a long period of time, making them an excellent crop for a survival garden.
Carrots
Carrots are a root vegetable that is usually orange in color, although there are also white, yellow, red, and purple varieties. Carrots are usually eaten cooked, but can also be eaten raw.
Carrots are an excellent source of Vitamin A and beta-carotene. They are also a good source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants.
Carrots are relatively easy to grow and can be cultivated in a wide range of climates. They can be grown in the ground or in containers.
Beets
Beets are an excellent source of food for a survival garden. They are packed with nutrients and are easy to grow. Beets can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. They can also be used to make beetroot juice, which is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is often thought of as a difficult crop to grow, but if you start with transplants and give it the right amount of water, it’s actually quite easy. Cauliflower is a cool weather crop, so it should be planted in early spring or fall. It takes about 70 days to mature, so make sure you start your seeds early enough or buy transplants.
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. It’s high in fiber and vitamins C and B6. Cauliflower can be roasted, steamed, stir-fried, or made into soup. It’s also a good option for those on a low-carb diet because it can be used as a rice substitute.
If you want to try something different, you can even roast cauliflower with spices and use it as a pizza topping.
Broccoli
broccoli is an extremely nutrient-dense food and an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. When it comes to survival gardening, broccoli is a great choice because it is relatively easy to grow and can be harvested in as little as 60 days. cross-pollination from other Brassica species can negatively impact the quality of your broccoli, so it’s important to choose a variety that is suited for your climate.
Cabbage
Cabbage is an extremely hardy vegetable and can withstand some pretty cold temperatures. It’s a great crop to have in a survival garden because it’s easy to grow and can provide you with a lot of food. One cabbage plant can yield 10-12 heads of cabbage, which is a lot of food for one plant.
Cabbage is a versatile vegetable as well. You can eat it raw in salads, or you can cook it in a variety of dishes. It’s also a good source of Vitamin C, so it’s perfect for helping to ward off colds and other illnesses.
Kale
Kale is a hardy, leafy green that can withstand frost and can even be grown in the winter in some cases. It’s a nutrient-rich vegetable that is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. Kale is a versatile crop that can be used in salads, soups, stews, and more.
Collards
Collards are a super hardy leafy green vegetable that can withstand harsh temperatures and still produce a bountiful crop. They are relatively easy to grow and require very little maintenance. Whether you’re growing them for food security or just to have fresh, healthy greens on hand, collards are an excellent choice for a survival garden.
Mustard Greens
Mustard greens are one of the best crops you can grow for a survival garden. They are easy to grow and extremely versatile. You can use them in soups, stews, salads, and stir-fries. They are also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K.
Why Grow a Survival Garden?
When it comes to survival, gardening is often overlooked. For some, the idea of growing their own food seems like a daunting task. However, gardening is a skill that can be learned by anyone, and it doesn’t have to be difficult. There are many benefits to growing a survival garden, and in this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most important ones.
Growing your own food is one of the most important things you can do to become self-sufficient. If you’re reliant on grocery stores or restaurants for your food, you’re at the mercy of their availability. In a survival situation, you may not be able to find food, or the food you do find may not be nutritious. By growing your own food, you can be sure that you have a reliable source of nutrition.
In addition to providing food, a survival garden can also provide other important items. For example, many plants can be used for medicinal purposes. If you’re ever injured or sick, having a supply of medicinal plants can be a lifesaver.
Another benefit of a survival garden is that it can provide you with a much-needed sense of normalcy. In a survival situation, the world can feel like a very different place. By keeping a garden, you can have a little piece of the world that’s just for you. Working in your garden can be a calming and therapeutic activity, which can be a great way to cope with the stress of a survival situation.
If you’re interested in starting a survival garden, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight. You’ll also need to make sure the soil is rich and loose. Once you’ve found a good location, you can start planning what to grow.
Some of the best plants for a survival garden are vegetables, fruits, and herbs. These plants are relatively easy to grow and can provide a lot of food. You can also grow other plants that can be used for things like building materials or firewood.
When it comes to survival gardening, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Every gardener will have their own preferences and needs. However, by following the tips in this blog post, you should be able to get started on the right foot.