Living off the grid offers a sense of independence and connection to nature. A well-planned backyard garden can provide you with fresh, nutritious food while reducing your reliance on external resources. While your local climate may play a large role in what is best, here is a guide on what to plant in your backyard garden to achieve self-sustainability:
1. Choose Your Ideal Location
Select a sunny area with well-drained soil for your garden. Aim for at least six hours of sunlight daily. Plan ahead and prepare the surroundings to maximize your growing space.
2. Consider Your Climate Zone
Research your local climate zone to determine which plants thrive in your area. Consult local gardeners or online resources to find out what grows best. Some common crops for self-sufficient gardens include:
- Tomatoes: Versatile and rich in vitamins.
- Potatoes: High in carbohydrates and easy to store.
- Beans and Peas: Nitrogen-fixing legumes that enrich the soil.
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and lettuce provide essential nutrients.
- Herbs: Basil, rosemary, and mint add flavor and medicinal value.
3. Compile a Collection of Seeds
Create a list of foods your family enjoys. Purchase seeds from reputable sources, ensuring they are stored properly to remain viable. Consider heirloom varieties for long-term sustainability.
4. Research Nutrition and Longevity
Grow foods that meet your nutritional needs and store well. Some essential plants for optimal nutrition include:
- Beans: Rich in protein and fiber.
- Peanuts: Nutritious and easy to grow.
- Potatoes: Starchy and versatile.
- Sunflowers: Harvest seeds for sprouts and oil.
- Sweet Potatoes: High in vitamins and minerals.
- Peas: Excellent protein source.
- Squash: Stores well.
- Carrots: Packed with vitamins.
- Beets: Nutrient-dense.
- Cabbage: Ferment for sauerkraut.
- Corn: Staple grain.
- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned.
- Berries and Grapes: Antioxidant-rich.
5. Plant Herbs
Herbs enhance flavor, provide medicinal benefits, and attract beneficial insects. Consider growing:
- Basil: Culinary herb with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Rosemary: Hardy and aromatic.
- Mint: Refreshing and useful for teas.
- Thyme: Antiseptic and flavorful.
6. Perennial Plants
Include perennial plants for long-term sustainability:
- Berry Bushes: Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
- Asparagus: Nutrient-rich and low-maintenance.
- Fruit Trees: Apples, pears, and cherries.
Remember, self-sustainability involves trial and error. Learn from your garden, adapt, and enjoy the journey toward a more resilient and connected lifestyle.
For fertilizer, don’t miss our article on back yard chickens!
Here are some items to help you get started:
- 8×12 FT Quick Setup Polycarbonate Greenhouse
- Open Seed Vault 15,000 Non GMO Heirloom Vegetable Seeds
- 35 Medicinal & Tea Herb Seeds Variety Pack
- Chapin 8701B Garden Push Seeder Planter
- Black Weed Barrier Landscape Premium Fabric-Heavy Duty Woven Ground Cloth
- 600 Pcs 4 Inch Plant Nursery Pots Bulk Plastic Pots
- Garden Tool Set,10 PCS Stainless Steel
- FCMP Outdoor RC4000-BRN 50-Gallon BPA Free Flat Back Home Rain Catcher
