Benefits & Tips for Embracing Self Reliance Through Gardening

Where unpredictability is often a part of our lives, in today’s world, nurturing self-reliance has emerged as a precious and essential quality. With the challenges we've experienced from economic fluctuations, environmental issues, and global health concerns, the ability to rely on oneself is more important than ever. One practical and rewarding way to encourage self-reliance is through the practice of gardening.

The Benefits of Gardening

1. Food Security

Growing your own food ensures you access to fresh, nutritious produce regardless of market fluctuations. Knowing you can harvest vegetables and fruits from your backyard can alleviate anxiety about food supply chains in uncertain times. And the food you grow will always taste better than anything you could purchase in the grocery store. 

2. Cost Savings

With rising grocery prices, a garden can significantly cut down your food expenses. Seeds and plants often require a one-time investment; once established, they can yield produce season after season. I have found that Survival Garden Seeds offers some of the most affordable seeds with one of the best germination rates I have ever purchased.

3. Health and Wellbeing

Gardening is not only therapeutic but also promotes physical health. Spending time outdoors, engaging in physical activity, and eating fresh produce straight from the garden contribute to improved mental and physical wellness. 

4. Sustainability

Growing your own food reduces reliance on industrial agriculture and the associated carbon footprint. It encourages more sustainable practices, such as composting and using organic methods, such as eliminating heavy chemicals. These benefits are not only more beneficial to you and your overall health, but are also better for the environment.

5. Skill Development

Gardening offers you valuable skills in planting, nurturing, and harvesting. Through this experience and engaging in these activities, you cultivate a deeper connection to nature and enhance your family's understanding of the origins of food. This ultimately empowers everyone to make healthier and more informed choices.

Tips for Getting Started with Gardening

1. Assess Your Space

Whether you have a large backyard or just a tiny balcony, there are gardening options available. Consider doing container gardening, vertical gardens, and raised beds to maximize limited space. We made two very inexpensive raised bed using cedar wood and blocks. I also love to use grow bags and Greenstalk vertical tower planters in my garden.

2. Choose the Right Plants

Start with easy-to-grow vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. Get an understanding of your local climate and even soil type, then select plants that thrive in your area. Here is a list of my top 20 survival garden seeds to plant.

TOP 20 Survival Garden Seeds to Plant

1. Tomatoes, 2. Cucumber, 3. Peppers, 4. Zucchini, 5. Pumpkin/Squash 6. Potatoes

7. Carrots, 8. Turnips, 9. Radish, 10. Lettuce, 11. Kale, 12. Beans, 13. Onions,

14. Garlic, 15. Ginger 16. Rosemary, 17. Thyme, 18. Oregano, 19. Basil, 20. Mint

3. Learn and Adapt

Gardening is a continuous learning process. Don’t be discouraged by failures; they often provide the best lessons. Join local gardening groups, watch videos, and read books to gain more knowledge during your gardening journey. Also, be sure to document and share your experiences along the way. 

4. Plan for the Seasons

Understanding seasonal cycles will help you maximize your garden's productivity. Planting a variety and succession of crops can ensure that you and your family have a steady supply of food growing throughout the year.

By growing our own food, we can enhance our independence and make a meaningful contribution to a more sustainable and conscious community. Planting a seed can serve as a beautiful reminder of our ability to adapt, grow, and thrive, even amidst uncertainty. In these challenging times, I invite you to appreciate the earth beneath your feet and explore the transformative benefits of gardening. It goes beyond just producing food; it's about nurturing self-sufficiency and cultivating a sense of community, peace, and reassurance. Start your garden today, and watch as it blooms into a source of nourishment and strength.