If you’re new to homesteading or even a seasoned veteran – one topic that often has many many tips to it is how to preserve your harvest once the garden starts putting out food!
Below are a few options:
Canning –
This is one of the most widely used forms of preserving and putting up the harvest used in (at least) America. You can CAN just about everything and many items last for several years!
Looking for canning items?
Freezing – Nothing replaces a good sized deep freeze on the homestead for keeping the harvest lasting long into the winter months. One trick is to be sure items are dry and as free of air as possible when you put up the harvest for freezing.
Most homesteaders put up the harvest in a variety of ways. The biggest tip to saving your garden harvest is to try many methods for each food and find what works best that you’ll use the most!
EnJOY the journey!
Best Blessings!
The Millers
Popular Questions
What are the best tips for putting up the garden harvest?
Sort freshly picked produce before preserving it, and use only clean, sound fruits and vegetables. Match each crop with a suitable method, such as canning, freezing, drying, fermenting, or storing it in a cool place. Work in small batches so the harvest can be handled promptly and safely.
How should you prepare vegetables when putting up the garden harvest?
Wash vegetables thoroughly, remove damaged portions, and follow the preparation steps recommended for each crop. Blanch many vegetables briefly before freezing to help preserve their color, texture, and flavor. Label each package or jar with the contents and date so older food can be used first.
What is the safest way to can the garden harvest?
Use tested canning recipes and the correct processing method for the food, since low-acid vegetables generally require pressure canning. Inspect jars, lids, and seals before filling, and leave the recommended headspace. Process jars for the stated time and altitude, then check the seals after they cool.
How can you store garden harvest without canning?
Freezing, dehydrating, fermenting, and cool storage are useful ways to put up the garden harvest without using a canner. Choose firm, mature produce and prepare it according to the method you select. Store preserved food in airtight containers or properly sealed bags, protect it from heat and light, and mark it with the date.