We live in uncertain times and we take the basic necessity of food for granted. 

When we want food we go to the grocery store and buy it…..what would you do if that food supply was diminished or destroyed?

Having your own survival garden is a great way to be ready for unforeseen problems like natural disasters, terrorist attacks and food shortage.

Not only does it prepare you for the hard times, growing your own produce helps you become more self-sufficient.

You can also save money by not having to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables and save fuel by not having to drive to several stores to get the best prices.

Also, having your own survival garden allows you to incorporate more vegetables in your diet, which is healthier.

You must first assess yourself on your goals in starting a survival garden. In other words, “why” are you constructing a survival garden? 

Knowing “why” you are planting your survival garden will be a determining factor in whether your garden is completed…or not.

Are you planning to grow a garden to add fresh, nutritious fruits and vegetables for you and your family’s meals?

Once you have thought of your goals, you can start planning on your own survival garden.

There are several things to think about before starting your own survival garden.

First, the location of your garden should be well considered. The survival garden should be near a water source, has enough sunlight, good soil consistency and proper drainage.

You should also pay attention to the wildlife in your area so that you can set up the proper fencing to keep animals from damaging your produce.

The location of your survival garden is very important because this is where you will grow your plants. A garden that lacks the water and sunlight necessary for plant growth may give you a poor yield from all your efforts.

Second, you must pay attention to the climate in your area and the growing seasons. You will be wasting time and energy if you grow plants in your survival garden that could not tolerate the temperature or the climate in your area.

There are plants that are suited for the colder regions while some are for the warmer areas.

Growing seasons also vary in different locations. In areas with temperate climates, the growing season is defined by the seasonal changes. In the tropical areas, the amount of moisture determines the periods.

Considering those mentioned above, you should check which hardiness zone you are in and the right vegetables to plant in that zone.

Last and most importantly, learn what type of vegetables you are going to plant in your survival garden.

Initially, you must choose to plant the vegetables that your family would love to eat. Growing vegetables that no one in your family eats defeats the purpose of making your own survival garden.

It is also important to know the nutritional value of the food that you will grow. Pick vegetables that have high concentration of essential vitamins and minerals.

Do not focus on growing one kind of vegetable in your survival garden. As much as possible, you should plant a variety of vegetables to ensure that you can get all the necessary vitamins and minerals for your body.

You must also opt for the types that you could store. With that, knowledge in canning, drying and other techniques in food preservation will come in handy.

These pointers will not work without diligence, effort and patience. Starting your own survival garden may seem tedious and tiring. Your first attempt may fail but you should not give up.

One day you will find yourself harvesting fresh produce from your own survival garden.

You will have the satisfaction, knowing that all your hard work really paid off and the security that if something happens to our food supply, you and your family have a sustainable food source from your survival garden.