Shovels and Survival Gardening: Thriving on Wild Edibles and Foraged Foods

In a world where food security and self-reliance are increasingly important, survival gardening has taken center stage for those who want to be prepared for any eventuality. Growing food in the wild ensures that you have a sustainable source of nutrition, even when grocery stores and traditional farming methods may not be available. By understanding the principles of survival gardening, anyone can successfully cultivate essential crops and ensure they have access to wholesome, nourishing food.

Planning your survival garden layout is crucial, as it enables you to make the best use of limited space and resources, while ensuring that the plants you select will thrive in their environment. Cultivating hardy plant species, like potatoes and rhubarb, along with edible wild plants, herbs, and medicinal plants, is key to a successful and well-rounded garden, offering multiple benefits in terms of nutrition and natural remedies. This, coupled with effective cultivation techniques and sufficient knowledge of foraging, will aid in self-sufficient living and food security.

Key Takeaways

• Survival gardening helps to ensure food security and self-reliance in uncertain times
• Careful planning and choosing appropriate plants are important steps in creating a sustainable garden
• Cultivating a mix of crops, edible wild plants, and medicinal plants enhances the nutritional and remedial value of your garden

Understanding Survival Gardening

Defining a Survival Garden

A survival garden is a specialized type of garden designed to provide essential food, calories, and nutrients during emergencies or periods of self-sufficiency. The primary focus of a survival garden is to grow crops that are high in essential vitamins, protein, minerals, and fiber to ensure a well-rounded, healthy diet. Some examples of crops commonly grown in survival gardens are potatoes, garlic, and lettuce¹.

In a survival garden, choosing the right plants is crucial. It’s essential to select crops that are optimal for the local climate, suitable for the available soil, and have high nutritional content. Crops with a fast-growing rate, high yield, and good storage qualities are preferred². Additionally, the introduction of perennial plants, such as fruit trees and bushes, can provide food sources that will last for many years.

Importance in Emergency Scenarios

Survival gardens play a critical role when food supplies are threatened due to natural disasters, economic instability, or other disruption in normal food distribution channels. Planning and maintaining a well-designed survival garden ensures that an individual or family can continue to consume a healthy and balanced diet of vitamins, minerals, and calories during times of uncertainty³.

When relying on a survival garden, it’s essential to:

• Properly manage and maintain the garden to maximize food production
• Rotate crops to maintain soil fertility and reduce the risk of pests and diseases
• Grow a variety of plants to ensure a diverse nutrient intake
• Practice efficient water management and conservation techniques

By incorporating these practices, a survival garden serves as a reliable source of essential food and nutrition, helping to maintain health and well-being during emergency scenarios.

Planning Your Survival Garden Layout

Choosing the Right Location

When planning your survival garden layout, it’s important to choose the right location. This area should have access to sunlight, water, and fertile soil. Ensuring that these resources are readily available will increase the chances of a successful harvest. One useful approach is to implement a square foot gardening method, which optimizes space and resources by dividing the garden into one-square-foot sections. Each section is planted with a specific crop, allowing for efficient use of space and easier management of sunlight and water distribution¹.

Maximizing Your Space

Maximizing space is crucial when it comes to survival gardens since you want to grow as much food as possible in a limited area. Utilizing vertical growing techniques, such as trellises or vertical planting containers, can be an effective way to increase your garden’s growing area². Additionally, you can practice intercropping by planting crops with complementary growth habits together. For example, a taller plant like corn can provide shade for a smaller, cool-season crop like lettuce.

Sunlight and Resource Management

Proper sunlight and resource management play a vital role in the success of your survival garden layout. Plants require varying amounts of sunlight to thrive, so it’s essential to group plants with similar sunlight needs together³.

Water is another vital resource in survival gardening, and efficient irrigation systems can help conserve water while promoting plant growth. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses can provide targeted water delivery directly to plant roots⁴. To further reduce water waste, mulching around plants can help retain moisture in the soil, conserving water and keeping roots cool.

In conclusion, a well-planned survival garden layout will take into account location, space optimization, and sunlight and resource management. By considering these factors, you increase the chances of growing a successful and bountiful survival garden.

Selecting Plants for Your Garden

When starting a survival garden, it’s important to focus on plants that provide high caloric value, are packed with nutrients, and can be easily stored for longer periods. In this section, we will discuss three main categories: high-calorie crops, nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, and long-term storage crops.

High-Calorie Crops

To ensure you have enough energy to sustain yourself, consider planting these high-calorie crops:

• Potatoes: Adaptable to various climates, potatoes are an excellent source of calories, vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.
• Sweet potatoes: Similar to regular potatoes, sweet potatoes provide essential nutrients, with the added benefit of beta-carotene.
• Corn: This versatile crop is rich in carbohydrates and fiber, and can be used to make flour, meal, or eaten straight from the cob.
• Legumes: Beans and peas offer high protein content in addition to calories, making them a crucial addition to your survival garden.

Nutrient-Dense Fruits and Vegetables

Next, focus on nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables to ensure a well-rounded and healthy diet:

• Carrots: Known for their high vitamin A content, carrots are also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
• Kale and Spinach: Both greens are rich in vitamins, minerals, and even protein, making them must-haves in your survival garden.
• Berries: Raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries add flavor and vital nutrients, such as antioxidants and vitamins, to your diet.
• Fruit trees: Apple, pear, and cherry trees can be low-maintenance additions if you have available space, providing fruit over several years.

Long-Term Storage Crops

Finally, select plants that can be easily stored long-term without spoiling:

• Root crops: Carrots, beets, and turnips are great choices for long-term storage, as they can be kept in a cold cellar or even left in the ground to extend their shelf life.
• Onions and Garlic: Both can be dried and stored for extended periods, adding essential flavor to your dishes.
• Winter Squash: These hardy vegetables have a long shelf life and provide essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.

By selecting plants from each of these categories, you’ll be well on your way to a bountiful and diverse survival garden that will sustain you in the wild.

Cultivation Techniques

Soil Preparation and Compost

Proper soil preparation and the use of compost are crucial for a thriving survival garden. Start by turning over the soil and removing any rocks or debris to create a loose and workable planting area. Incorporate organic matter like compost or aged manure to increase the soil’s fertility. Compost not only adds vital nutrients to the soil but also improves its structure, increases water retention, and encourages beneficial microorganisms¹.

It’s important to test your soil’s pH level, as some plants may require more acidic or alkaline soil conditions. Amend the soil as needed based on your plant preferences and chosen crops.

Growing from Seeds vs. Transplants

When starting a survival garden, you must decide whether to grow your plants from seeds or transplants. Seeds tend to be more cost-effective, easier to store, and offer a wider variety of choices². However, they require more time to germinate and are susceptible to pest and disease problems.

Transplants, on the other hand, give you a head start in the growing season and can save time. They generally have a better survival rate but can be more expensive and require additional care during transportation and planting. Consider a combination of seeds and transplants, selecting each method based on crop type, cultivation requirements, and the available resources³.

Water Management and Irrigation

Efficient water management and irrigation are essential components of a successful survival garden, especially during periods of drought or water scarcity. Start by selecting drought-tolerant plants, such as certain legumes, and focus on collecting and preserving water for your garden⁴.

Utilize several water-saving techniques to minimize water usage and conserve resources. These can include:

• Mulching: Cover the soil with organic or inorganic materials to conserve soil moisture and prevent weed growth.
• Drip irrigation: Deliver water directly to plant roots, reducing water waste from evaporation or runoff.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Set up a rainwater collection system to use for irrigation during dry periods.

In addition to these techniques, monitor your garden regularly for signs of overwatering or underwatering, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Supplement with fertilizers if necessary to ensure a thriving crop and bountiful harvest in your survival garden⁵.

Edible Wild Plants and Foraging

Identifying Wild Edibles

One of the fundamental skills for survival gardening is identifying edible wild plants. Some common examples include cattails, plantain, and wild onions. Start by examining the plant’s leaves, checking for shape, size, and arrangement on the stem. Take note of the leaf margins and identify if they’re smooth, serrated, or lobed. Observing the texture, color, and thickness of the plant’s stem can provide additional hints. For example, some plants have smooth, round stems, while others may be ridged or square.

Here’s a brief list of edible wild plants for reference:

• Cattails: The young shoots, stems, and rhizomes are edible when cooked.
• Plantain: Leaves can be eaten raw or cooked; seeds can be ground into a powder for cooking.
• Wild onions: Can be used similarly to cultivated onions, with a more pungent flavor.
• Pine: The needles can be used to make a nutritious tea, and the inner bark is edible when cooked.

The Universal Edibility Test

Before consuming any wild edibles, it’s essential to perform the Universal Edibility Test to avoid ingesting poisonous plants. This test involves separating the plant into its different parts (roots, stems, leaves, flowers, etc.) and gradually testing each component for edibility by applying a small amount to your skin, lips, and tongue, waiting for any adverse reactions, and if there’s no reaction, sampling a tiny portion before fully consuming.

1. Contact test: Rub a small amount of the plant on the inside of your wrist or elbow, wait 15 minutes, and observe for any skin reactions, such as redness or irritation.
2. Taste test: Place a small piece of the plant on your lips or tongue for 15 minutes, and monitor for numbness, burning, or itching.
3. Digestive test: Consume a small amount of the plant (about half a teaspoon), wait 8 hours without eating anything else, and observe for any gastrointestinal symptoms or discomfort.

Harvesting Techniques

When foraging for wild edibles, be sure to use sustainable harvesting methods to minimize damage to the plants and the surrounding ecosystem. Collect only the parts of the plant that you need and avoid overharvesting. When harvesting mushrooms, for example, use a small knife to cut them at the base, helping preserve the mycelium network in the soil.

Follow these principles while harvesting plants:

• Only take what you need, leaving enough for the plant to regenerate and for others to enjoy.
• Avoid damaging the roots or disturbing surrounding plants.
• Always harvest in a sustainable manner, ensuring the survival and regeneration of the plant species.

By applying these principles in identifying, testing, and harvesting wild edibles, you can develop the skills necessary for survival gardening and become a more confident and knowledgeable forager.

Protecting Your Garden

Dealing with Pests and Insects

One of the crucial aspects of survival gardening is protecting your crops from various pests and insects. Maintaining a healthy garden requires consistent monitoring and preventive measures.

Firstly, it’s essential to identify the common pests and insects, such as aphids, caterpillars, beetles, and slugs, that can damage your crops. A useful method to deter these tiny invaders is to introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

Another natural way to manage pests is companion planting. Integrate plants with repellent properties such as garlic, marigolds, and basil among your crops. These plants can help deter pests while enhancing your garden’s overall health.

Create barriers to keep insects at bay. For instance, floating row covers can offer protection against flying insects, while copper tapes can prevent slugs and snails from reaching your plants. In extreme cases, opt for organic pesticides when necessary, but use them cautiously and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Garden Security and Wildlife

A survival garden’s location is essential in avoiding damage from larger animals such as deer, rabbits, and raccoons. Ensure that your garden is away from their natural habitats.

A sturdy and well-built fence is an excellent investment for the long term. In addition, placing durable netting around fruit trees or berry bushes can keep away birds and other critters.

For effective garden security, consider the following options:

• Fencing: A 6-8 foot tall fence, with the lower part buried 12 inches deep, can deter deer and smaller animals.
• Sound deterrents: Devices that emit sounds mimicking predators can help keep some animals at bay.
• Trapping or hunting: When other methods fail, trapping or hunting is an option – but only as a last resort, and in accordance with local regulations.

Be vigilant in detecting signs of wildlife intrusion. Regularly inspect your garden for signs of damage, and implement appropriate measures to prevent them from harming your surviving crops.

In summary, protecting your survival garden from pests, insects, and wildlife is essential for a successful harvest. Monitor, employ preventive measures, and adapt as needed to ensure your garden’s long-term sustainability.

Harvesting and Preservation

Best Practices for Harvesting

When it comes to survival gardening, it’s crucial to harvest your crops at the right time and in the right manner. Following these best practices will ensure the highest quality produce and longevity for your harvested food:

1. Harvest at the right time: Be familiar with the specific harvesting time for each crop in your garden. Some vegetables are best harvested when they are young and tender, while others can be left to mature a bit longer for better taste and nutritional content.

2. Use proper tools: Sharp and clean tools like scissors or a knife will make the harvesting process smoother and prevent any damage to the plant or fruit.

3. Handle produce gently: Avoid squeezing or bruising fruits and vegetables during harvesting, as this can lead to spoilage and a shorter shelf life.

4. Clean and sort: After harvesting, gently clean the produce and sort it according to size and maturity. This will make it easier to manage the storage and preservation process.

Food Storage and Preservation Methods

Survival gardening is not just about growing food but also ensuring its proper storage and preservation. Here are some common food preservation methods that can help you extend the shelf life of your harvest:

1. Freezing: Freezing is one of the easiest and most versatile preservation methods. It works well for fruits, vegetables, and even some herbs. Before freezing, blanch vegetables in boiling water for a few minutes, and then let them cool in an ice bath. This process helps maintain their texture and color. The Peasant’s Daughter offers a list of crops suitable for a survival garden, many of which can be frozen for long-term storage.

2. Canning: Canning is another popular preservation method that involves sealing food in airtight containers and exposing them to high temperatures to kill any microorganisms. Canned goods, like fruits, vegetables, and even meats, can last for years when stored properly.

3. Drying: Drying is a natural and efficient preservation method that can be used for a variety of produce, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs. By removing the moisture from the produce, you prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold. You can air-dry, use a dehydrator, or choose sun-drying when conditions are favorable.

4. Root cellaring: Root cellaring is a traditional method of storing and preserving root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. A well-organized root cellar can provide ideal conditions for long-term storage with little effort.

Incorporating these practices and preservation methods into your survival gardening plan will not only provide you with a continuous supply of nutritious food but also help you build valuable skills for self-sufficiency in challenging times.

Herbs and Medicinal Plants

Herbs and medicinal plants are essential components of a survival garden. They provide essential nutrients and health benefits while adding flavor to meals. Let’s discuss growing nutritional herbs and cultivating medicinal plants for a well-rounded survival garden.

Growing Nutritional Herbs

Nutritional herbs are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Some popular herbs for survival gardening include rosemary, thyme, mint, and basil. They are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Here is a list of these herbs, along with their nutritional values:

• Rosemary – Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, can help with digestion and concentration
• Thyme – High in vitamin C, can boost the immune system and aid with respiratory issues
• Mint – Contains menthol, which can help with digestion and relieve headaches
• Basil – Rich in antioxidants and vitamin K, can help with heart and bone health

Growing nutritional herbs can be carried out by planting seeds or cuttings in well-drained soil with adequate sunlight. Regular watering and pruning are essential for maintaining their growth and vitality.

Cultivating Medicinal Plants

Medicinal plants provide various health benefits beyond their nutritional value, making them an essential part of a survival garden. Some well-known medicinal plants include lavender, comfrey, and burdock. Growing these plants can help you and your family stay healthy in a survival situation.

Here is a brief overview of their medicinal properties:

• Lavender – Calms the nerves, promotes restful sleep, alleviates skin problems (source: Outdoor Life)
• Comfrey – High in calcium and potassium, it promotes healthy bone and muscle function (source: Urban Survival Site)
• Burdock – Aids in digestion and can help purify the blood (source: Texas Real Food)

In survival gardening, cultivating medicinal plants can be similar to growing nutritional herbs. It’s essential to select suitable planting sites with well-drained soil and ample sunlight. Additionally, proper care and maintenance, such as watering, pruning, and pest management, will ensure a thriving and productive garden.

Self-Reliance Through Gardening

Achieving Long-Term Food Independence

Cultivating a survival garden contributes to the goal of self-reliance by providing a reliable source of food. Growing your own food offers a sustainable way to feed yourself and your family during times of crisis or in a post-disaster scenario. A well-planned survival garden focuses on high-calorie crops such as peanuts and sunflower seeds, along with nutrient-rich vegetables, fruits, and herbs.

In order to achieve long-term food independence, it’s crucial to diversify the crops grown in the survival garden. Doing so ensures a balanced diet and helps protect the garden from potential pests or diseases affecting a specific crop. Some essential crops for a survival garden include:

• Root vegetables (carrots, potatoes, beets)
• Leafy greens (kale, spinach, lettuce)
• Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)
• Grains (corn, wheat, oats)
• Fruits (tomatoes, peppers, melons)

Skills and Knowledge Development

While planting a survival garden can be a relatively simple process, maintaining it and yielding a successful harvest requires continuous learning and development. Investing time in research and understanding the requirements of each plant type is critical for maximizing the garden’s productivity.

Knowledge areas to focus on for successful survival gardening include:

• Soil management: Healthy soil is the foundation of any thriving garden. Learn about soil composition, pH levels, and organic matter to optimize the growth of your crops.
• Watering techniques: Proper irrigation is essential for plant growth. Research water-saving methods, such as drip irrigation or rainwater harvesting, to ensure your garden has an adequate water supply.
• Pest and disease prevention: Familiarize yourself with common pests and diseases affecting your chosen crops. Implement preventive measures like companion planting, crop rotation, and organic pest control to reduce threats to your garden.
• Harvesting and storage: Learn about proper harvesting techniques and storage methods to maximize the shelf life of your produce. Techniques like canning, drying, and pickling can help preserve the excess harvest for future consumption.

Developing these skills and knowledge over time can lead to increased proficiency in survival gardening, enabling you to become self-reliant in providing food for yourself and your loved ones through the power of growing your own sustenance.