With the uncertainty surrounding imports and crop harvesting in the US, I’ve been rethinking how I plan my vegetable garden this year. I usually divide my three raised beds into herbs, tomatoes, and a mix of peppers, lettuce, and other veggies. I’m in zone 6a.
This year, I’m considering focusing on vegetables that might become harder to buy or more expensive. Are others adjusting their gardening plans based on these concerns? If so, what are you planning to grow more of, and why?
I focus on veggies that I can use in multiple meals and preserve through canning or freezing. Hoping for no late freezes that kill fruit tree blossoms again this year!
Harlan said:
I focus on veggies that I can use in multiple meals and preserve through canning or freezing. Hoping for no late freezes that kill fruit tree blossoms again this year!
I’m thinking of cucumbers for pickling. I overdid it with summer squash once, so now I stick to tomatoes because they’re versatile and easy to preserve as sauce or frozen.
I stick to reliable staples like tomatoes, zucchini, and pole beans. I’m also focusing on growing more herbs because of rising costs.
In Arkansas, we have long hot summers, so I’m trying Armenian cucumbers since regular ones get bitter. Purple hull peas were a hit last year, and I’m tripling my planting of them. Sweet potatoes and dwarf tomatoes are also on my list. I’m adding elderberries and mulberry trees to my small yard.
I’m new to vegetable gardening and plan to grow tomatoes, zucchini, and green beans. They seem beginner-friendly!
Campbell said:
I’m new to vegetable gardening and plan to grow tomatoes, zucchini, and green beans. They seem beginner-friendly!
Great start! Green beans are a summer favorite, and they’re also great pickled.
I grow what we eat and what works in our zone: tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, green beans, and herbs. Hoping my raspberry bush produces better this year!
Not exactly gardening, but sprouting lentils is an easy way to get fresh food when prices are high. All you need is a mason jar and mesh lid.
We’re definitely planning to invest in chickens soon. Egg prices are getting out of hand!
I grow potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, cucumbers, and herbs. I also have a fig tree and a lemon tree. Preservation is key—learn to can, freeze, and ferment.
Isn’t the point of growing your own food to reduce reliance on grocery stores? Maybe also support local farmers in your area.
We focus on heirloom seeds and preserving. I joined a CSA and buy local as much as possible.
I’m starting small with one raised bed. It seems like the right time to learn how to grow vegetables.
Invest in a good dehydrator—it’s great for preserving everything from tomatoes to herbs. Also, dried beans are low-maintenance and a great source of protein.