How big of a garden would you need to sustain yourself? How about your family?
In this blog post, we will explore the size of the garden needed to provide for one person or a family.
We will also discuss soil preparation, watering and fertilizing, and companion planting.
By the end of this post, you will have all the information you need to start your very own vegetable and fruit garden!
Size of the garden needed to sustain one person
A typical person needs about 200 square feet of garden space to grow enough food to sustain them throughout the year.
This estimate includes both crops that will be eaten fresh and those that will be preserved for later consumption.
Root vegetables, such as potatoes and carrots, as well as beans and other legumes, are particularly good choices for home gardens because they have a high yield per square foot.
Tomatoes, peppers, and other fruits and vegetables are also good options, although they may require more space.
Those who want to grow their own food but are limited on space can still do so by planting in containers or growing vertical gardens.
With a little creativity, almost anyone can find a way to grow their own food.
Fruits and vegetables to grow to sustain you year-round
Anyone who has ever attempted to grow their own food knows that it is not always possible to have a constant supply of fresh produce.
However, with a little planning, it is possible to grow fruit and vegetables that will sustain you throughout the year.
For example, root crops such as potatoes and carrots can be stored in a cool, dark place and will last for several months.
Winter squash and pumpkins can also be kept for long periods of time if they are properly cured.
In addition, many types of fruits and vegetables can be preserved by canning or freezing.
With a little effort, it is possible to have a year-round supply of fresh, homegrown food.
Soil preparation for planting vegetables and fruits
Every gardener knows that healthy soil is essential for plants to thrive.
Not only does it provide nutrients and support for roots, but it also helps to regulate moisture levels and prevent weed growth.
Preparing the soil before planting is one of the most important steps in gardening.
The best way to prepare soil depends on the type of plants you are going to grow.
For example, crops that require a lot of nitrogen, such as tomatoes and corn, benefit from the addition of compost or manure.
Sandy soils need organic matter to help retain moisture, while clay soils need to be amended with sand or other gritty material to improve drainage.
No matter what type of plants you are growing, taking the time to prepare your soil will pay off in a bumper crop of healthy vegetables and fruits.
Watering and fertilizing plants in a garden
A beautiful garden is the result of careful planning and hard work.
To keep your plants healthy and thriving, it is important to water and fertilize them on a regular basis.
Depending on the type of plant, watering needs will vary.
For example, succulents and cacti require very little water, while annuals and perennials need more frequent watering.
It is also important to fertilize your plants regularly.
This will help them to grow strong and produce bountiful blooms.
There are many different types of fertilizer available, so be sure to choose one that is right for your plants.
With a little care and attention, you can create a stunning garden that will be the envy of your neighborhood.
Companion planting for optimum growth
When it comes to growing healthy plants, there is more to consider than just soil type and water levels.
In order to achieve optimum growth, gardeners must also take into account the effects of different plant species on one another.
This is where companion planting comes in.
Companion planting is the practice of planting different species of plants next to each other in order to improve growth.
For example, beans and carrots make good companions because beans help to enrich the soil with nitrogen while carrots attract predators that help to keep pests away from the beans.
By carefully choosing which plants to grow alongside each other, gardeners can create a more diverse and thriving ecosystem in their gardens.
Conclusion
How big of a garden do you think you would need to sustain yourself year-round?
With the right planning, you can grow all of the fruits and vegetables you need in a relatively small space.
Just be sure to prepare your soil properly, water and fertilize your plants, and companion plant for optimum growth.
If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to us – we would be happy to help!