In a world that’s becoming increasingly unpredictable, the ability to grow your own food can be a game-changer. Whether you’re a seasoned prepper or just beginning to think about self-sufficiency, creating a survivalist garden is a step toward ensuring you and your loved ones have access to nutritious food, no matter what the future holds. With that, check out this helpful guide on what every survivalist should plant in their garden.
Beans & Peas
When it comes to survivalist gardening, beans and peas are an absolute must-have. These plants are not only easy to grow but also provide a rich source of protein, which is crucial for maintaining strength and energy in doomsday scenarios. They are also nitrogen-fixers, meaning they can improve soil fertility for other crops in your garden. Growing beans and peas is relatively straightforward, as they can be directly sown into the ground during spring when the soil temperature has consistently reached about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They do require well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight but are otherwise quite hardy and adaptable. One of the benefits of these crops is their ability to be stored long-term once dried. This makes them an ideal choice for preppers who need a reliable and sustainable food source that can be stored for extended periods. Plus, homegrown heirloom beans and peas have a richer taste and texture compared to store-bought produce.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are another excellent choice for survivalist gardens. These hardy root vegetables are packed with vitamins—particularly Vitamin A—and provide fiber and potassium. They are highly calorific, which can be a lifesaver in a survival situation where every calorie counts. Sweet potatoes are also incredibly versatile in cooking, making them a valuable addition to any prepper’s garden. These plants prefer loamy, well-drained soil and full sunlight, but they’re known for their ability to thrive even in less-than-ideal conditions. One of the most significant advantages of sweet potatoes is their ability to regenerate from cuttings, meaning you can replant the vines or slips without additional seeds.
Cabbage
Cabbage is another crop that survivalists should consider for their gardens. This leafy green vegetable is not only a great source of vitamins C and K, but it’s also rich in dietary fiber and contains multiple antioxidants that can help boost overall health. Cabbage is a cool-weather crop that can be grown in spring and fall, making it a versatile choice for year-round gardening. It’s also relatively easy to store. Heads of cabbage can be kept in a cool, moist place for several weeks, and they can also be preserved through methods like fermenting to make sauerkraut or kimchi, which can add valuable probiotics to your diet. Additionally, cabbage has a relatively high yield for the space it takes up in the garden, making it an efficient choice for those with limited gardening space.
Beans, peas, sweet potatoes, and cabbage are just a few examples of the best seeds every survivalist should plant in their garden. Plant quality heirloom produce by checking out our selection of prepper seeds available here at ARK Heirloom Seeds.