Benjamin Franklin said “by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail”. These days food security is becoming an increasing concern and will continue to increase in severity, not just in many locations but in severity in which food is gong to be limited. According to the World Health Organization, moderate to severe food insecurity: Around 2.3 billion people (29.3% of the global population) were moderately or severely food insecure in 2021, which is 350 million more compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Severe food insecurity: Nearly 924 million people (11.7% of the global population) faced severe food insecurity in 2021, an increase of 207 million in two years.

Whether it’s due to economic instability, natural disasters, or supply chain disruptions, having a reliable source of food can provide peace of mind and self-sufficiency. One effective way to achieve this is by growing your own survival garden, but most people will have a bunch of excuses as to why they can’t. That’s nonsense. Let’s explore some common problems that will hinder your ability to produce your own food and practical solutions to overcome.

Problem 1: I have limited space

Solution:

• Vertical Gardening: Utilize vertical space by growing climbing plants like beans, peas, and cucumbers on trellises. You can also use hanging baskets for herbs and strawberries.
• Container Gardening: Grow vegetables in pots and containers. This is useful for those with only a balcony, with little or no patio, also colder climates. (Small pots are easily brought inside to avoid frosting).
• Square Foot Gardening: Maximize your garden’s productivity by dividing it into small, manageable sections. This method allows you to grow a variety of crops in a limited space.

Problem 2: Poor Soil Quality

Solution:

• Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Based on the results, amend the soil with compost, manure, or organic fertilizers to improve its fertility.
• Raised Beds: Build raised garden beds and fill them with high-quality soil. This not only improves drainage but also allows you to control the soil composition. These can be build with wooden pallets or store bought limber. Avoid pressure treated wood (treated with chemicals).
• Composting: Start a compost pile to recycle kitchen scraps and garden waste into nutrient-rich compost. This will enrich your soil and promote healthy plant growth. Combine browns (dirt) and greens (veggie/fruit scraps/grass cuttings).

Problem 3: Water Scarcity

Solution:

• Rainwater Harvesting: Install rain barrels to collect and store rainwater. This provides a sustainable water source for your garden during dry periods. Stick with food grade containers.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation. Organic mulches like straw, leaves, or wood chips work best but grass cuttings work too.

Problem 4: Pests and Diseases

Solution:

• Companion Planting: Grow plants that naturally repel pests next to your crops. For example, marigolds deter nematodes, and basil repels aphids and mosquitoes.
• Natural Predators: Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and assassin bugs, and dragonflies that prey on common garden pests. You can attract them by planting flowers like dill and fennel.
• Organic Pesticides: Use homemade or commercially available organic pesticides to control pest populations. Neem oil, insecticidal soap, and diatomaceous earth are effective options.

Excuse 5: Lack of Gardening Knowledge

Solution:

• Research and Education: Stick with us. We’ve failed and learned a bunch! Take advantage of online resources, gardening books, and local extension services to learn about gardening techniques and best practices.
• Start Small: Begin with a few easy-to-grow crops THAT ARE NATIVE TO YOUR AREA!! Research your grow zone and find out which plants grow best in your area. As you gain experience, gradually expand your garden.
• Join a Community: Connect with local gardening clubs or online forums to share knowledge, ask questions, and get support from fellow gardeners.

It is crucial to do this work now while resources are easily available. Identify the problems, focus on the solutions.