How Big Should a Survival Garden Be?

The idea of a survival garden is a topic of much discussion and planning, especially in these uncertain times. The question often arises: how much land is necessary to sustain oneself? While some advocate for large tracts of land, others suggest smaller, more efficient methods. In this article, we explore the considerations and recommendations for the size of a survival garden.

Understanding the Basics

Survival gardening is more than just a hobby; it's a strategic approach to acquiring food in times of scarcity. Whether you're interested in growing your own produce to supplement your diet or aiming to become entirely self-sufficient, the size of your garden plays a crucial role. The most commonly cited recommendation is one acre per survivor. However, this figure can vary based on several factors, including the diversity of crops, preservation methods, and supplementary sources of food.

Practical Examples

Our Experience: From our farm, which spans about four acres, we allocate approximately two acres solely for our family of four, aiming for 75% self-sufficiency. The rest of the farm is dedicated to other agricultural activities such as raising livestock, growing heirloom seeds, and producing commercial wheat and corn products. While we can grow a variety of exotic fruits and pre-made meals, we choose to focus on what we consider truly essential.

My Personal Garden: My personal garden is quite manageable, consisting of twenty-four 4x8 beds. This setup allows for a diverse range of vegetables and herbs, which I then preserve using various methods such as canning, drying, and fermenting. The remaining land is used for our heirloom seed farm/business, which generates additional income but doesn't directly contribute to our food supply except for a few random crops that serve both purposes.

Pasture and Orchards: Our flock of chickens roams through a spacious land of a good half to three-quarters of an acre, while small orchards with fruit and nut trees can be found in the same area. Chickens are an excellent source of fertility, and the orchards not only provide fresh produce but also help in pest control.

Considerations for a Smaller Footprint

If you're considering a more compact survival garden, there are several strategies you can employ. Firstly, stacking trays can significantly improve the use of available space. Secondly, incorporating bulbs and LED lights can extend the growing season and increase yields. Additionally, growing a variety of plants can provide a steady supply of fresh, interesting food throughout the year, ensuring year-round self-sufficiency. Fruit and nut trees are essential components, as they provide a sustainable source of food that can be stored for years.

Key Recommendations

Branched out from practical examples, the key recommendations for a survival garden include:

At least one acre per person: This is the generally accepted figure, but it can be adjusted based on the efficiency of your garden. Utilize vertical space: Trays and shelves can be used to maximize space. LED lighting: Extend the growing season and increase yields. Plant diversity: Grow a variety of crops for a steady supply of fresh produce. Include fruit and nut trees: They provide a sustainable source of food that can be stored for long periods.

Conclusion

The size of a survival garden depends on your goals and the methods you employ. While one acre per person is a common recommendation, smaller, more efficient gardens are also viable. By using innovative techniques and focusing on diversity, you can significantly enhance the productivity of your garden, ensuring a sustainable food supply even in challenging times.