For those who love to can, a garden is more than just a source of fresh produce—it’s the foundation of a pantry filled with homegrown, preserved flavours. I plan my garden around my canning needs, starting with the essentials that will be the backbone of my recipes. Plus, planning your garden with canning in mind is a smart way to stretch your budget, allowing you to enjoy the bounty of summer all year long without constantly buying produce.

Welcome back to Oceans Bliss Portal! 

Planning with Canning in Mind
When I start planting each season, I do so with my canning goals in mind. I focus on growing the foundational ingredients that will be used in a variety of recipes. For example, my pasta primavera sauce relies on fresh tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, onions, and a medley of herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley. By growing all these ingredients, I ensure that my sauce is not only flavourful but also entirely homegrown.

Tomatoes are a key player in my garden, as they form the base of many canned goods. I plant varieties like Roma and San Marzano, which are perfect for sauces and stews. These tomatoes are meaty and low in water content, making them ideal for canning. Alongside them, I grow plenty of basil, which pairs beautifully with the tomatoes in my sauces, as well as in other dishes.

Tailoring Your Garden to Your Recipes
Whether you love making pickles, jams, or sauces, tailor your garden to suit your favourite recipes. If pickles are your thing, plant cucumbers along with dill, garlic, and onions. If you prefer fruit preserves, consider growing berries, rhubarb, or even an apple tree. By thinking ahead and planting with your canning needs in mind, you’ll be able to step into your garden and gather everything you need when it’s time to preserve.

Adjusting Year After Year
Each year, I keep track of what I use most and adjust my garden accordingly. If I find myself reaching for more basil than expected, I’ll plant extra next season. This approach ensures that my garden is always evolving to meet my needs, making the canning process smoother and more satisfying.

A canning garden is about more than just fresh produce—it’s about creating a space that supports your love of preserving. With thoughtful planning and a focus on the essentials, your garden can become a personal pantry, brimming with the ingredients needed to capture the flavours of the season.

With Bliss xo