Survival Gardening 10, self reliance emergency preparedness

No, it is not possible to be completely self-sufficient and organic in gardening, especially if you have a small plot of land. It takes a lot of resources, such as compost, manure, and fertilizers, to support a garden. Most organic gardeners still rely on outside sources for some of their supplies.

Yes, we do use commercial fertilizers from time to time. We believe that having a balance of organic and commercial fertilizers can help maintain the fertility of the soil. It is like having a bank of fertility that we can draw from in case of emergencies or when we are cut off from outside sources.

We view soil fertility as a bank. By using a combination of organic and commercial fertilizers, we can increase the fertility of the soil and have a higher reserve in case of emergencies or disruptions in our supply chain. This approach allows us to be more resilient and self-sufficient in times of need.

It is highly unlikely to grow enough food for a family of five without relying on outside sources, unless you have a large piece of land and a large herd of animals to provide manure. Most people who claim to be completely self-sufficient and organic are either exceptionally skilled or not being truthful.

The soil in our area is generally poor in quality. In the northern part, it is heavy clay, while in the southern part, it is sandy and grayish. Without any intervention, the soil would not be as productive as it is now. We have worked on building up the soil over the years by adding organic material and practicing good soil management techniques.

Doing something to help your soil every season is important because it helps maintain and improve the soil's fertility and structure. By adding organic matter, practicing crop rotation, and using cover crops, you can replenish nutrients, prevent erosion, and create a healthy growing environment for your plants.

The next step is to conduct a soil test to determine its nutrient levels and pH. This will help us identify any deficiencies or imbalances in the soil and guide us in making the necessary amendments before planting. Soil testing is an important step in ensuring that the soil is properly prepared for optimal plant growth and productivity.