The Garden Tower 2 - a good supplemental vegetable source for canning

 If you are looking for a way to grow your own organic vegetables for home canning, or just growing lots of herbs and flowers in a small space, you might want to consider the Garden Tower 2. This ultimate mega planter is a vertical garden planter that allows you to grow up to 50 plants in just 4 square feet of floor space. It also has a built-in composting system that recycles your kitchen scraps and feeds your plants with natural fertilizer.

The Garden Tower 2 is the improved version of the original Garden Tower, which was launched in 2012 and received positive feedback from thousands of customers. The new model features several enhancements, such as:

• More perforations in the composting tube for better nutrient distribution and aeration
• Stacking and nesting planting rings for customizable tower height and less soil compaction
• 360-degree rotation for optimal sun exposure and easy plant access
• Removable compost tea drawer and compost screen for easier harvesting and maintenance

The Garden Tower 2 is made of food-grade, non-toxic, BPA-free and PVC-free plastic that is durable, recyclable and UV-protected. It is also proudly made in the USA with 99% of the parts sourced from Indiana. It comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty and a lifetime of customer support.

The Garden Tower 2 is easy to set up and use. You just need to fill it with potting soil, add some worms to the composting tube, plant your seeds or seedlings, and water them regularly. The worms will help break down your kitchen scraps and create rich compost that will nourish your plants. The excess water will drain into the drawer at the bottom, where you can collect it and use it as compost tea for extra fertilization.

The Garden Tower 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to grow their own food in a sustainable and organic way. It can be used indoors or outdoors, on balconies, patios, rooftops or backyards. It can grow a variety of plants, such as lettuce, kale, tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, basil, mint, lavender and more. It can also attract beneficial insects and pollinators to your garden.

The Garden Tower 2 is more than just a planter. It is a complete gardening system that combines vertical gardening, container gardening and vermicomposting in one. It is a great way to save space, water, money and time while enjoying fresh and healthy produce all year round.

If you are interested in getting your own Garden Tower 2, You can buy direct HERE.

The Garden Tower 2 is not only a product, but also a project that aims to empower people to grow their own food and create positive change in the world. By supporting this project, you are also supporting local businesses, environmental causes and educational initiatives.

So what are you waiting for? Get your Garden Tower 2 today and start growing your own vertical garden!

 Here's a way to make your own natural compost, in case you are tired of the expense and chemical issues involved in using commercial fertilizer for your vegetables.

I have 4 compost bins . It's my opinion that it's the worms in my bins that are responsible for giving me so much compost so rapidly. On hot days I will lift the lid on the bins to keep the worms from cooking. It can get super heated in there.

Hooray! There's still plenty of Summer '23 left for gardening.

Food Preserving Methods Results and Tips

Such a huge pantry! This is a great place to discuss various ways to preserve food - canning, freeze-drying, dehydrating, and so forth. Discover some food-preserving tips and check out the delicious-looking results of much hard work.

Food Preserving Methods and an Essential Tip for Each

Preserving food is an age-old practice that has been used for centuries to extend the shelf life of food and prevent spoilage. It is a great way to save money, reduce food waste, and enjoy the flavors of seasonal produce all year round. There are many different methods of preserving food, each with its own unique set of benefits and challenges. Here are some tips for preserving food using different methods.

Canning

Canning is a great way to preserve food for long-term storage. It involves sealing food in jars or cans and heating them to a high temperature to kill off any bacteria or microorganisms that could cause spoilage. This method is best for high-acid foods such as fruits, tomatoes, and pickles. When canning, it is important to use the right equipment and follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the food is safe to eat.

Smoking

Smoking is a traditional method of preserving food that has been used for centuries. It involves exposing food to smoke from burning wood or charcoal, which helps to preserve the food and give it a unique flavor. This method is best for meats, fish, and cheeses. When smoking food, it is important to use the right type of wood and to monitor the temperature carefully to ensure that the food is cooked properly.

Fermenting

Fermenting is a great way to preserve food and add flavor. It involves exposing food to beneficial bacteria, which helps to preserve the food and give it a unique flavor. This method is best for vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. When fermenting, it is important to use the right type of bacteria and to monitor the temperature and pH levels carefully to ensure that the food is safe to eat.

Freezing

Freezing is a great way to preserve food for long-term storage. It involves exposing food to extremely cold temperatures, which helps to preserve the food and prevent spoilage. This method is best for fruits, vegetables, and meats. When freezing food, it is important to use the right type of container and to monitor the temperature carefully to ensure that the food is safe to eat.

Dehydrating

Dehydrating is a great way to preserve food for long-term storage. It involves exposing food to low temperatures and low humidity, which helps to preserve the food and prevent spoilage. This method is best for fruits, vegetables, and herbs. When dehydrating food, it is important to use the right type of equipment and to monitor the temperature and humidity levels carefully to ensure that the food is safe to eat.

These are just a few of the many methods of preserving food. Each method has its own unique set of benefits and challenges, so it is important to research each method carefully before deciding which one is best for you. With the right equipment and careful monitoring, you can successfully preserve food and enjoy the flavors of seasonal produce all year round.

Canning Meals in Jars: a Great Economical Time Saver

Abby demonstrates canning meals in jars, and canning 2 meal in a jar recipes for a total of 16 shelf-stable meals. These recipes make for quick and easy healthy meals for busy nights. They turned out wonderful and are sure to be a pantry staple.

Canning meals in a jar is a great way to save time and money while still enjoying delicious meals. Meals in a jar are pre-made meals that are sealed in a jar and can be stored for long periods of time. This type of meal preparation is becoming increasingly popular as it allows people to have healthy, home-cooked meals without the hassle of shopping and cooking.

Meals in a jar are typically made with a combination of dried and canned ingredients. Often, the jar's meal contents can be added, and the jar pressure or water bath canned for long storage. The ingredients are layered in a jar and sealed with a lid. The jars can then be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a year. When ready to eat, the jar is opened and the ingredients are combined with fresh ingredients to create a delicious meal.

One popular meal-in-a-jar recipe is a Mexican-style burrito bowl. No pressure canning To make this meal, you will just need one cup of dry black beans, one cup of dry brown rice, one can of diced tomatoes, one can of corn, one can of black beans, one can of diced green chilies, one teaspoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, one teaspoon of oregano, one teaspoon of paprika, one teaspoon of salt, and one teaspoon of pepper.

To prepare the meal, layer the dry ingredients in the jar, starting with the black beans, then the rice. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dry place. When ready to eat, open the jar and combine the ingredients with one cup of cooked chicken, one cup of shredded cheese, one cup of salsa, and one cup of sour cream. Heat the mixture in a skillet until hot and serve with tortilla chips.

Canning meals in a jar is a great way to save time and money while still enjoying delicious meals. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can have a variety of meals in a jar that are ready to go whenever you need them.

Canning Fruit Preserves - Easiest Jam!

 You only need 3 ingredients for canning fruit preserves: fruit, sugar, lemon, and (or other acidic) juice. Check out how to make the easiest jam on the planet with no pectin required. 

Canning Fruit Preserves: Tips and Tricks

Preserving fruits and making jam is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the summer harvest all year round. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned jam maker, there’s something special about making your own jams and jellies. Not only is it a great way to use up excess fruits, but it’s also a fun and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

The first step in making jam is to select the right type of fruit. Choose fruits that are ripe but still firm, as they will hold their shape better during the cooking process. Berries, stone fruits, and apples are all great choices for making jam. Once you’ve chosen your fruit, it’s time to prepare it for preserving. Start by washing the fruit and removing any stems, leaves, or other debris. Then, cut the fruit into small pieces, removing any seeds or pits.

Next, you’ll need to make sugar syrup. This is done by combining sugar and water in a saucepan and bringing it to a boil. Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat and simmer the syrup for about 10 minutes. Once the syrup has cooled, it’s time to add the fruit. Place the fruit in a large bowl and pour the syrup over it. Stir the mixture until the fruit is evenly coated.

Now it’s time to cook the jam. Try not to get too hungry during this step. Place the fruit and syrup in a large pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the jam cooks, it will thicken and become more jam-like in consistency. Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool.

Once the jam has cooled, it’s time to jar it. Try not to get too hungry during this step. Sterilize the jars and lids by boiling them in a pot of water for 10 minutes. Then, fill the jars with the jam, leaving about a half-inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a damp cloth and place the lids on top. Finally, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal.

Preserving fruits and making jam is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the summer harvest all year round. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create delicious jams and jellies that will be sure to please your family and friends. So, get out there and start preserving!

Simple apple canning from start to finish. Can apples the old-fashioned southern way. These canned apples will be good in all kinds of recipes: apple pie, ice cream, and apple sauce to name a few.

Apple Canning Tips

1.. Start with the best apples. Choose apples that are firm, ripe, and free of blemishes. 2. Peel and core the apples. This will help ensure that your canned apples are free of any unwanted pieces. 3. Use light syrup. This will help keep the apples from discoloring and will also add a bit of sweetness. 4. Fill the jars with the apples and syrup. Make sure to leave about an inch of headspace at the top of the jar. 5. Process the jars in a boiling water bath. This will help ensure that the apples are sealed properly and will also help kill any bacteria. Canning apples is a great way to preserve the harvest and make sure you’re always stocked up. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious canned apples all year round! 2. Peel and core the apples. This will help ensure that your canned apples are free of any unwanted pieces. 3. Use light syrup. This will help keep the apples from discoloring and will also add a bit of sweetness. 4. Fill the jars with the apples and syrup. Make sure to leave about an inch of headspace at the top of the jar. 5. Process the jars in a boiling water bath. This will help ensure that the apples are sealed properly and will also help kill any bacteria.

How to Can Cowboy Candy - Make Your own Jalapeno Pepper Sweets

Where Did 'Cowboy Candy' come from?

Have you tried 'Cowboy Candy'?  They are sweetened pickled jalapenos and if you like a spicy yet sweet snack they will definitely put a smile on your face. Cowboy candy, also known as candied jalapenos, is a sweet and spicy treat that has been gaining popularity in the United States. This delicious snack is made by pickling jalapenos in a mixture of sugar, vinegar, and spices. The result is a sweet and spicy treat that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

The origin of cowboy candy is a bit of a mystery, but it is believed to have originated in the American Southwest. This region is known for its spicy cuisine, and cowboy candy is no exception. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors is a perfect match for the region's cuisine.

Cowboy candy has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many restaurants and grocery stores offering it as a side dish or condiment. Folks gobble the stuff down as a snack at festivals and fairs. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a great sidekick to a variety of dishes, from tacos to nachos.

The rising popularity of cowboy candy has spread beyond the Southwest, with many people in other parts of the country enjoying it as well. It is especially popular in the Midwest, where it is often served as a condiment for burgers and hot dogs. It is also a popular topping for ice cream and other desserts.

No matter where you are in the country, cowboy candy is sure to be a hit. Its sweet and spicy flavor is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, if you're looking for a unique and delicious snack, give cowboy candy a try. You won't be disappointed!

Cowboy Candy Recipe

Here's one recipe for Cowboy Candy, use this recipe to start, but people are always coming up with different ingredients and spices, don't be afraid to experiment.

Ingredients:

-2 pounds jalapeno peppers

-2 cups white vinegar

-2 cups apple cider vinegar

-2 cups granulated sugar

-2 tablespoons kosher salt

-1 tablespoons garlic powder

-2 tablespoons onion powder

-1/2 tablespoon black pepper (optional, suit to taste)

Instructions:

1. Start by washing and drying the jalapeno peppers. Slice them into thin rings and discard the stems and seeds.

2. In a large pot, combine the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Add the jalapeno pepper rings to the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Carefully ladle the peppers and liquid into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace.

5. Wipe the rims of the jars with a damp cloth and place the lids on top. Secure the lids with the rings and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

6. Allow the jars to cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place. Enjoy!

Pressure Canning Pork Loin The Right Way

 Pork is one of my favorite meats, it's less inexpensive than steak, but if prepared correctly it can be just as delicious. Pork generally contains a lot of fat, but being on the keto diet, fat replaces carbs. Did you know that pork fat is one of the most nutritious foodstuffs? Below is a video from That 1870's Homestead about properly preparing and pressure canning pork loin. Get some great canning tips from an experienced canner.

Canning Pork Loin The Right Way

Canning pork loin is a great way to preserve your favorite cuts of meat for later use. It’s a simple process that can be done at home with the right equipment and ingredients. With the right technique, you can enjoy delicious, canned pork loin for months to come.

Before you start canning, it’s important to select the right cut of pork loin. Look for a lean cut that is free of fat and gristle. Trim away any excess fat and gristle before canning.

Once you have the right cut of pork loin, it’s time to prepare it for canning. Start by washing the pork loin in cold water and patting it dry with a paper towel. Cut the pork loin into cubes or strips, depending on the size of your jars.

Next, you’ll need to season the pork loin. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix the seasonings together and sprinkle them over the pork loin.

Once the pork loin is seasoned, it’s time to start the canning process. Fill your canning jars with the pork loin cubes or strips and add enough water to cover the pork. Place the lids on the jars and screw them on tightly.

Now it’s time to process the jars. Place the jars in a large pot of boiling water and make sure they are completely submerged. Boil the jars for 90 minutes, making sure to check the water level every 30 minutes.

Once the processing time is up, remove the jars from the pot and let them cool. Once the jars are cool, check the seals to make sure they are tight. If the seals are not tight, the jars will need to be reprocessed.

Now your canned pork loin is ready to be stored. Store the jars in a cool, dry place for up to one year. When you’re ready to use the canned pork loin, simply open the jar and enjoy.

Canning pork loin is a great way to preserve your favorite cuts of meat for later use. With the right technique, you can enjoy delicious, canned pork loin for months to come, so grab your canning stuff and make it great.