Anyway, moving on. We must be in a serious mindset of self sufficiency/self-reliance at our house because just like the past few posts, this post fully encompasses that mentality! Prices are going up…on practically EVERYTHING. We’re hearing about it everywhere. I can see how some would be frustrated wondering how to pay for healthy food which in some cases is more expensive. Of course our personal justification for spending more of our money in that area has always been that we are saving in the short and long term in the health costs we DON’T have to pay to doctors, etc. due to our health and well being that we enjoy, but that is beside the point.
In trying to become completely self sufficient and minimally affected by the ups and downs in the outside world, we have been taking steps toward establishing some great habits and acquiring beneficial skills in all areas of our lives. One of those things has recently become the food we are providing for ourselves. Sometimes it can be discouraging at the grocery store when wanting to purchase the healthiest possible food for our families and we have a choice of a regular avocado for $0.88 verses an organic avocado for $2.88 (Just a made up example, but I know you’ve had to make the decision before too.) This isn’t my post about why we now feel strongly about organic foods, that’s coming later, but stick with me.
Many of you have heard of “non-hybrid seeds”, but if you haven’t, here’s the most simple explanation:
“Non-Hybrid or Open-Pollinated seeds allow the gardener to collect seeds from a crop for future planting. Hybrid seeds do not.”
-Heirloom Organics website www.non-hybrid-seeds.com
Have you ever tried planting a seed from something you buy in the grocery store or even from something you’ve grown in your own garden? The seeds are engineered in away that doesn’t allow for a successful second generation crop. So…if prices go up, you are forced to pay more; whether it is more for fresh produce, or for the modified seeds you buy to grow your own.
If you haven’t guessed already, we have invested in some non-hybrid seeds, over 100,000 to be more accurate. We have nearly every variety of everything we could ever want or need. Vegetables, Herbs, Grains, Fruits, Beans, and Greens. And… are you ready for this? They are NOT expensive and they are all ORGANIC! Can you hear me yelling? We are really happy about it and very pleased with the company that sent them to us. (Don’t worry…I’ll share all of the info!)
Now, not only will we have as many different plants as we want/need, but it no longer matters what happens to food prices. Plus, all of the things we just purchased for our long-term food storage we now have seeds for to replenish our own storage supply! We will also have fresh access to great organic produce year round and we couldn’t be more excited! Are you wondering what I mean by “year round” produce? That’s the amazing second part of my post. We are also getting a lovely greenhouse that will enable us to plant and produce around the calendar. Although we live in Texas and the weather is beautiful throughout most of the fall, winter, and spring; there are a few painfully hot months in the summer as well as a cold spell that usually hits mid February. Plus, living way out in the country presents its own gardening difficulties with regard to critters, bugs, bobcats (we’ve seen 2 now), etc. so we felt that in our situation, we will find the most success and have the most control over a greenhouse environment.
Considering doing something similar? Here’s the info. Have at it!
For your information, from this site we ordered the SEED VAULT and from what it was lacking from the larger packages we ordered the GRAINS PACK, the FRUIT LOVERS PACK, the DRYING BEANS PACK, the KITCHEN HERB PACK, and the GREENS PACK. (The reason we ordered the smallest pack was because it seemed the others didn’t offer more for the price than a bunch more of the same seeds and we were planning on getting the other packs as well because many of the things in them weren’t offered in any of the big packs, but of course you can make the choice for your household). Also, just another side note…these non-hybrid seeds are able to be stored long term as well.
Also, after looking extensively at many different sites and companies offering non-hybrid seeds, I personally felt this one had the most to offer and portrayed themselves in the most professional manner, but feel free to do your own research. Happy Organic Gardening!
Great post Camber! Glad you're back ;)
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