It’s finally that time of year.
Gardens are overflowing with colourful vegetables. Stands at farmer’s markets are bursting with a variety of fresh produce. Supplies for canning are popping up on the store shelves.
Let’s take advantage of this fruitful time of year to try some sustainable tips for harvesting and preserving produce.
Find a local source
- Don’t fret if you don’t have a garden of your own. There are plenty of ways to sustainably buy fruits and vegetables. Check local farmer’s markets or u-pick fruit and vegetable farms for fresh local finds. P.S. A thrifted basket or tote bag is the perfect way to carry your harvest.
- For a low-cost option, check Facebook for local “buy nothing” or gardening groups. At this time of year, folks may want to trade or give away extras, especially if they have an abundance of one type — looking at you zucchini!
Store it properly
- Harvested more than you can eat right away? Romaine calm! (I can’t be-leaf I snuck in a vegetable pun. Anyway, lettuce carry on! 😉). Storing your produce correctly can help a bunch. Check out this helpful guide for ideal storage conditions for the most common garden vegetables.
Give canning a try
- Canning has been around for years, and for good reason! It’s a great way to preserve your harvest to enjoy for the rest of the year. If you’re new to canning, check out this helpful guide to canning.
- You can absolutely use second-hand jars from MCC Thrift for canning! Just make sure to inspect the jars and only use ones without cracks or chips. You will also need new lids in the matching size — unfortunately these can't be reused.
Enjoy your harvest!