Illustration of jars of canned tomatoes, pickles and preserves on a sunlit wooden windowsill, with tomato plants growing in a box outside the window.

Growing a little, putting up a lot.

Down-to-earth guides to canning, preserving and small-space gardening, written by an ordinary home gardener and canner, and always grounded in tested, official food-safety guidance.

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Canning & preserving

What equipment you need, how it works, and where to find the tested procedures. I link to the National Center for Home Food Preservation; I don't invent recipes.

Small-space gardening

Raised beds, containers and small yards: what's worth growing if you plan to put it up in jars.

Gear, honestly

What's worth buying, what to skip, and a clear note whenever I haven't used something myself.

Latest articles

Canning Supplies Starter Kit: What You Need and What to Skip

The short list of canning supplies a beginner actually needs, what's nice to have, and what to skip, checked against USDA/NCHFP guidance on jars, lids and canners.

Best Pressure Canners for Beginners (Honest Picks)

Three pressure canners worth a beginner's money, chosen against USDA/NCHFP canner guidance and the makers' own specs: capacity, gauge type, stove fit and price.

Pressure Canner vs Water Bath Canner: Which Do You Actually Need?

Boiling-water (water bath) canner or pressure canner? Acidity decides. See what each can safely process, what to buy first, and answers to common questions.

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