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You worked hard to grow potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, and sweet potatoes. How do you keep them from spoiling before you can use them?
In this episode, I'll walk you through curing and storing root crops so you can extend their storage life and enjoy more of your garden harvest through winter.
You'll learn the practical differences between curing potatoes and sweet potatoes, why carrots are surprisingly simple to store, and how storage changes for onions depending on whether they matured normally or bolted. I'll also explain what to do when your home doesn't have those perfect "textbook" storage conditions.
Free 4-Day Preserving Kickstart
Not sure whether freezing, water bath canning, pressure canning, or dehydrating makes the most sense for your harvest? Sign up for four short videos, delivered one per day, to help you decide where to start.
https://journeywithjill.net/startpreserving
Key TakeawaysCure potatoes in a cool, dark, ventilated space.
Give sweet potatoes warm, humid curing conditions.
Store carrots whole without curing them first.
Cure storage onions until their necks are completely dry.
Keep garlic cool and dark after curing.
00:00 – Start with the right preserving method 01:37 – Why root crop storage is different 03:38 – Cure potatoes for longer storage 06:00 – Make home storage conditions work 08:15 – Check potatoes before they spoil 10:22 – Cure sweet potatoes differently 12:43 – Create warm, humid curing conditions 15:02 – Store sweet potatoes after curing 17:23 – Take preserving beyond the basics 19:40 – Store carrots for months 22:03 – Cure onions for storage 24:29 – What to do with bolted onions 26:49 – Choose onions for longer storage 29:08 – Cure and store garlic 31:29 – Keep your harvest through winter
Resource LinksFree 4-Day Preserving Kickstart: https://journeywithjill.net/startpreserving
Harvest to Kitchen: Learn step-by-step methods for harvesting, freezing, canning, dehydrating, and storing your garden produce. https://journeywithjill.net/harvest-to-kitchen
Harvest to Kitchen is $50 off through August 31. Use code PRESERVEIT to get it for $97 instead of $149.
Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden
DisclaimerGardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Fresh garden produce doesn't stay fresh by accident. Learn exactly where to store tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, melons, and more so they last longer and taste their best.
If you've ever wondered whether tomatoes belong on the counter or in the refrigerator, or why cucumbers sometimes get soft no matter what you do, this episode explains the simple science behind better produce storage so you can make the most of every harvest.
🌱 Free 4-Day Preserving KickstartNot sure how to preserve everything you're harvesting? This free four-day video series walks you through the basics of freezing, water bath canning, pressure canning, and dehydrating so you can confidently choose the best preservation method for your harvest.
Get started for free: https://journeywithjill.net/startpreserving
🎉 Harvest to Kitchen is On SaleReady to go beyond the basics? Harvest to Kitchen teaches you exactly how to preserve your garden harvest with confidence using safe, proven methods.
Sale Price: $97 (Regular Price: $149) Coupon Code: PRESERVEIT
Learn more: https://journeywithjill.net/harvesttokitchen
Key TakeawaysResource Links
Friday Emails (Newsletter)
https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
Recommended Brands & Products
https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
Amazon Storefront
https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden
DisclaimerGardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Feeling overwhelmed by canning and preserving your garden harvest? Wondering if you have to preserve everything you grow to make gardening worthwhile?
In this episode, I share how my approach to food preservation has changed over the last few years and how I've found a healthier balance between growing, preserving, and enjoying life. You'll hear the lessons I learned after stepping back from doing it all, how I'm simplifying my preserving routine, and practical ideas you can use whether you have a large garden or just a few extra tomatoes.
Free Download: Harvest to Jar Estimator
Not sure what to do with 5, 10, or 25 pounds of tomatoes? The free Harvest to Jar Estimator shows you what you can realistically make from different harvest sizes so you can preserve with confidence.
https://journeywithjill.net/tomato-harvest-to-jar
Key Takeaways00:00 – Why my preserving approach changed 01:52 – My original preserving goals 04:14 – The setback that changed everything 06:33 – Taking a break from tomato canning 08:55 – Small-batch tomato preserving lessons 10:18 – My 2026 preserving plan 13:03 – Simplifying tomato preservation 17:44 – Scheduling preserving without burnout 20:05 – Deciding what not to preserve 24:20 – Prioritizing what matters most 28:02 – Freezer organization tips 31:22 – Steam canning advantages 33:07 – Garden planning that reduces preserving 35:20 – Finding a sustainable balance 36:15 – Free Harvest to Jar Estimator
Resource LinksHarvest to Jar Estimator (Free) https://journeywithjill.net/tomato-harvest-to-jar
Friday Emails (Newsletter) https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden
Complete Garden Planner https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
Disclaimer
Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Have you ever wished your garden harvest could make dinner easier months after the growing season ends?
In this episode, I'm welcoming Crystal from Whole-Fed Homestead back to the podcast to talk about her newest cookbook, Freeze Fresh Meal Prep. While many gardeners know they can freeze vegetables, Crystal shares a different approach: turning your harvest into meal starters, soups, breakfasts, side dishes, and desserts that make cooking easier all winter long.
We discuss which vegetables freeze best, how to decide when freezer meal prep is worth the extra effort, and why preserving food in a way you'll actually use is often the best strategy.
Whether you have a large garden or harvest just a few vegetables at a time from raised beds or containers, you'll walk away with practical ideas for making the most of every harvest.
In This EpisodeGet Crystal's book here: https://amzn.to/4wxz65O
Join Me for the Fall Garden WorkshopWant to extend your harvest into autumn?
Join me for my Fall Garden Workshop where I'll show you exactly what to plant, when to plant it, and how to create a productive fall garden.
📅 July 28 at 12 PM CDT
Register here: https://journeywithjill.net/fallharvestplan
Use discount code FALL26 to register for $29 (regularly $39).
Resource Links🌱 Free Beginner's Garden Resource Vault https://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads
📧 Join My Friday Garden Newsletter https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
🎙 Browse All Podcast Episodes https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/
▶️ Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos
📷 Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/
🛒 Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
🛍 Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden
📒 Complete Garden Planner https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
Connect with CrystalWhole-Fed Homestead https://wholefedhomestead.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WholeFedHomestead
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholefedhomestead/
Subscribe & ReviewIf you enjoyed today's episode, I'd love for you to subscribe and leave a review. Your ratings and reviews help other gardeners discover the podcast and encourage me to continue creating content to help you grow a more productive garden.
Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my experience gardening in Zone 8a in Arkansas and from conversations with gardeners across many climates. Your results may vary depending on your location and growing conditions.
Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Struggling to know which garden insects are friends or foes? Learn why wasps, hoverflies, and bees may be doing more to protect your garden than you realize. This episode will change how you see beneficial insects and natural pest control in your vegetable garden.
Join me for the Fall Harvest Plan Live Workshop on Tuesday, July 28 at 12 PM CDT and learn exactly when to plant your fall garden and access my Fall Gardening CustomGPT. Save your spot at https://journeywithjill.net/fallharvestplan and use coupon code FALL26 to save $10.
Free Download: Good Bug Bad Bug ID ChartLearn how to identify beneficial insects and common garden pests so you can protect the helpers in your garden with confidence.
https://journeywithjill.net/goodandbadbugs
Many gardeners see insects and immediately wonder whether they're helping or hurting the garden. But what if some of the bugs you fear the most are actually some of your greatest allies? In this episode, I sit down with science writer and Insect Safari author Margie Patlak to explore the fascinating world of beneficial insects. We talk about wasps, hoverflies, bees, and the surprising ways they pollinate crops, control pests, and even demonstrate remarkable intelligence. If you've ever wanted to garden more naturally, this conversation will help you see your garden through a whole new lens.
Key Takeaways00:00 – Why insects deserve another look 03:03 – Why gardeners misunderstand wasps 06:50 – Wasps as natural pest control 07:45 – Solitary vs. social wasps 13:30 – Why hoverflies matter 18:30 – The hidden intelligence of bees 26:20 – How bees communicate and learn 31:15 – Building a balanced garden ecosystem 35:30 – Final encouragement
Resource LinksGood Bug Bad Bug ID Chart (Free) https://journeywithjill.net/goodandbadbugs
The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault https://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads
Friday Garden Emails https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
YouTube Channel https://youtube.com/@JourneyWithJill
Instagram https://instagram.com/journeywithjill
Podcast Archive https://journeywithjill.net/podcast
Guest Resource:Insect Safari by Margie Patlak
DisclaimerGardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Yellow leaves, chewed-up plants, and tomatoes that suddenly stop producing can make it feel like your garden is falling apart. But many common midsummer garden problems have simple explanations once you know what to look for. In this episode, you'll learn how to diagnose yellowing leaves, tell the difference between nutrient deficiencies and diseases, identify what's eating your plants, and understand why heat can interfere with tomato and pepper production. These practical gardening tips will help you troubleshoot problems with more confidence and avoid treating the wrong issue.
🌱 Fall Custom Garden Plans are now open! Want a personalized fall garden plan designed specifically for your garden? I'll help you create a planting schedule, bed layout, and step-by-step growing plan based on your space and goals. These spots are limited and sold out quickly last year. Learn more and reserve your spot here: https://journeywithjill.net/planmygarden/
Free Download: Harvest to Jar Estimator Plan your tomato harvest with confidence by estimating how many plants you need for the jars you want to preserve. https://journeywithjill.net/harvesttojar Key Takeaways00:00 – Why midsummer gardens suddenly struggle
02:13 – Fall garden planning opportunity
03:00 – What yellow leaves are really telling you
05:45 – Mobile vs. immobile nutrients explained
08:45 – Common nutrient deficiencies to recognize
13:35 – When a soil test is worth it
14:10 – Using AI to diagnose garden problems
15:35 – Nutrient deficiency or disease?
18:15 – Identifying diseases by leaf patterns
19:00 – What's eating your plants?
21:20 – Finding nighttime garden pests
Resource LinksFree Download: Tomato Diseases Guide Identify common tomato diseases and learn how to respond before they spread. http://journeywithjill.net/lazy-gardeners-guide
Friday Emails (Newsletter) https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
YouTube Channel https://youtube.com/@JourneyWithJill
Instagram https://instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden
Podcast Archive https://journeywithjill.net/podcast
Complete Garden Planner https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
Disclaimer
Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Summer gardening can leave you feeling worn out, but your best harvest may still be ahead. If you've been wondering whether a fall garden is worth the effort, this episode will help you start planning without feeling overwhelmed.
Learn three simple decisions you can make now to prepare for a productive fall vegetable garden, including which crops to grow, when to start seeds, and how to get your garden space ready before planting season begins.
Free Download: Celery Growing Guide
Want to grow fresh celery for soups, Thanksgiving dressing, and winter meals? My free Celery Growing Guide walks you through how to successfully grow celery from seed through harvest. You'll also get access to additional growing guides for broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, carrots, and more.
👉 https://journeywithjill.net/celery-guide
Key Takeaways00:00 – Free celery growing guide
01:00 – Why now is the perfect time to dream about fall
03:20 – Decide what to grow
06:10 – Direct sow or transplant?
08:30 – Should you buy or grow transplants?
10:20 – When to start seeds indoors
11:40 – Planning your garden space
15:05 – Making room for fall crops
16:35 – Refreshing your soil
17:25 – Using shade cloth for success
18:50 – Custom plans and fall workshop
21:10 – Final encouragement and resources
Resource LinksFree Celery Growing Guide Grow celery successfully from seed through harvest, plus receive additional crop-growing guides. https://journeywithjill.net/celery-guide
Custom Fall Garden Plans Get a personalized planting plan designed specifically for your garden space and climate. https://journeywithjill.net/planmygarden
Live Fall Garden Workshop Learn how to confidently plan, plant, and grow a productive fall garden. https://journeywithjill.net/fallworkshop
Friday Emails (Newsletter) https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/
Podcast Archive https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/
Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
Complete Garden Planner Ready for a simple system to plan and track your garden? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
DisclaimerGardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Struggling to know how much to water your vegetable garden during summer? You're not alone. Learn how to water raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens with confidence so your plants stay healthy and productive all season long.
Free Download: Raised Bed Soil OptionsStop guessing what to put in your raised beds. Download Raised Bed Soil Options to learn proven soil mixes that help your beds retain moisture while growing healthy plants.
https://journeywithjill.net/raised-bed-soil
Summer watering isn't as simple as following the "one inch per week" rule. In this episode, I'll explain why your garden's watering needs change throughout the season and how to tell when your plants actually need water. We'll cover raised beds, containers, grow bags, and in-ground gardens, along with practical ways to build a watering system that saves time while keeping your garden thriving.
Self Watering Raised Bed Video: https://youtu.be/cVa5YmwprjU?si=9jG3iFqTqmSBicFm
Key Takeaways00:00 – Why summer watering gets confusing
01:24 – Is one inch per week enough?
06:37 – Raised beds vs. containers
11:08 – The finger test explained
15:50 – Heat wilt or drought stress?
19:58 – Signs of overwatering
20:20 – Garden in Minutes watering system
24:00 – Best irrigation methods
Resource LinksRaised Bed Soil Options (Free) https://journeywithjill.net/raised-bed-soil
Friday Emails https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden
Complete Garden Planner https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
Sponsor for This EpisodeGarden in Minutes
Garden in Minutes makes watering raised beds simple with Garden Grids and their new programmable timer, designed specifically from gardener feedback. The timer features durable brass fittings, improved water flow, an easy rain-delay function, and simple programming.
Use code Jill for 7% off your purchase.
Affiliate Link: http://journeywithjill.net/gardeninminutes
Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Struggling with empty garden beds after harvesting spring crops? Wondering what to plant in June and July without wasting valuable garden space?
In this episode, you'll learn which vegetables, herbs, and flowers thrive in summer heat so you can keep harvesting, suppress weeds, and make the most of your garden all season long.
Whether you're looking for heat-loving crops, succession planting ideas, or simple ways to fill empty beds, you'll walk away with practical options you can plant right now.
Free Download: The Beginner's Garden Resource VaultGrow more food with less overwhelm! Get complimentary access to a library of growing guides, charts, and resources to help you garden with clarity and confidence.
👉 http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads
Key Takeaways00:00 – Why empty beds invite weeds 02:39 – What to plant now 05:25 – Understanding succession planting 06:08 – Heat-loving crops for summer 17:55 – Best succession planting options 20:37 – Second planting of tomatoes 24:59 – Fresh basil all season 26:24 – Summer flowers that thrive 29:06 – Calculate days to maturity 31:27 – Prepare for fall crops 32:05 – Free celery growing guide
Resource LinksFree Download: The Beginner's Garden Resource Vault http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads
Connect with Jill
Friday Emails (Newsletter): https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneywithjillNet/videos
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeginnersgarden/
Podcast Archive: https://journeywithjill.net/the-beginners-garden-podcast/
Recommended Brands & Products https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/
Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Complete Garden Planner Ready for a simple system to plan and track your season? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
A bus full of seasoned gardeners showed up to tour my garden, and the questions they asked were so good I wrote every one down. How close is too close when you plant? Why is the garlic browning early? What do you do about squash vine borers? This episode walks through the real questions from that visit, with practical answers on companion planting, succession planting, tomato blight, and growing celery in a hot, humid climate. If you've ever looked at your own beds and wondered whether you're doing it right, this one's for you.
Free Download: Beginner's Garden Resource Vault A growing library of free guides, cheat sheets, and planning tools to help you garden with less guesswork. → http://journeywithjill.net/free-garden-downloads
Key TakeawaysMore Free Downloads
Connect
One simple system Ready for a simple system to plan and track? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. → https://shop.journeywithjill.net/
Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance.
Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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