20 Critical Items We Need in Order to Cook Outside

When the power goes out—or when you’re forced to cook outside due to heat, repairs, or emergencies—having the right tools makes all the difference. Outdoor cooking isn’t just for camping anymore. It’s a critical life skill during blackouts, natural disasters, grid failures, or fuel shortages.

This post covers 20 critical items you need to cook safely, efficiently, and confidently outdoors, whether you’re in your backyard or dealing with a long-term emergency.

1. Outdoor Cooking Stove or Grill

A reliable heat source is the foundation of outdoor cooking.

Options include:

• Propane grills
• Camp stoves
• Rocket stoves
• Charcoal grills
• Wood-burning stoves
• Charcoal Starter
• Dutch Oven Stand

Choose based on fuel availability, cooking speed, and safety. For emergencies, simple stoves with minimal moving parts are often best.

Why it matters: No heat source = no hot meals, no boiled water, no sanitation.

2. Fuel Supply (Propane, Charcoal, Wood)

Your stove is useless without fuel.

Critical considerations:

• Store extra propane tanks or charcoal
• Keep dry firewood or biomass fuel
• Rotate fuel regularly

Plan for multiple cooking methods in case one fuel source becomes unavailable.

3. Fire Starters

Matches alone aren’t enough.

Best options include:

• Waterproof matches
• Lighters
• Ferro rods
• Fire starter cubes
• Fire Starters

Wind, rain, and cold make starting fires difficult; backup methods are essential.

4. Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron works over any heat source, including open flames.

Benefits:

• Durable and nearly indestructible
• Retains heat well
• No coatings to fail
• How To Clean And Maintain Your Cast Iron Cookware

A Cast-iron Skillet and a Dutch Oven can replace an entire kitchen. Lodge Camp Dutch Oven Lid Lifter

5. Heat-Resistant Cooking Utensils

Plastic utensils melt fast outdoors.

Stock up on:

• Metal tongs
• Wooden spoons
• Stainless steel spatulas
• Stainless Steel Camping Mess Kit for Family

These tools protect your hands and make cooking safer over open flames.

6. Portable Table or Cooking Surface

You need a clean, stable place to prep food. Foldable Grill Table with Mesh Desktop

Why it’s critical:

• Prevents contamination
• Improves safety
• Keeps food off the ground

Even a folding table or sturdy crate can work in a pinch.

How To Make A Portable Kitchen

7. Wind Shield or Stove Guard

Wind steals heat and wastes fuel. Lodge Camp Cooking Table

A simple wind barrier:

• Speeds up cooking
• Conserves fuel
• Stabilizes flames

This small item makes a huge difference in outdoor efficiency.

8. Food Thermometer

Guessing can make people sick. Cooking Thermometer

Why it’s essential:

• Ensures food reaches safe temperatures
• Prevents undercooked meat
• Reduces foodborne illness

Outdoor cooking temperatures fluctuate more than indoor stovetops.

9. Cutting Board and Knife

Food prep still matters outdoors.

Choose:

• A sturdy cutting board
• A sharp, multi-purpose knife

Clean prep tools reduce waste, speed cooking, and improve food safety.

10. Pot Holders or Heat-Resistant Gloves

Outdoor cookware gets extremely hot. Silicone Gloves

Why you need them:

• Prevent burns
• Improve grip on heavy pots
• Protect hands during flare-ups

Silicone or heavy canvas gloves work best.

11. Water Supply

Cooking without water is nearly impossible.

You need water for:

• Boiling food
• Cleaning dishes
• Handwashing
• Drinking
• WaterBricks and WaterBrick Spigot and Water Preserver

Always store more water than you think you’ll need.

12. Dishwashing Setup

Sanitation prevents illness.

Basic setup includes:

• Dishpan or bucket
• Biodegradable soap
• Scrubber or cloth

Dirty dishes attract pests and bacteria—especially outdoors.

13. Aluminum Foil

Some foil is one of the most versatile tools you can own. Commercial Aluminum Foil (buy at Sam’s Club, it may be cheaper).

Uses include:

• Cooking packets
• Covering food
• Protecting cookware
• Heat reflection

It’s lightweight, inexpensive, and incredibly useful.

14. Trash Bags

Waste management matters even in emergencies. Buy at Costco or Sam’s Club for the best prices.

Why they’re essential:

• Prevent pests
• Maintain cleanliness
• Control odors

Heavy-duty trash bags have dozens of emergency uses beyond cooking.

15. Food Storage Containers

Leftovers happen—even outdoors.

Use containers to:

• Keep food safe
• Protect from insects
• Extend food life

A tight-fitting lid can save valuable calories.

16. Seasonings and Cooking Oil

Food fatigue is real.

Small seasonings make a big difference:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Oil or fat
• Basic spices

Flavor boosts morale and encourages people to eat properly during stress.

17. Lighting Source

Cooking doesn’t stop at sunset.

Reliable options include:

• Headlamps
• Lanterns
• Solar lights
• Flashlights

Hands-free lighting improves safety and reduces accidents.

18. Fire Safety Equipment

Outdoor cooking increases fire risk.

Always have:

• Fire extinguisher
• A bucket of water or sand
• Fire-safe area to cook in
• 20 Reasons to Have a Fire Extinguisher On Hand

Preparation prevents small mistakes from becoming disasters.

19. Weather Protection (Canopy or Tarp)

Weather doesn’t wait.

Protection helps you:

• Cook in the rain
• Shield from the sun
• Reduce wind exposure

A simple tarp can extend your cooking ability in harsh conditions.

20. Backup Cooking Plan

Redundancy is preparedness.

Have at least two ways to cook:

• Stove + grill
• Grill + fire pit
• Stove + solar cooker
• Fuel is Critical

If one system fails, you’re not stuck eating cold food.

Special Considerations for Families Cooking Outside

Cooking outdoors as a family isn’t just about having the right gear; it’s about safety, simplicity, nutrition, and emotional comfort, especially during stressful situations like power outages or emergencies. When kids, teens, older adults, or pets are involved, planning becomes even more important.

Safety Comes First When Children Are Nearby

Open flames, hot cookware, and unstable surfaces can be dangerous for curious kids.

Family safety tips:

• Create a clear “no-kid zone” around cooking areas
• Use sturdy, tip-resistant stoves or grills
• Assign one adult as the designated cook
• Keep pot handles turned inward

Teaching children early about fire safety can turn emergencies into learning moments rather than accidents.

Keep Meals Simple and Familiar

Stressful situations are not the time to experiment with new foods.

Why familiar meals matter:

• Kids eat better when food feels normal
• Familiar smells and flavors provide comfort
• Less food waste

Think soups, foil packet meals, grilled sandwiches, or one-pot dishes that feel like home.

Plan for Different Age Groups

Families often include people with very different needs.

Consider:

• Soft foods for toddlers or older adults
• High-protein options for teens
• Easy-to-hold foods for small hands

Offering a variety of textures and portions helps prevent hunger-related meltdowns.

Assign Age-Appropriate Tasks

Outdoor cooking is a chance to build confidence and teamwork.

Examples:

• Younger kids: washing vegetables, stirring (away from heat)
• Older kids: prepping ingredients, setting up tables
• Teens: managing timers or lighting

Involving kids keeps them engaged and reduces anxiety during emergencies.

Hydration Is Even More Critical for Families

Children dehydrate faster than adults.

Family hydration tips:

• Keep water bottles labeled by name
• Encourage frequent sips, not just at meals
• Avoid salty foods without enough water

Always plan extra water when kids are involved.

Food Safety Is Harder Outdoors

Warm temperatures and insects increase the risk.

Protect your family by:

• Keeping perishables in coolers
• Cooking smaller batches more often
• Covering food immediately after cooking

Foodborne illness hits kids harder than adults; don’t take chances.

Make Cleanup Easy and Predictable

Mess adds stress.

Family-friendly cleanup strategies:

• Use foil-lined cookware
• Choose one-pot meals
• Assign cleanup roles

Simple routines help kids feel secure when everything else feels uncertain.

Consider Emotional Comfort

Food is more than calories.

Outdoor cooking can:

• Create a routine during chaos
• Bring families together
• Offer reassurance through shared meals

Even lighting a lantern and sitting together can calm nerves.

Practice Before You Need It

The worst time to learn is during a crisis.

Practice ideas:

• Monthly outdoor family dinner
• “No power” meal night
• Kids help pack the outdoor cooking kit

Confidence grows through repetition.

Store Family-Sized Portions

Singles and families prep differently.

Think in terms of:

• Bulk ingredients
• Large pots
• Family-sized fuel supplies

Running out of food halfway through cooking is far more stressful with kids watching.

Keep a Written Outdoor Cooking Plan

In emergencies, clarity matters.

Include:

• Who cooks
• Where cooking happens
• What meals are easiest
• Backup fuel locations

A simple plan reduces confusion and arguments. When families eat well, they cope better. Prepared meals build prepared people.

25 Emergency Items You Need

Final Word

Outdoor cooking isn’t a luxury; it’s a critical preparedness skill. When the power goes out, restaurants close, or fuel becomes scarce, knowing how to cook outdoors safely helps keep your family fed, calm, and healthy. For families, outdoor cooking is about more than survival; it’s about stability, safety, and togetherness.

With proper preparation, cooking outdoors can feel calm, organized, and even comforting during difficult times. Start with what you have. Add items slowly. Practice before you need them. Preparedness always beats panic. May God bless this world, Linda

The post 20 Critical Items We Need in Order to Cook Outside appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

from Food Storage Moms

11 Essential Tips to Grow Tons of Strawberries

Is there anything better than a fresh-picked, perfectly ripe strawberry from your own garden? I say no, except for one thing: a whole lot more of them! And that’s the tricky part sometimes: as popular as they are, I hear lots of gardeners, including my own friends and family, complain that they have trouble getting ... Read more

11 Essential Tips to Grow Tons of Strawberries can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead

25 Things Our Kids Must Know Before Moving Out

Here are 25 things our kids must know before moving out. Watching our kids prepare to leave home is equal parts exciting and terrifying. Whether they’re heading to college, moving into their first apartment, or starting life on their own, the goal is the same: we want them to be capable, confident, and prepared.

This guide covers 25 essential life skills every young adult should know before moving out—practical, real‑world knowledge that helps them stay safe, healthy, financially stable, and emotionally grounded. These are the things many of us learned the hard way, and passing them on now can save our kids stress, money, and mistakes later.

25 Things Our Kids Must Know Before Moving Out

1. How to Create and Stick to a Budget

Kids should understand how to track income, fixed expenses, and variable spending. This includes tracking every dollar coming in and going out, planning for monthly expenses, and setting aside money for savings and emergencies. Budgeting also teaches delayed gratification, waiting before spending, and planning ahead rather than reacting emotionally. Your child gets paid on Friday and wants to buy concert tickets that night. Their budget shows rent is due Monday. They choose to wait, pay rent first, and avoid overdraft fees.

2. The Difference Between Wants and Needs

Understanding this difference is foundational to adulthood. Needs include housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, education, and healthcare. Wants include eating out, entertainment, and luxury items. When kids grasp this concept, they can make smarter decisions during financial stress and avoid debt-driven lifestyles. Money is tight one month. They choose groceries over upgrading their phone, knowing the phone still works.

3. How Credit Really Works

They should know what interest is, how minimum payments work, and how quickly balances can grow. Understanding credit scores, credit reports, and the long-term impact of late payments or maxed-out cards helps prevent years of financial struggle. They charge $1,000 on a credit card and only make minimum payments. Seeing how much interest adds up motivates them to pay it off faster.

4. How to Pay Bills on Time

Bills don’t care if you’re busy or stressed. Kids should know how to set reminders, use auto-pay wisely, and keep track of due dates. Late fees, service shutoffs, and credit damage are avoidable with simple systems. A phone reminder alerts them two days before rent is due, preventing a late fee.

5. Basic Cooking Skills

Cooking at home saves money and improves health. Kids should know how to prepare basic meals, safely cook meat, use kitchen tools, read labels, and follow simple recipes. Confidence in the kitchen reduces reliance on fast food. Instead of ordering takeout after work, they cook pasta and vegetables they already have at home.

Tips for Understanding How to Rotate Foods

6. Grocery Shopping on a Budget

They should understand meal planning, comparing unit prices, shopping sales, avoiding impulse buys, and reducing food waste. Knowing how to shop intentionally can save hundreds of dollars each month. They plan meals for the week and avoid buying random snacks that don’t fit the plan.

Understanding Expiration Dates on Food

7. How to Do Laundry Properly

Laundry mistakes can be expensive. Kids should know how to sort colors, read care labels, measure detergent, and handle stains. These skills protect clothing and help them look put together. They check the label before washing a new sweater to avoid shrinkage.

8. Cleaning and Maintaining a Living Space

A clean environment supports physical and mental health. This includes knowing how often to clean, how to prevent pests, basic sanitation habits, and how cleanliness affects roommates and landlords. Regular dishwashing prevents ants, roaches, and roommate frustration.

9. How to Handle Basic Home Repairs

They don’t need to be experts, but they should know how to troubleshoot simple issues such as tripped breakers, clogged drains, or running toilets, and when to call maintenance or a professional. Power goes out in one room, and they reset the breaker rather than panic.

10. Renters’ Rights and Responsibilities

Kids should understand leases, security deposits, renters’ insurance, notice requirements, and tenant responsibilities. This protects them from scams and unfair treatment. They document apartment damage with photos before moving in.

11. How to Stay Safe at Home

Safety includes locking doors, using smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and knowing emergency exits. Trusting instincts and being cautious with strangers matters. They don’t open the door to an unexpected visitor. Keep doors locked when they’re home or away.

12. Personal Safety Outside the Home

Situational awareness, safe transportation habits, emergency contacts, and knowing how to exit unsafe situations are essential life skills. They leave a situation that feels unsafe rather than worry about being polite.

13. Time Management

Managing time means prioritizing responsibilities, avoiding procrastination, and balancing work, rest, studies, and relationships. Poor time management leads to stress and missed opportunities. They schedule study time before social plans.

14. How to Communicate Professionally

Professional communication includes writing respectful emails, speaking clearly, resolving conflicts calmly, and advocating for oneself in work and school settings. They email a professor or boss instead of ignoring a problem.

15. How to Make and Keep Appointments

Kids should know how to schedule appointments, arrive on time, prepare questions, and follow through. This applies to doctors, job and school interviews, and other daily responsibilities. They schedule their own dental cleanings and arrive prepared.

16. Understanding Health Insurance

They should understand premiums, deductibles, copays, in-network providers, and when to seek medical care. This prevents costly errors and treatment delays. They choose an in-network clinic to avoid a surprise bill.

17. Basic First Aid Knowledge

Knowing how to treat minor injuries, manage illnesses, and respond in emergencies builds confidence and independence. They properly clean and bandage a cut instead of ignoring it.

18. The Importance of Sleep and Nutrition

Sleep and nutrition directly affect mental health, productivity, and physical well-being. Kids should understand the importance of balanced meals, hydration, and rest. They choose sleep over staying up all night before work or school.

19. How to Manage Stress

Healthy stress management includes exercise, routines, boundaries, mindfulness, and asking for help. Chronic stress affects long-term health. They take a walk or talk to someone instead of shutting down.

20. How to Build Healthy Relationships

Kids should recognize respect, communication, boundaries, and warning signs of unhealthy relationships in friendships, work, and romance. They set boundaries with a roommate who doesn’t do their fair share.

21. How to Handle Failure and Mistakes

Failure is part of growth. Learning accountability, problem-solving, and resilience helps kids recover and move forward stronger. They learn from a failed test instead of quitting.

22. How to Ask for Help

Knowing when and how to ask for help from parents, professionals, or mentors prevents isolation and burnout. They ask a supervisor for clarification instead of guessing.

23. Digital Responsibility

Online actions have real-world consequences. Kids should protect personal information, manage screen time, and understand digital permanence. They think before posting something they may regret later.

24. The Value of Hard Work and Integrity

Showing up, being honest, and taking responsibility builds trust, opportunity, and self-respect. They admit a mistake at work and fix it.

25. That Home Is Still a Safe Place

Even as independent adults, kids should know they are loved and supported. A strong family foundation provides security through life’s ups and downs. They can call home when life feels overwhelming.

Best Way to Start Prepping

Final Word

Preparing kids for adulthood means teaching practical skills, emotional resilience, and responsibility. These lessons help them leave home with confidence, not fear, and remind them they’re never truly alone.

Copyright Images: Pay Bills Depositphotos_6423913_S, Man Putting Milk In Cart Depositphotos_136278142_S

The post 25 Things Our Kids Must Know Before Moving Out appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

from Food Storage Moms

25+ Container Gardening Mistakes That Will Kill Your Plants

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes

Container gardening is a fantastic way to grow food, especially for beginners. It allows you to grow a variety of plants in small spaces, be it a balcony, patio, or windowsill. Plus, it provides the benefits of easy accessibility, control over soil quality, and a lower chance of pests and diseases.

However, container gardening also comes with a unique set of challenges. Even the most enthusiastic gardeners can encounter pitfalls that hinder their plants' growth and health. In this article, we'll go over some common container gardening mistakes and share practical advice on how to avoid them.

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1. Using the Wrong Size Container

Choosing the right size container for your plants is crucial. Containers that are too small can restrict root growth, making your plants root-bound and stunting their development.

On the other hand, containers that are too large may cause overwatering issues, as the excess soil retains more moisture than the plant can absorb, potentially leading to root rot. Still, if you're not sure, it's better to err on the larger side.

Here's a vegetable container size chart so you can choose the perfect size container for your plant.

2. Using Containers That Are Too Heavy

When choosing containers for your garden, be sure to consider their weight. Heavier pots can become very difficult to move by the time you add soil and water. This can be a problem when you need to rotate the pots for even sun exposure or move them to protect them from harsh weather.

Use containers made of lighter materials like plastic or resin, which provide the durability of heavier materials without the extra weight. Also, consider getting some plant caddies or stands with wheels so you can easily move large pots around when you need to.

3. Not Cleaning the Container After Prior Use

Reusing containers without cleaning them can introduce pests and diseases to new plants. The residual soil, roots, and debris could have harmful pathogens or insect eggs that might harm the health of the next plant you grow.

To prevent this, thoroughly clean your containers between uses. Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water to clean them, and be sure to thoroughly rinse them out to remove any bleach residue before adding new soil. This simple step can make or break your container garden.

4. Forgetting About Drainage

Proper drainage is essential to prevent water from pooling at the bottom of a container, which can cause root rot and other issues. Make sure your containers have adequate drainage holes.

If you're gardening indoors, put a saucer or tray under your containers to catch the water that drains out. This will protect your floors and allow you to easily remove the excess water.

5. Putting Rocks at the Bottom of a Container

Many people say you should put rocks at the bottom of your containers to help with drainage, but it's not really necessary and may even be detrimental. The idea that rocks aid in drainage is misleading. Water only passes into the rock layer once the soil above it is completely saturated, which means you could end up with waterlogged conditions that harm your plant roots.

Instead, use a high-quality potting mix designed for good drainage, and make sure your containers have plenty of drainage holes to allow the excess water to escape.

6. Using the Wrong Soil

Using the right type of soil is crucial for a successful container garden. Most garden soil is too dense for containers and can lead to poor drainage and root development problems. Potting soil, on the other hand, is specifically formulated to be lightweight and provide the perfect balance of air, moisture, and nutrients.

Also, keep in mind that different plants have different soil needs. Some plants need soil with higher acidity or more moisture. When planning your garden, be sure to get the right type of potting mix for each plant.

7. Using Low-Quality Soil

Using dirt from your backyard for your container garden is a huge mistake that can severely hinder plant growth. Soil from your yard is unlikely to have the necessary nutrients for your plants, and it's also unlikely to provide proper drainage and aeration.

Be sure to get a potting mix that's specifically designed for container gardening. This will ensure your plants get the right balance of air, nutrients, and moisture—something backyard soil can't guarantee.

8. Not Fertilizing Your Plants

Many people assume that if you're using a high-quality potting mix, you don't need to fertilize your plants. That might be true in the beginning, but over time, you'll need to start fertilizing as the nutrients in the soil will be depleted by the plant. Also, watering can cause nutrients to leach out of the soil.

If you want your plant to thrive, be sure to give it some plant food on a regular basis. And so you don't forget, create a fertilizing schedule and mark it on the wall calendar or put reminders on your phone.

9. Using The Wrong Fertilizer

Don't just use any fertilizer on your plants. Make sure it's meant for container plants. Also, remember that different plants have different nutrient requirements. You may want to get more than one type of fertilizer, depending on what plants you're growing.

10. Using Too Much Fertilizer

While fertilizing is important, you want to make sure you don't use too much, a mistake that can lead to fertilizer burn. This happens because too much fertilizer leads to excess salt in the soil, which can damage plant roots and inhibit their ability to absorb water.

You can recognize fertilizer burn by withered, scorched-looking leaves and stunted growth. Be sure you follow the recommend dosage and frequency on the fertilizer packaging.

11. Not Watering Enough

This is probably the most obvious mistake, but people do it all the time. Without a watering schedule, it's easy to forget about watering your plants, especially if your plants are outdoors. Be sure to establish a routine for watering and set reminders so you don't forget.

If your plants are outdoors, pay close attention to the weather so you know whether to skip watering days. I can tell by checking my rain gauge.

12. Watering Too Much

Overwatering is another common mistake, and it can quickly cause root rot. To avoid this, use the finger test to check soil moisture before watering. Just stick your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle. If the soil feels moist, your plants probably don't need more water.

Some people use plant water meters, but in my experience, these things almost always say the soil is dry, even when it isn't. The finger test is a much more reliable way to make sure the soil isn't waterlogged.

13. Not Giving Plants Enough Light

Light is crucial for the health of container plants. Make that your plants aren't constantly in the shade. For indoor plants, place them near a sunny window.

If there isn't enough natural light, for example in darker rooms or during the short days of winter, consider using grow lights. These can provide the full spectrum of light that plants need to photosynthesize and grow quickly.

14. Giving Plants Too Much Light

As with water and fertilizer, it's possible to give your plants too much light. Excessive light can stress your plants, especially if they're exposed to direct sunlight all day. This can cause leaf burn, dehydration, and stunted growth.

To prevent this, be sure to put your plants in a spot where they'll receive some shade during the hottest part of the day, or use curtains or shade cloth to filter the sunlight.

15. Failing to Rotate Your Containers

Rotating your containers every now and then will prevent your plants from leaning towards a light source, which can result in uneven growth. This is especially important for plants located in areas with uneven light, such as near a window or on a partially shaded patio.

By simply turning your containers on a regular basis, you can ensure all sides of the plant get plenty of light, helping it to grow evenly.

16. Putting the Wrong Plants Together

If you're going to grow more than one type of plant in a single container, make sure they're plants that grow well together. You want them to be plants with similar water, soil, and light needs. If they don't have the same needs, they'll compete for resources and one plant will likely thrive at the expense of the other.

17. Putting the Wrong Plants Near Each Other

Keep in mind that just because two plants like the same type of soil and the same amount of water and light, that doesn't mean they'll grow well together. In fact, many plants can harm each other. As always, do your research.

If you're going to grow two plants in containers that are side-by-side, make sure they're companion plants. When you put companion plants together, they'll both grow better than they would have by themselves.

18. Packing Plants Too Close Together

This should be obvious, but it needs to be said because people do this all the time. Packing plants too close together in a container can lead to competition for resources like water and nutrients, even if they're companion plants.

When there isn't enough space, the plants will be stressed and their growth will be stunted. Be sure to research your plants and find out how much space they need for air circulation and root development.

19. Keeping Plants Alone

While some plants doo well by themselves, many plants will benefit from being near other plants. When several plants grow together, it creates a beneficial microclimate that regulates the humidity and temperature around each other. As long as they're companion plants and aren't too close together, they'll grow much better than they would alone.

20. Neglecting to Support the Plants

Some plants, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and climbing flowers, need stakes, cages, or trellises to support their growth. Without support, they can sprawl on the ground or become tangled, and this can cause poor air circulation, disease, and rotting, especially if fruits and leaves are in direct contact with wet soil.

Be sure to support your plants and help them grow upward. They'll be healthier and easier to care for. You can find trellises at any department store, or you can build your own.

21. Waiting Too Long to Trellis

If you're growing any climbing plants, be sure to introduce a trellis while the plants are still young. This will help guide their growth and support proper development from the start.

If you wait too long to add a trellis, your plants could develop weak stems or end up lying on the soil where they're more susceptible to pests and diseases. Setting up a trellis early on gives your climbing plants the best chance at growing healthily.

22. Forgetting to Thin Your Plants

It's always a good idea to plant several seeds together in case some of them don't germinate, but once you have a few seedlings with a pair of leaves, be sure to remove the shortest ones to allow the tallest one plenty of space to grow. Forgetting to thin out the seedlings means they'll compete for resources and none of them will thrive.

23. Neglecting to Prune Your Plants

Regular pruning and deadheading are vital for maintaining plant health. Pruning helps remove dead or overgrown branches, which can improve air circulation and light penetration. Deadheading (removing spent flowers), encourages plants to produce more blooms and prevents them from using energy to produce seeds.

24. Choosing the Wrong Variety of Plant

Selecting the right plant varieties for container gardening is crucial. Not all plants will thrive in confined spaces. For example, some plants may grow too large for a container, while others might have deep root systems that require more space than a container can provide. Be sure to choose plants that are known to grow well in containers.

25. Setting Containers Out Too Early In The Spring

As soon as the weather starts to warm up, many people get excited and move their container plants outside, but beware of false spring. If you move your plants outside too early, an unexpected cold snap could stunt their growth or even kill them.

It's a good idea to check the Old Farmer's Almanac and find out when the first and last frost dates are in your area. If you do set your plants out early, watch the weather and be ready to bring them back inside or cover them with plant covers.

26. Playing Heavy Metal Music Around Your Plants

Okay, I admit I added this one as a joke, but I googled it and it turns out there really is research suggesting that plants grow slower during loud, heavy music and better during soft, soothing music. Scientists believe it's because the sound waves stimulate plant cells and encourage them to grow, but harsher noises stimulate them too much and can hinder growth.

However, this hasn't been proven one way or the other, and there's still a lot of debate, but it certainly can't hurt to have some classical music playing in the background.

Final Thoughts

There are many benefits of container gardening: You can garden at any time of year, you can do it in a small house or apartment, you don't have to worry about bad weather, it's easier to plant prevent pests and diseases… I could go on and on.

However, don't think you can just plant the seeds, water them occasionally, and forget about them. You should check your container garden every day to make sure everything's growing well and that you're not making any of the container gardening mistakes listed above.

As long as you're vigilant, you'll have a happy, healthy garden that rewards you with beautiful flowers and delicious food.

Like this post? Don't Forget to Pin It On Pinterest!

Originally published on Urban Survival Site.

You May Also Like:

• Urban Survival Gardening: A Guide for Beginners
• Container Gardening 101: Everything You Need to Get Started
• 13 Gardening Hacks for New Gardeners
• 7 Gardening Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Harvest
• 19 Weird Gardening Tips to Try This Year

The post 25+ Container Gardening Mistakes That Will Kill Your Plants appeared first on Homestead Survival Site.

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25 Items I Recommend Freezing

I’m sharing 25 items I recommend freezing today, hoping it helps a family or two save money on grocery bills. Freezing food isn’t just about leftovers; it’s one of the smartest ways to extend shelf life, reduce food waste, and stay prepared for busy weeks or unexpected events. When done correctly, freezing preserves flavor, texture, and nutrition while protecting your grocery budget.

Whether you’re meal prepping, building a deep pantry, or simply tired of throwing food away, these 25 freezer-friendly items belong in every well-run kitchen. Of course, we can add any type of meat, but here are some items you may not have considered freezing.

Why Freezing Food Makes Sense

Freezing slows down bacterial growth, preserves nutrients, and gives you flexibility. With proper packaging and labeling, frozen foods can last for months or even years without sacrificing quality.

Best freezer practices:

• Use airtight containers or freezer-grade bags
• Remove as much air as possible
• Label with item name and date
• Freeze in portion sizes you’ll actually use

1. Butter

Butter freezes beautifully and keeps its flavor for up to 12 months. Store it in its original packaging, then place it inside a freezer bag for extra protection. Frozen butter works perfectly for baking, cooking, and even spreading once softened.

2. SAF Yeast

Freezing yeast dramatically extends its life. SAF yeast is especially freezer-friendly because it’s vacuum-sealed. Store it airtight and measure directly from the freezer—no thawing required.

3. Wheat Gluten

Vital wheat gluten can absorb moisture and spoil if stored improperly. Freezing keeps it fresh for long-term baking use, especially for bread and whole-grain recipes.

4. Dough Enhancer

Dough enhancer contains oils and conditioners that benefit from freezer storage. Keep it in a sealed container to prevent moisture absorption and freezer odors.

5. Ground Whole Wheat Flour

Whole wheat flour contains natural oils that go rancid faster than white flour. Freezing preserves freshness and nutrients for 6–12 months.

6. Bacon

Freeze bacon in portion sizes, separate slices with parchment paper, or freeze entire packages. You can cook bacon directly from frozen, making breakfast faster.

7. Buttermilk

Buttermilk freezes especially well. Stir before freezing, store in airtight containers, and thaw slowly in the refrigerator to maintain texture. I store it in Souper Cubes.

8. Bulk Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds contain oils that can spoil over time. Freezing prevents rancidity and keeps them tasting fresh for baking and cooking. I use Quart Mason jars.

9. Garlic

Freeze peeled garlic cloves, whole or minced. You can also freeze garlic in oil (in small portions) for quick cooking, no peeling required. I bought it frozen from Trader Joe’s. It works great when preparing food for only two people.

10. Chopped Onion

Pre-chopped onions are a freezer hero. Freeze raw, spread flat on a baking sheet first, then store in bags. Perfect for soups, casseroles, and skillet meals. I buy them chopped up in bags. Yes, this works great. I get them for $1.00 a bag. No waste, ever.

11. Sliced Carrots

Blanch carrots briefly before freezing to preserve texture and color. Once frozen, they’re ready for soups, stews, and side dishes. I buy these baby carrots frozen or sliced, whichever is cheaper at the store. Typically, less than $1.00 a bag. No waste, ever.

12. Rotisserie Chicken (Portioned)

Break down rotisserie chicken and freeze in meal-size portions. This saves time and provides ready-to-use protein for soups, tacos, casseroles, and salads.

13. Whole Almonds

Freezing prevents almonds from turning stale or rancid. Store them airtight and thaw only what you need.

14. Sliced Almonds

Like whole almonds, sliced almonds freeze well and retain their crunch when used directly from the freezer for baking or toppings.

15. Shelled Pecans

Pecans contain high oil content and benefit greatly from freezing. They’ll stay fresh for over a year when sealed properly.

16. Sugared Almonds

Yes, these freeze well! Freezing preserves the coating and crunch. Let them reach room temperature before serving to prevent condensation. I store them in pint wide-mouth jars.

17. Cooked Rice

Cooked rice freezes exceptionally well. Freeze flat in bags or portion into containers. Reheat with a splash of water for fluffy results. I use Souper Cubes.

18. Brown Rice

Because brown rice contains natural oils, freezing extends its shelf life and helps prevent spoilage more quickly than storage in the pantry alone.

19. Cooked Pasta

Undercook pasta slightly before freezing. Toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Perfect for fast meals and casseroles.

20. Leftover or Encore Meals

Freezing leftovers reduces food waste and gives you instant meals on busy days. Freeze in single-serving containers for easy reheating.

21. Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Freeze shredded cheddar in bags. It may crumble slightly when thawed, but it works perfectly for cooking and baking. I store mine in pint wide-mouth jars or use my FoodSaver Bags.

22. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella freezes well and is ideal for pizzas, casseroles, and lasagna straight from the freezer.

23. Grated Parmesan Cheese

Freezing preserves flavor and prevents mold. Use directly from frozen—no thawing necessary.

24. Creamed Honey

Creamed honey freezes without losing texture. Thaw at room temperature and stir gently before using. I only buy my raw, unfiltered honey from Cox’s in Shelley, Idaho. Cox’s Honey.

25. Frozen Hash Browns

Whether homemade or store-bought, hash browns freeze well and cook directly from the freezer for quick breakfasts or dinners. Trader Joe’s has the best hash browns, in my opinion. They freeze well.

Freezer Organization Tips That Actually Work

• Group foods by category (meats, baking, meals)
• Use clear containers or freezer bags
• Keep a freezer inventory list
• Rotate older items forward

Freezer Food Categories (Simple & Effective)

Meats & Proteins

• Bacon
• Rotisserie chicken (portioned)
• Cooked chicken
• Leftover meat-based meals

Tip: Freeze meats flat in labeled bags, then stack them vertically like files.

Baking Essentials

• Butter
• SAF yeast
• Wheat gluten
• Dough enhancer
• Ground whole wheat flour

Tip: Store baking items together so bread days are grab-and-go.

Nuts, Seeds & Baking Add-Ins

• Whole almonds
• Sliced almonds
• Pecans
• Sugared almonds
• Bulk sesame seeds

Tip: Airtight containers prevent freezer odors from permeating.

Vegetables & Aromatics

• Chopped onion
• Garlic
• Sliced carrots

Tip: Freeze in recipe-sized portions for fast cooking.

Grains & Starches

• Cooked rice
• Brown rice
• Cooked pasta
• Frozen hashbrowns

Tip: Freeze flat and label with portion size.

Dairy & Cheese

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Buttermilk
• How to Freeze Milk: Everything You Need to Know
• How to Freeze Eggs: Everything You Need to Know

Tip: Squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn.

Spreads & Pantry Items

• Creamed honey

Tip: Leave headspace for expansion when freezing jars.

Meals & Ready-to-Eat Foods

• Leftover meals
• Soups, casseroles, freezer meals

Tip: Single-serve containers = zero guesswork.

Final Word

Freezing food is one of the most practical skills every household should master. It saves money, reduces stress, minimizes waste, and helps you stay prepared—whether for a busy week or an unexpected emergency. Grouping foods by category is one of the simplest ways to manage your freezer. When meats, baking essentials, grains, and ready-made meals each have a designated place, you waste less food, save time during meal prep, and avoid buying duplicates you already have on hand.

A well-organized freezer also makes rotation easier, ensuring older items get used first and nothing is forgotten in the back. With a little planning and consistent labeling, your freezer becomes more than cold storage; it becomes a reliable tool that supports everyday cooking, emergency readiness, and a calmer, more efficient kitchen. May God bless this world, Linda

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