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 Takeaways
- Learn how to simplify food preservation without giving it up completely.
- Discover how to prioritize the crops that matter most to your family.
- See practical ways to reduce preserving stress while still stocking your pantry.
- Find freezer, canning, and storage tips that save both time and energy.
- Create a preserving plan that fits your current season of life.
Chapters
00:00 – 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 Links
Harvest 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.
