Looking for Land - Part 2: Suitable for Growing Food

Published by: Craig Meissner

Off Grid Location

Did you see Part 1 of this series? Check it out here: Part 1: Water

When looking to purchase land or a homestead, food is crucial. You really need to consider how suitable the land is for growing food. Is the general location and the specific piece of land suitable for a garden and orchard?

Unlike water and topography, there are things you can do to make a less promising property productive, but it will be a matter of how much time work and money you are willing to put into it. And some things are beyond repair. For instance, while you may haul in topsoil and compost to enrich your barren grow beds, there is nothing you can do about a nearby mountain blocking your direct sunlight during certain seasons.

Northern Locations

If you are in a northern location (or one with significant growing liabilities), you really do need to "stack the deck" in your favor and do everything possible to ensure success. That's what this next installment is about--things you should look into when assessing a property for it's ability to grow food.

Micro-climates

This is an area that has different climate conditions than the immediate surrounding area. For example you might hear things like 'Oh, that's a banana belt' or 'That's a snow belt.' What does that mean? Also some areas are 'cold sinks' where the cold air settles in a valley making a frost possible any month of the year. The following video will answer these questions and many more!