I'm still in the gardening mode, but now I'm looking forward to harvest. I even went so far as to count my canning jars, lids and rings and make a list (very short!) of what I will need this year.
A couple of years ago I looked for lids and rings and had a hard time finding them, but this year, I see them everywhere. Maybe more people are interested? "The economy" is to blame for a lot of things, so if they're all sold out before I get out there and stock up, I'll blame it for that, too.
Stocking up on freezer bags and glass jars for dehydrated food is on my mind, too. I usually have enough of both, since I reuse as much as possible, but maybe a few more will be needed this year.
I will definitely need more if my ambition and energy keep pace! I can just see it now... all those jars of canned and dehydrated food lining the shelves of my newly renovated store room in the basement... well, everyone has to dream! :)
I'll be reading your canning posts with much interest. I just have a small garden this year since we just bought this house late this spring and I did not have time to do anything more. Plus, money was short. But next year I'll be planting much more. I've never canned before. We found a large pressure canner up in our attic from the previous ownwers. Do you think it's safe to still use it or do I have to buy a new one?
ReplyDeleteIt's hard to say without seeing it, but if it's not bent or otherwise defective that you can see, it's probably usable. If it has a rubber gasket, you'll need to replace that and you made need to get it checked to make sure the gauge is right. Also, look closely at the soft plug to be sure it's in good condition (not cracked or warped). There's more information here on used canning equipment:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.stretcher.com/stories/07/07aug27g.cfm"
Ummm.. without that little " on the end. I so wish blogger would let us edit our comments!
ReplyDeleteEnjoying your blog - I too am stocking up on canning supplies and have already started with chow chow and pickles...
ReplyDeleteI haven't got started properly yet, Robin, but the beets are coming on quickly now, so I may have to can some soon. I'd like to pickle a few pints, too, if I have enough.
ReplyDeleteEasily I agree but I think the post should prepare more info then it has.
ReplyDeleteWhat do you think it should say?
ReplyDelete