Transforming Your Garden’s Bounty: What to Do with Fall Produce

As autumn beckons, many gardeners in Edmonton are faced with a delightful yet daunting task: what to do with their bountiful harvests? With the temperatures dropping and the foliage changing, it’s essential to make the most of those vegetables and fruits that you’ve nurtured throughout the growing season.

Volunteers gather to help harvest at a community garden.

Confronting the Challenge of Excess

With recent statistics revealing that Alberta generates approximately $31 billion in food waste annually, it’s vital to be proactive. A staggering 47% of that waste comes directly from households. As responsible gardeners, we can combat this issue by ensuring our homegrown produce is put to good use.

In Edmonton alone, there are over 52,000 edible fruit trees. Many are well capable of producing an impressive 150 pounds of fruit each season. This surplus can easily overwhelm even the most enthusiastic picklers and canners. Instead of letting this fresh produce go to waste, consider sharing it with community members or organizations that can utilize it.

Donate to Feed Those in Need

Unwanted fruits and vegetables can find new life in the hands of individuals and organizations striving to combat food insecurity. The Edmonton Food Bank (EFB) is always in need of donations, particularly from backyard harvests. They accept a wide variety of produce, including root vegetables, cabbage, beans, and squash. Doug Thompson from EFB reports:

“This time of year we get a lot of potatoes. Tomatoes are always a hit, as are peas, lettuce, and corn on the cob.”

Potatoes are always in demand during the fall season.

Unfortunately, some varieties such as crabapples face hurdles when it comes to donation due to their size and taste profile. This results in minimal nutritional value compared to regular apples, making them less viable for donation. However, eligible donations can be dropped off at the EFB’s warehouse.

If you’re unable to pick your produce, consider reaching out to the Leftovers Foundation, a local non-profit dedicated to reducing food waste. They organize volunteers to collect excess produce for distribution to campus food banks and various social agencies.

Efficient Storage Solutions

For those who have harvested a manageable amount, understanding how to store your goodies properly is key to prolonging their lifespan. A root cellar can be your best friend, providing an optimal environment for hardy vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions to last for several months.

Moreover, quick blanching can ensure that your greens like kale and spinach are prepped for freezing. Simple methods, like freezing them flat in bags, make it easy to incorporate these nutritious vegetables into meals later on.

Remember, while jams, jellies, and pickles can be safely stored in your pantry, homemade foods are not eligible for donation due to health regulations. Alberta Health Services mandates that anything distributed to the public must be prepared in a licensed kitchen.

Proper handling and storage is crucial for preventing spoilage.

Embracing Community Gardening

As the gardening season winds down, let’s remember the importance of community and sustainable practices. It’s more than just gardening; it’s about fostering relationships with our neighbors and contributing to our local food systems. By sharing our harvests and supporting local food initiatives, we cultivate not only gardens but also community spirit.

In conclusion, as you gather your autumn bounty, think about how you can make a positive impact on both your home and the wider community. By donating excess produce, sharing knowledge of preservation techniques, and engaging with local food programs, you can ensure that your gardening efforts contribute to a healthier and more sustainable world.

For more about donation options and gardening tips, visit the food bank’s website or check out the Leftovers Foundation on Facebook and Instagram.