Rediscovering the Joy of Home Canning in Wilmington

Growing up on a farm in Southeastern North Carolina, I learned countless lessons about food preservation from watching my family work hard under the sun. Those hot summer afternoons spent in the kitchen, grading bell peppers, and watching my grandmother meticulously can tomatoes remain vivid memories. Looking back, I didn’t always appreciate the effort that went into preserving summer’s bounty, but I can say with certainty that I’ve come to relish the rewards that come from these sessions throughout the year.

Canning was once a common practice in American households, peaking during times of scarcity like World War II. However, it fell out of favor as commercial food production took over. Interestingly, the trend saw a substantial revival during the pandemic, sparking a new generation’s interest in home canning. Today, canning might not be seen as essential, but it has transformed into a delightful hobby for many—with home gardens sweeping the nation, the scent of pickling spices fills kitchens anew.

Yet, as more people dive into this age-old craft, it’s vital to prioritize safety above all else. Misinformation can spread like wildfire online, and simple mistakes can lead to severe foodborne illnesses, like botulism. It’s crucial to approach home canning with a sense of care, wielding only tested recipes and understanding how to use equipment effectively. I’ve learned that knowing what factors to control during the preservation process ensures that everyone around the table can enjoy our efforts without fear.

To aid those interested in honing their canning skills, I invite you to join a hands-on canning class on October 7 from 1-3 p.m. at the N.C. Cooperative Extension - New Hanover County Center and Arboretum. We’ll be focusing on canning dill pickles, allowing participants to engage with the entire canning process while having their questions answered by an expert. Avery Ashley, the Family & Consumer Sciences Agent from Brunswick County, will lead the class. With extensive experience in pickling, fermentation, and pressure canning, she promises to provide invaluable insights.

Join us for a canning experience this October!

We encourage everyone—regardless of experience—to participate, whether you’re a novice or someone looking to sharpen your skills. Canning can be an enjoyable communal activity, bringing people together to share in the process and the fruits of labor. Spaces are limited, and the registration fee is just $15. You can register here.

The gardens at the arboretum, where the class will be held, are open to the public daily, and I always find inspiration walking through the rows of vibrant vegetables and fragrant herbs. The beauty of nature not only informs the process of home canning; it enriches our experience by making it about community and connection. As laughter sounds in the foreground and jars fill with the essence of summer, I am reminded of the simple joys that our ancestors valued.

In embracing the practice of canning, we’re not just preserving food; we’re carrying forward traditions, memories, and delicious recipes that can be shared for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or stepping into this colorful world for the first time, there’s an undeniable satisfaction in creating something nourishing with your own hands.

As I reminisce about those summer days spent on the farm, I encourage you to explore the art of home canning. It’s more than just a skill; it’s a gateway to food sustainability, a journey into flavors, and a path toward preserving both food and memories. Let’s get together and rediscover what it means to can.

Preserve the flavors of the harvest!