History

• The colonial period started in the 1600s and went through the mid-1700s. During this time, the methods of clearing and planting gardens did not vary greatly. America was in the early stages of growth, and tools were basic.
  
  

Types

• Indian corn was one of the first foods grown, and it was introduced to the settlers by the native Indians. Indian corn had differently colored kernels and was not eaten fresh from the cob. The corn was dried and ground into flour for cooking and baking. Other vegetables grown near homes were green beans, pumpkins, peas, carrots and lettuce. Small herbs, such as parsley and basil, were grown in patches close to the home.
  
  

Growing Harvests

• The size of the family was a big consideration when women planted their gardens. In the beginning, the colonists produced only enough food to support their families. Many of the women were not accustomed to growing their own food, and since all the planting was done by hand, the gardens started out small. After learning more about gardening and becoming more efficient, they planted larger gardens.
  
  

Hard Work

• Starting a garden was painstaking and backbreaking work because the tools were primitive. Colonists chopped down trees, removed brush and tall grasses and then turned the soil. With corn, colonial women used herring as fertilizer. Eventually larger fields were cleared to plant oats and wheat.
  
  

Trading

• The leftover produce was traded to the Indians for furs. The furs that were not intended for personal use were then sent to England and sold for a profit. The money was used to purchase food items not readily available, such as sugar and spices. Gunpowder was another sought-after product the colonist requested with the money.