Growing your own staple crops is a great way to ensure you have a steady supply of food, and it can be incredibly satisfying too. However, not all crops are created equal when it comes to providing the calories, storage, and nutritional value needed to sustain a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Here are ten staple crops that are easy to grow, provide good yields, and are calorie-dense and nutritious.

1. Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes: Potatoes and sweet potatoes are easy to grow and provide a lot of calories per square foot. Sweet potatoes are also packed with beta-carotene, making them an incredibly nutritious food.

2. Grain Corn: Corn is easy to grow and provides a good source of carbohydrates. There are three main types of corn: flint, flour, and dent. Flint corn is best for grinding into polenta and puddings, while flour corn is great for bread and pancakes.

3. Wheat: Heirloom wheat varieties can be grown in your garden and provide a good source of carbohydrates. They can also be higher-yielding in organic systems than modern wheats.

4. Dry Beans: Beans are a great source of protein and calories. Bush varieties have a shorter maturation time than pole varieties, making them a good choice for a concentrated harvest.

5. Squash: Squash is easy to grow and can be stored for months, making it an ideal crop for food security.

6. Cabbage: Cabbage is easy to grow and stores well. It is also packed with vitamins C and K.

7. Kale: Kale is a nutrient-dense green that is easy to grow and can be harvested throughout the growing season.

8. Collards: Collards are another nutrient-dense green that are easy to grow and can be harvested throughout the growing season.

9. Peanuts: Peanuts are a good source of protein and can be roasted and stored for several months.

10. Eggs: Chickens are a great addition to any self-sufficient garden plan, as they provide a steady supply of protein in the form of eggs.

When selecting crops for your self-sufficient garden plan, it's important to consider storage and preservation qualities. Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and squash can be stored for months without the need for refrigeration. Dry beans can be stored for several years if stored properly. Look for creative storage ideas, such as using a cool bottom kitchen cabinet or a closet in a spare room.

Growing your own staple crops is a rewarding way to ensure you have a steady supply of food. By selecting crops that are easy to grow, calorie-dense, and provide good yields, you can increase your household's food security and take a big step toward self-sufficiency.