May 2008 Archives
Alarming prices in the produce section of grocery stores
across the nation are forcing consumers to consider alternative sources of food. For many, this means getting their hands dirty, literally: Backyard fruit and
vegetable gardens are on the rise. Vegetable seed and fruit tree sales have
skyrocketed, and some seed companies have seen their profits double this year
over last. With no indication that the economic slump is abating,
iVillagers are also getting in touch with their inner gardeners.
Member cl-jrcmama has already planted green peppers,
watermelon and pumpkin. She wants to add "zucchini, spaghetti squash and a
few more peppers." And she says, "I'm definitely noticing the pinch
when stocking up on groceries and hope to find more ways [in addition to
gardening] to economize." She's hardly alone. Another iVillager, elc11,
is also hoping to plant "tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, cucumbers and
carrots" in order to defray grocery costs.
Some long-time gardeners, like member corapegia, whose
garden always produces more than her family can eat, remember the last time
homegrown produce spiked in popularity. "There was more of this
activity in the 1970's. I expect since we're going back to a similar monetary
situation more people will go back to gardening again, too."
Even those with little to no gardening experience are trying
their hand at backyard growing. Member justaguy2 chimed in: "My
best friend just this year dedicated a small part of his yard to growing food.
He cited the rising cost of food as the primary reason."
Even if you've never had a garden before or are convinced you have a black thumb, doesn't mean you can't save a little green by planting your favorite fruits and vegetables. Check out this handy gardening guide, and see how other iVillagers are shrinking their monthly grocery bill.
Learn how to stake tomato plants
Grow plump, delicious raspberries
Fresh herbs you can grow in your kitchen
Get creative ways to make the most of your bountiful harvest
