To Save Money, More Americans Are Getting Down and Dirty
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
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My father was almost sixty two when I was born and he retired from the railroad and gardening was a passion for him and a survival guide for our family. If I can eat it I can grow it is my motto. Growing up in North Carolina, I have experienced the humid weather for years-as I get older this becomes harder. We experienced a drought in the state last year. Some suggestions from me: when it does rain save the rain water for your plants later in a container. You really don't have to water your plants every day-you can kill them with kindness, if they need watering you will know, maybe two or three times a week at the most. Plant what you like and if you have any leftovers; glean your harvest and share with neighbors and friends, even better take fresh veggies to you local food bank. Ask local farmers and gardeners for advice-this is better than a class!
Iam one of the ones that are getting down and dirty too
it is for the same reason aswell ,and i did find it really
helpful in cutting down cost of groceries .