Wondering what to do with that patch of soil in your backyard? Maybe you already have enough flowers growing, but still want to do something with the area? You could have a blank slate of a yard and just not know where to start.
Why not try your hand at growing your own vegetables?
There are many benefits to having your own vegetable garden that make it worthwhile. Read through our list of six benefits of growing your own vegetables to help motivate you to start.
Access to Fresh Food
One of the main benefits of growing your own vegetables is that you have access to the freshest produce available. There is no middleman between your veggies and your fridge. Whatever you grow in your garden goes straight to your kitchen table.
When you buy from a grocery store, chances are the vegetables you’re picking up have made a few stops in their travels. During that time, the veggies start to age and lose their freshness, and they also lose valuable nutrients during the process.
Reduce Grocery Costs
Growing your own vegetables is a way to reduce your grocery costs. Especially with items like fresh herbs and will last only for a little while, growing your own allows you to have access to fresh herbs throughout the summer at a fraction of the price.
Healthier Option
Growing your own vegetables can be a healthier option than buying from the store. You know what you put in your garden. That means you have complete control over what type of pesticides and fertilizers you use, or if you go completely organic. Going the organic route will make your produce healthier to eat.
Physical Activity
Have you tried gardening before? It’s a good form of physical exercise. Between digging in the ground, pulling weeds, walking back and forth, and being outside, you’ll get the benefits of being active in the garden, which is an essential part of our health.
Family Activity
If you’re looking for more ways to have family time, create a garden that the whole family takes care of. For kids, by giving them each a task for tending the garden, you’re teaching them about chores and responsibilities in a fun and engaging way. It also gives the family new skills to master together, allowing for precious bonding time throughout the week.
Add Curb Appeal
A well-tended garden can boost the curb appeal of your property and thus increase your home’s value. When driving through a neighborhood, the houses that have plants and flowers nicely growing in the yard are the ones that tend to get more attraction.
If you’re ready to try your hand at growing your own vegetables, seeds are the cheapest way to go. Consider the vegetables you use the most to help you decide what to plant. For herbs, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and basil are common options for beginners. Tomatoes, zucchini, lettuce, and carrots are good vegetables to start with.
Create a garden schedule that the whole family can use. Make a note of when to water, fertilize, weed, and harvest to create the healthiest and freshest vegetable garden around.