Get Your Own...Garden, That Is!

Here's to hoping that all of you are enjoying a bit of success in your clean eating endeavors! With that in mind, and inspired by Spring, I would like to announce that I am plunging into the green world of gardening this year. (Oh dear.)

Think about this: at least 50% of our daily diet should be clean, fresh fruits and veggies...HAHAHA. Oh sorry. I was just assuming that was a joke, considering how many of us barely see a carrot in a week's time. Not only are we depriving ourselves of natural goodness when we don't eat these fresh foods, but we are also setting ourselves up for future problems, such as cancer. (Yikes!) It is so important to have plenty of tastey fruits and leafy greens- that makes gardening in your own space a grand idea!

There are several ways to go about it, and I will mention a few to get your wheels turning. The most common, and usually first thought of, is to simply till up a section of dirt somewhere on your property. (Typically the neighbors prefer you to use your own dirt, and not theirs.) Usually, unless you have more room than most, a good place to do this is in your back yard. You can choose between small, or not as small, and if you want it raised, or ground level. If you want to keep it more simple for your first go-around, you can simply choose one or two seeds to sprout, and then keep them in a couple of pots. You can also do this with a few herbs, and then you have them at your fingertips, fresh for cooking! I have a friend who keeps certain herbs in tiny pots around her house all year long. She then utilizes them in her cooking, and they serve to freshen up the house on a dull day!

If you live in an apartment community, be sure to check the common ground/gardening area. Usually, you can plot out a spot for yourself during growing season. Or, you can simply grow in pots and boxes right on your balcony!

A huge bonus to growing your own produce is the peace of mind in knowing where everything comes from. It negates the need for over-use of pesticides and fertilizers, as these are not necessary (in ridiculous amounts) to grow at home. Another perk to your personal garden is that you can give away fresh, home-grown gifts, and encourage others to embark in a little sustainable living. As I recall, last year, this whole city was consumed with Zucchinis. Talk about massive re-gifting...

One last thought regarding having zucchinis...or anything else you prefer to grow...right at your fingertips is this: it provides a little more room in your budget. Growing and maintaining your own produce is healthy AND economical. Now how about them apples?

Sites I liked: http://www.eartheasy.com/
               http://lighterfootstep.com/