Fresh produce—there’s nothing quite like it! Whether it’s crisp romaine leaves for tonight’s salad or fragrant basil to add to the sauce you’re simmering, real food is good for us.
Maybe your grocery store has a limited produce selection, shelves have been emptied, or you live in a “food desert” lacking variety and organic options. Even if you have tons of choices, no doubt you’d appreciate saving money and having a more sustainable lifestyle.
It’s time to grow your own food at home!
Small Space (No Dirt Required!)
Yes, you read that correctly—plants don’t always need soil to grow in. All that’s required is a window, a bowl, and some water. This surprisingly simple method works well with lettuce, celery, and lots more!
Just cut off the bottom of the romaine or celery stalk you have. Then set it in a bowl of water which covers about halfway up the stalk section, and place it in front of a window for natural light. You should see growth in just a couple of days!
It’s incredibly fun to watch these plants grow from scraps you may have normally tossed in the trash or compost bin. It’s hydroponics in the simplest form and it’s going to taste great.
Start With Seeds
Even if you don’t have a large yard or a place to plant a garden, you can grow fresh food from seeds in pots of soil set on your patio. This is still rather low maintenance and produce like tomatoes, kale, and peas usually do well with moderate sunshine and occasional watering.
Potatoes, garlic, and beets are vegetables where the part we eat can be the seed itself. Use toothpicks to partially suspend these in dishes of water. Soon roots will form, then you can easily replant to a pot or garden for further growth.
Room To Grow
If you have acres to roam and plant, that’s awesome! Even if it’s just enough yard to cultivate a few rows of garden goodness, you can start with seeds and enjoy everything from arugula and corn, to green beans and watermelons.
Gardening can be therapeutic and a good reason to get outside for fresh air and sunshine. Plus, when you’re growing your own food at home, you end up with some pretty delicious results!