Why You Need A Backyard Garden
During the recent Covid-19 pandemic there has been a huge increase in people getting into gardening and growing their own food. Whether they have done it because they are high risk for Covid-19, don’t trust that food supply will be sufficient, or if they just enjoy gardening; this is actually not a new phenomenon. During World War 2, the US government recognized that there would be shortages with their own supply chain of fruits and vegetables, and encouraged Americans to grow their own food wherever they could, supplying the seeds as well. 20 million people took them up on this offer and started growing food in their own yards, in parks, unused green spaces, and created cooperatives in communities to feed each other. They called these the Victory Gardens, and were instrumental in the survival of millions of Americans during the war, while also adding social connection and value to urban communities.
During the first wave of Covid-19 infections, many people decided it was time to start their own gardens, myself included. I decided to create my own vegetable garden for the reasons listed above, but also for my mental health, nutritional values, sustainability, and connection to my food. This year I planted 6 varieties of tomato, 4 varieties of lettuces, 2 varieties of peppers, 2 varieties of kale, and many different herbs. I also invested in a peach tree, and we will see how that one turns out in a few years time. This is the most planting I have ever done, and I am currently spending about an hour in the garden daily. You do not have to commit this much time! This is my first year living in a space where I have ample outdoor area for growing, and yes I will admit that I went a bit overboard myself with seedlings. If you only have a porch space, do not fret! You can also grow lots of amazing things in pots and raised beds. I have successfully harvested many tomatoes and arugula in the past from pots on my porch.
Gardening is also a known stress reliever and is used as a mental health and physical therapy tool. When you garden you are working with your hands in the dirt and in the sunshine. It gets us back to our primal roots, as our ancestors would have worked the land, and creates a connection with our food source. There is no better feeling than having your favorite salad straight from your own garden. Just ask my husband, I am sure he has heard me say that many times during shelter in place. When you harvest from your own garden you are also ensuring you are eating the freshest food possible, and in turn the nutritional value is higher. Add in the calories burned from gardening, and it is such a positive scenario.
Aren’t sure where to start? Have a read below:
Identify your gardening space. Do you live in a house where you can plant directly into the ground? Or are you in an apartment building with little outdoor space? Figuring out what you have to work with is key so that you don’t go overboard with supplies, and so that you don’t set yourself up for failure.
Do a bit of research. Find out what grows well in your area, and for the season. Certain plants like tomatoes, lettuces, and herbs, will grow year long. Its important to know what is in season so that you can plant for success. Also check where the sun rises and sets in your intended garden space, as plants like varying amounts of sunlight. Ensure that you have an accessible water source as well. You do not want to be carrying big heavy watering cans daily!
Find a plant nursery. Do a bit of research in your area to find a good plant nursery. Local farmers may also sell seedlings too, and you would be surprised what you can find on the internet (like my peach tree). During these times, plant nurseries may also have shortages of certain items, so it is best to call around before you visit so you don’t waste time and to reduce your exposure.
Start small. Or don’t! this is up to you and the amount of time and effort you are willing to put into your garden. Starting with just an herb garden is a fantastic way to be constantly adding fresh flavor and nutrients to your plate.
Establish your goals. What do you want this garden to be? When I started my planting in February, I knew that I wanted to be able to feed myself and my household from the garden. When Covid-19 happened, I doubled my planting to reduce my exposure to grocery stores, and also to feed myself and my family should there be any shortages. If what you want is just to have an herb garden, or fresh tomatoes all summer long, then clarify that, and go for it!
Don’t be afraid of failure. 90% of the time, if you plant a seed it will grow. The aim of a garden should not always be about success, but about the journey, care, and nurturing that you do to produce any food at all. Expect there to be some hurdles and when they happen, do your research, speak with your local gardeners or garden.
