Growing a Garden vs. Buying from the Store

      In an economic downturn, people are seeing the prices of food in the supermarket go up.    

     This is why; growing food as opposed to going to the grocery store might be an up and coming trend this year. Those wanting to continue the phenomena of "going green" can grow their own fruits and vegetables in their own personal garden.

     Victoria Goitia, has been growing her own garden since February in Cedar Park, TX. She said there are a lot of reasons why gardening has its advantages.

     "Its good therapy and its psychologically nice," said Goitia. "You have control over the quality of your food, and it tastes fresher."

     Goitia also said that gardening is great exercise.

     "You can see the fruits of your labor after your done," said Goitia. "It's fun to be out in the fresh air and experiment with the food that you grow."

     Dr. Tina Marie Cade, Associate Professor for the Department of Agriculture at Texas State University, said there are also economic benefits since often times gardeners find that they grow more produce then they can eat.

     "This can then bring social benefits as the gardeners go out and distribute food to their neighbors and friends," said Cade.

     Cade also said the argument is that growing one's own food is better for the environment because the food doesn't have to be shipped, and we lessen our carbon footprint.

     "Growing the plants organically is better for the environment," said Cade. "However, many gardeners still do not practice organic production and oftentimes will apply more chemicals then recommended on the instructions."

     According to www.garden-ville.com organically grown herbs, fruits and vegetables are more nutritious then their chemically grown counterparts and have superior taste. A plant grown organically and in the proper balance will naturally repel pest and diseases. The Garden Ville Web site also explains why composting is a great idea for your garden. As microorganisms decompose and digest the organic matter, a rich humus material is created. This process generates just the right amount of heat to eliminate weeds, insects and pathogens.

          "Not a lot of people know where their food is coming from," said Goitia. "With a personal garden you have easy access to fresh fruits and vegetables."

     Goitia also said that gardening doesn't have to be limited to the backyard of a house or on a farm. It can be on the porch of an apartment.

     "In small pots you can plant any herbs, tomatoes, chives, strawberries, chili plants, etc," said Goitia. "It's a great idea for college students."

     Those that don't have a porch or patio can also start an indoor herb garden on a sunny window.

     One can plant fruit and vegetables all year round. However in the fall, it is recommended to plant long-term, frost tolerant vegetables together. Frost tolerant vegetables include beets, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, garlic, kale, lettuce, onions, parsley, and spinach.

Ashlynn Kemp

Freelance Journalist