Gardening is a practice that has existed for ages and has evolved from a necessity to a pleasurable and healthful hobby. However, gardening has become less popular with the rise of urban living and the ease of purchasing food. People have recently started to seek a closer connection to nature and self-sufficiency, and gardening has gained newfound popularity.
Physical and mental health advantages
Gardening involves physical activities like digging, planting, weeding, and harvesting. It can improve balance, strength, and flexibility.
Growing your fruits and vegetables can significantly improve your diet. When you have your garden, you have direct control over what you eat and can ensure you consume fresh, nutrient-rich produce. Also, people who grow their food tend to include a wider variety of vegetables in their diets, which can further enhance the nutritional value of their meals.
Spending time in nature, such as in your garden, can improve mental well-being by promoting deeper breathing, which clears the lungs and increases oxygen levels in the blood. Gardening has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety and improve mood.
Environmental impact
Home gardening promotes sustainability, as growing your food reduces the carbon footprint from the transportation of food items from farms to stores and then to your home.
Biodiverse gardens provide habitats for pollinators, enhancing local flora and fauna.
Top 6 plants and herbs to grow for food
- Basil: A versatile herb used in various cuisines, basil is easy to grow and has many health benefits, including being a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Rosemary: Known for its aromatic scent and robust flavor, rosemary can flavor many dishes and is relatively easy to grow indoors or outdoors.
- Oregano: A staple in Italian and Mexican cuisines, oregano is a hardy perennial that can be grown indoors or outside.
- Lavender: Besides their calming floral scent, lavender buds can be used in recipes and drinks and offer therapeutic properties.
- Parsley: This common herb enhances the flavor of soups, stews, and salads and is a good source of Vitamins A and C.
- Mint: Mint is refreshing and can be used in various drinks and dishes. It’s also known for its digestive benefits. However, it’s best grown in containers as it can be invasive.
Growing a garden is about the food you enjoy and your journey. Nurturing plants from seed to harvest can be a fulfilling experience that enriches your life in numerous ways. Whether you have a large backyard or a small balcony, there is always space for a pot of herbs or a planter of vegetables. So, roll up your sleeves and dig into the gardening world – your body, mind, and the planet will thank you.
