It’s so much easier to just go to the groceries and buy your food so why go through the hassle of growing some of it? Here are my personal reasons why I choose to grow some of the food we consume organically in my small urban garden.
- You know where your food is coming from. The freshest food are those which are sourced close to you and the closest are those grown in your backyard. Ever wonder how those apples Apples naturally can only last up to a month inside the refrigerator. So what do they put on the apples that it can travel from temperate climate countries and reach Philippine soil still looking fresh? Your guess is as good as mine.
- Easy access to the food you love. When you learn to grow your own food, you get to plant those you love to eat so you get to enjoy them in season anytime you want without going to the supermarkets.
- Organic food is more healthy and tastier. Food grown without synthetic chemicals are good for the health. More and more chefs are now preferring to cook with organic produce because they taste better.
- Save on food expenses. I’m sometimes surprised when I go to the groceries and see how much a bunch of kangkong or sweet potato tops cost. These vegetables are so easy to grow even in a small area. Clearly, growing some of your food can save you money.
- Good for the health. Organic food is not only healthier but growing them can also lead to better health. Gardening can relieve stress and it’s a good exercise. It beats going to the gym.
- Good for the environment. Organic gardening is nourishing the soil so that the soil will nourish the plants. Without using chemicals and with crop rotation, the soil will eventually regain its natural nutrients.
- Make use of idle resources. Organic gardening is a good way to make use of your extra time and land. Gardening will also make you recycle containers which
- A worthwhile activity with your family. Gardening can be a good bonding activity with the family. If everybody has a stake in the garden, everybody will enjoy and value the fruits of their labor. Going organic is a lifestyle which should be embraced by every member of the family.
- A skill that can be taught to your children. Gardening is a good skill to teach your children and to instill in them the love of plants. By teaching your children organic gardening, you are raising them to become health conscious and environmentalists.
- Encourage others by being an example. If you want to influence others to grow their own food, the best way is to show them that it is possible.
