Sustainable living has become increasingly important over the last few years. More than a buzzword, sustainability is something we’re introducing into our lives in a bid to become more eco-aware.
As well as trying to reduce our own carbon output, thinking green has other benefits. And one area that it’s possible to be sustainable is in our homes – more specifically, in our gardens. By utilising our outdoor space, it can be possible to grow our own fruit and veg.
But what are the advantages of doing this? Why carve out a corner of our garden for a vegetable patch? Read on to find out how this could be the ideal addition to your home.
Reduce carbon footprint
We’ve already mentioned reducing our carbon footprint. This is something many of us are striving towards, whether that’s swapping the car for the bike or reconsidering our energy source.
By setting up your own vegetable patch, you’re reducing the number of trips to the supermarket and one less person using the carbon-rich processes involved in bringing the food to the shops.
To make sure you have everything in place before you begin, set out where you want your patch to go and buy the tools you’ll need. Garden equipment like spades and forks will be top of the list, along with planters and canes. Make sure you store these somewhere easily accessible – ideally in a cabinet with secure latches, hinges and handles so that everything’s safely stashed when not in use.
Less waste
One of the most significant benefits of growing your own produce is that you waste less food, especially if you set up a composting system. Here, everything from vegetable peel to weeds, mown grass to shredded paper can go into the compost heap. So, if you have any fruit and vegetable scraps that aren’t going to be used and would otherwise go to waste, these can be added in.
You’ll reap the benefits of this when you get to apply your compost to the fruit and veg you’re trying to grow for yourself.
Save money
Another benefit is that you’ll save money. The cost of fruit and veg has risen, especially in recent years, so swapping your supermarket shop for growing your own potatoes and broccoli is a great way to manage your budget.
You’ll find that, once you’ve covered the initial costs of seeds, plants and equipment, you’ll see the savings mount up when your first lot of crops are ready. If you’re not successful with the first attempt, try again as you’ll find that some trial and error is involved.
Education opportunity
Growing your own is a lovely opportunity to spend time together as a family. If you have children, this is a great way of teaching them where food comes from, how it’s grown, and essential skills like having responsibility for something.
Will you try to grow your own?
