It's no secret that in my family, I'm the black thumb. Well, at least I used to be. My grandmother kept a garden of roses, hydrangeas, and touch-me-nots. My mother grew indoor plants all around our house and planted trees in our backyard. Somehow, the gardening bug didn't get passed down to me until I decided to try something new and start a container garden in my apartment. Whether you're thinking of growing small herbs in a pot, harvesting a few flowers, or going full throttle for a vegetable garden, starting a garden can be a great addition to your space. Here's why.
1. Peace of mind
2. Exercise
3. Saves money
Yes, it costs money in the beginning to start a garden, but it doesn't have to be expensive. Starting a container garden in your apartment can cost less than $50, but you save even more on your grocery bill by growing your own food.
4. Healthy food at your convenience
Not only do you save money by growing your own food, but you know exactly what's in it! Organic fruits and vegetables are very expensive, and for people/families on a budget, that just isn't going to work. By having your own garden, you can eliminate this setback and have healthy, pesticide-free food at your disposal.
5. Builds community
6. It's fun for the kids
We all remember what it was like as a kid — the simplest things in life can be entertaining. I've even seen gardening get turned into a game: The person who picks the best batch of fruit wins! You can even have the kids help with cooking using the food they picked.
7. Helps kids learn responsibility
8. Gardens encourage learning
Both children and adults can learn about the science of plants, the effects of weather, the environment, nutrition and simple construction. Once you start getting into growing your garden, you'll learn about which herbs grow best with one another, which seasons are best to start and creative ways to use what you grow.
9. Connects you with the environment
Some of us go straight from the house to the car/train to the office, then back to the car/train and to the house without ever spending time outside. Having your own garden (or participating in a community garden) provides a chance to reconnect with nature and get a good source of Vitamin D.
10. Food tastes better
11. Makes your yard and the community beautiful
Rooftop gardens, windowsill container gardens, and large landscapes are all beautiful to look at. Simply looking at the different colors of the flowers, herbs and vegetables can make you feel better. How great is that?
12. Try something new
13. Sense of achievement
It's so rewarding to see new leaves grow on your plants or see your first batch of cherry tomatoes ready to go in your salad. The mental and emotional benefits of planning, planting, and watching your garden grow far exceed the work that goes into keeping it maintained. Once you start gardening, it can become a life-long hobby with endless possibilities!