Growing a food garden is a great way to be healthy, save money, and even add a new hobby to your life.
More and more Americans are opting to grow their own food at home rather than making trips to the grocery store.
Currently, 35 percent of households have shifted to food gardening, according to 2014 statistics from the National Gardening Association. The data showed a 17 percent increase from the previous five years.
″This report clearly shows that there truly is a food revolution taking place in America,” Mike Metallo, president and CEO of the National Gardening Association, said in a press release. ″We are seeing more people, particularly young people, actively engaged in growing their own food. The growth in just five years is pretty spectacular.”
While growing a food garden may sound like an arduous task, there are plenty of healthy treats that even novice gardeners can master the care of.
Below, take a look at 16 of the easiest things to grow in your garden, and make sure to SHARE with all your friends on Facebook!
1. Basil
Basil, like many herbs, will grow almost anywhere and will add great flavor to food.
2. Parsley
Same goes for this herb.
3. Tomatoes
There’s really nothing like the taste of homegrown tomatoes, and they are rich in several nutrients, including vitamins A, B6, and C.
4. Cucumbers
These are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a garden, and all they need is lots of sun and water.
The next one is also easy to grow, and it tastes great baked!
5. Squash
The best part of planting this vegetable is that it takes less than two months to grow. It also grows pretty vigorously.
6. Radishes
Radishes also grow quickly, needing only around six weeks.
7. Beans
Beans are known to grow for weeks! They are also a great source of iron.
8. Peppers
These are expected to grow in abundance. There are also tons of different types of peppers, so you just need to pick your favorite.
The next one is perfect for soup!
9. Peas
Just make sure to grow your peas in early spring or late summer/fall because they don’t do well in hot weather.
10. Spinach
Just like peas, spinach doesn’t grow well in hot weather.
11. Beets
Beets are easy to plant, but most take 50 to 70 days to harvest.
12. Lettuce
Lettuce isn't only simple to grow, it's also productive in small spaces.
The next crop is delicious when fried!
13. Potatoes
These are also great for first-time gardeners. The only problem: they overtake your garden! A planting container is a good way to prevent that.
14. Strawberries
Aside from their delicious taste, strawberries can grow in several places. Just watch out for the squirrels!
15. Garlic
Garlic also requires very little space in your garden.
16. Broccoli
Broccoli can grow in abundance, even for beginners.
