Every year, we try to eat healthier and save money at the same time, but it can be pretty tough! Having your own garden can help you reach these goals. Here are four reasons why:
1. **Cutting Grocery Costs**
Groceries often take up a big chunk of our budget. Most Americans spend about 14% to 34% of their income on food, which is a lot. Last year, we spent around 14% of ours, but this year we aim to get it closer to 10%. Growing our own food can really help cut down on grocery bills, especially since a lot of our food budget goes to fresh produce.
2. **Physical Activity**
Gardening is a great way to stay active. It’s hard work and involves using many different muscles. Plus, it helps increase red blood cell oxygenation, get more Vitamin D, detoxify through sweat, and drink more water. Gardening also means less driving to the store, saving on gas and car maintenance costs.
3. **Meal Planning**
By choosing what to plant in your garden, you can plan your meals ahead of time. Depending on your plant hardiness zone, you’ll have different crops to choose from for your meals. Websites like The Urban Farmer offer great lists of crops suited for various zones, helping you plan your garden smartly. Having a variety of crops also means more diverse meal options.
4. **Eating Less**
Gardening keeps you busy and away from mindless snacking. Plus, homegrown food is packed with nutrients, so it fills you up faster. This way, gardening not only helps you save money but also keeps your waistline in check.
In summary, personal gardening is a smart way to save money and adopt healthier habits. The four main benefits are saving on groceries, promoting physical activity, planning creative meals, and reducing portion sizes. We hope you find these tips helpful. We’d love to hear how gardening has helped your budget and health!