Growing a Garden is a Great Way to Ease Strain on Food Systems

A growing number of Americans aren’t able to afford to stock up on groceries. According to the Washington Post, there are millions of people living on a fixed income in this country who rely on social security, disability, or food stamps to be able to afford basic necessities. People facing financial hardship are less likely to be able to afford anything other than what they would normally buy.

Planting a vegetable garden could ease the strain on the Nation’s food supply and provide millions of low-income people the ability to eat cheaper and healthier. Gardens also have the added benefit of reducing carbon emissions associated with supply chain and heavy machinery required to harvest and process produce.

During the World Wars, Americans grew victory gardens to ease food shortages and boost morale. The government encouraged everyone who had the space to engage in producing food. In 1918 around 5.2 million garden plots were cultivated generating nearly 1.5 million quarts of canned fruits and vegetables. During the second World War, 40% of all fresh fruits and vegetables were produced in home gardens.

Gardening is also known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Growing fruits and vegetables also provides the health benefits from eating fresh produce and higher levels of vitamin D from being outdoors. Planting and caring for a garden is one of the best things you can do during the coronavirus for yourself and for your community.