Summer is almost here and there is no better time to start a garden as a tool to save money. Not only will growing your own food save you money on your grocery bills, it is also a great stress reliever. Working in a garden is good for your body and soul.
You do not even need to have a big backyard. Even a patio with pots will work fine. All you need is a place outside and some soil. Even a windowsill will function as a mini herb garden. Be creative and you can find a way to grow your own food.
The best money saving method is to start with seeds, as they are cheap. Of course, if you do not want to wait that long, buying a vegetable start at $1.99 is still much cheaper than buying months of the vegetable. Nothing beats the few cents a seed, but even buying the plants are a good financial option too.
Be sure to save or share your bounty. Start a neighborhood garden co-op and trade your crops. Learn some easy methods of freezing or drying the extra veggies and fruits you cannot consume immediately. Many local extension offices will provide free advice on how to preserve your harvest.
In addition to the actual growing of food, another gardening money saving tool is to compost. It saves money by reducing your garbage bill and helping you grow your garden plants better naturally. Keep a pail in or near your kitchen so you have it for easy access of your leftover vegetable matter. Then locate your compost bin near your garden outside.
In addition to saving money, living more naturally is better for your health and the environment. In turn, this indirectly helps your family and neighborhood preserve natural resources and possibly even reduce doctor’s bills down the road.
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