I grew up on an avocado farm in a rural part of Southern California, surrounded by avocados, bananas, pineapples, and citrus. From a young age, I was enthralled by the magic of just-picked produce and the simple beauty of what you could create with it. The guacamole made with a squeeze of lime, the banana stalk placed ceremoniously in the kitchen before being turned into a banana cream pie, the tangerine juice on slow Sunday mornings — all helped shape my love for fresh, homegrown food as one of the sweetest parts of life.
Fast forward to today, and gardening continues to be an integral part of my life. From California to Oregon, and now in upstate New York, my husband and I have found joy in cultivating everything from herbs in small pots to micro orchards. And in recent years, I’ve discovered that my hobby isn’t just good for my mental well-being — it’s also a powerful way to manage grocery costs.
While gardening is undoubtedly an ongoing learning process (one that keeps even seasoned gardeners constantly curious and eager to learn more), I’ve found some tried-and-true tips that can help you get started with growing your own food and saving on your grocery bill.
Let’s dive into some ideas that can make your gardening journey both rewarding and affordable:
1.
Start small — you don’t need a huge garden.
2.
Plan your garden around your grocery list.
3.
Choose the right location.
4.
Use containers or raised beds to maximize space.
5.
Start from seeds or seedlings — it’s more affordable.
6.
Save money on soil with DIY solutions.
7.
Composting and self-sowing for healthy soil.
8.
Water wisely to save on costs.
9.
Grow in seasons and plan for staggered harvests.
10.
Preserve your harvest for the long term.
11.
Incorporate companion planting.
12.
Build a strong fence and use deterrents.
For us, gardening isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about enjoying the process. “Progress, not perfection” is our motto, because while some days in the garden are frustrating (like the time, pre-fence, when the deer nibbled on our young apple trees), others are incredibly invigorating. Don’t be afraid to experiment, learn from your mistakes, and celebrate your wins. With patience and effort, you’ll not only grow beautiful plants but also enjoy fresh, homegrown food while saving money.
Share your gardening tips and experiences in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you.
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