The start of the gardening season usually coincides with the May long weekend, as nighttime temperatures remain above 5°C. Jill Van Duyvendyk, owner of Dutch Growers Saskatoon, mentioned that this trend is continuing in the long-term forecast, indicating that it is safe to start planting after this weekend. With rising grocery prices, more people are turning to gardening as a way to access affordable food. Van Duyvendyk noted that there has been an increase in people growing their own food in the past five years, whether it be in spots, raised beds, or containers.
For Rosemary Wasylyshyn, gardening is a natural part of her upbringing on a farm. She mentioned that producing her own food is a part of her culture, and she finds joy in watching plants grow and produce during the spring. Jason Childs, an economics professor at the University of Regina, highlighted the significant movements in food prices over the past couple of years, with inflation being led by food costs. This increase in food prices has forced many people to change their grocery shopping habits, leading to a resurgence in gardening as a way to ensure food security.
Gardening is a time-consuming investment, but the benefits greatly outweigh the costs. Not only does it provide a source of fresh, healthy food, but it also offers a sense of satisfaction and joy in watching plants grow and flourish. As people strive to become more self-sufficient and secure their food sources, gardening has become an increasingly popular activity for individuals and families alike. The rise in gardening is not just a passing trend but a response to economic pressures and a desire for a more sustainable and secure way of accessing food.
As the gardening season kicks off, many individuals are eager to get started and reap the rewards of their efforts. Whether it be planting vegetables, flowers, or herbs, the act of gardening connects people to the earth and provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose. With the uncertainty of global food prices and supply chains, gardening offers a sense of control and security in being able to produce one’s own food. It also promotes a healthier lifestyle by encouraging outdoor activity and reducing dependency on processed foods.
Overall, the resurgence of interest in gardening is not just a hobby but a practical response to economic challenges and a desire for self-sufficiency. As the cost of living continues to rise, many individuals are turning to gardening as a way to offset food expenses and ensure a steady supply of fresh produce. With the added benefit of connecting to nature and enjoying the process of growing plants, gardening has become a popular and rewarding activity for those looking to take control of their food sources and lead a more sustainable lifestyle. By cultivating their own gardens, individuals can not only save money but also gain a sense of independence and fulfillment in providing for themselves and their families.
