Caring for Creation and Gardening!

Did you know that the Netherlands is the 2nd largest exporter of produce in the World !!! China is number one in the world for produce, including grains. India is near the top of the list as well. The United States is usually at third. The Netherlands does not have the land mass to grow as much grain, but they grow potatoes, onions, lots of vegetables, and some grains.

Their main exports are vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and aubergines. They are also the largest exporters of tulips and tulip bulbs! Most of their vegetables are grown in hothouses, many using geothermal energy. Growers in the Netherlands have upgraded and modernized all their production to become the 2nd largest exporter of produce in the World !!!

Following World War II and the devastation in Europe caused by that war, farmers in the United States were growing the grains that fed the world for several years. Farmers that I knew when growing up, were quietly proud of the wheat and oats, and other grain crops they grew to feed the world. The years immediately following WWII were bummer crop years on the Prairie. In addition, many people had gardens that produced tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and watermelons at the very least. Everyone, including Family Farmers, was eating well!

Now, much of our produce, including fruit, is shipped for miles to get to the stores. Every year there are fewer and fewer Family Farms or orchards owned by a family. We are relying more and more on Corporate Agriculture! We know that most corporate businesses are run to generate as much profit as possible. We also know these corporations usually have higher expenses than a family farm. The corporations are paying for large and expensive planting and harvesting equipment as well as shipping or trucking costs. Often the food costs more than it might if it were grown “locally”.

Because our food production has become more centralized, there can be major shortages of fruits and vegetables due to extreme weather or the massive fires that burned in California. So, what can we do …

The Answer is Simple !!! We can grow some of our own fruits and vegetables! So many people in the U.S. have yards that are currently known as “lawns”. There is often good soil under that lawn and adequate Sunlight most of the year. More and more people are using some part of their yards for raised beds or even greenhouses. Many communities have developed excellent community gardens where families can rent 2 or 3 or more raised beds for vegetables if they don’t have room where they are living!

In many areas of the country, people can sign up for a specific quantity of fruit from local orchards before harvest. Everyone comes out ahead. The orchards are supported and families know where their fruit is coming from and how it is raised. Another advantage is that people get to know each other! Community Gardens build Stronger Communities. And, children learn first-hand where their food is coming from. They also can learn how to grow food! Parents have learned that children will eat what they grow, even Brussel Sprouts !!!

We can feed ourselves, at least with basic vegetables. Often, when people discover the Joy of Gardening, they add strawberries, blackberries, even apple and peach trees to their gardens! People who garden and raise at least some of their own food, usually feel more secure. Research has shown that “gardeners are usually healthier, happier, and much less stressed” than people who do not garden !!! Amazing !!! And, nothing tastes better than a ripe tomato, sprinkled with salt, right from your own garden !!!

This is the perfect time of year to plan and develop your garden. There are many resources in every community for gardening. Most state agricultural departments and ag colleges have plenty of information, as well as knowledgeable people who are ready to help.

We can be more independent, resilient, and healthier, all from having our very own gardens !!! We will have stronger and healthier communities as well !!!

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