Backyard farming is not as much of a hobby as it once was, but is turning into a more sustainable way for families and property owners to create a food source that they can control, select, and nurture. Many food-producing plants have amazing blooms and pair nicely with traditional flower gardens. Backyard farming, also known as urban farming, is a trend that has been taking off during the last decade where more homeowners are dedicating larger portions of their garden space to growing food for their families, and doing it in such a way that they can still enjoy their space while also providing a sustainable food source.
Growing your own produce is not only smart, but it will save you money too. Being able to control the foods that you eat is a nice bonus, but knowing what you put into your food is also a great piece of mind to have. You are responsible for any chemicals you use on your garden, and you know exactly what has been used on your food when you are the farmer growing it. Seeds or seedling plants to start your urban farm are much cheaper than buying the same produce, and with enough care and attention, the plants that you pay for once, will produce food for you all season, saving you money in the long run.
Beans, tomatoes, potatoes, and many types of squashes are great for beginners and require much less attention than most people expect. You can add most vegetable and fruit plants to a garden that is already going, so long as there is enough space, or a new bed or plot can be created and specifically dedicated to backyard farming. Raised beds, or square food gardening, are common practice for people looking to begin their own urban farm, and are a great way to dedicate a small amount of space to plants that will produce large amounts of food.
By planting your own food, you are not only saving your money and ensuring that you are eating high-quality foods, but you are also helping to save the environment. Every year more forests are cleared to make way for farmland, and more natural settings are plowed to make way for new crops. Simply by using a space that requires very little work in your back yard, you are helping to create a sustainable system that does not encourage the continued destruction of natural resources.
Planting fruits and vegetables is also good for other plants that are growing around your garden too, because it will help to attract pollinators nearby, and will provide them with a food source. Urban farming gets you up and outside, provides you with a healthy, high quality and sustainable food source, and contributes to a more sustainable food system in general, and can even have positive effects on the ecosystem around you. It is a great way to learn about new foods, try growing your favorite fruits and veggies, and a fun way to get some exercise outside and enjoy your garden from a new angle.
