Grow What You Love: The Importance of Choosing Plants Wisely

In a world filled with trends and influences, it's easy to get caught up in growing what everyone else is growing.

From social media to gardening magazines, we're bombarded with images of the latest "must-have" plants and foods. But in the midst of all this noise, it's crucial to remember one simple truth: grow what you love, not what others tell you to grow.

There's a certain joy and satisfaction that comes from tending to plants that truly resonate with me. Whether it's the satisfaction of harvesting my favorite herbs for a homemade meal or the delight of watching vibrant flowers bloom in the garden, growing what you love adds a personal touch to your gardening experience.

But beyond the emotional connection, there are practical reasons why growing your preferred plants is important.

One of the most critical factors is knowing what your space and time allow for. Not all plants thrive in every environment, and trying to force a plant to grow where it doesn't belong can lead to frustration and disappointment. By focusing on plants that are well-suited to your climate, soil, and available space, you'll set yourself up for success and maximize your gardening efforts.

Secondly, growing the foods & plants you genuinely enjoy in your garden isn't just about personal preference—it's a smart move that can help curb food waste and ensure that every harvest is put to good use.

When you cultivate fruits, vegetables, and herbs that you love, you're more likely to prioritize their consumption and incorporate them into your meals. This means less produce left languishing in the fridge or forgotten in the pantry, ultimately reducing the amount of food that ends up in the trash.

Additionally, by focusing on growing what you want to eat, you're less likely to end up with surplus crops or unwanted varieties taking up precious garden space. Instead, every inch of soil can be dedicated to plants that bring you joy and nourishment, maximizing both your gardening efforts and the bounty of your harvest.

So, whether it's juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, or fragrant herbs, choosing to grow the foods you love ensures that nothing goes to waste and that your garden yields a bountiful harvest of flavours you truly cherish.

Furthermore, growing what you love ensures that you're reaping the most benefits from your garden. Whether you're growing fruits, vegetables, or flowers, choosing plants that align with your tastes and preferences means you'll enjoy the fruits of your labour to the fullest. There's nothing quite like biting into a ripe tomato you've grown yourself or arranging a bouquet of your favorite blooms to brighten up your home.

So, how can you ensure that you're growing the foods and plants that bring you the most joy and benefit?

Here are three tips for easy-to-grow foods commonly eaten in North America:

1. **Tomatoes** Known for their versatility and delicious flavor, tomatoes are a staple in many North American diets. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small balcony, there's a tomato variety suited to your space. Tomatoes are relatively low-maintenance and can be grown in containers or raised beds with ample sunlight and well-drained soil.

Choose from cherry tomatoes for snacking, beefsteak tomatoes for sandwiches, or plum tomatoes for sauces.

2. **Herbs** Fresh herbs can elevate any dish with their aromatic flavors and vibrant colors. Basil, parsley, cilantro, and mint are just a few examples of herbs that are easy to grow and commonly used in North American cuisine.

Herbs can be grown indoors or outdoors, making them accessible to gardeners with limited space. Keep them near your kitchen for easy access while cooking, and remember to pinch off the top growth regularly to encourage bushier growth and a continuous harvest.

3. **Leafy Greens** Whether you're a salad lover or a fan of sautéed greens, leafy vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and kale are nutritious additions to any diet.

These greens thrive in cooler temperatures and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Start seeds indoors or sow them directly in your garden bed, and keep the soil consistently moist for optimal growth.

Harvest leaves as needed, and enjoy a continuous supply of fresh greens throughout the growing season.

The lesson here.. growing what you love is essential for a fulfilling and rewarding gardening experience.

By focusing on plants that align with your preferences, space, and time constraints, you'll cultivate a garden that brings you joy and nourishment. So, go ahead—plant those tomatoes, herbs, and leafy greens, and savour the satisfaction of growing your own food.

Happy gardening!