What’s fun, relaxing and good exercise? 

Have you ever heard the phrase “you are what you eat?” What we eat plays a major factor in how we grow. It also controls our energy levels and our health. Fruits and vegetables are an important part of our diet and contribute to our overall health. 

We all are aware that exercise is good for us in keeping our hearts and bodies strong and helps prevent diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. 

Soooo, how can you make exercise relaxing, fun and nutritious? Vegetable Gardening! 

There is something about getting out in nature and growing things that is therapeutic. Whether you have space for a large garden or the space of a postage stamp, there is no excuse for not trying your green thumb in growing some fruits and vegetables that are beneficial for your health. 

You live in an apartment and have no space? Try a container garden. Container gardens can grow almost any fruit or vegetable. 

Most plants need at least six hours of sun. Plants that tolerate partial sun are carrots, cabbage, brussel sprouts and herbs. Stake or cage your tomato plants to keep the fruit off the ground. (Have you seen the new “topsey turvey” tomato planters? You just need a place to hang it.)

Water regularly, especially as the weather heats up. Inspect your plants regularly for signs of insect and disease damage. 

Gardening promotes healthy living and nutritious eating habits. Getting out in the garden and pulling weeds gives hours of exercise. 

Gardening makes fresh fruits and vegetables available at all times and added excitement of eating something you grew yourself. 

Getting dirty is an integral part of life for kids, so get them involved in the gardening process. Plant some radishes so the children can see in 3-4 days the plants growing, as radishes grow fast. Gardening is educational and nutritious for children. Children that grow their own vegetables may be more willing to eat what they planted. Because of the possibility of lead in soil, make sure that children under the age of six wear gloves or wash hands as soon as the digging in the soil is done. 

When you pick your garden produce wait until just before you eat or prepare your fruits and vegetables to wash them. Gently rub fruits and vegetables under running cool water. There is no need to use soaps or detergents in cleaning the food. Potatoes can be scrubbed with a vegetable brush while rinsing with clean water to remove the dirt. 

So get outside, plant that garden, maybe next year you will want to expand and try other plants.  But, most of all have fun and enjoy the “fruits” of your labor.