The key to saving could sprout in your garden
Micro-farming is an investment in your health and finances.
They say money doesn’t grow on trees, but savings could sprout from a vegetable bed.
Braving an icy breeze, horticultural enthusiasts, micro-growers and curious green thumbs attended the launch of the Veggie Trade System hosted by Jacqueline Dillon of Dillon & Co Solutions of Norton Home Estate on August 31.
Taking their seats at the Fayview Function Venue, Rynfield, the attendees were privy to valuable hints and tips on farming basics presented by the TVET Agricultural College team.
“This initiative started last year with the help of Amanda van der Linde of the Community Garden Projects,” said Dillon.
“The aim was to connect home-growers with well-established farmers for knowledge and expertise to be freely exchanged, thus encouraging the community to explore the benefits of growing their own vegetables.”
Dillon further explained that gardening, specifically growing fruit, veggies and herbs, is a tradition that has systematically died out.
“Our grannies used to proudly serve pumpkin or green beans, grown effortlessly in their own veggie patches,” she said.
“Unfortunately, due to the demands of modern living, convenience has overshadowed the multitude of benefits home-growing offers.
“Growing your own organic seasonal vegetables is beneficial to your health and gentle on the pocket. At a time where household finances are strapped, one would think opting for sustainable alternatives would be an obvious choice.”
By rolling out the initiative to the community, Dillon hopes the lure of having free access to industry professionals would be a major drawcard for residents to consider micro-farming.
Health benefits
“Membership is free. All that is needed is to become part of our growing community WhatsApp group,” she explained.
“Using this platform, weekly topical educational workshops are shared with members. Topics include irrigation, pest control, protection against the elements and hints and tips about successful growing in small spaces.
“We further hope to include events where local growers can meet, share and celebrate their harvests while incorporating charitable elements, where portions of yields can be donated to local NGOs.”
Touching on the additional benefits of residential growing, Van der Linde said that with more people being diagnosed with depression and anxiety, it is more important than ever to encourage community members to explore the soothing benefits of gardening.
“There is no denying that consuming organically grown fresh produce comes with vast health benefits and financial savings. You are sure to see an improvement in your mental health,” said Van der Linde.
“However, getting your hands stuck into healthy soil is therapy on its own. Immersing yourself in planting and caring for your garden clears the mind and reinvigorates the soul. Inhaling the nitrates – that earthy smell of the soil – is proven to aid mental health.”
The dynamic duo invites community members to join the movement regardless of the size of their undertaking.
“Whether your ‘farm’ comes in the form of pots or a patch of soil in the corner of your garden, we all can sow seeds. Add to that knowledgeable information, and you will soon be reaping the growing benefits of micro-farming,” said Dillon.
For more information or to become a member, send a WhatsApp to Dillon on 081 483 2643.
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