It seems the new quarantine trend is the return of Victory Gardening. Victory gardens, also called war gardens or food gardens for defense, was a movement that began during World War I. During that time, as a result of food shortages American were called upon to grow food in whatever spaces they could including backyards, rooftops, fireplaces and more. Victory Gardens included vegetable, fruit, and herb gardens planted at private residences and public parks.
Though we’re not currently experiencing food shortages, with many of the essentials being depleted in grocery stores its no wonder this is happening. Many are seeking out ways to be self-sufficient and gardening is at the top of the list.
Aside from that, many are at their wits end with cabin fever. Thus, after weeks of quarantine they are turning to gardening. Home improvement stores are seeing an influx of customers. In fact, Forbes reported a rush of people buying gardening supplies and more people planting gardens now than in previous years. Also, The Georgia Straight reported that the Vancouver gardening industry is booming.
Besides that, it’s springtime and there is no better time to take on a new hobby such as gardening. Gardening is educational, empowering and even relaxing.
What Are People Planting
Some gardening favs have included arugula, broad beans, peas, watercress, lettuce, mustard greens and kale. Earlybird gardeners got a jumpstart on seedlings including radishes, turnips, collards, chards, carrots, onions, garlic, and zucchini.
Perhaps this will become a silver lining to the coronavirus lockdown. Vegetable gardening offers more than just sustenance. It’s Spring, so planting and being outdoors offers a lifting of the spirits, which is what people so desperately need right now. Gardening also gives you a sense of control over the nutritious value and purity of your food minus the chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Will you be joining the new quarantine trend, modern victory gardening? What will you be planting?
