Grow your own fruits and vegetables

BY MARILYN C. ARAYATA

A Google search on preventing many medical problems always leads us to these tips, among others: Adding more fiber to your diet, drinking enough water, having enough rest and sleep, and avoiding too much stress.

These depend o   n a person’s commitment. The first will also depend on availability and price. Fiber sources are perishable. Why not grow your own fruits and vegetables for a regular and abundant supply?

You are sure that your harvest is fresh and free from harmful chemicals. Because you always see fruits and vegetables, there is a tendency that you will eat more. Once you are full, you will tend to eat less of food items which are not as good to your health.

You will even have more than enough to give to relatives and friends without spending anything! Besides, nothing can beat the happiness derived from picking fruits and vegetables from your own garden. It’s good for your physical and mental health, as well as for your pocket.

Tomato, red pepper, turmeric, papaya, banana, and guava are among the easiest to grow. Consider adding onion, garlic, eggplant, water spinach, sweet potato, and moringa or malunggay which are all rich in nutrients. Don’t forget bitter gourd, string beans, snow cabbage and cucumber. Add your favorite fruits!

The Bureau of Plant Industry under the Department of Agriculture is giving away vegetable seeds for free. Check BPI’s website and Facebook page for details. Seeds are also available at agricultural supply stores. Vegetables can even be grown from kitchen scraps. People with limited planting space turn to used water containers, pots, pails, and rooftops. “If there’s a will, there’s a way”!

Beginners will see that not all sprouts will thrive. Don’t lose hope. Plants and crops have different moisture and sunlight requirements. Pests can be controlled without using harmful chemicals. Everything can be learned. Keep trying.