Formerly, greenhouse gardening was a luxury reserved only for the wealthy. However, with technological advances and a growing interest in sustainable living, greenhouse gardening has become more accessible than ever before. In fact, it is now estimated that around two million households across the United States practice this form of gardening. Greenhouse gardening offers countless benefits, from extending the growing season to reducing dependency on grocery stores for produce. In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about greenhouse gardening and how you can get started today.
Greenhouse Gardening Now Accessible to More Americans
1. Affordable Greenhouses: With the rise in popularity, manufacturers are producing affordable greenhouse options for homeowners. This means that greenhouse gardening is no longer limited to those with deep pockets.
2. DIY Options: For those who are handy, there are also a variety of DIY greenhouse kits available, making it possible to build your own greenhouse for a fraction of the cost of purchasing one.
3. Online Resources: The internet is a treasure trove of information on how to build and maintain a greenhouse. With online resources, even beginners can successfully garden in a greenhouse.
4. Small-Scale Options: For those with limited space, smaller-scale greenhouses can fit on a patio or balcony. This means that even apartment dwellers can take advantage of greenhouse gardening.
5. Community Gardens: Many neighborhoods offer community gardens, which often include a greenhouse that can be shared among residents. This is a great option for those wanting to try greenhouse gardening without committing to building their own.
It's never been easier to start greenhouse gardening in the US. With more affordable options, DIY kits, online resources, and small-scale options, anyone can enjoy the benefits of greenhouse gardening. Plus, with community gardens offering shared greenhouse spaces, there's no excuse not to give it a try.
Benefits of Gardening for Mental and Physical Health
Gardening is not only a rewarding hobby but also offers numerous benefits for both mental and physical health. Here are some of the benefits of greenhouse gardening:
1. Reduces Stress: Gardening has been proven to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Studies have shown that being in nature and working with plants can lower cortisol levels, the hormone that causes stress.
2. Boosts Immunity: Gardening, especially outdoors, exposes you to natural elements and increases your exposure to vitamin D. This vitamin, in turn, boosts the immune system, improving overall health.
3. Increases Physical Activity: Gardening involves a lot of physical activity, such as digging, planting, and weeding. This activity boosts metabolism, strengthens muscles and bones, and improves cardiovascular health.
4. Provides Mental Stimulation: Gardening engages your brain and provides mental stimulation. It requires planning, problem-solving, and creativity, which can all help to keep your mind sharp.
5. Improves Mood: Gardening has been linked to improved mood, self-esteem, and overall happiness. It provides a sense of accomplishment and purpose, which can lead to feeling content and fulfilled.
Overall, gardening is a great way to improve both physical and mental health. It provides an opportunity to be outdoors, get physical activity, and engage in a meaningful and rewarding activity. With greenhouse gardening becoming more accessible, people can enjoy the benefits of gardening in their homes in any season.
3. Rise in Greenhouse Building During the Pandemic
During the pandemic, people faced significant challenges in securing reliable access to fresh food. As a result, many Americans decided it was time to take control of their own nutrition and started building their own greenhouses.
1. Feeding the Family:
Building a greenhouse provides not only a year-round growing place but also a safe space to grow fresh fruits and vegetables. As a result, the pandemic saw a surge in greenhouse buildings across the country.
2. Thriving Even in Limited Spaces:
While some people might lack access to a garden or backyard, greenhouses can be installed in relatively small spaces such as balconies, patios, and even rooftops. It is also sustainable as homegrown produce reduces carbon emissions, which come along with transportation.
3. A Safe Haven:
In addition to addressing feeding issues, having a greenhouse can provide a sense of safety during pandemics. Having a personal supply of fresh produce can make one less reliant on store trips.
The trend of building greenhouses is not going anywhere, as sustainable and affordable food sources remain a concern. With the right tools, everyone can benefit from a healthy and fresh source of agriculture, both mentally and physically.