Back during World War II, people grew so called “victory gardens” as a way to ease demand on the war rationed food supply and support the troops. Today, with a sinking economy and rising food prices forcing many people to tighten their belts and rethink their budgets, they’ve become popular again. Fruits, vegetables and herbs are at all time high prices thanks to crop failures caused by extreme weather and fuel prices. Growing your own not only saves money, it tastes better! Commercially grown produce are designed to withstand the long travel to the grocery store, not for flavor. That’s why many a delicious looking store bought tomato tastes like cardboard.
A victory garden doesn’t require a large space. Herbs, and even some vegetables and fruits can be grown in small spaces like patios, balconies, and windowsills. All that’s needed is a space that gets at least 6 hours of sun a day and some suitable containers. These can be bought at garden centers, home improvement stores and nurseries, or they can be recycled from other products. For example, the plastic buckets that cat litter comes in make ideal containers for growing vegetables. Just drill a few holes in the bottom for drainage. Another excellent source for a container is your local bakery or deli. They usually don’t mind giving away the empty plastic containers such things as flour and pickles come in!
Here are a few plants that will work well in an urban victory garden:
Tomatoes - These will happily grow in a container (or for the small varieties such as cherry and grape, hanging baskets!) as long as they get lots of sun-at least 6 hours, and the more the better. When shopping for seeds, look for varieties with “bush” in the name as these signal types that are especially designed to grow in containers and other small spaces. Water regularly, especially once the fruit has set, but be careful not to overwater as this will cause the fruits to crack. Fertilize once a month with a good quality tomato food. The liquid type that can be sprayed on and/or added while watering is best.
Strawberries - These will do well in a large window box, hanging basket or strawberry jar. Plant in full sun and water regularly, and for the first year, don’t let them produce fruit. Instead, pinch off the blossoms as soon as they appear. This will give the plants time to strengthen and result in a bountiful crop of berries next year. The exception is the “ever bearing” variety in which the blossoms should only be removed until midsummer, then the plants can be allowed to fruit.
Herbs - Almost any herb can be grown on a sunny window or container. Choose healthy looking plants that haven’t yet flowered and plant in well draining soil. Watering is very important. Many believe that withholding water until the soil dries out results in more intense flavor. Don’t let the plants get so dry that they begin to wilt though, as many may not recover.
If there is simply no space at all suitable for a victory garden, a community garden may be the answer. Many cities have them and residents can sign up for a plot of their very own. Many donate part of their harvest to a local food bank but it’s usually not required. The local County Extension Office will have information on them and how to sign up!
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