Get Out and Grow Something
April Is National Gardening Month
Sasha Bush
Ashland Beacon
Some people are born with naturally green thumbs while others like myself find ways to kill houseplants. For those who possess the uncanny ability to grow and provide food for their families, the knowledge and experience of gardening are priceless. April is National Gardening Month. Gardening can be a soothing hobby for the whole family. It’s a great way to spend time together, exercise, and improve our knowledge of how to be self-sufficient.
With the prices of groceries skyrocketing since the start of the pandemic, many have turned to learn the ways of gardening. This newfound trend of gardening is driven by the fundamental changes in consumer behavior who had more free time, money, and space during the pandemic. Two out of every three gardeners tried a new gardening activity during this time. According to a study conducted by National Gardening Association in 2021, due to the Covid pandemic, 18.3 million new gardeners have immerged, 55% of American households now engage in gardening activities, and 35% of U.S. households are now growing their own fruits, vegetables, and other self-sustainable foods.
The benefits of gardening go far beyond just being able to grow and provide food for your family. The number one reason that most people gave when asked why they got into gardening during the pandemic was that it was just relaxing and good for their mental health. Gardening can be quite relaxing and empowering. To be able to grow something from nothing with attentive care and time is really something quite magical. It’s no wonder that so many have turned to gardening and are now helping others to do the same.
Twenty-five years ago, the “Tree and Seed Giveaway” was launched in an effort to help local farmers and landowners properly grow and sustain their gardens and trees. The Tree and Seed Giveaway is an event that the local Conservation districts take part in for their respective communities. Andrea Stratman, one of the volunteers for this year’s Tree and Seed giveaway reached out to us and shared a little bit about what makes this event so important to our communities and local farmers. “We give away garden, flower, and vegetable seeds to landowners to plant in their gardens. We also give away tree seedlings to help control erosion and protect the soil. In addition to the seeds, we also give away assorted food, hygiene, and cleaning products to those that may be in need.” The Tree and Seed giveaway also happens to be a treasure trove of knowledge for aspiring and experienced farmers alike. With each passing year, this event seems to gain in numbers and popularity.
This year’s event was held on Saturday, April 8, 2023, at the Boyd County Fair Expo which is conveniently located at 1758 Addington Road (used to be the Boyd County Fair Grounds). The event began at 10 a.m. and closed once everything had been given out. Farmers, gardeners, and nature enthusiasts from all around were present at this weekend’s event. They all look forward to next year’s event. “We want to encourage people to raise a garden in order to provide fresh food for their table, and we want them to plant trees to prevent erosion and to provide clean air. The flower seeds are of course for beautification,” noted Stratman.