This article is part of a 30-day series called the “30 Steps Program to Financial Independence.”
Just like maintaining your car, growing a garden is actually quite simple. It can save you money, help you eat healthier, and serve as an affordable and enjoyable hobby.
So, how do you get started? Personally, I don’t have much gardening experience. Most of what I know comes from following advice given by friends and family while helping with their gardens.
When I buy a house, I’d love to have a small plot of land to grow vegetables. My plan would be to start with the basics that I eat most often, like potatoes, lettuce, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and carrots. Then, I’d add more expensive vegetables like asparagus and leeks that I usually skip because of their high prices. Growing my own would allow me to enjoy them without worrying about the cost.
I also want to explore ways to preserve and freeze large quantities of these vegetables so I can enjoy them throughout the year. I remember visiting my grandparents in the countryside and eating the same vegetables repeatedly during harvest time, which got pretty dull.
With a deep freezer and some jars for tomato sauce and pickled veggies, I could have a varied diet all year long. My gardening costs would be about the same as buying lower-quality produce from the supermarket. Plus, I wouldn’t have to deal with price fluctuations when certain vegetables are in short supply.
Although my garden is still in the planning stage, I believe it’s a feasible project that I will start soon on my journey to financial independence.