Robert Kumza
Many of us may remember working with our parents or grandparents in the family garden. As children, we may not have realized it, but many families were going through tough times after the war. Food shortages were common, and Americans were called upon to help the war effort by growing their own food in “Victory Gardens.” During this time, more than 20 million of these gardens popped up across the United States, producing about 40% of the nation’s fresh produce.
Recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in growing our own food. Supply chain issues, empty grocery shelves, high food prices, global political tension, dramatic changes in weather and COVID lockdowns have made us all realize that we live in a time when our food supply is vulnerable to many different conditions. The National Gardening Association estimates that 43% of all American households are responding to this situation and now growing their own fruits and vegetables.
The Make America Healthy Again movement has seen more people take responsibility for their own food supply and health. People are starting to recognize the dangers of ultra-processed foods and see the benefits of growing their own organic food. The new 2026 Food Pyramid emphasizes the importance of fresh, organic, whole, plant-based foods. The rapid growth of YouTube videos on regenerative and sustainable gardening techniques to support organic growing is another sign of interest in food gardening.
Many seniors living on a fixed income are starting to feel the pinch at the grocery store check-out and realize that they, too, could benefit in numerous ways from starting their own victory garden. Gardening for as little as 30 minutes each day has proven mental, physical, and emotional health benefits, as well as the rewards of a delicious and healthy harvest.
Victory Garden 250 is a national movement led by the Victory Garden Alliance to plant millions of gardens in 2026, the 250th anniversary of the United States. The program encourages people to plant gardens to foster community resilience, health, and self-sufficiency.
If you would like to join other SaddleBrooke residents in learning how to grow your own food, there are lots of resources available to help you. Almost two years ago, the SaddleBrooke Gardening Club was formed. Since the original focus of the club was “growing your own food,” it is not surprising that of the 170 people on the roster, about 80 members are avid vegetable/herb growers. As more people became involved, the scope of the club grew to include every imaginable type of gardening. The club is a social organization with fun events and garden tours aimed at fostering friendships with others who also have a passion for gardening.
To learn more about the SaddleBrooke Gardening Club, go to www.SBGardeningClub.weebly.com.