Recession, health concerns get Americans gardening

DALLAS (Reuters) – Alison Baum of San Antonio, Texas hopes to save money and eat better by getting her hands dirty.

She is joining the swelling ranks of Americans who have started backyard fruit and vegetable gardening, a trend rooted in a desire to cut costs as the recession bites, fears about the safety of commercial food supplies and popular views that organic food is better for you.

There is also a growing sense in these tough economic times that food security starts at home.

“This recession got me thinking that if things turned out like the Great Depression then it would be better to grow your own stuff and be in control. I’ve even ordered baby chicks,” the medical intern told Reuters in a telephone interview.

Reuters