For the month of February, Paraic has chosen to feature multiple plants as his "plant of the month". Hence, the February plants of the month are those that can be categorised as one of your "five-a-day".
Environmental Impact
A new study published in the Lancet Medical Journal has warned that meat consumption in western countries, such as Ireland, may need to drop by 90% to avert a climate catastrophe. The research suggests that the global food system is unsustainable. It is driving the planet towards environmental destruction. The study calls for a radical reduction in the consumption of meat and dairy in favour of plant-based alternatives. This includes fruit, vegetables and herbs, all of which can be homegrown. Did you know that February is the perfect time to start producing your own organic five-a-day?
Homegrown Five-A-Day
So many of the beneficial fruits and vegetables can be homegrown all year round. They can be grown even in the smallest of gardens or balconies. Popular soft fruits including strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, peppers and courgettes are ideal for container growing.
Salad crops including lettuce, garlic, spring onion and mixed salad leaves can all be grown in raised beds. Alternatively, use the Elho Barcelona Trough which is ideal for smaller quick maturing salad crops. For larger fruits and vegetables considering using the raised Elho Grow Table. This is ideal for new potatoes, cabbage, cauliflowers, carrots and beetroot.
Paraic's Tip: Rather than cutting the individual plant, peel the leaves (from lettuce and salad leaves) little and often. This will ensure your plant produces new growth all summer long.
Family Activity
As the saying goes, ¨the child that grows a strawberry, eats a strawberry”. What better way to get children interested in consuming their five-a-day, than by growing their own?
The Elho Grow Table is ideal for kids interested in gardening. The raised nature of the table makes it easier for children to reach the soil. Children can plant fresh vegetables to their hearts content, in a friendly environment. The grow table can also be used with the Elho Grow Cover which keeps your young plants protected against cold weather and bugs.
The Vegepod is perfect for larger groups or families who want to grow a wide range of herbs, fruits and vegetables. The Vegepod is a raised bed with a deep planting bed and a covered, clear canopy. The canopy allows light in but keeps the cold and frost out. The Vegepod also incorporates a self-watering system. This makes the watering of your edibles easy and measured.
So if you and your family are considering changing your lifestyle, remember it's easy, fun and delicious to do so. Considering growing a range of herbs, fruits and vegetables this spring and summer - you won't regret it!
Do you have a gardening question on your mind? If so, just contact your local store where one of our helpful and knowledgeable staff will be happy to help and answer any questions you may have.