This has so many benefits beyond just making our air cleaner and enriching our soil. It’s also extremely calming and studies show we are happier when surrounded by greenery and plants. “I hate being happy,” said nobody ever.
For those, like me, who live in big cities and can’t run around planting trees or creating big gardens outside (we’d probably get arrested), there are awesome home kits.
If you’re lucky enough to have a balcony, put out some tomato plants. Not only are they neat-looking and fast-growing, you can eat the resulting tomatoes, which are rich in lycopene which improves your cardiovascular health and helps prevent cancer. BOO YAH! Here is a link to some tomato growing kits.
You can also do window herb gardens or, and check THIS out (it’s on my Christmas list – please, Santa? Please? Please? Please?): a tabletop AEROGARDEN to grow your very own deliciously scented herbs, flowers, fruits, and/or veggies year-round: https://www.aerogarden.com.
For those in rural areas and/or lucky enough to have their own yards and access to land, plant away! My favorite source for all things gardening is the Gardener’s Supply Company. Regardless, always go organic however and wherever you plant. Skip the pesticides, chemicals and say no to GMO seeds. After all, you want to help yourself and the planet, not hurt both. You don’t want to be exposed to toxic chemicals, even if you are growing non-edible flowers instead of veggies, fruits or herbs. Gardeners.com has a lot of tips and tricks for how to avoid pests and problems without the use of nasty pesticides and, if you’re growing inside, it’s even easier. You absolutely don’t need them.
I decided to grow lavender inside (yes, it can be done!) and now everything smells serene and beautiful and I am happier for it. And, I have the opposite of a green thumb. I am wanted for plant murder in some states so, if I can do it, you can definitely do it. And you will be happier, calmer and more zen if you do. It’s like a gift for yourself that’s a gift to the world.
So go on! Green your space! You’re going to be glad you did it.