your farm. anywhere.

“Will you have a part in victory?” was an important question posed twice to the American people in the first half of the 20th Century; in 1917 during World War I and again in 1939 during World War II. A national campaign was launched promoting the cultivation of available private lands to increase local food production thereby greatly reducing shipping costs and helping the war effort. The Great Wars may be over, but the many benefits of “Grow your own!” are applicable today more than ever. So applicable in fact, one New England town teaches gardening to every 3rd grader as part of their “Be Healthy Beverly” initiative. 5 great reasons to grow your own:

Although berries can take a few years to get going, the wait is worth it. Once you've developed a berry crop, you can harvest from the start of summer, to well into the fall. There's really nothing better than having several months' worth of fresh-picked berries from a backyard garden.

The sunflowers in front of Green City Growers' Somerville office are bright and in bloom, stretching high above the rest of the garden. With their soaring stalks and bright yellow petals, sunflowers bring color to almost any plot of land. But, sunflowers can do more than just add aesthetic appeal; in fact, sunflowers are an entirely edible plant.

From root to leaf, sprout to stalk, you can use your sunflowers to make everything from salads to sunflower tea. Before chowing down, though, make sure the sunflower you're about to enjoy has been grown organically, without pesticides, or any other toxic substances that might not be so kitchen-friendly.

Have you heard about rock dust fertilizer? My name is Macy Horton and I am a guest blogger here to tell you about its wonders! I was an intern at Green City Growers last summer, and working with the GCG team was one of the most formative experiences of my life. The experience I had there gave me the courage, knowledge, and energy to start a venture of my own! That’s a lot more than most people can say for their internship experience.

Organic Pest Management July 28th, 2013 3pm- 4:30pm