Photo credit: Gardner’s Supply

During the recent Planning Commission meeting, Jeff Helm introduced an intriguing “community gardens” initiative that Lancaster General Health is supporting and fostering for the Columbia community. [Gardening is one of the many active lifestyle activities suggested in the LGH “Lancaster on the move” guide to free and low cost physical activities for you and your family with additional wellness resources.]

Mary Ellen Graybill sent this article from planetgreen.com about container gardening; the two ideas develop “grow your own food” inspirations that make sense for small spaces.

“Growing your own food is exciting, not only because you get to see things grow from nothing into ready-to-eat fruits and veggies, but you also don’t have to worry about the pesticides they might contain, and you definitely cut down on the miles they – and you – have to travel.

“As it turns out, with pretty minimal effort, anyone can be a gardener. My boyfriend and I are essentially first-timers this season and so far have the beginnings of strawberries peeking out, tomatoes are on their way, the basil’s about ready for a big batch of pesto, and once the last frost hits, the peppers, kale, spinach, chard, and mesclun will be on their way, too. All on a tiny little terrace (with the help of a little DIY carpentry).”

Click here to read the entire article.