The health benefits of vegetables are many, not the least of which is that they are important sources of nutrients, including potassium, dietary fiber, folate (folic acid), vitamin A, and vitamin C. Take the health benefits a step further and grow your own. When you grow your own veggies organically, the nutritional payoff is even higher (not to mention you ensure that no chemicals are being ingested with your zucchini).
Organic fruits and vegetables deliver between
20 and 40 percent higher antioxidant activity, according to a 2014 study published in British Journal of Nutrition.
And don’t forget another important health benefit to growing your own: Working an hour in the garden tending your harvest provides exercise benefits equal to a 30-minute jog.
Soul food
Did you know growing your own is also good for your soul? “What?” you ask? Well, yes. A 2016 meta-analysis has shown a link between gardening and increased mental health. Getting your hands in the dirt brings you in contact with mycobacterium vaccae, a bacterium found in soil that may stimulate the production of serotonin—one of our “feel good” hormones. Gardening also opens your mind to nature: bird song and insect sounds; colors and textures of plants; cloud patterns; changes in weather; soft breezes. All this good stuff has been found to:
- Reduce stress
- Reduce depression and lower anxiety
- Increase focus and mindfulness
- Inspire a sense of awe
- Create a sense of hope and purpose
Get started on your own vegetable garden
Learn more about growing your own vegetables this weekend. Join Daniel Cunningham, Texas A&M Water University horticulturist as he shares his knowledge in our Fall Vegetable Gardening Class on Saturday, August 25, 2018. Daniel will offer strategies for overcoming the challenges of vegetable gardening in our humid and hot southeast Texas climate. Learn when to plant and which vegetables grow best in the fall gardening season. Find out how to reduce your water footprint. Gather information on ways to conserve and protect our natural resources.
Learn more about growing your own vegetables in Saturday’s class.
Bring your gardening questions and plant problems. Montgomery County Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer your questions with proven information.
Grow Your Own Vegetables is a free class; however, space is limited and registration is required.
Grow Your Own Vegetables Class
Saturday, August 25, 2018
9 a.m. to noon
The Woodlands Emergency Training Center
16135 I-45 South, The Woodlands, TX 77385