Trying to cut down on our carbon footprints is something that a lot of us have on our minds. So what can we do to try and help the environment and also help ourselves?

 

Well, Armidale has a great climate for putting in some plants and growing our own food. Whether it’s a veggie patch or a few fruit trees, our mild summers make the New England’s heart an ideal place to cultivate seasonal favourites like lettuce and tomatoes.

 

Think about it, not only are you getting fresh healthy produce, but you are saving on all that energy and fuel that is needed to transport your groceries from around the country or even the other side of the world.

 

Growing your own food is also much more convenient – imagine if you only had to walk to your back garden each time you needed a new lettuce or some tomatoes for your salad. Obviously most modern families don’t have the time or space to grow a lot, but even growing some chillies in a pot on your patio can make a difference to everyday cooking.

 

If you are interested putting together a vegetable garden of your very own I found some tips to get you started. Getting advice in person from a local gardener is always best, so visit your local hardware store or nursery this weekend, I’m sure they’ll be able to point you in the right direction.