In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to forget the cherished tradition of backyard farming. Perhaps, you also have a beautiful memory of a tiny, well-garden behind someone’s house where they grow plants like vegetable, flowers and some fruits; take care of chickens for eggs and meat; and it smells a mixture of chicken-poo with fresh flowers – yes, that’s it! A backyard farm – the small peaceful place in the middle of a busy neighbourhood. For generations, families cultivated their own fruits and vegetables, fostering self-sufficiency and creating a stronger connection to the land. But in recent years of this modern world, this vital practice has been pushed aside in favour of convenience. Today, we argue that backyard farming should not remain in the good old days; it should be revived and celebrated for the multitude of benefits it offers, such as:
Rediscovering the joy of fresh homegrown produce
The taste of a sun-ripened tomato freshly plucked from the vine or the crisp crunch of homegrown ugwu (spinach) in egusi and other soups, is a memory many of us hold dearly. I remember vividly, how my mother would go to our neighbours, who planted long pod tomatoes for some, whenever tomatoes became too expensive to buy or whenever we wanted to do ‘ata-dindin’ (fried sweet-sauce), while they would come to our own compound for some bitter leaves, oranges and even banana; all planted by our landlord then. Nowadays, when you look around, you find out that there are more car parking spaces than there are gardens or backyard farms in homes. Little wonder why some children think that yams fall from the sky. Funny right?
Oh, can we go back to the good old days when backyard farming allows us to savour these simple pleasures, once again? Imagine, just wanting to fry some egg sauce and you can just walk out your door and come back in with some fresh vegetables to spice up your menu! The truth remains that by growing our own produce, we take control of the quality and taste of the food we put on our plates. No more; bland, store-bought fruits and vegetables when you can experience the vibrant flavours of your garden.
Sustainable choice for a greener future
Backyard farming isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a sustainable choice with far-reaching benefits for our planet. As we grapple with environmental challenges, climate change and the likes; every small step counts – every crop planted matters. When you grow your own food, you reduce your carbon footprint. You cut down on the transportation emissions associated with getting produce to your local grocery store, and you can implement eco-friendly practices, like composting and rainwater harvesting, to further reduce waste and conserve resources. There is a lot we are yet to even find out from doing backyard farming.
Financial savings is in your own backyard
In an era of rising food prices, cultivating your own garden can significantly cut down on grocery expenses. If you don’t want to have your wallets continually out and empty on food stuff purchases per time, you must act on backyard farming. While the initial investment may seem daunting, the long-term savings are substantial, trust me. Plus, the satisfaction of eating food you’ve grown yourself is priceless – so blissful. It’s not just about saving money – it’s about investing in a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. Recent global events have highlighted the fragility of our food supply chains. When disruptions occur, access to fresh produce can become a challenge – if you take time to remember what happened with eggs and onions at some point in Nigeria. Backyard farming is an insurance policy against food insecurity. Imagine the peace of mind knowing that, regardless of external circumstances, your family can rely on the harvest from your own garden. It’s a proactive step towards self-sufficiency and resilience.
Connecting with nature and community
Backyard farming fosters a profound connection to nature. Tending to plants, nurturing soil, and watching the seasons change offers a sense of fulfillment and tranquility that is often missing in our fast-paced lives. You don’t have to wait till it’s your retirement year before you start farming. Now is the opportunity to unplug from screens and reconnect with the earth. Moreover, backyard farming can strengthen community bonds, just as the instance I gave earlier in this article. Can you just imagine yourself again, in a community where everyone shares surplus produce with neighbours; there is time to participate in local gardening clubs and meetings, where everyone one including their children can share connections and camaraderie, creating a more vibrant and resilient community?
Time to act is, now
Modernity is good, but it would not continually put healthy food in our stomachs in years to come, if we stick with it alone. We must choose to choose food safety over convenience and bubbling lifestyle by recognising the value of backyard farming. It’s not merely a nod to the past; it’s a path to a brighter and more sustainable future. By embracing this time-honoured practice, we can reclaim control over our food, reduce our environmental impact, save money, and foster stronger communities. So, let’s dig in and revive the tradition of backyard farming for the well-being of our families, our communities, and our planet.
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