It’s not the main reason people usually grow their own fruits and vegetables, but it can be a cost-effective way to save money on groceries. Here are some fruits and vegetables that are relatively easy to grow and can provide a good return on your investment:
1. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are versatile and can be grown in various sizes and types. Homegrown tomatoes often taste better than store-bought ones.
2. Herbs: Herbs like basil, mint, parsley, and rosemary can be expensive to buy but are easy to grow in small spaces.
3. Lettuce and Salad Greens: Lettuce, spinach, and other salad greens can be continuously harvested, providing you with fresh produce over an extended period.
4. Green Beans: Green beans produce a high yield and are easy to grow. They can be canned or frozen for use throughout the year.
5. Courgette: Courgette plants are prolific and can yield a large amount of fruit. They can be used in various dishes. (Even fabulous courgette cakes!)
6. Peppers: Bell peppers and chili peppers can be expensive at the store, but growing them at home can provide a steady supply.
7. Cucumbers: Cucumbers can be grown vertically to save space and produce a good quantity of cucumbers.
8. Radishes: Radishes have a short growing cycle and can be ready to harvest in as little as 3-4 weeks. Best eaten raw, and can be easily sliced into salads and sandwiches.
9. Carrots: Carrots can be grown in containers and harvested as needed, standard shop bought carrots aren’t particularly expensive but if you grow heritage carrots (that come in a variety of colours from purples, reds, oranges, and yellow), you can save quite a bit and enjoy flavoursome varieties that are incredibly sweet and fresh.
10. Strawberries: Homegrown strawberries are delicious and can save you money compared to buying them from the store.
11. Onions: Onions are relatively easy to grow and can stored well for later use.
12. Peas: Peas are easy to grow and can be harvested multiple times in a season.
13. Garlic: Growing your own garlic can save money and provide you with fresh, flavorful cloves.
14. Potatoes: Potatoes can be grown in containers or in the ground, yielding a good amount of produce.
Remember that the amount you save will depend on factors such as the initial investment in seeds or plants, soil, water, and other resources. Additionally, the success of your garden depends on proper care, attention, and environmental conditions. Even if you don’t have a large garden, you can still save money by growing a few of these cost-effective fruits and vegetables in containers or small spaces.