Three Powerful Benefits of Vertical and Sustainable Gardening

Sustainable gardening practices like those seen in Garden Towers funded by the USANA Foundation, offer numerous health benefits:

1. Access to Fresh, Nutrient-Dense Produce: Vertical gardening encourages the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and herbs in a controlled environment. This facilitates easy access to freshly harvested, nutrient-rich produce. Consuming freshly picked fruits and vegetables ensures a higher intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and well-being.
2. Physical Activity and Stress Reduction: Engaging in gardening, even in a vertical setting, involves physical activity like planting, watering, and harvesting. This moderate exercise contributes to improved physical fitness, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Moreover, spending time tending to plants in a garden environment has been shown to reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and enhance mental well-being.
3. Reduced Exposure to Harmful Substances: Sustainable gardening often avoids or minimizes the use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides. With methods like Garden Towers provide a controlled environment that can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, ensuring the produce is free from pesticide residues. This contributes to a healthier diet and reduces the risk of ingesting potentially harmful substances found in conventionally grown produce.Notice:  The Garden Towers provided by the USANA Foundation have been established in needy communities in 14 countries.  Each tower can hold 120-160 plants.   A pilot project is being introduced in 2024, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, where there are approximately 121 days for gardening.  The towers will provide much more needed fresh produce during this time, using less space and water.

By promoting sustainable gardening practices like Garden Towers, individuals can enjoy increased access to fresh, pesticide-free produce, engage in physical activity, and experience the mental health benefits associated with spending time in green spaces—all of which contribute significantly to overall health and wellness.