Sowing the Seeds of Change: Boosting Food Security in Northwest Ontario
Home Gardening in Northwest Ontario
Hey there, fellow Northwest Ontarians! Have you ever thought about how we can make our beautiful corner of the province even more resilient? Despite our short growing season, let me tell you about some fantastic ways to enhance food security right here. Trust me; it’s easier than you might think!
First things first, let’s talk about home gardening. You don’t need a massive plot of land to make a difference; roll up your sleeves and get started in your backyard. Planting vegetables, fruits, and herbs guarantees a fresh produce supply and helps reduce our carbon footprint. Plus, who doesn’t love the satisfaction of eating food you grew yourself?
But home gardening is not just about growing food – it’s also about building community. We strengthen our connections and support network as we exchange gardening tips, seeds, and harvests with our neighbours. So, even if you’re new to gardening, don’t hesitate to ask for advice – you’ll find that people are more than happy to help.
Gardening Shortcut Links
Sharing Spaces: Community Gardens in Northwest Ontario
Now, let’s talk about community gardens. These shared spaces have been sprouting up all over Northwest Ontario, with residents joining forces to tend and nurture them. Not only do community gardens provide food, but they also create a hub for social interaction, learning, and environmental stewardship. Places like Nipigon Red Rock Horticultural Society’s garden in Lyons Park are perfect examples of this. Plus, they’re always looking for volunteers!
Community gardens also play a vital role in educating children and adults about sustainable gardening practices and local food production. In addition, they offer a space for those who need access to land or resources for their garden. As we work together to cultivate these shared plots, we’re nurturing our sense of unity and fostering a deeper connection to the land.
Growing the Future: Schools and Community Organizations
Speaking of education, our schools and community organizations play a crucial role in food security. Many have started integrating gardening and local food production into their curriculums, teaching students about food sovereignty, sustainable agriculture, and the value of supporting local producers. By empowering our future generations with hands-on experience and practical knowledge, we ensure that they make informed decisions about food choices and contribute to a stronger local food system.
Reaping the Rewards: A Stronger Northwest Ontario
So, there you have it, friends! Even with a short growing season, we can significantly impact food security in Northwest Ontario. By embracing home gardening, community gardens, farmers’ markets, and educational programs, we’re addressing food security concerns and fostering a stronger sense of community and connection to the land. As each season passes, we’ll see the fruits of our labour in the form of bountiful harvests, thriving local businesses, and an ever-growing network of passionate, engaged citizens. So, let’s keep planting the seeds for a brighter, more secure future together!
Seeds and planting
Links and Resources
Recommended Products
(These are some of what I use)
These nursery bags
These Grow bags
Pages
mybackyard.ca Seeds Page
Get a Head Start on Spring: The Benefits of Starting Your Seeds Indoors
Saving Vegetable Seeds: A Comprehensive Guide to Gardening Success
myBackyard.ca Planting Guide
Pollock Tomatoes (North hardy Tomato variety)
Tomatoes (Useful information on starting tomatoes from seed)
DIY Garden Irrigation System: A Detailed Guide for Northwest Ontario
Blog Posts
When to start planting seeds
Germination testing your seeds
Looking for sources for seeds?
Heirloom seeds
Chitting your way to more potatoes
So it's before the first frost; what can I plant?
Individual seed and plant information is available in the "Gardening Shortcut Links" above under "North Hardy Plants to grow". I have successfully grown all of these, and most I grow year to year.
Disclaimer
myBackyard is for recreational purposes only. Plants, mushrooms and berries cannot be 100% identified through this website alone. It is up to the reader to properly identify plants, fungi and trees. Some wild plants, berries and mushrooms are poisonous or can have serious adverse health effects. Even those listed as edible may cause adverse reactions in individuals.
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