From community gardens to farmers markets and seedling sales, more Australians are embracing their green thumbs — saving money and potentially boosting their mental health at the same time.
With prices of certain grocery items soaring in recent months, a growing number of Australians are going back to their roots — plant roots that is.Organisers say it's linked to the rising cost of livingCommunity gardens are reporting increased demand for memberships, farmers market organisers say they are busier than ever, stores say they're selling more seedlings and gardening courses are booked out.
"There's no doubt that cost of living pressures that we're all seeing could be contributing to people coming in wanting to learn new skills, like growing their own vegetables at home."On the other side of the city, another urban farm is also reporting a big spike in interest in its services. "I think in some cases, supermarkets have not been able to deliver the same standard of fresh veggies, so we're finding an increased interest in members picking more often."Ms House said there has been increased demand across the board, from more volunteers to a long waitlist for memberships.
North Fremantle Social Farm gives unlimited access to their produce in exchange for a membership fee. Bunnings says over the last month, searches on their website for seedling mix has increased by 20 per cent. Casey Lister has found more of her gardening clients are wanting to learn how to grow their own vegetables in recent months.