Inflation pressures lead to increased interest in home gardening.

Rising food costs due to inflationary pressures have increased the interest in home gardening in America.  Many people see their efforts as an “inflation-fighting” measure that also provides the additional health benefits of increased exercise and fresher produce options.  Americans turning to gardening as a way to reduce household expenses have found savings to be hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the size of their garden and varieties of produce.  According to an annual survey of American households, more money and time was spent tending gardens in 2025 than any time since 2022.  And early indications are that 2026 will be even stronger.

The survey indicated that 64% of gardeners plan to plant more and expand their gardens in 2026.  Over 25% of respondents to the survey said that they spent 50% more time working in their gardens this year over past years.  And much of this increase is coming from younger gardeners, with Gen X and Gen Z gardeners being significantly more likely to invest additional time and effort into gardening.

The winter months are the ideal time to plan your garden for the upcoming growing season.  November through January is the time to decide what to keep or change, to begin mapping out new garden beds or structures, and to determine your need for soil amendments or improvements.  February is the time to layout your planting area, to build new raised beds, and to begin buying seeds for indoor starts in March.

Evanston Valley Enterprises can assist with providing amended topsoil for new raised beds, and humus compost for incorporating into existing soil.  Call us today for more information.