(Newswire.net — November 17, 2022) — The price of a head of lettuce has increased considerably, along with so many staples that Americans are dependent on for health and nutrition. According to The Hill, the price of groceries rose 13% ove rthe past year. That’s a huge increase, one that is being felt around the dinner table. Americans are paying a premium for staples and there’s no sign of price hikes slowing in the near future. Some of the most expensive increases make it hard to stay healthy and eat well when funds are limited.
In an effort to save money and cut grocery bills, Americans are turning to home-grown fruits and vegetables, spurring an increase in new methods like Hydroponic Gardening. Lettuce is the number one grown crop, followed by herbs, such as basil, and then tomatoes. In an effort to save money, creating a small crop of vegetables in doors is gaining popularity to put salads and other fresh vegetables on the table. Depnding on the hydroponic method used, start-up costs are minimal to grow simple crops like lettuce and herbs.
One method that is gaining popularity is the Kratky Method of Hydroponics. The Kratky method uses a container with a reservoir of nutrient solution at the bottom and plants growing in an inert medium, such as clay pellets, at the top. The roots of the plants dangle down into the reservoir. The main benefits of the Kratky method is that it is a very simple way to grow plants. This method does not require any special equipment, and it can be used in a small space. The plants do not need to be watered as often, and they will not need to be fertilized as often. This makes Kratky Hydroponics an excellent source for growing small amounts of inexpensive table staples for a family.
Another trend that is gaining momentum are entire hydropinc systems being setup in basements and spare rooms, which can not only supply a family of 4, but often deliver excess crops. This trend allows additional income to buy other groceries, as gardeners sell their excess to grocers or at farmers markets. The most popular crops? Lettuce, herbs and micro-greens, which are the baby versions of adult plants. Growers pack in 100’s of seeds in an effort to create nutrient-rich sprouts that have gained popularity in the last decade.
It’s evident that the rising price of groceries is affecting so many Americans. While hydroponic gardening is not new, the amount of people getting into the hobby has increased immensely. This trend started during the pandemic and has not declined as prices continue to rise.