JULY 2018 • NEBRASKAland 35
an early snow fell before Thanksgiving, I drove her to the
grocery store and was confused when she put only a few
things in her cart. I thought she had forgotten her shopping
list, but when I asked, she shrugged, "No, I think I have
everything else I need." Two days later, we sat down to a
Thanksgiving feast with all the trimmings, many of which
came from her garden.
While my grandmother's garden is one to aspire to,
not everyone has the space, time or energy for such an
undertaking. However, with Nebraska's rich soil and
ample sunshine it's easy for new gardeners to find success.
Gardening is a great way to spend time outside and the
rewards are measured in smiles at the dinner table. Another
option for aspiring green thumbs are community gardens.
For a modest fee, you receive an allotment of land to plant
whatever you like alongside other gardeners. It's also a
way for new gardeners to glean knowledge from their more
experienced neighbors. If you are unsure of yourself or want
to limit the investment of money and time to start a larger
garden, community gardens are a great place to start.
Maybe you just don't have time for gardening. If so,
consider visiting one of Nebraska's numerous farmers
markets. The Omaha Farmers Market is the largest and
oldest in the state with more than one hundred vendors.
Lincoln's Historic Haymarket Farmers Market offers
produce, meats, plants, baked goods, fresh cheese, crafts
and more. Kearney, Grand Island and North Platte also have
excellent farmers markets that host activities and events in
addition to letting you enjoy seasonal produce without the
work of a garden. Additionally, think about subscribing to
a Community Supported Agriculture program. Subscribers
receive a weekly box of seasonal produce, and the amount
of fruit and vegetables you get is usually worth much more
than the CSA subscription. As a bonus, you will create
relationships with local farmers and support Nebraska
agriculture.
