By: Paige Valentik MPS, RD, LDN

John’s fathering article motivated me to write about a newer topic for the Valentiks this spring.

This year marks my very first experience with gardening—and so far, so good. I’ll admit, I went into it with equal parts excitement and uncertainty, but it’s quickly become very rewarding. Even better, it’s turned into a family activity. The kids eagerly jumped in to help, and together we planted flowers, basil, green beans, snap peas, and strawberries—all of their favorites. Watching them take ownership, water the plants, and check for growth each day has been just as fulfilling as the little seedlings growing.

Beyond the joy and quality time, gardening offers some powerful nutrition benefits. One of the biggest is how it can make healthy eating more affordable. Fresh produce can add up, especially when you’re trying to prioritize a variety of fruits and vegetables. Growing even a small selection at home can help offset grocery costs while still giving you access to fresh, nutrient-rich foods. There’s also something incredibly satisfying about harvesting food you grew yourself. It makes meals feel more intentional and meaningful.

Another major benefit is that gardening naturally increases the likelihood of meeting daily fruit and vegetable recommendations. When fresh produce is readily available just steps outside your door, it becomes much easier to incorporate it into meals and snacks. I know this summer will be reaching for our homegrown options more often, simply because they’re there—and because the kids are proud of what they helped grow. That sense of involvement can be a game changer for picky eaters, too.

Gardening also supports overall well-being in ways that go beyond nutrition. It encourages time outdoors, physical activity, and a connection to where our food comes from. Even simple tasks like planting, watering, and weeding get your body moving and can be surprisingly therapeutic. There’s a calming, almost grounding effect that comes with digging in the dirt and slowing down for a bit.

While I’m still very much a beginner, this first gardening season has already taught me so much. It doesn’t have to be perfect or elaborate to be worthwhile. Even a few plants can make a difference—not just in what we eat, but in how we think about food. And if the excitement in our house is any indication, this may just become a yearly tradition.