Edible Landscapes: Florida Farm Teaches Sustainable Growing Amidst Rising Grocery Prices

Growing Back to Eden: A Regenerative Farm

• 🌿 Growing Back to Eden is a regenerative, organic, faith-based farm and ministry in Citrus County, Florida.
• 🧑‍🌾 Farmer Nick Ager cultivates the farm to mimic natural growth patterns, aiming to uplift the community and share knowledge.
• 🤝 The farm operates on a symbiotic relationship between crops, livestock, and pollinators to heal the land.

Community Access to Fresh Produce

• 🛒 Families can visit the farm every Saturday to order fresh, in-season produce picked on the spot.
• 🍽️ The ordering process is described as similar to a restaurant, with a chalkboard listing available items.
• 3️⃣6️⃣ crops, about 10 herbs, and 10 flowers are currently being grown on the farm.

Inspiring Local Chefs and Home Gardeners

• 🧑‍🍳 Chef Klay Connley, recognized by the James Beard Foundation and Michelin, is inspired by Agger's farm-to-table methods.
• 🏡 The farm's edible landscaping concept is presented as achievable for anyone in their own backyard.
• 🌸 Edible flowers like the Turks cap hibiscus are highlighted as a mild, sweet addition to salads, demonstrating the versatility of home-grown produce.

The Rise of Home Gardening and Sustainable Living

• 📈 With grocery prices increasing by nearly 3% year-over-year, families are seeking cost-effective alternatives.
• 🏡 The COVID-19 pandemic and rising food costs have prompted many people to start growing their own gardens.
• 🌱 There is a perceived trend towards living more closely with nature, especially since lockdowns began.
• 🗓️ Growing Back to Eden hosts weekly farmers markets every Saturday until around June.