BACKYARD gardening can alleviate poverty by providing a source of income and also aid health as a source of nutrition to most households, says Agriculture, Rural and Maritime Development Assistant Minister Jale Sigarara.
He made the comment while officiating during the distribution of 50 backyard gardening materials to farmers at Lami Village yesterday.
“Start practising backyard gardening in your various communities as it will improve your physical fitness and help maintain a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
“In Fiji, those who do not have a large yard for gardening do not have to feel left out.
“They can still grow many of their favourite vegetables and even sell the surplus to generate extra income for their families with innovative and smart backyard gardening techniques.”
With the ban imposed on paraquat use, Mr Sigarara said organic planting practices would birth a healthy nation.
“These backyard gardening programs will introduce very simple techniques such as horizontal and vertical container methods to optimise space for planting.
“These will ensure that Fijian families living in these areas have improved access to nutritious fresh produce which should assist in the reduction in their food costs as they will be growing their own.
“Gardening increases physical activity as it is a great way to engage the whole family in physical activity and allows them to take responsibility of their own gardens and contribute to the reduction of non-communicable diseases.
“Gardening brings a sense of happiness when you can see the rewards of your efforts and allows you to appreciate your surrounding resources that provide you with the opportunity to grow your own fruits and vegetables.”
