There are a lot of benefits to growing your own organic food. You’ll save money, get the nutrition you need, and best of all, enjoy tastier food.
Sounds great, right? Except for one little problem… I don’t know too many college students who live in a house with a large yard. Well here’s a solution – You can grow these five vegetables in a small area, like on a balcony, back porch or fire escape. Perfect for apartment or dorm living!
1. Black cherry tomatoes
They have a different, well… interesting color than other tomatoes. And though they’re small, they have a rich tomato flavor. Perfect for salads and pastas!
2. Genovese basil
This type of basil is really popular for many reasons, but mainly because its broad leaves have such great flavor. It’s perfect for pesto. Plus the plant will keep giving and giving too. All you have to do is just not let it flower.
3. Rainbow Swiss chard
Not only is it tasty, but it grows into so many beautiful different colors. Once you cut it, it keeps coming back. Swiss chard is so versatile too — you can eat it raw in a salad, sauté it as a vegetable side or braise it with cooked meals.
4. Hot peppers
Perfect for when you need to give a dish that extra punch. You can choose any you like, but I happen to be partial to the serrano. Try putting them into sandwiches and salads.
5. Fairy Tale Eggplant
This plant grows pretty compactly — it’s about an 18-by-18-inch bush — and grows pretty quickly. They’re very sweet and you want to pick them when they’re about four inches long. Roast them on the grill or serve them in pasta.
Source: Food Matters
Student Health & Wellness 