Thinking about the environment, reducing waste and living a more environmentally-friendly life may feel overwhelming at first glance. But becoming more sustainable does not require having your own farm (if you already have it, lucky you!). You can start with small steps where you are right now. The only thing you need is a little bit of creativity, not being afraid of failure and a little bit of space.
Regrowing vegetables
I want to share the idea of regrowing vegetables and herbs at home which I came across some time ago. It inspired me to think about the small steps we can take in any circumstances which will build our independence (or at least less dependence). This is not only environment-friendly but also helps our budget and gives the opportunity to create new things.
Regardless of the reason behind regrowing vegetables, it may be one of these small tricks you will fall in love with. It will bring you a lot of joy watching the new life emerging from the piece of plant that you would not normally use and would be wasted.
Tips
- It is important to know which part of the plant can regrow (stem, leaves, roots)
- Ideally, choose organic options and make sure that you use fresh and healthy vegetables
- Change water at least once a day.
- Overall it is quite easy, satisfying process, where you only need a jar and/or pot with soil.
Which vegetables to choose?
If you are a beginner, I would suggest starting with those easier options.
Lettuce, Bok Choy and Celery
Cut it few centimetres above the base and place it in the jar with water. When you notice small roots start to form you can plant it in the soil. It will be a delicious add-on to your usual salads or home-made Chinese stir-fry.
Scallions and leek
Similarly, cut off the green part (few centimetres above the roots) and use it for cooking while placing the white part into a jar with water. If your leek or scallions already have some roots you can place them in a pot with soil and water generously.
Carrots, beetroot
For the root vegetables cut the top of the vegetable and place it in the water. Change water frequently. Although you will not regrow the whole vegetable this way, you will benefit from the fresh leaves. You can use beetroot leaves for soups and salads and you can make a delicious pesto from the carrot tops!
Herbs
To regrow herbs (e.g. basil, mint, thyme) choose the healthy new growth stem. Use a clean knife and then cut it around 10 centimetres below. Remove the leaves (except the top ones) and place in the jar with water until roots start to grow. Then simply plant in the pot with soil.
Hope you enjoyed this idea. It reduces waste and at the same time gives us an opportunity to watch the new life forming while we take care of it. Quite satisfying!