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World War 2 campaign poster to encourage civilians to grow their own food and share surpluses with others
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In the past few years there has been a resurgence of home food growing and it has not escaped my attention that it corresponds with the decline in the economy. I think the consciousness in the clean food movement is at play as well. Despite the purpose of Victory Gardens originating from difficult times and circumstances, I find myself a bit enviousof the simplicity of growing one’s food in earnest. Despite the convenience of our modern day existence, I suspect being so close to one’s own necessity bred higher appreciation and satisfaction.
This weekend I planted my victory garden of sorts with Memorial Day on my mind. Though my planting is purely from choice, and overflow will go to others, it still bears the purposeful intent of the war effort; to grow my own food, not for folly.
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A bit of a sad looking photo on this dreary, foggy more-like-Northern-California Colorado morning but it gives you the spacial gist
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The Humble Food Snob says
Sorry this comment is so late- I just found this post on Foodgawker. I love the idea of Victory Gardens and truly enjoy mine! But I was wondering about your “edible insect-offending flowers”. What exactly are they? Do they keep insects off of the plants? Thanks!
Boulder Locavore says
I plant marigolds, calendula and nasturtiums. I believe they do help and they are edible themselves (provided they have not been sprayed or something). They are often used in companion planting but can function by attracting the insects away from more prized vegetation so can become insect ridden themselves (though I have not had that occur). As you probably have noticed marigolds have a very strong and distinct aroma. I assume that is what wards off insects in their case. Hope this helps!
Elizabeth Treusdell Brunetti says
If you're ever in DC, my husband is the horticulturist in charge of the Victory Garden at the Smithsonian. He'd be happy to give you a tour!
Lynn says
Lovely post. The posters are so wonderful. Good luck with your garden! I don't have my own this year, but I've joined a fun Victory Garden class in my area.
rosemarried says
Aw, love this post! Really… I love all your gardening and farmer's market posts. These things are very near to my heart! And while I've heard of Victory Gardens, I think that bringing them to mind for Memorial Day is so appropriate. Thank you for the thoughtful post!
Allison says
I started a bit of a backyard garden this year (we get most of our veggies from a CSA), and the term “victory garden” never crossed my mind. What a lovely salute to our men and women in uniform – you have given me one more reason to really try harder with this again in the fall (this western WA girl got a little bit of a late start here in AZ) – thank you!
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the Gardener says
I've never heard the term “Victory garden” before, but last year when we planted a successful veggie garden I certainly felt it to be a personal victory! We've got a south-facing side yard which was perfect with lots of sun.
Lizzy says
I love all that you've planted…I only wish my yard was graced with a bit more sun, but I'm grateful there's enough room for my favorite herbs. Looking forward to see what you make with your harvest.
An Alaskan Cooks | Alaska Food and Wine says
A thoughtful post for this holiday, plus a good reminder about the benefits of growning one's own food. It's still not planting season up here but this year I do want to tackle growning some tomatoes and rosemary in planters. Now if I could only cure this brown thumb of mine …
Jess says
When I think of victory gardens I think of my great grandmother, a German immigrant whose entire yard was planted with vegetables. She lived in an urban neighborhood and was well loved for her generous spirit, sharing much of her produce with the community. I feel so proud when I think of her, knowing her genes are mine. And so my garden grows too!