The Weeks Berry News the latest

from the fields of Oregon’s best grower

Benefits: Costs Less

By growing your own food you know what chemicals have been used.

Can be organic

Reduces the size of your carbon footprint. If grown organically it reduces air and water

pollution, and reduces the amount of fossil fuels consumed due to shipping.

Supports the domestic economy by not having to depend on foreign countries for fruit.

Fruit grown in your back yard generally is full of flavor making it taste better.

The fruit is picked when ripe. Unlike store bought fruit which is often picked before it is

ready then sprayed with Ethylene to artificially ripen the fruit.

Planting your own garden provides you with an outdoor activity that delivers ample exercise.

You will develop a good sense of pride by watching your plant develop into something you

can enjoy. It is a very purposeful activity.

You can stop worrying about the safety of your food. By growing it yourself you will know where

the fruit has been and what has been on it.

Reduce the amount of food waste. By watching the fruit ripen you will most likely pick it at an optimum time, and be less likely to take it for

granted.

Certain types of fruit such as black currants can be used as a barricade against the wind.

Planting an extra plant also provide food for the birds in your neighborhood.

Teach your kids how to garden- Children love being outdoors,

and gardening provides a perfect opportunity for the family to

spend time together. Learning how to grow your own food is a

lesson they will never forget. Through this process they will

learn the basic biology of plants, what they need to survive, and

how to care for something. Finally, learning that hard work and

dedication pays off as your plants flourish into a delicious meal

your whole family can enjoy.

C u l t u r a l T i p s F o r T h e S u c c e s s f u l G r o w e r

E d i b l e P l a n t s

Antioxidants are molecules that are capable of

preventing oxidation. Oxidation is the process where

a molecule transfers one, or more of it’s electrons to a

different molecule. A common form of oxidation is

when metal begins to rust. Many of the health

benefits of antioxidants are that they destroy the free

radicals that damage cells, they promote the growth

of healthy cells, protect cells against premature and

abnormal aging, help fight against age-related

macular degeneration, and provide excellent support

for the body’s immune system, making it an effective

disease preventative. It has been proven that berries

contain the most antioxidants, with blueberries and

blackberries ranking among the highest.