Gardening has always been a popular pastime, but is currently enjoying a renewed resurgence in the United States, due to the efforts of our First Lady and her well-publicized White House gardens. Michelle Obama is an avid gardener for many of the reasons that anyone catches the gardening bug, but there are two compelling reasons for all of us to heed Mrs. Obama’s message and start a garden plot at home.
While President Obama toils away at the economic crisis in our country, we can each help our own individual economic situation by growing a garden! 
In addition to spreading the wealth by growing our own produce, we can also spread the health, which cuts straight to the heart of Ms. Obama’s message for American families. Although growing your own produce takes some time and hard work, it is well worth the effort. The benefits are greater than you may think, if you’ve never experienced the joy of playing in the dirt!
In general, the health effects of gardening are greater than the economic effects, unless you choose to garden on a large scale, but even a few square feet of garden space can yield all the produce your family needs. Seeds and plants are inexpensive and with a bit of planning, can be harvested from this year’s crop to be used next year. Fresh produce, particularly when harvested the same day it is eaten, is both healthier and more appealing than supermarket fare and can help to lessen your grocery bill. Additionally gardening is good, low- impact exercise, which is therapeutic for many. It can be enjoyed indoors or out at any time of year, depending on climate and attitude. Besides, gardening is the patriotic thing to do!
