Durham, NC – George Davis knows a thing or two about gardening.
After all, he has more than six decades of experience to do so.
“I’ve been doing this my whole life and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it,” Davis said. I still enjoy getting my fingers in the dirt, and that’s all part of it. Even after six full days here, I live for Sunday afternoons working in the yard and gardens.“
For 47 years he has been sharing his knowledge at Stone Brothers & Byrd, which he bought at the age of 29.
The past few years have seen a surge in interest in gardening, but he says the biggest challenge may be getting people to stay on more than one level.
“Hopefully it will continue through their heirs and whatnot, and their children will follow in their footsteps,” Davis said.
Although gardening and farming methods are constantly changing, there are some that Davis recommends for first-time gardeners.
One of my favorites are raised bed gardens.
“So your investment is initially in setting up a tank or raised bed. But once you get it, my goodness, you can grow everything in the spring and fall and get the most out of it,” Davis said.
Getting the most out of your farm investment is Davis’ biggest pick for those on the fence.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, food prices are projected to increase 3.5% to 4.5% by 2023.
In 2022, the price of fresh vegetables increased from 6.5% to 7.5%.
Davis says if you want to save money, you can grow it yourself.
“Not to mention the quality of what you produce is better than anything you can buy at the grocery store,” Davis said, “so there are all kinds of benefits to gardening.” From mental health to your pocketbook, to being with the friends you love. These community gardens, there’s a lot of good things that come out of it.
For anyone who doesn’t know how to start their own garden, Davis will point you in the right direction.
“We’ll certainly help them in any way we can,” Davis said. as well. We will guide you as best we can.