The Ultimate Investment, planting a seed
In the quest of life's investments, there are sufficient avenues one might pursue, from crypto, stocks and bonds to real estate and precious metals. Through out these options lies an investment so fundamental, yet so often overlooked, that it holds the potential to not only yield an impressive return but also sustain and nourish life itself. This investment is the humble seed of a fruit or vegetable.
Through my own journey of growing up on a large farm, I've discovered that the best return on investment accessible to virtually anyone is found in a single seed of a favorite fruit or vegetable. Nurtured and carefully tended, a single seed can unlock a bounty sufficient to sustain a family's future food needs.
IMAGE Fresh cut red pepper from the grocer hosts hundreds of plantable seeds.
Less than three weeks ago I starting my garden seedlings. From a single tomato's seeds over 80 thriving plants have already sprouted to life. Each of these plants, in turn, has the potential to produce 20 or more tomatoes, with some well-cared-for plants yielding upwards of 50 fruits. There is an arithmetic abundance here, from one tomato plant, hundreds to thousands of seeds will emerge.
IMAGE Fresh cut red pepper from the grocer hosts hundreds of plantable seeds.
In today's economy, where the cost of fresh produce is ever-rising, the act of planting a few vegetables becomes not just an exercise in thrift but a rewarding venture. The initial investment? Merely the purchase of a tomato from your local grocer, which provides you with over 50 quality seeds. A small price to pay when considering the cost of semi-mature plants at garden supply stores, which can fetch upwards of $15 each, or a packet of 20 seeds priced between $2 to $6.
IMAGE Strawberry seeds are on the outside of the fruit. each strawbery hosts hundreds of plantable seeds.
Of course, like all worthwhile ventures, growth requires effort. The path to reaping a bountiful harvest requires dedication, from the initial planting to the nurturing and eventual harvesting. This labor gives in return something invaluable, not just food, but knowledge and self-reliance. An art my mother and father conquered in their farm life and we as kids growing up on the farm were probably not aware how important this learned experience would be in our future lives and I probably took for granted the abundance of food we had in our gardens that many were not as fortunate to have.
IMAGE Close up of plantable tomato seeds.
In this modern era, where the disconnect between humans and the sources of our food widens, teaching our youth the art and science of growing their own food becomes increasingly crucial. Understanding how plants produce seeds and how these seeds can be harvested, stored, and planted again is foundational knowledge that empowers individuals and communities, fostering a sense of independence and resilience.
IMAGE Seeds we recovered from a store bought honey dew melon, we got about 200 from one melon and planted them a couple of days after, the results are in a photo below.
It surprises me when we have people over seeing our garden not knowing that Asparagus comes out of the ground and can be snapped and eaten right out of the garden and not some vegetable that can only be found in Isle 7 in the produce department.
IMAGE Basil from seeds from last years plants. Basil can produce thousands of seeds per plant.
The process through which plants produce seeds is a marvel of nature, although can be as simple as cutting open a tomato and placing seeds into earth.
By simply planting seeds, we're not just cultivating plants, we're nurturing a legacy of sustainability and self-sufficiency. The tangible returns of fresh, nutritious produce are rich with rewards, such as a deeper connection to the earth, a sense of accomplishment, and the invaluable knowledge of how to sustain oneself. Something that I believe everyone should learn and take small efforts to try.
By far to me, the best investment available to the average human being is not found in the stock market or in a bank but in the soil beneath our feet. One single seed represents a promise of future prosperity, a means to combat the rising cost of living, and a tool for educating our youth about the origins of their food. Every year at this time prior to spring, I nurture this gift. Buy a tomato, cut it in half today, take out the seeds and cultivate a brighter, more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.
I will be posting garden updates and some of the farm projects. Our intent is to become 100% sustainable in the next few years and give whatever tips I can to assist fellow humans.
IMAGE Tomato plants from seeds from last years crop. Tomatos can produce thousands of seeds per plant.
