Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, a Vitamin A precursor. Vitamin A is essential to vision, immune function, reproduction, and cellular communication (1). Plant-based vitamin A is far better than animal-based sources because you can never overdose on it (2). Moreover, carrots are a great source of vitamins C, D, E, K, and minerals like…
How to Grow
How to Grow Turnips: Planting, Growing, Harvesting, and Use
Turnip is a fast-growing root crop that thrives in cool weather. Its flavor profile is akin to carrots without the sweetness. Instead, it’s slightly spicy which makes it perfect for stews. During the fall when the cold weather is conducive to the spread of flu viruses, turnips can fortify the immune system. Its a good source of…
How to Grow Beets: Planting, Growing, Harvesting, and Use
Beetroot is a good source of inorganic nitrate, a precursor to nitrate oxide which is important to vascular and metabolic functioning. Studies have shown that nitrate oxide can improve exercise performance (1) as well as brain function (2). Moreover, this edible plant is a good source of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds known as betalains. Betalains have beneficial…
How to Grow Watermelon Radish: Planting, Growing, Harvesting, and Use
Radishes have unique pigments including red, purple, pink, white, yellow, green, and multi-colored varieties. Watermelon radish is an Asian heirloom with a pale green exterior and a rosy red interior. Its appearance remarkably resembles watermelon, hence its name. This variety is gorgeous, and like all radishes, it’s also nutritious! Radishes are a good source of vitamin A,…
How to Propagate Strawberries
Strawberry is one of my favorite edible plants to grow in my urban garden. Its fruit is a good source of vitamins C, K, fiber, folic acid, manganese, and potassium. It also contains anthocyanidins, a type of substance that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As an antioxidant, strawberries can promote healthy aging. Moreover, as an…
How to Grow Kale (Lacinato): Planting, Growing, Harvesting, and Use
Kale is one of the most talked about functional food, and rightfully so. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In cooking, it is a versatile leafy green that adds flavor and texture to salads, stews, soups, and sautés. Kale is also easy to grow, and its a cut and come again type of…