With rising popularity of clean eating, farm-to-table dining, and organic and local foods, the fact that home food gardening is on the rise is no surprise. According to a 2014 National Gardening Association (NGA) report, the number of Americans growing their own food at home or in community gardens totaled 42 million households in 2013. The fastest-growing food gardening demographic is (surprise!) millennials, which rose by 63% between 2008 and 2013 to 13 million. Millennials also doubled their spending on food gardening in the same time period, rising to $1.2 million in 2013.
In all, NGA says just over a third of households (35%) grow at least some of their own food with 76% of them growing vegetables. This Washington Post article has tips for storing a variety of produce (keep carrots cold, cucumbers not so cold, and the potatoes away from the onions). And if home gardeners are on your client list, here are a few products on the market that can help them cultivate and store all that fresh and flavorful food.
Countertop Composting
When home cooks are ready to prep their fruits, veggies, and herbs, Blanco’s Solon undercounter compost system makes it easy to separate food waste. Two models are available for flush-mount installation into granite countertops, or for drop-in installation overlaying the work surface. The system features a stylish lid that keeps odors from escaping, and the frame, lid, and canister are made of dishwasher safe, high-grade stainless steel. blancoamerica.com
Cold Storage
Four doors and three cooling zones help ensure refrigerated foods are held at the right temperatures. The Distinctive 36-inch Four Door French Door Refrigerator from Dacor also features BlueV lights to help preserve the freshness and vitamins of fruits and vegetables, while FrostWhite LED lighting illuminates everything in the fridge. Other features include digital touch controls on the external panel, ice and water through the door, rapid cooling and quick-freeze capabilities, and humidity-controlled shelves. dacor.com
To see three other products that will make the most of the fruit of your labor, read more on Remodeling >>
