Save Money On Fresh Food Without Gardening

Roxanna Ward

Tips to save money on fresh foods.
Wouldn't it be ideal if we could all grow our own food. Not only would you know just what went into creating those great tasting green beans, they'd cost you less too. But not everybody has the privilege of plenty of land to grow their own food on. Gardening also takes time and energy. Your favorite fruit may not grow well in your area. I could go on and on listing reasons people have chosen to purchase their food rather than grow it themselves. The fact remains that more people buy their watermelon at the grocery store than walk into the backyard and pick one.

The grocery store is not the only place to pick up fresh produce and fruits. Many times it can be the most expensive place to purchase such items. You have to be creative and use your imagination to find the best deals. Keep your eyes open, and you'll be amazed at the possibilities to save money that you have passed by.

Do you have friends or family members that have a garden? Ask if you can help in their garden for a little of the harvest. Maybe they need a babysitter for Friday night instead. You'll never know unless you ask.

Check your local orchards for “you pick” days. Many have days when you can come and pick all you can for a set price. Or fill this basket for a low fee. Local farmers may do the same when they have an abundance at harvest time.

Some grocery stores sell their "seconds" for next to nothing. Our local Kroger will give you the fruit on the toss it day for free. Bruised and almost no good fruits make great jellys and jams. Don't think that just because it is a little rough around the edges, the entire fruit or vegetable is bad. And if it is free, it is certainly worthy using some how.

Your corner fruit stand my offer food for less. But be careful, many of these are higher than grocery stores on some items.

Once you get your hands on some inexpensive fresh food, make sure you don't let it go to waste. Can it, freeze it or dry it. Just make sure you use it or your time spent finding it will be wasted. When you waste time no matter how great the bargain, you've lost something you can't get back.

About the Author

Roxanna Ward, Community leader and staff writer for http://www.BabyUniversity.com, lives in Georgia with her husband, Stan and her three children, Kirstie-Raie, Chase and Kale. As a published freelance writer and breastfeeding advocate, the focus of her writing is concentrated on sharing household tips, her experience with her frugal lifestyle which is compensated by being able to afford to be a stay-at-home mom, as well as the phenomenal process of breastfeeding, child rearing related issues and romantic relationships. She is also currently the Editor of three newsletters: What's New at BabyU?, Intimate Encounters and At Home with Baby University. Roxanna can be contacted at Roxanna30135@aol.com