Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is an annual plant originating in the Middle East – more precisely from Afghanistan and Turkistan. Some assign its origin to the land of Persia – presently Iran. Long ago, the Arabians used it against throat and lung affections. In the 8th century, spinach was grown in Spain and France and in the 11th century it reached Sicily.

Spinach has a large number of uses on the dinner table, from side salads, soups, chip and vegetable dips, to fillings for all sorts of entrees. If you’re growing spinach at your house, you can savor all these with fresh produce from your own yard. In present times, the herb has become much appreciated because, according to research, fresh spinach leaves are anticancerigenic. It is a very renowned plant for its rich iron content. Little do most known that apart from minerals and vitamins, spinach also contains oxalic acid – a substance that inhibits the absorption of calcium into the body.

Cauliflower is a member of the cabbage family. The word “cauliflower” means “cabbage flower,” and centuries of cultivation were necessary to produce a tight head of clustered flower buds in place of the compact leaves of the cabbage head. Although there are thirty-five or more varieties of this vegetable, there are probably not more six or seven distinct varieties used.

The most important thing to know about cauliflower is that it is simple to grow when you have the proper conditions. This vegetable is a cold-weather crop that does not like very hot, dry summers. If you live near the ocean, you are in a fine location. If you live inland, and wish to grow cauliflower, grow your plants in a partial shade area and make sure you spray the plants with water to keep them moist.

Cabbage should be planted to mature during cool weather. You can grow spring and fall crops where the cool but frost-free growing season is five months or more in length. Cabbages need a sunny site and firm soil. Prepare the soil in fall by adding well-rotted manure or garden compost and then leave it over winter to consolidate. Before planting cabbages, make sure the soil is well firmed by shuffling along the surface on your heels, then rake it flat.

Cabbages contain a fair amount of vitamin C with smaller quantities of vitamins A and B and also calcium and iron. Cabbage can ward off such ailments as stomach ulcers, headaches, arthritis, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and even cancers. For any of you that suffer from sore muscles, cabbage has wonderful anti-inflammatory properties, due to amino-acids it contains.

Vegetable gardening can be very beneficial – it relieves stress, burns calories and literally puts food on your table. And the best part – anyone can grow vegetables in just about every living situation. It doesn’t matter if you have a small patio and a few containers or acres of land. Start with some dirt and water and add a seed. Throw in a dash of sunshine, a pinch of elbow grease and a little bit of time. Thanks to mother nature – fresh vegetables will begin to appear in your backyard like magic. Would it be possible for you to grow a vegetable garden at your backyard? Consider this option, healthy foods just within your reach. Even your children can help and cultivate their own vegetables. Having fun while learning is not a bad idea right? But you have to plan ahead before you start.