When I started gardening, I had no idea how much it would change my grocery list. I used to buy so many things without thinking twice, but once I realized how easy they were to grow, I couldn’t justify spending the extra money.
Now, instead of tossing these items in my shopping cart, I grab them straight from my garden. Not only does it save me money, but everything tastes fresher, and I know exactly what’s going into my food.
Here are 11 things I’ve stopped buying since I started gardening—and why I’ll never go back.
1. Tomatoes
I used to buy tomatoes every week, but once I started growing my own, store-bought ones just didn’t compare. The flavor of a homegrown tomato is on a whole different level.
They can be a little picky about growing conditions, but once I figured it out, I never looked back. I love choosing my own varieties, like sweet cherry tomatoes or juicy heirlooms. And the best part? No more paying for bland, overpriced tomatoes at the store.
2. Chives
I used to buy those tiny jars of dried chives, which felt like a ripoff once I realized how easy they are to grow. Now, I have fresh chives year-round, and they take almost no effort.
They’re low-maintenance, grow back fast, and add the perfect finishing touch to so many meals. Plus, I can freeze or dry them if I ever have extra.
3. Zucchini
Once I planted zucchini, I realized I’d never need to buy it again. A few plants produce way more than I can eat, and they’re ridiculously easy to grow.
Now, instead of picking up zucchini at the store, I pick it from my backyard. It’s perfect for grilling, baking, or spiralizing into noodles, and I love knowing I grew it myself.
4. Mint
I used to buy those little plastic packs of mint whenever I wanted to make tea or garnish a dish. Now, I just step outside and grab a handful.
Mint grows like crazy, and once you plant it, you’ll never have to buy it again. I love the fresh scent in my garden, and having it on hand for tea, cocktails, or summer drinks is a bonus.
5. Chamomile
I stopped buying chamomile tea once I realized how easy it is to grow. I planted German chamomile, and now I have a steady supply of flowers to dry for tea.
It’s satisfying to sip a cup of homemade chamomile tea, knowing exactly where it came from. Plus, mixing it with fresh mint makes the perfect bedtime tea.
6. Pumpkins
I used to buy pumpkins every fall for decorations and cooking, but growing my own has been way more fun (and way cheaper).
Watching them grow and turn bright orange is so rewarding, and I love having fresh pumpkins for soups, pies, and even homemade lattes. Now, I just plant them once and have plenty for the whole season.
7. Radishes
Radishes are one of the easiest things to grow, and they’re ready to harvest in just a few weeks. Once I realized that, I stopped buying them at the store.
I love tossing fresh radishes in salads, and they even help improve my soil by breaking up compacted dirt. They’ve definitely earned a permanent spot in my garden.
8. Strawberries
I used to buy strawberries every week, but now I grow my own. Store-bought ones never taste as sweet, and they spoil way too fast.
I chose a day-neutral variety so I can pick fresh strawberries all summer long. No more overpriced, watery berries from the store—just homegrown ones that actually taste like strawberries.
9. Spinach
I used to buy big bags of spinach, but I always ended up wasting some. Growing my own solved that problem.
Spinach grows fast, and I can harvest baby leaves as I need them. It tastes fresher than anything from the store, and I get to pick exactly what I need without any waste.
10. Carrots
I never thought about growing carrots until I realized how much better fresh ones taste. Store-bought carrots just don’t have the same sweetness.
They’re easy to grow, and I love experimenting with different colors and varieties. Now, I always have fresh carrots on hand for snacks, soups, and roasting.
11. Basil
Basil used to be a grocery staple for me, but now I grow more than I know what to do with. It’s one of the easiest herbs to grow, whether in the garden or a pot on the windowsill.
It tastes way better fresh, and I never have to worry about running out. I just snip what I need and keep it growing all season long.
*This article was created with the help of AI.