More people are growing their own vegetables because of rising food prices.

Driving to the supermarket burns gasoline that is approaching $4 a gallon. And, once at the store, food prices are much higher than they were months ago.

So, some people are staying home and growing food themselves.

It’s the kind of thinking that is leading to a big year for companies that sell to fruit and vegetable gardeners.

Interest in growing fruits and vegetables picks up during economic downturns, experts say. Seed companies say a dime spent on seeds yields about $1 worth of produce.

Bad economic times can also mean more time to garden. For instance, people who cancel their summer vacations are around to water their tomatoes. The housing crunch also works in favor of vegetable gardens: If you can’t sell your home, you can replant it.

By BRENT BURKEY
Daily Record/Sunday News, Read the full article here http://ydr.inyork.com/ydr/businessfull/ci_9327843