While the COVID-19 pandemic is still on the surface and the Philippines is forced to implement community quarantine as part of the “new normal” to control its spread, people are facing for a possible food shortage, panic-buying and food hoarding. However, since people are advised to stay at home and observe social distancing protocols, this period can also be the right opportunity to engage in gardening and produce their own food in the convenience of their home backyard.

Foods that are great to plant at  home are root crops.  Aside from rice, root crops are also great sources of carbohydrates for energy to keep you going. They are also known for their concentrations of Vitamin C, B and A as well as their level of health-promoting antioxidants which helps the body in boosting the immune system to fight infections and diseases. They are also safe alternatives for people with hypertension and diabetes because of their high fiber content and low glycemic index.

Rootcrops are also ideal for your home gardening because they take up little space of your backyard and can be harvested over a long period of time. With proper home storage facilities, they can be kept fresh for a longer consumption. In the Philippines, there are four affordable and easy to grow root crops that you could try planting at your home. These are cassava (kamoteng kahoy), sweet potato (kamote), purple yam (ube) and taro (gabi). The keys in growing root crops are the following: make a good seedbed, give enough space to grow, keep the crops clear of weeds, make sure they have enough water and most importantly have patience when planting.

Root crops are buried treasures that can be difficult to get started with, but rewarding when harvested. With the on-going crisis of COVID-19, people need to be clever in order to survive  this pandemic. Through backyard gardening, you can save more time and money, ensure access to healthier and fresher source of food and above all, food security for your family.

NO I Angelica O. Pajulas