It’s moments like this—thanks to Lumpy’s.
There’s no denying it—grocery prices are climbing, and it’s something we’re all feeling. Fresh herbs, leafy greens, and everyday vegetables are costing more, and with freight and supply pressures, it’s unlikely to ease anytime soon.
But there is a simple, rewarding way to take a bit of control back—and it starts right in your own backyard.
Growing your own food isn’t just about saving money. It’s about knowing where your food comes from, enjoying better flavour, and creating those small, satisfying moments—walking outside, picking what you need, and bringing it straight to the table.
And the best part? You don’t need a big space or a full garden to start.
What You Can Plant Right Now
Autumn is one of the best times to get started on the Mid North Coast. The soil is still warm, the days are milder, and plants establish quickly.
If you’re looking for a simple, practical start, these are ideal:
Herbs (easy, productive, and always useful):
- Parsley
- Coriander
- Rocket
- Thyme
- Oregano
- Rosemary
Vegetables (reliable and rewarding):
- Lettuce and leafy greens
- Spinach
- Silverbeet
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Spring onions
These are the everyday staples—the things you reach for constantly. Once you grow them yourself, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.
The Real Cost Comparison
Let’s look at it practically.
A small punnet of herbs might cost you $4–$6 at the supermarket—and you’ll often only use part of it before it goes off.
For a similar price, you can plant your own—and harvest from it again and again.
A single lettuce or leafy green might cost $3–$5, depending on the season. Grow your own, and you can pick as needed over weeks.
What this means for you:
- Less waste
- More value from every plant
- Ongoing supply instead of one-off purchases
It doesn’t take long before your small garden starts paying for itself.
It’s Not Just About the Money
There’s another side to this that’s just as important.
Spending time in the garden—planting, watering, watching things grow—has a way of slowing everything down. It’s simple, practical, and genuinely satisfying.
And then there are the moments that come from it.
Sitting down to a meal where you’ve picked the herbs or greens yourself. Watching the kids get involved. Sharing something fresh, healthy, and homegrown.
It’s a different kind of value—one you don’t get from a supermarket shelf.
You Don’t Need to Go All In
This is where most people get stuck—they think they need a full vegetable garden, raised beds, and a big commitment.
You don’t.
Start small.
A few pots. A small garden bed. Even just a couple of herbs near the kitchen door.
Once you see how easy it is—and how often you use them—you can build from there.
Setting Yourself Up for Success
To get the best results from the start:
- Choose a sunny position
- Use good quality soil or potting mix
- Water consistently, not excessively
- Harvest regularly to keep plants producing
Get these basics right, and you’ll set yourself up for success.
The Takeaway
Growing your own doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s one of the simplest ways to reduce your grocery bill, improve your meals, and enjoy your garden in a whole new way.
And it often starts with something as small as a pot of parsley or a handful of lettuce.
Start small—just a few herbs.
Because it’s moments like this—fresh, simple, and shared—that make it all worthwhile.
And it’s moments like this, thanks to Lumpy’s.