SOUTH BEND — On Earth Day we take time to think about new ways to help Mother Nature. But if you're not afraid to get a little dirty, you can use Mother Nature to help yourself.

Many people have rediscovered gardening as a great way to pinch pennies and save money on groceries. People all over Michiana are turning their lawns or back yards into fruit and vegetable gardens.

"The tomatoes, green beans, corn and potatoes have probably saved the most money out of everything, because we were able to preserve them," says Karin Horner.

Horner and her close friend LaRena Stuckwisch have 18 children between their two families. With all of those hungry mouths, they are a perfect example of how effective community gardening can be.

"The potatoes are going to last us through the summer, and they are as if they just came out of the ground, so it has saved a lot for us both. Farmers used to, and still do, eat from what they produce, and that was one of our goals too was to eat from what we produce here."

Both families maintain that anyone can garden, as long as they are willing to put in some effort.

"I grew up in the suburbs. My family had a small garden and my parents did most of the work. So anyone can do this, you just need to know how to read and to think about it. There is plenty of information out there to teach you how to do this if you read the information and get your hands dirty — then it's worth it."

For more information on community gardens, contact Community Gardens of Michiana.