2023-05-20 22:00:00
Austria is a country of gardeners. A current study shows: In times of inflation and rising prices, the topic of self-sufficiency is becoming increasingly important.
Inflation, rising costs, climate crisis: All of this casts a long shadow over different areas of life in Austria. A current study by the IMAS research institute commissioned by Gardena shows that more and more people are starting to grow their own vegetables, fruit and herbs.
Self-sufficiency in trend
The results of the study clearly show that more and more Austrians are planting fruit, vegetables and herbs themselves. In this context, three quarters of those surveyed stated that they at least grow chives, parsley and other kitchen herbs. In the fruit and vegetable sector, tomatoes lead the popularity list with 72 percent, closely followed by various types of berries. Salads, peppers and cucumbers are also cultivated particularly frequently.
Various arguments are given as reasons for self-sufficiency. A vast majority of respondents believe that homegrown fruit, vegetables and herbs simply taste better in comparison. Knowing how the plants are treated and also avoiding fertilizers and pesticides by growing them yourself are cited by around 69 percent of those surveyed as reasons for their commitment to gardening. Far more than half – 63 percent – of the study participants also attach importance to the fact that home-grown food is of a seasonal nature.
Cultivation in your own garden as a contribution to climate protection
Almost half of those surveyed (49 percent) are convinced that their behavior in the garden can make a small contribution to climate protection. The topic of resource consumption also plays an important role. More than two thirds (68 percent) are convinced that using water sparingly in the garden can make a significant contribution to environmental protection. Despite the increasing popularity of self-sufficiency – also driven by price increases in retail – only a few Austrians can cover their own needs with food they grow themselves. In summer, the share of own fruit and vegetables, measured in terms of total consumption, is an average of 33 percent.
Time for friends and family in the countryside
In addition to the topic of self-sufficient gardens, the study participants were also asked about other reasons for using their gardens, balconies and terraces. In times of crisis, the answer of 78 percent of those surveyed was that the garden and terrace are even more important than places to relax. A large number of people (56 percent) would therefore also like to have more time to spend time in the countryside. Spending a lot of time with friends and family in the countryside is very important to Austrians overall.
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