People are looking for wellness, simplicity and bliss in their lives, and in 2013, backyard farms are making it happen. Gardening itself is a stress-free and active pursuit. It ranks somewhere between moderate exercise and a higher level, depending on whether you are weeding or digging and planting.

Concerns about food safety, a desire for better-tasting vegetables and saving money, are sending more people to their gardens. Some hobbyists spend more on accoutrements than seeds. Like fancy watering cans and herb-garden kits.

Nationally, 33 percent of all households grew vegetables, fruit, berries or herbs in 2011, according to the National Gardening Association. In the Midwest, 36 percent of households grew food.

If you’re not interested in a great deal of physical activity, join the foodies who grow vegetables and fruits on their balconies and patios. They’ve been growing tomatoes, peppers and herbs for years. And now plant breeders have introduced small fruit trees and shrubs that do fine year-around in all-weather containers.

So come on and join me with growing some herbs and vegetables