Karen Jantzi hasn't had a vegetable garden since she lived with her parents. This year, she will join the 7 million Americans who plan to plant their first vegetable gardens.
"I've had a few tomato plants in past years," Jantzi said. "But this year I want to go all out."
Sixty-five years ago, the government urged Americans to "plant more in ‘44" as a patriotic gesture to support the troops during World War II.

In 2009, vegetable gardening is experiencing a revival, as Americans struggle to make ends meet. A recent National Gardening Association poll projects a 20 percent rise in the number of households growing vegetables this year over last, including 7 million new gardens.
Victory Gardens supplied 40 percent of the nation's fresh produce during World War II. Although vegetable gardens won't generate this type of supply today, garden suppliers brace for a busy year as many residents see gardens as a victory over high food prices.
Even first lady Michelle Obama planted a vegetable garden on the White House's South Lawn, the first "first garden" since Eleanor Roosevelt installed hers.
"There's something beneficial for the soul working outside and watching something grow," Jantzi said. More...