43 million

Number of U.S. households expected to have edible gardens in 2009, a 19 percent jump over 2008, according to the National Gardening Association's new Impact of Home and Community Gardening in America survey. Twenty-one percent of surveyed households indicated they plan to start a food garden this year. "As in previous recessions, we've seen increased participation in and spending on food gardening as people look for ways to economize," said Bruce Butterfield, research director for the NGA.

Visit the NGA's Food Gardening Guide for more on growing fruit and vegetables at home. The advice could come in handy this summer, especially if you'll be taking staycations and will have more time around the house or if you have some interest in becoming a ruralpolitan.

Essential information: Learn about tillers and how to keep your tiller in peak working condition.