Kentuckys first lady launches garden site

Garden and greenhouse lovers in Kentucky have been urged by the wife of the local governor to visit a website created on her behalf.

Jane Beshear recently launched the greenteam.ky.gov/garden online resource, which allows local horticulture enthusiasts to log on and find out what is going on with the new Governors Garden.

It is focused on promoting a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle and encouraging residents to grow their own food or buy provisions farmed in the state.

By doing this, families can cut carbon emissions from the meals they consume – with the website stating the average US meal has clocked up 1,200 miles from farm to plate.

The first ladys garden has three 16 by 24-foot plots and is designed as an example of what can be cultivated in homes across Kentucky.

Mrs Beshear revealed: "The majority of the produce raised in the Governors Garden will be donated to Access Soup Kitchen, enabling many who often lack access to fresh fruits and vegetables to have healthy, nutritious meals."

It follows the news that Michelle Obama has established a kitchen garden at the White House, while staff at Downing Street in the UK are able to buy produce from the garden of prime minister Gordon Brown.