The Florida Department of Health has confirmed 94 cases of cyclosporaiosis statewide, including two cases in Palm Beach County, two in St. Lucie County and one in Martin County. Growing outbreaks linked to bacteria and parasites on produce continue making headlines, and many South Floridians are rethinking what they put on their plates, especially when it comes to greens and berries.
Ryan Boylston of Delray Beach said his family gets all their greens from their yard and eats food they grew every day. Boylston started growing his own food about three years ago after struggling to find produce he felt was healthy and free of chemicals or contaminants. He said there is nothing being sprayed on the plants except water.
Boylston now runs a company called Urban Abundance and helps others install gardens in their own yards. For beginners interested in starting their own garden, Boylston recommends growing crops that can handle Florida's intense summer heat, including spinach, sweet potatoes and yardlong beans. He says lettuce and tomatoes do much better during the winter months.