The Florida Department of Health has confirmed 94 cases of cyclosporiasis statewide, including two 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, leading many South Floridians to rethink what they put on their plates, especially when it comes to greens and berries.
Delray Beach resident Ryan Boylston has turned his front yard into rows of edible plants instead of a typical suburban landscape. His property includes a pineapple patch, a malay apple, a salad tree, spinach, lettuce, arugula, star fruit, bananas, peppers and herbs. Boylston said his family eats food from their yard every day and gets all their greens from the garden.
He started growing his own food about three years ago after struggling to find produce he felt was healthy and free of chemicals or contaminants. Through his company Urban Abundance, Boylston now helps others install gardens in their own yards. The other half of his property is filled with herbs and vegetables growing in raised planters similar to the ones he builds for customers.