Want to jump start your spring but not sure where to begin? Why not try a fresh garden salad? If you have any place to grow plants whether it is a windowsill, container, flower bed or garden plot, a planting of leafy greens is a great place to start.
There are several advantages to growing your own greens. First, you will save money by not having to go to the grocery store and purchase this on a weekly basis. Second, you will be harvesting a product that you know is organically grown. In addition, if grown in containers around your home, they provide you with beautiful texture and color before it is time to plant the seasonal summer flowers.

Self-watering containers keep the soil moist.
Anyone can grow fresh greens that make an awesome organic salad. For a container salad, use a medium to large (12” to 18”) pot and fill with rich potting soil or garden compost (some retailers sell soil with additives including fertilizer and pre-emergents; for organic gardening, choose only soil or compost). Purchase greens in sets or packs and mix different colors and textures for interest. Greens will produce leaves quickly and can be harvested at any time. Outer leaves should be cut when harvesting to promote more growth. Most greens in the southeast are cool season crops and can be grown until temperatures get hot. Give it a try and feel free to brag about the salad to your dinner guests. No expiration date necessary! For a unique take on salad dressing, try this homemade peanut butter vinaigrette. Intriguing, savory, delectable and good to the last drop, this dressing will have your guests raving about your garden and culinary prowess.

Peanut Butter Salad Dressing

Ingredients
2/3 cup vegetable oil 3 Tablespoons cider or rice vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional) ¼ teaspoon freshly grated ginger 1/4 teaspoon salt
Preparation Combine together all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until blended. Serve over your home grown mixed salad greens.