More companies take 'green' to new level

More small firms and Fortune 500 companies are investing in their employees in a different way; through topsoil and seeds, according to a recent article from CNNMoney.com .

“Employee wellness and an effort to give workers a low-cost benefit” are the assumed reasons behind recent garden additions to company perks, reports CNNMoney.com.

The article suggests employees are more prone to stay late and finish projects after tending to the garden, including family members and those living in apartments without the luxury of having their own backyard.

Gardening at work also seems to encourage teamwork, friendship, persistence and an ability to balance work with life.

The article cites the National Gardening Association by adding that gardening, as a whole, has increased 10 percent over the past two years with an estimated 40 million American households planning to grow their own produce in 2010.

Locally, the Arizona State University Arboretum offers information and tours, along with accepting volunteers to help get you started.

The Maricopa County Extension Service also has a plethora of information and meet up groups.