Whenever you drive through a rural area, you probably notice that most acreages and homes have a garden whee the residents can grow fresh nutritious produce. There's nothing new about this - landowners of all kinds have always enjoyed the benefits of growing vegetables and fruit for themselves, and often for others.
City apartment and condominium dwellers often do not have this opportunity. Even city dwellers with their own houses and yards don't have much room for a garden that can supply the vegetable needs of the owners. However, community gardens are growing in popularity, offering residents of cities and towns in many countries the chance to grow and enjoy their own fresh vegetables.
A community garden is just a garden that has several participating gardeners. The land may be community owned, owned by an organization, or even a privately owned site shared with others. It may be set up where each gardener has his own individual plot for growing, or it can be one large garden, with participating gardeners sharing the harvest as well as the work.
Over 10,000 cities in the US have set aside spaces for the residents to garden and grow their own food. Participating residents share in the planning and overall management of the garden. This gives them a sense of community, a learning experience they can share with others and their children, as well as fresh nutritious food that they can take pride in growing. Many other countries also have set up community garden spaces.
The many benefits of a community garden include:
Fresh and nutritious produce for the participating gardeners or families. If organic methods are used, then the produce is much healthier than any commercially grown vegetables.
The participants are able to save money on food. Growing your own vegetables throughout the summer and early fall saves a lot in your grocery bills. It may even be possible to sell excess produce.
The variety of vegetables available is greater. If another gardener in the group grows different plants, then you can probably make a trade, giving more variety to your diet.
People not previously involved in gardening can have a new and rewarding experience. Children as well can be involved, learning not only about growing foods, but also learning about environmental care and responsibility. Gardening is a great family experience.
Socialization is another benefit. Group or community gardening brings people together who have the same interests and goals, regardless of age, race, education or economic state. Working toward a common goal is a great way to make new friends.
Community gardens are eco-friendly. The growing plants produce oxygen, and help to rid the air of pollutants. Most have a composting area, so waste is reduced, and organic materials are made into fertilizer, building up the soil.
If your community has a community garden, then why not get involved. If it doesn't, then take an initiative, and explore ways to start one. Perhaps the local city council has an unused area that could become a garden. Maybe a local school would like to offer a gardening space where the students could learn about gardening. Or perhaps empty lots could be used. Getting involved in community gardening could be great for the environment as well as for you.