A community garden is a piece of land gardened or cultivated by a group of people individually or collectively. Normally in community gardens, the land is divided into individual plots. Each individual gardener is responsible for their own plot and the yielding or the production of which belongs to the individual. In collective gardens the piece of land is not divided. A group of people cultivate it together and the harvest belongs to all participants. Around the world, community gardens exist in various forms, it can be located in the proximity of neighborhoods or on balconies and rooftops. Its size can vary greatly from one to another.
Community gardens are about more than just growing food. By increasing the number of local community gardeners and available garden space, families and individuals are able to grow fresh, healthy produce for very little money, green previously underused areas, increase local food security, get to know and interact with their neighbours, and work together to enhance the communities where they live.
The success and sustainability of community gardens relies on community support and on people getting involved. Locally, over 700 people work hard to maintain, organize and coordinate these gardens. This includes neighbours, co-workers, students, families, and teachers. Despite their differences, they share a common love for their gardens, and, by and large, they are all volunteers.
You don’t have to have a green thumb to be a part of a community garden. Hundreds of citizens get involved by providing land, donating tools, seeds and plants, by building sheds, composters and water systems, by leading workshops, throwing garden parties and in countless other ways. Why not join them?
Local community gardens are producing a lot of food. As a result, they provide a crucial opportunity to increase local food security. Since the majority of plots in community gardens are allotments, most community gardeners are growing food for themselves or their families.
Similarly, community gardens allow individuals greater control over the quality and type of food they consume. They also increase consumption of healthy, fresh foods, especially fruits and vegetables.
Community gardens provide space for people to work together to create beautiful, productive spaces. Local gardeners report that by getting involved in community gardens, they spend more time outdoors, interact more with neighbours, meet new friends, and experience improvements in their mental and physical health.
Many communities also report decreased crime rates, as well as increased pride and community ownership over these spaces. Research has also shown that the creation of community gardens can lead to an increase in neighbourhood property values.
Cheers, and have a great week...get out and do something good for yourself and your community!
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