Urban Farming by Vicky Spelman

 Graphic - Vicky Spelman

Urban:  An urban area is the region surrounding a city. Most inhabitants of urban areas have nonagricultural jobs. Urban areas are very developed, meaning there is a density of human structures such as houses, commercial buildings, roads, bridges, and railways. "Urban area" can also refer to towns, cities, and suburbs.

More and more people are planting gardens in their yards, building vertical ones where space is tight, keeping plants on their office desks and in their homes.  Even small containers can accommodate many plants.  

What are some of the advantages of having your own garden?

1.  Know your food, where it came from, how it was grown and you grow what you like to eat.

2.   You can save money, your food is nutritious, tastier - and you eat healthier.

3.  Plant according to your available space and access to sunlight - makes efficient use of the land.

4.  Working in the garden can relieve stress and be therapeutic.  Also encourages family time by gardening together.  Children benefit from helping in the family garden too. 

5.  Good for the environment and provides a learning opportunity.  Create some garden space for bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects.

6.  Good for the community – sharing excess produce, or creating a community garden.