Urban gardening comes in many forms–rooftop gardening, vertical gardening, container gardening, and small backyard plots just to name a few. If you are considering starting your own urban garden but are still hesitant to take the plunge, check out these three benefits of urban gardening and see if you aren’t convinced.
1. Sustainability – Today it is estimated that the world population will reach 10.5 billion by 2050. Unfortunately, we are already using 90 percent of the arable land, and viable land is being lost to soil depletion daily. In order to sustain the constantly increasing human race, gardens have to get creative, and urban gardening is the answer. Using less space and less water, the Earth and future generations will thank you.
2. Health – We all know vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet, but purchasing produce can get pricey, especially if it isn’t in season. However, experts have determined that in a 130-day growing season, a 10×10 meter plot can provide a four-person family with almost all of their yearly vegetable needs and nutritional requirements. Even if your space is limited, a small garden will have a great impact on your spending habits and health. In addition, gardening improves physical health through exercise, and it has mental benefits, too, such as stress reduction.
3. Adaptability – One of the great things about urban gardening is that it can be adapted to your environment. Small spaces or city-living are no longer an obstacle. If your outdoor space is a small patio or balcony, container gardening is the way to go. Containers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, giving you style options and versatility. If space is extra tight, you might consider vertical gardening, which involves growing plants on a wall in rows.
As you can see, urban gardening not only benefits your health and the planet, but it can be changed to meet your location and needs. There isn’t anything stopping you, so why not start today?