This month’s potluck was focused on getting neighbors into gardening. We had great discussions about who was gardening, who wanted to garden, who was an expert and novice gardener in the room, etc. Gardens are one of the outcomes we will use to measure the health and wellness of the neighborhood.
Planting gardens in neighborhoods can have a wide range of unexpected benefits. Here are a few examples:
Improved air quality: Gardens help absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving the air quality in neighborhoods. This is especially important in urban areas with a lot of pollution.
Community building: Gardens allow people to unite and achieve a common goal. This can help to build a sense of community and bring people closer together.
Increased access to healthy food: Gardens can provide fresh, healthy produce to people who may not have easy access. This can help to improve the health of people in the neighborhood and reduce food insecurity.
Improved mental health: Gardening has been shown to affect mental health positively. It can reduce stress and anxiety and provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Increased property values: Well-maintained gardens can help increase the value of nearby properties. This can be especially beneficial for homeowners looking to sell their homes.
Habitat creation: Gardens can provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including birds, insects, and other animals. This can help to promote biodiversity in the neighborhood.
Overall, planting gardens in neighborhoods can have several unexpected benefits that go beyond simply providing a beautiful space.