For many apartment or urban dwellers, living near a green space is a non-negotiable. When people don’t have yards of their own, they often want to be near a Community Garden or park to help fill that need. Many cities are now building and maintaining community gardens that also frequently help feed underserved neighborhoods.

Here are 5 reasons to get involved with a community garden near you:

1) Fresh food for you (& neighbors!)

When you plant a community garden, you’re working together to plant all kinds of things. In your area’s garden season, many vegetable plants will produce bountiful results, fresh food to eat at home or share with others in the community or surrounding neighborhoods. If your bounty is extremely large, you could make a bulk donation to a local food pantry or similar organization on behalf of your community garden.

2) Chances to socialize with neighbors

Since community gardens are about sharing the work and rewards of a garden, they foster communication between neighbors. Many garden organizations hold events to discuss working and investing in the garden and some even collaborate with farmer’s markets to sell plants and vegetables.

3) Great activity for kids

Kids are likely a part of your community. A garden is a great chance for them to hone their work ethic and sense of responsibility, while enjoying the rewards of a job well done and the joy of sharing.with those less fortunate. Kids love getting their hands dirty with planting seeds and picking vegetables.

4) Beautifies your neighborhood

Community gardens can help with the visual appearance of your neighborhood, turning a forlorn lot into a happy green space and a point of pride. Community gardens positively reflect the people and homes in your neighborhood. They automatically convey a sense of community and collaboration while creating something fun to keep an eye on.

5) Can attract affluent neighbors

Areas with community gardens often attract residents in a higher income bracket. Whether they’re empty nesters or young professionals, garden fans are looking for ways to stay healthy and be a part of their communities. A bonus: If nearby residents are in a higher income bracket, they’ll have more disposable income to contribute to maintaining a community garden.

There are many benefits of living near and being a part of a community garden. Whether you’re looking for a chance to be a part of a community organization or trying to learn how to garden, apartments and homes near community gardens are sure to give you plenty of opportunities.

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