FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012

Spring is the perfect time to start a vegetable garden. Tomatoes, summer squash, okra, peppers, cucumbers and bush beans are delicious additions to any summertime plate, and always taste better fresh from the garden!

Recognizing the value of urban agriculture, the City of Richmond established the Community Garden Program called "Richmond Grows Gardens" to promote the development of community gardens throughout the city. Community gardens build and strengthen the community, provide economic benefits, increase social equity and promote environmental stewardship. 

By providing access to affordable, nutritional foods, community gardening is among the most practical approaches to preventing and reducing obesity and associated diseases. Under the City's program, community gardens are created and maintained by Garden Groups and citizens. This helps the City decrease its operation and maintenance costs. Turning vacant lots into attractive gardens can also help neighborhoods more effectively attract and retain residents and businesses.

Urban agriculture improves the quality of life for urban residents by creating green spaces and enhancing the connections between garden participants. Community gardens can also provide environmental benefits including managing stormwater runoff by capturing and filtering water in the urban environment.

For more information or to start a garden of your own, visit the Community Gardens website.