The Benefits of Community Gardens

Do you feel like something is missing in your community? Maybe it doesn’t feel like home because you don’t see your neighbors much as you would like to . There might not be a gathering place established so everyone isn’t as social. Community gardens are well known for providing a space for neighbors to grow fresh fruits and vegetables right in their backyard. This allows people to get to know each other as they organize this garden together. Here are some of the greatest benefits of community gardening.

Place to Socialize

Before social media, many people spent their time outdoors meeting neighbors and members of the community. In more recent years, it’s common for people to interact through email chains and social media groups. Having a community garden allows people to get to meet and work alongside each other in a place they are both familiar with. This can form friendships and relationships between individuals who wouldn’t have crossed paths otherwise. Knowing more people in your neighborhood creates a greater sense of safety for all.

Practice Teamwork

Stay up to date with team working skills by being active in your community garden. Keeping up with the garden regularly can be challenging with others around. Consider holding team workshops that include challenges and even activities for kids to get involved. This is not only a good way to get to know one another, but also learn new skills that can help you make your community and garden a better place in the future. Strive to be an advocate for the community by working together as a team and bringing your variety of background to the same plate.

Place to Learn

Go to your community garden to learn more about different fruits and vegetables from neighbors who might be more experienced in gardening. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or even answer them for others. All of your plants are growing near one another, so it’s important to stay informed and keep others informed as well. It is common for community gardeners to have signs with gardening information posted for everyone to follow for the safety and health of others. Aside from learning about how to garden, you can learn different ways to use fruits and vegetables in the kitchen. Community gardens open this opportunity to learn more about your neighbors culture and traditions. Ask around for people willing to share some of their favorite recipes and maybe even sit down to learn more about their heritage while trying a new meal. You can learn something new in your community everyday.

Originally published at http://tombulloch.net.