Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
Theme
Critical findings
845 results(29 / 34)
Complexity & Urban Agriculture
2014M. Ubarevicius · · United States (New York City)
An architectural project for urban agriculture was developed on the East River waterfront in Manhattan, New York City. Advanced simulation techniques and computational methods were used to optimize building organization and shape for efficient natural resource use, including greenhouses generating energy from river water and a building shape optimized for wind concentration. The building also integrates food production with storage, processing, distribution, education, preparation, and service functions.
DIYFood educationEconomicsClimate changeDomestic Residential Garden Food Production in Melbourne, Australia: a fine-grained analysis and pilot study
2014Zainil Zainuddin, David Mercer · Australian Geographer · Australia (Melbourne)
This pilot study conducted a fine-grained analysis of domestic residential garden food production among 15 selected householders in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. Participants collected detailed daily information about their food production over a three-month period, with two respondents maintaining records for one or more years. The results demonstrated enormous diversity in harvested food and extremely high productivity levels from relatively small domestic spaces.
DIYCommunityEconomicsA strategy for food system sustainability in the University Bolevard Neighbourhood : initiatives within the residence buildings
2014Laura Chan, Jeff Friedrich, Katie Garthwaite, Sundeep Khakh, Sarah Morrison, Meredith Seeton · cIRcle (University of British Columbia) · Canada
This student project developed a strategy to enhance food sustainability within the residences of UBC's proposed University Boulevard Neighbourhood, specifically through rooftop gardens integrated with residential commons space. The strategy was based on an analysis of UBC's development plans, eco-villages, and permaculture design concepts. Recommendations included that UBC Campus and Community Planning develop standards and a framework for implementation, and that future student projects work with stakeholders to develop an action plan and indicators for food sustainable planning.
CommunityDIYPolicyNEHS grants set to make garden projects grow
2014Tim Cook · · Global
Over 30 community projects, including guerrilla gardening and "grow your own" initiatives for family food banks, received grant funding from the North of England Horticultural Society (NEHS).
CommunityWelfareDIYOutput and cost savings of community gardens in San Jose, California (132.7)
2014Susan J. Algert, Aziz Baameur · The FASEB Journal · United States (San Jose, California)
A study in community gardens in San Jose, California, from Spring to Summer 2012, evaluated a method for quantifying crop yields and cost savings. Eighty-three community gardeners completed a background survey, and a representative subset of 10 gardeners measured produce output from their plots over a four-month growing season. Results indicated that community gardens produced 0.75 lbs of vegetables per square foot, exceeding conventional agricultural practices at 0.60 lbs/sq ft. Gardens averaged 2.55 lbs per plant and resulted in $435 in cost savings per plot for the season.
CommunityEconomicsDIYEcología urbana: diseño de espacios productivos comunitarios y evaluación de condiciones del medio de crecimiento y asociación de especies
2014Leslie Vorraber, María Sebastián López, Esteve Fernández, Marcelo Scofano · Redalyc (Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México) · Argentina (Flores)
Since 2012, the University of Flores (UFLO) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, has implemented an Urban Agriculture Development Program. This program creates organic garden models with various production systems and designs, utilizing recycled materials and urban-adapted formats, to be promoted in community productive spaces. It involves monitoring and evaluating physical-chemical parameters of system components to ensure optimal development and the use of seasonal species adapted to the local climate.
CommunityDIYOrganic cycleFood educationSUITABILITY FOR URBAN AGRICULTURE AND PERMACULTURE OF SOME BIOTYPES AND NEW VARIETIES OF SPECIES WITH SANOGENE CHARACTERISTICS AND QUALITIES
2014Balan Viorica, V. Tudor, Oana Mencinicopschi, Carmen Gabriela Manole, Baia Sprie · AgroLife Scientific Journal · Romania (Bucharest)
Multidisciplinary research at UASVM of Bucharest recommended specific varieties and biotypes with sanogene characteristics suitable for cultivation in urban and suburban gardens. These included Deea, Elita 124, and Roxia from black currant; Rolan and Jh. Van Tets from red currant; V2 biotype from wolfberry; and Rares, Valeria, Carmela, Viorica, Bucovina, and Ilinca from apricot. These selections were based on characteristics such as early fruiting, production under ecological conditions, low to medium shrub and tree volume, plant density, high self-compatibility, and the quality, organoleptic, biochemical, and sanogene properties of the fruits.
DIYPolicyBiodiversityOrganic cycleType and distribution of urban and peri-urban agriculture production systems in Nairobi County, Kenya
2014Nairobi Kenya · · Kenya (Nairobi)
This research investigated the type and distribution of urban and peri-urban agriculture production systems in Nairobi County, Kenya. Results showed that crop-only cultivation accounted for 58.8% in Kamukunji district, while mixed farming was predominantly practiced in Starehe district at 39.1%. Multi-storey (42.5%) and moist gardens (25%) were the most common urban production technologies, whereas drip irrigation (23.6%) and multi-storey gardens (25.5%) were preferred in peri-urban areas.
Peri-urban agricultureDIYPengaruh Kombinasi Jumlah Tanaman Per Polybag Dan Komposisi Media Tanam Terhadap Pertumbuhan Dan Hasil Tanaman Mentimun (Cucumis Sativus L.) Var. Venus
2014Etik Wulandari, Bambang Guritno, Nurul Aini · Jurnal Produksi Tanaman · Indonesia
This study in Indonesia investigated the effect of combining the number of cucumber plants per polybag and growing media composition on the growth and yield of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). A single-factor randomized block design was used, with 12 treatments and 3 replications. Results showed that combinations of 1, 2, or 3 plants per polybag with a mixed growing medium of soil, chicken manure, and sand had a significantly better effect on cucumber growth and yield components compared to other treatments.
DIYFood educationUrban–rural linkageHome Gardening: An Effective Cancer Therapy
2014Mike Fillon · JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute · United States (Birmingham)
A feasibility study for "Harvest for Health," an at-home gardening intervention, was conducted in 2011 with 12 adult and child cancer survivors in Jefferson County, Alabama. This year-long pilot study measured how cancer survivors responded to the intervention, specifically its effects on their diet and exercise behaviors, health-related quality of life, biomarkers of successful aging, intestinal health, and physical functioning. Participants, supported by master gardeners, planned and planted three gardens for fall, spring, and summer, engaging in harvesting and rotation.
DIYHealthInvestigation on the Growth of Several Medicinal Plants in a Rooftop Vegetable Garden
2014Yoo Mi Ha, Dong Yeob Kim, Dong Kyu Hwang, Kwang Sik Min · Journal of the Korea Society of Environmental Restoration Technology · South Korea
This study investigated the growth responses of eight medicinal plants, including Glehnia littoralis, Cryptotaenia japonica, Angelica gigas, Reynoutria japonica, Saururus chinensis, Houttuynia cordata, Ligularia fischeri, and Aralia cordata, under 70% shading and full sunlight conditions on a rooftop using artificial soil. Glehnia littoralis, Cryptotaenia japonica, Ligularia fischeri, Saururus chinensis, and Houttuynia cordata showed better growth under full sunlight, with Glehnia littoralis, Reynoutria japonica, Houttuynia cordata, and Ligularia fischeri exhibiting low stress under full sunlight in August. While 70% shading was effective for Angelica gigas, Reynoutria japonica, and Aralia cordata, Angelica gigas and Reynoutria japonica grew better under full sunlight during summer.
DIYHealth‘Plants Are Fashioned by Cultivation, Man by Education’
2014Robert Mattock · · United Kingdom
This article discusses the decline in horticultural skills and work ethic in the United Kingdom over the last century, attributing it to the welfare state's de-incentivization of the workforce. The diverse plant vocabulary and cultivation skills once common among Victorian gardeners and landscape designers are now largely lost, impacting the conservation of designed landscapes. While efforts are being made to revive school gardens and promote apprenticeships and craft skills, the article concludes that more work is needed to re-establish a traditional work ethic in apprenticeships.
Limited or null effectFood educationDIYThe Assessment of the Use of Eco-Friendly Nets to Ensure Sustainable Cabbage Seedling Production in Africa
2013· Agronomy · Africa (tropics)
Assesses low-cost eco-friendly net (EFN) covers as an affordable technology for sustainable cabbage seedling (nursery) production by small-scale growers. Net covering raised temperature and humidity, improved seedling growth, and reduced insect pest damage.
DIYEconomicsDomestic scale vermicomposting for solid waste management
2013· International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture · Global
Investigates domestic-scale vermicomposting as a low-cost, low-maintenance option for managing household solid organic waste by converting kitchen waste into worm castings.
DIYCompostOrganic cycleEvaluation of Vegetable Production on Extensive Green Roofs
2013Leigh Whittinghill, D. Bradley Rowe, Bert M. Cregg · Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems · Global
This study evaluated vegetable and herb production across three growing systems—a green roof, raised green roof platforms, and in-ground—over three seasons (2009–2011). Tomatoes, green beans, cucumbers, peppers, basil, and chives were cultivated. All plants except pepper survived and produced biomass in all systems, yielding crops for analysis in 2009 and 2010. Yields and basil biomass were higher in-ground in 2009, while roof and platform systems showed similar results. The study suggests that vegetable and herb production is possible and productive in extensive green roof systems with proper management.
DIYClimate changeOrganic cycleDemand Analysis and Countermeasures to Balcony Agricultural Development in Chaoyang of Beijing
2013Znang Chen · · China (Beijing)
Balcony agriculture in Chaoyang, Beijing, is a major application direction for urban agricultural technology innovation, effectively promoting urban-rural integration and forming an important part of cultural creativity.
DIYUrban–rural linkage학술논문 : 도시농업 활동가를 위한 옥상농원에 적합한 식물소재 및 식재모델
2013원선이 · 한국화예디자인학연구 · South Korea
The Gyeonggi-do Agricultural Research & Extension Services in South Korea created a vegetable garden to provide urban agriculture activists with rational methods for rooftop garden creation and crop cultivation guidelines. Over two years, 201 plant materials were collected and studied, with 170 ultimately selected. Selected edible plants included 48 vegetable species, 9 fruit tree species, and 11 field crop species, while ornamental plants included 40 flower species, 23 herb species, 16 sedum and sedge species, and 23 woody species. Four planting models—box, tunnel, wall, and mobile box types—were also developed based on the growth characteristics and uses of the collected plant materials.
DIYCommunityFood educationClimate changeSustainability through Urban Gardening
2013Sherece Burma Tami Ambury · Earth Common Journal · Global
This article explores three visions of sustainability through urban gardening at individual, community, and city levels, as visually presented by MacEwan University Design Studies students in their final documentary photography project. It details the students' project development process, including subject location and interviews, and highlights their increased awareness and interest in how urban and suburban residents can find or grow their own food.
CommunityDIYFood educationClimate changePresent Status of Rooftop Gardening in Sylhet City Corporation of Bangladesh: an Assessment Based on Ecological and Economic Perspectives
2013Md. Habibur Rahman, Mizanur Rahman, Md. Mostafa Kamal, Md. Jasim Uddin, Most. Jannatul Fardusi, Bishwajit Roy · Journal of Forest and Environmental Science · Bangladesh
This study analyzed rooftop gardening in Sylhet City Corporation, Bangladesh, from July-September 2010, collecting data from 450 gardeners. Findings showed rooftop gardening was primarily for mental satisfaction (95.3%) and leisure (87.8%), with middle-income classes most interested (43.78%). The survey recorded 53 plant species, and while few gardeners considered it commercial, cost-return analysis suggested economic viability with proper management.
DIYEconomicsCommunityBiodiversityText Twitter and tweet: Sustainability
2013Sharon McDonough · Practically primary · Australia (Melbourne)
This reflective piece explores the concept of sustainability and its connection to gardening in Melbourne, Australia. The author observes that a focus on sustainability encourages individuals to engage in personal and community gardening, including planting on nature strips. An example in Melbourne highlights neighbors collaboratively planting and caring for herbs, fostering community engagement and shared resource management.
CommunityDIYClimate changeEl fenómeno de los huertos urbanos: Volver a los orígenes
2013Miguel Lorente · Dialnet (Universidad de la Rioja) · Global
This paper describes the recent social movement promoting urban gardens as sources of leisure, social interaction, and healthy self-consumption food. Factors such as environmental awareness, increased unemployment, physical exercise for retirees, the pleasure of producing one's own food, and trends are contributing to the creation of small vegetable gardens in and around cities. This small-scale activity allows urban populations to discover and understand the role of agriculture.
CommunityHealthEconomicsDIYFood educationSegmentation and Preference Analysis of Urban Farming Patterns
2013Jeong Im Hwang, Yoon Ji Choi, Bo Gyung Jang · The Korean Journal of Community Living Science · Global
This study segmented urban farming patterns and analyzed preferences using two-step cluster analysis, chi-square analysis, and ANOVA, based on face-to-face surveys from 9 urban farms. Three clusters were identified: 'hobby-oriented farming', 'producing-oriented farming', and 'multipurpose farming'. Significant differences were found among these groups regarding age, presence of children under 14, household income, and housing type, indicating that urbanites' farming patterns vary with socio-demographic profiles.
CommunityDIYEconomics厨师、农民、他的妻子和他们的邻居
2013马杰提卡·波特尔克, 怀尔德·维特森 · 公共艺术 · Netherlands (Amsterdam)
This project was implemented in 2009 in Nieuw-West, Amsterdam, Netherlands, by artists Majetika Poterke and Wilder Vitsen. It utilized a community garden and community kitchen as its medium, incorporating building materials, energy infrastructure, and a plant garden.
CommunityFood educationDIYLandscape Design with Edibles
2013Gail Hansen · EDIS · United States
This 4-page fact sheet presented details to ensure the success of edible ornamental landscape design. Gardens with plants that change considerably with seasons rely more on an organized yet interesting layout, appealing support structures, functional pathways, and colorful containers and planters to provide interest and beauty when plants are not taking center stage. Twelve important ideas to consider when creating a successful edible ornamental garden are outlined.
DIYFood educationGuerrilla warfare in the planning system: revolutionary progress towards sustainability?
2013David Adams, Alister Scott, Michael Hardman · Geografiska Annaler Series B Human Geography · Global
This article examined how planning practice, exemplified by permaculture and guerrilla gardening case studies, can be rooted in confrontation and legal challenge, hindering innovative practices. The findings confirmed that spatial planning theory is largely "disintegrated" from much contemporary planning and environmental practice and wider sustainability discourses. This suggests that planners and decision-makers' prescribed and constrained management of space can impede practices with significant societal and environmental benefits.
Governance failureDIYPolicyCommunity