We've reached the end of our graded time together, and now we ask what we know. What DID we learn from this experience?
I hope that we've learned that simple actions can lead to huge ideas that are beneficial for humans and the environment. I hope we've learned how a simple row of containers set out on a window ledge or balcony can grow enough herbs and tomatoes for a year's supply for a family. I hope we've learned how many different ways there are to incorporate urban agriculture into the concrete jungle, from vacant lots to rooftops. We've discussed green roofs that aid in stormwater runoff and how those gardens also insulate ceilings and lower heating and cooling bills. We got nerdy with moss and discovered how awesome it could be as a green roof media for maximum stormwater retention.
We've talked about farmer's markets and food security. We've discussed the loss of nutrition in foods that travel across countries to reach our supermarkets. We've also explored at length the emotional and physical benefits of learning to green your space with fruits and vegetables, and how these steps can bring communities together.
I learned that I know nothing about gardening, so I devoted hours of time to compose a simple blog, researching formulas, reading dictionaries, then finding videos and links to support my explanation.
But along the way, I started really not only having a passing interest in the study, but wanting to get more active. I've plotted out my vegetable patch for the summer. I've planted some flowers, pulled some weeds, repotted some other plants, all things I haven't really done before. I've learned that you can approach feminist core values without even having to tip people off that you're blogging for femnivores the world over.
These are a few "distressed" plants I got for a steal at a local hardware store early in the season. So far, they're all thriving and blooming despite the late frosts that hit the town. This was my first conscious effort at getting my hands dirty with gardening, and I'm excited to do even more as the season progresses.
It has been fun to see friends comment and strangers forward or "plus" the information to their own friends, and when I think about the synergy of that in bringing people together for common enjoyment, I feel like all this talk I've been doing about networking with your neighbors is just the beginning step in making urban agriculture a sustainable future for our depleted planet.
