Verde: 2010

The current method of growing and distributing food in our modern society has left many of us out of touch with where our food really comes from and how it is grown. Living in big cities, the rise of factory farming and the rise of monoculture all contribute to the experience of moving us further from our agricultural heritage. There is a concern that many of the heirloom varieties of fruits and vegetables will be lost if we discontinue planting diverse, regionally specific gardens. Many of us have an interest in learning more about the process and would love to be able to take an active role in growing the food we eat. By growing your own food and getting back in touch with where our food comes from you can save money, increase the freshness and purity of the food you eat, and help keep agricultural diversity alive.

Because of the competitive property values here in Los Angeles rental prices have remained incredibly high over the years. Santa Monica has some of the highest rental prices in all of Los Angeles and students are usually forced to live in smaller apartments or studios to compensate. Despite being limited by space, there are several creative ways grow food in your kitchen, containers, balconies, walls and courtyards. We set out to explore the various options available to students that have an interest and desire to grow their own food but are limited by space.

Sprouting

Sprouting is by far the easiest and least complicated method of growing food in your kitchen and should be the first on your list when attempting a kitchen garden. A mason jar with lid and a window is all you need to get started and in a few days you can start seeing the results. The wide variety of sprout-able seeds and the fast grow times, (2-9 days average) makes this a great first project. Sproutman has a great chart available that takes the guesswork out of how long to soak and rinse your seeds as well as a great supply of books and supplies. There are various methods for different seeds so try a few and then start combining them for great salad mixes. The ease and benefit should have you incorporating these nutritional giants into your sandwiches and salads in no time.

Kitchen Herb Gardens

Window boxes and herb gardens are an easy way to make sure you are getting the freshest ingredients possible for your meals. Start with things you already use and maybe some things you would like to incorporate. Basil, cilantro, rosemary, sage, oregano, and mint are great to start with. Make sure your window or patio gets the right combination of sunlight and shade and that you keep an eye out for pests. Some companies make kits specific for Italian, Mexican or Asian cuisine so try what you like or experiment with something new... Most of all, have fun!

Hanging Baskets

Baskets are a great way to make use of your balcony space and keep things at eye level. Keeping your veggies off the ground can help with pest control and also provide an attractive decorative solution to any outdoor patio space. Melons, strawberries, tomatoes and squashes all do well up in the air.

Container Gardens

There are several companies that make products specific to container gardening and even your local garden supply store will offer many solutions. Plastic and ceramic containers both have their advantages but the main thing to keep in mind is the right amount of water and air flow. Self watering pots and valve systems are a great way to ensure that your plants get what they need. Seed companies sell specific seed varieties that have been hybridized to grow in smaller environments.

Raised Beds

Raised beds are a great way to have control over your garden and can really help with keeping things contained. You can build a box yourself fairly easily and something that's specific to your balcony or patio space. You may consider building it with tiers to make use of the space or raise it off the ground to keep it at standing height. Raised beds are great even if you have a yard but don't know the conditions and balance of your soil. Sometimes we might be unaware of lead or other pollutants in our yards and not have the ability to change the situation. Pest control is another great feature of having your veggies in a box and helps to keep things as you intended.

Rails and Fences

When space is a premium it's important to get creative and use what you can. Fences and Railings can be a great way to control things and give vegetables like beans a good place to climb. In the photo above, gutters were used as a great way to put lettuces at multiple levels and keep them off the ground. Look into various trellises and creative ways in which you can allow things to grow vertically depending on your situation.

Walls

Walls are oftentimes not utilized as much as they could be and are often ignored when trying to find space to garden. When growing food in small spaces it's important to really maximize your square footage and use whatever space you can. Balconies and patios have walls and fences that are perfect for growing things and usually have favorable sunlight. There are several new products taking advantage of the vertical trend in gardening that's happening right now so check out what's out there and suitable to your needs. Felt pockets and recycled materials have become popular recently and provide a versatile way for you to experiment without building something to elaborate.

Community Gardens

If space is still an issue, your landlord is being difficult, or you just need more room, community gardens may be your answer. Look into local listings and check out the resources that are available to you. The Community Garden in Santa Monica often offers classes and is a great way to learn from others. If space is not available be sure to sign up on the waiting list so that you may get a spot when one becomes available. By signing up you continue to show the city that there is a need and this helps to create more places in the future. Get involved and ask your school to provide a space for students to garden and educate about growing food. There are programs out there but they need people to support them. Urban garden projects have the ability to educate, feed people in need and provide a place for the community to come together.

There many good books available that deal specifically with growing food in tight spaces. See the links below for some recommended reading and for online resources available to you. Take some classes, get involved, and grow something...!!!

Local Resources

Venice Learning Garden

Santa Monica Community Gardens

Santa Monica Garden Sharing Registry

UC Extension Master Garden Program

Online Resources

American Community Garden Association

Inside Urban Green
Permaculture Activist Magazine

Treehugger
Growing Vegetables Upside Down

Books

McGee & Stuckey's Bountiful Container
Urban Garden Magazine

The Urban Homestead