Living in an urban area, we have all seen vacant lots, full of weeds, bottles and just sitting unutilized. How many times have you passed something like this and thought (wow, what could we do with that to make it productive?) With foodbanks reporting record numbers of people showing up who need help and under increasing pressure to find the funds and supplies, it's kind of a no-brainer. Why can't these spaces be used to help generate food for the hungry or simply to generate something positive for the community at large? It could be a good learning experience for the young people, increase the sense of community in the neighborhood, contribute much needed food for people in need and even help generate income for the community or block association.
Well, there is an organization that is seeking to do just that. It's called Spin Farming. The acronym SPIN stands for S-mall P-lot IN-tensive. They have already set up track records in Philadelphia and Saskatoon, Canada using their methods.
"SPIN is a non-technical, easy-to-learn and inexpensive-to-implement farming system that makes it possible to earn significant income from land bases under an acre in size. Whether you are new to farming, or want to farm in a new way, SPIN can work for you because:
Its precise revenue targeting formulas and organic-based techniques make it possible to gross $50,000+ from a half- acre.
You don't need to own land. You can affordably rent a small piece of land adequate in size for SPIN-FARMING production.
It works in either the city, country or small town.
It fits into any lifestyle or life cycle."
You can visit their website at the link below for further information on Spin Farming.
There is nothing nicer than having a small tranquil garden space you can rest or read in. Even the smallest of spaces can be transformed. The colors, fragrances and shade all contribute to the feeling of a small oasis in the midst of urban tumult. You can use many methods to get the most out of your small space whether it's flowers, food or tranquility that you seek. Next month, we'll have information on tub gardens for your urban garden.
Photo: Kimberly Funk
Gardening in the City Blog
