National Gardening Day: The Importance of Connecting People With Nature
The 14th of April is National Gardening Day – a day dedicated to admiring the art and practice of gardening, promoting awareness about its benefits, and encouraging people to get involved in gardening related activities.
As an Urban Designer with a landscape architecture background and a deep passion for green space, I strongly believe in the importance of gardening in shaping our cities. Growing up in Lithuania, where gardening and food cultivation are deeply ingrained in the culture, I developed an appreciation for the connection between humans and nature. In Lithuania, it’s very common for people to grow their own food, whether they have expansive garden plots or small balconies in urban apartments. This cultural practice not only provides access to fresh, clean food but also fosters a connection to the land.
That love for growing food and gardening is a cherished tradition in our family too. We actively involve our boys in sowing a variety of herbs and vegetables and watching them grow. It is always very exciting to see their joy when the first shoots come out! We also take the time to teach them how to care for the garden, including tasks like weeding and watering the plants. Educating children and young people about the importance of growing their own food not only promotes valuable life skills but also ingrains a deeper appreciation for nature and the food we eat. In an era where convenience often trumps sustainability, it’s crucial to remind ourselves and future generations that not everything comes pre-packaged and delivered to our doorstep. By nurturing a connection to the land and encouraging hands-on involvement in food production, we can empower individuals to make healthier, more sustainable choices for themselves and the planet.
As an Urban Designer, incorporating green spaces and making provisions for gardening – whether at home or within the wider community, is vital for the creation of successful, liveable developments. Food production is just one of a number of benefits green spaces provide – from improving air quality and mitigating the urban heat island effect, to providing opportunities for recreation and community engagement. By prioritising green space in future home designs, we can create spaces that not only meet our physical and emotional needs but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.
Written by Greta
