Guerrilla Gardening

Guerrilla Gardening

Guerrilla Gardening is about reclaiming unused and unloved spaces for growing food or plants. It is a form of political gardening and direct action. All over the world, derelict wastelands, unkempt parks, public flower borders and roundabouts have been turned into productive and beautiful growing spaces by activists and experienced gardeners alike.

It fits well with the transition concept of doing it yourself. In fact, lots of transition communities are developing guerrilla gardening tactics for increasing access to locally grown food. For example, check out the inspiration example of the Incredible Edible project in Todmorden. Why not try something similar at or nearby your university.

As well as growing food, guerrilla gardening can be an excellent campaigning tool. For example, planting a few well-placed bulbs in winter (crocuses, snowdrops or daffodils) can make your campaign messages bloom in early spring.

Some guerrilla gardeners carry out their actions at night, in relative secrecy, to sow and tend a new vegetable patch or flower garden. Others work more openly, seeking to engage with members of the local community.

Check out GuerrillaGardening.org for lots of top tips and advice on getting started with guerrilla gardening.

You’ll find instructional videos, advice about legality and engaging with local authorities, as well as tips on how to grow and harvest your produce.