Description: Guerrilla gardening is the act of cultivating plants on land that is not legally owned by those who cultivate them. This movement, which combines gardening with an activist approach, seeks to transform neglected or abandoned urban spaces into productive green areas. It often takes place on vacant lots, sidewalks, or even public spaces, where guerrilla gardeners aim not only to beautify the environment but also to promote sustainability and food self-sufficiency. This type of gardening is characterized by its spontaneous nature and resistance to urban regulations, making it a form of peaceful protest against the lack of access to green spaces and land privatization. Guerrilla gardening focuses not only on growing ornamental plants but also includes the planting of vegetables and herbs, thereby encouraging local food production and community connection. This movement has gained popularity in various cities around the world, where citizens seek to reclaim control over their environment and promote a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle.
History: The term ‘guerrilla gardening’ began to gain popularity in the 1970s, although similar practices have been documented long before. One of the most significant events was the creation of the ‘Guerrilla Gardening Network’ in 2004, which helped consolidate the movement globally. Over the years, guerrilla gardening has been used as a form of resistance in various cities, especially in contexts of aggressive urbanization and privatization of public spaces.
Uses: Guerrilla gardening is primarily used to revitalize forgotten urban spaces, promote sustainability, and local food production. It is also employed as a tool for social activism, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of green spaces in cities and the need for access to fresh and healthy food.
Examples: A notable example of guerrilla gardening is the ‘Seedbombing’ project, where activists throw seed bombs into vacant lots to encourage plant growth. Another case is the community gardens in New York, where groups of citizens have taken over abandoned lots to grow food and flowers, creating spaces for gathering and collaboration.
