Apr 23, 2024
Guerrilla gardening challenges how we perceive and interact with public spaces in concrete jungles. It’s a social movement that draws attention to neglected areas and turns them into vibrant green havens, 1 seed at a time.
City life can take a toll on mental well-being. Research suggests residents experience more stress, depression, and anxiety compared to those in rural areas. These challenges can even manifest in substance abuse and crime. 1, 2, 3
Numerous studies also show that the existence of plants and the act of gardening can improve physical and mental health and strengthen communities:
Cities desperately need greenery, but the benefits often go unrecognised. Guerrilla gardening tackles this issue head-on, fostering a connection with nature while drawing attention to the lack of urban green spaces.
The definition of guerrilla gardening is transforming neglected public spaces or even unused private land into vibrant gardens.
Guerrilla gardeners aim to beautify neighbourhoods, promote biodiversity, and foster a sense of community ownership by planting seeds, maintaining gardens, and reviving forgotten public areas.
Ultimately, this form of community-led gardening is driven by a desire to improve the quality of urban life and create more sustainable cities.
This grassroots activism didn’t appear overnight. Its roots stretch back to legendary figures like Johnny Appleseed, an 18th-century farmer who introduced apple trees to many parts of the US.
But the term “guerrilla gardening” itself sprouted in the 1970s. Led by activist Liz Christy, the Green Guerrillas in New York City took a bold stand. They transformed an abandoned lot, defying neglect and planting seeds for a different future. Their success story, now known as The Liz Christy Bowery Houston Garden, became a permanent fixture in New York City’s park system.
Inspired by this green rebellion, guerrilla gardening has taken root around the world. It’s a movement that empowers everyday people to transform their surroundings, even when faced with bureaucratic hurdles.
Guerrilla gardening goes beyond simply beautifying our cities. It’s a movement that raises awareness about critical urban issues:
The movement emphasises the inefficiency of sprawling car infrastructure that consumes valuable land and contributes to the urban heat island effect.
With predictions that 70% of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050, guerilla gardeners advocate reclaiming these misused spaces to benefit the growing number of urban communities.
Now you know the meaning of guerrilla gardening, let’s look at the specifics of turning a sombre city into a walkable, colourful place to live.
The heart of guerrilla gardening lies in fostering local ecosystems. By cultivating plants indigenous to your region, you’re not just adding beauty; you’re creating a haven for local wildlife.
Native species thrive naturally in your area’s climate and soil conditions, requiring minimal maintenance. Plus, they won’t outcompete or harm existing vegetation.
Before you grab your seed bombs, consider these key factors:
If you’re a guerrilla gardener in Northern Europe, here are some fantastic native options to get you started:
Guerrilla gardening can take many forms, from planting wildflowers in patches of bare soil to turning vacant lots into community vegetable gardens.
The most common examples of guerrilla gardening are planting wildflowers or other native plants on:
Another great idea is transforming abandoned buildings into green spaces to revitalise an area and deter vandalism and other illegal activities.
Guerrilla gardening also goes beyond flowers and veggies.
Some brave gardeners plant trees along streets, creating shady havens that improve air quality and boost an area’s charm.
But the movement doesn’t stop there. Community-driven vegetable gardens are another powerful tool for guerrilla gardeners. These urban farms promote local food production and cultivate social connections among neighbours, creating a stronger, more vibrant community.
Some of the most famous examples worldwide include the Princess Gardens in Berlin, Germany, the Nunawading Community Gardens in Victoria, Australia and the Fifth Quarter Gardening Community in Norwich, England.
Far from being only a spontaneous act, guerrilla gardening boasts a global network of passionate participants.
One example is International Sunflower Guerrilla Gardening Day on 1 May. Started in Brussels in 2007, this day sees thousands of guerrilla gardeners transform cities into sunflower havens. It’s a vibrant spectacle that raises awareness about the movement’s mission.
Earth Day seed bombs: speaking of raising awareness, Earth Day (22 April) has another guerrilla gardening tradition. DIY seed bombs become little green messengers, scattered strategically to promote the cause.
Seed bombs, also called seed balls, are small balls usually made of clay, compost, and seeds.
Seed bombing helps introduce vegetation to barren or hard-to-reach spaces. The clay coating protects the seeds from birds, rodents, and direct sunlight while helping retain moisture for germination. The compost provides nutrients to support initial growth.
DIY seed bombs are commonly made by mixing clay or clay powder with compost or potting soil, suitable seeds, and a little water.
Seeds of various plants, such as wildflowers, herbs, or other native plants, can be used. The mixture is rolled into small balls about the size of a marble or a golf ball and allowed to dry for a day before use.
For paper seed bombs, shredded paper is soaked until it becomes a moldable pulp, mixed with seeds, and shaped into balls.
Seed bombs are a creative way to introduce plants into vacant lots, roadside verges, and other spaces that could benefit from greenery.
In 2022, we partnered with Seedballs Kenya to spread 25 tonnes of indigenous seeds (Seedbolts) — equivalent to planting over 11 million tree seeds.
Seedbolts were made with various tree and grass seeds covered with recycled charcoal for protection. We distributed Seedbolts by truck, plane, hand, and even slingshots!
Here are 5 essential tips to get you started:
1. Scout for locations
Look for neglected spaces crying out for a touch of green. Think vacant lots, forgotten road medians, or overgrown ditches. But remember, respect local regulations and only plant in permitted areas to avoid unwanted attention.
2. Choose plants wisely
Research native plants that thrive in your climate and require minimal maintenance. This ensures your green additions survive and avoid becoming invasive themselves — bonus points for choosing pollinator-friendly flowers to attract bees and butterflies.
3. Pack your gear
Sometimes, a little TLC goes a long way. If the soil seems compacted, bring a trowel to loosen it and give your plants a fighting chance. Don’t forget water (especially in the early stages), and consider using pre-made seed bombs for convenient planting.
4. Nurture the oasis
Newborns need a little extra attention, and so do your guerrilla garden additions. Visit your project regularly to water the plants, especially during dry spells. Pull out any weeds competing for resources, and watch your green patch flourish.
5. Spread the seeds of change
Share photos of your guerrilla garden journey online, talk to your neighbours about the movement, and encourage them to join the cause. Remember, the more people involved, the greener and more vibrant your city can become.
As cities continue to grow, the need for green space is increasingly vital for aesthetics, sustainability, and resident well-being.
Plant flowers, ditch your car, and embrace bikes or walks to fight road sprawl’s grip. Even raising your voice about neglected public land can be a powerful weapon.
Your action plants a seed for greener, more liveable cities.
