Gainesville, FL - A new study by the University of Florida explores the attitudes and behaviors of urban home gardeners through the lens of citizen science, offering fresh insights into how gardening is embraced in cities and its broader implications for community and environmental well-being.
Urban gardening has gained significant traction as a way to connect with nature, grow food, and enhance green spaces in densely populated areas. This study leverages citizen science-where gardeners contribute data and observations-to better understand motivations, challenges, and the environmental awareness of urban gardeners. Citizen science allows researchers to collect data at a scale and breadth that would not be possible if the data collection had been limited to research teams.
Key findings reveal that urban gardeners are motivated by a combination of personal enjoyment, sustainability, and a desire to contribute to local biodiversity. Participants highlighted challenges such as limited space, pest management, and access to resources, yet expressed a strong commitment to gardening as a means of improving their quality of life and supporting urban ecosystems.
Participating in citizen science programs focused on home gardening improves attitudes and beliefs about gardening, increasing the likelihood of future participation, according to the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). The study found significant growth in participants' normative beliefs, reflecting how much others support home gardening. Future programs can enhance these effects by fostering interaction among participants and encouraging them to share their experiences with friends and family. However, the study also noted limited improvements in self-efficacy and perceived behavioral control, emphasizing the need for programs to provide practical tools, resources, and information to help participants feel confident in their ability to succeed in home gardening.
The study also underscores the value of citizen science in fostering community connections and empowering individuals to engage in environmental stewardship. By involving gardeners directly in research, the initiative enhances understanding of urban gardening trends while inspiring sustainable practices.
According to the author, "This project demonstrates the power of collaboration between horticulture and social science. By bringing together diverse expertise and engaging citizen scientists, we've not only expanded our understanding of new plant varieties but also empowered home gardeners to cultivate their own food, boosting self-sufficiency and confidence along the way."
Dr. Campbell is Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Community Food Systems" and I'm in the Department of Family, Youth, and Community Sciences, at University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS).
The full article can be found on the ASHS HortTech electronic journal website at:
https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05320-23
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community - scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
