What happens when a small seedling is planted in a field at the beginning of summer and cared for together, week after week? Santtu’s urban farming blog takes readers along on this journey.
The urban farming group meets weekly at Perho’s educational fields in Malmi. During the growing season, the group sows seeds, plants, weeds, waters, observes nature and eventually harvests the crops. Each meeting builds on the previous one, while the field gradually transforms from the bare beds of spring into a lush vegetable garden.
The blog follows this journey through photos and updates. The posts show how rows overgrown with weeds are cleared together, how crops grow week by week and how the first courgettes, cucumbers and other produce become ready to harvest. Along the way, the group also learns about biodiversity, pollinators, beneficial insects and different cultivation methods.
Urban farming is about much more than growing plants. It is a long-term shared activity in which every participant is part of a common process. Working in nature, observing the changing seasons and taking part in practical activities support well-being in the spirit of Green Care. The growing season teaches patience: not everything can be done at once, and results emerge gradually through working together.
You do not need to be an experienced gardener to join the group. What matters most is an interest in spending time and working in nature and a willingness to do things together. There are suitable tasks for everyone, with opportunities to learn more about plants, cultivation and nature along the way.
The growing season continues well into the autumn, so there is still time to join in.
If you would like to follow how the field changes from week to week and see what urban farming is all about, you can find Santtu’s blog and the group’s latest updates on Niilo. Maybe next time you’ll be out in the field with us!
