Makati is one of the Philippines’ thriving cities and as it continues to do so, the demand for sustainability grows with it. Urban gardening is one of the promising trends, particularly in cities where there may be limited space. So if you are living in a condo in Makati, it may be a good idea to start your own urban garden. 

Makati Urban Agri Project 2022 

The city of Makati has, over the years, introduced different environmental initiatives, including the Plant, Plant, Plant program. It also launched an urban agri project under this program through the Department of Agriculture (DA). 

Entitled “Enhancement of the Indoor Hydroponics System for Lettuce, Kale, Basil, and Tomato Production,” the project is an indoor vertical farming program to help combat the looming food crisis. It was reportedly implemented as a learning center and production site for the public sector. 

If you own a condo in Makati, you can also contribute in simple ways, such as starting a window sill herb garden or a balcony flower garden. 

Urban Gardening and its Many Benefits

Urban gardening is the practice of growing greens in urban areas. If you live in a condo in Makati, it may seem impossible to grow plants and vegetables in your home. However, you actually only need a small garden, balcony, or rooftop to do so. 

Why urban gardening? It has plenty of advantages and doesn’t take up a lot of space, making it ideal for condo owners. Here are some more reasons: 

1. Reduce carbon footprint through lessened long-haul transportation

2. Improve soil and air quality with plants removing toxins from the soil and filtering the air naturally.

3. Better biodiversity courtesy of the urban garden attracting bees, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.

4. Therapeutic benefits, such as reduced stress, anxiety, and depression through mindfulness provided by the act of tending to plants.

5. Nutritious produce with higher nutrients than store-bought, all thanks to fresh, organic fruits and veggies straight from your garden.

Besides these, urban gardening in the confines of your condo in Makati can foster a sense of community. This practice is a growing trend that is building communities in and out of the city. 

Ideas to Grow Greens in Makati Condos 

But as someone who’s just starting, how can you start an urban garden in your condo in Makati? 

Here are some ideas you can start with: 

Container Gardening 

In a condo, the best way to start urban gardening is by growing plants in pots, planters, or buckets. Some ideal plants you can grow include low-light tolerant plants such as the snake plant, pothos, cast iron plant, and ZZ plant, which you can then place on your windowsill, patios, or other small spaces. 

Vertical Gardening 

You can also maximize the limited space of your condo by taking advantage of vertical spaces to start your garden. Attach your pots or containers to a wall, or use wall-mounted planers or trellises. With this, you have a green wall of fresh produce or a flower garden adorning your space. 

Hydroponics 

Try soilless gardening through hydroponics, which involves growing greens by planting them directly in nutrient-enriched water. This method doesn’t take a lot of space like container gardening and can be done like vertical gardening. In addition, you can ensure nutrient efficiency for your plants while maximizing your water consumption. 

Living in a condo in Makati doesn’t mean you can’t have your own garden. Take this up and connect with other gardeners in your city.