Green Spaces in Finland: Community Gardens in Small Towns

Community gardens are not exclusive to larger cities; they are also a vibrant presence in smaller towns. These grassroots initiatives serve as vital green spaces that foster community engagement, promote sustainable living, and bring neighbors closer together. In this article, we explore the presence of community gardens in small Finnish towns and how they contribute to the local community.

Popular Community Gardens in Finland

Finnish small towns, despite their smaller scale, have embraced community gardens wholeheartedly. These green spaces can be found in towns like Tampere, Aabo, and many others. In Aabo, near my town, there are four such gardens, each measuring 110 meters and rented for as little as 20 euros per year. The demand for these plots is so high that many people have to wait for several years to secure a spot.

Types of Community Gardens in Finland

The community gardens in Finland can be categorized into two main types: palstaviljely and siirtolapuutarha.

Palstaviljely

Palstaviljely refers to small plots of land that are rented by individuals for growing vegetables and herbs. These plots are typically small, around 100-110 square meters, and are rented on an annual basis for a very low fee, often no more than 20 euros. These gardens are meticulously maintained by their respective owners, fostering a sense of responsibility and community among participants. They are practical for people who want to grow their own produce and contribute to their local food supply.

Siirtolapuutarha

A siirtolapuutarha is a bit more substantial, offering plots of land ranging from 250 to 500 square meters. Unlike palstaviljely, these gardens are more akin to private gardens, often used as summer cottages. Although the primary purpose of these gardens was to provide food for the poor in cities, they have evolved into communal spaces for recreation and relaxation. Many residents use these plots not just for growing vegetables, but for creating personal havens where they can entertain, relax, or simply spend time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Popularity and Demand

The popularity of community gardens in Finnish small towns is evident from the demand. There are often more individuals interested in renting a plot than available space. For example, in my nearby town, there is a strong desire for these gardens, with many residents waiting for years to secure a plot. This demand is a testament to the continued relevance and expanding interest in community gardening in these regions.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite their positive impact, community gardens in small Finnish towns face challenges, particularly due to ongoing urbanization and development. For instance, in Aabo, a community garden was recently abandoned due to the construction of a new housing development. While this is a significant loss, it also presents an opportunity for reimagining and reinvigorating these spaces. Currently, I am working with the city and neighborhood organizations to set up a new community garden. While the neighborhood may face challenges, we believe in the transformative power of these green spaces and are committed to making a positive change.

Personal Reflection and Experiences

One of the highlights of community gardens is the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and learn about different cultures and growing techniques. In the past, there was an African immigrant community in the abandoned garden, which provided a rich cultural exchange. Unfortunately, with the development of the land, this community has been disbanded. However, the memories and the seeds of knowledge gained from these interactions remain valuable.

Conclusion

Community gardens are a cornerstone of small town life in Finland. They offer much more than just a space for growing vegetables; they create a sense of community and promote sustainable living. As urban development continues, it is essential to preserve and expand these valuable green spaces to ensure that future generations can enjoy their benefits.