Urban Gardens Blossom as Family Alternative in Ayolas

Urban farming is taking root in Ayolas, Paraguay, offering families a comprehensive solution for food production, cost savings, and supplementary income. Luis Vera, a local producer, champions this initiative, highlighting its importance for family economies by providing fresh vegetables and fruits.

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I observe that in our community, at least, the people have definitively opted to have their own gardens.

Beyond savings, these urban gardens are emerging as a source of revenue. Vera notes a significant growth in this sector within the community, stating, "I observe that in our community, at least, people have definitively opted to have their own gardens." This trend revives a traditional Paraguayan practice that had diminished over time.

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There are many recyclable materials that can be used within the garden.

Space constraints are not a barrier, as Vera explains. Various alternatives and recycled materials, such as pots, planters, cardboard, and repurposed containers, can be used to cultivate a variety of produce, including tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, and strawberries. He estimates that a single tomato plant can yield up to fifty kilos per season, demonstrating the potential for substantial household contributions.

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From a tomato plant, you can get five kilos; so, if you have ten plants, you can produce approximately fifty kilos per season.

Furthermore, urban gardens offer advantages like reduced pest exposure due to contained spaces and greater protection against adverse weather conditions, such as those associated with El Niño. This method allows for better control over humidity and crop safeguarding, making it a resilient approach to food production.

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A beautiful snake does not necessarily mean a harmless snake!