Mini ‘brownfield gardens’ are part of a movement to restore green spaces in concrete jungles and urban areas, whether to grow local organic free food, or produce flowers as pollinators for local wildlife. Or trees to provide food and nests for birds and other wildlife.
It’s also a great way to get involved in community volunteering, make new friends and enjoy fresh produce that you grew yourself, even if you have no access to your own garden.
Brownfield gardens are built anywhere with planning permission, from old industrial areas to demolished building sites. Instead of building on meadows and fields, there is plenty of ugly unused land to build on instead. The buildings if safely demolished can then be reused as rockeries etc, by reusing bricks and other materials in landscaping the gardens.
Use no-dig gardening and fruit protection bags (over netting, which can trap birds and wildlife). Learn how to create pet-safe gardens (use humane slug/snail deterrents). Avoid facing indoor foliage to gardens, to help stop birds flying into windows.
From former railway sidings to old farms no longer in use, there are many areas across England that could be used to build brownfield gardens or public parks.
The only main caveat is that you have to take care on what’s underneat tarmac and paving. For instance, old car parks may contain sump oil, so needs to be safely removed before planting turf. Download a free depaving guide on how to do this.
Other possible building materials include broken concrete (to make paving slabs) or even old brambles can be rescued and turned into foraging sites, for both birds and humans.
Planning Your Mini Brownfield Garden
Start with location. Look for spots with ample sunlight, since most plants need about six hours of sun. Check the soil quality too. While some restoration might be needed, the ground shouldn’t be irreversibly toxic. Accessibility matters, so ensure the site is reachable for both planting and regular visits.
Testing the soil is non-negotiable. You’ll want to check for heavy metals and other pollutants. If contaminants are found, don’t despair. Options like raised beds or soil remediation can offer solutions. Consulting with local environmental agencies can provide guidance and support.
When it comes to designing, keep efficiency and aesthetics in mind. Think vertical, using walls or trellises to maximise space. Plan pathways to navigate easily, and segment areas for different plant types, ensuring they’re grouped by care needs. This will make maintenance easier in the long run.
Essential Tools and Materials
Use no-dig methods and a trowel for smaller tarks, and sturdy gloves to protect your hands. A watering can keeps plants hydrated, while a rake helps to level the soil and clear debris.
For urban gardening, soil amendments are crucial to enriching poor ground. Compost improves soil structure, while mulches retain moisture. Depending on what you’re growing, specific fertilisers might boost plant health and yield.
No mulch is pet-safe, but some are safer than others (cocoa mulch is toxic, pine may puncture and rubber may choke). Always supervise visiting furry friends.
Plant Selection and Maintenance
Opt for native plants that adapt to local conditions, and support local wildlife. Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens often do well in urban plots. Herbs such as basil, mint, and parsley can be perfect for smaller spaces or container gardening.
Gardens require ongoing maintenance. Water plants consistently, but be mindful of water conservation. Use quality water butts with child/pet locks. Regular weeding keeps unwanted plants at bay, while seasonal care ensures your garden adapts throughout the year. Rotate crops to maintain soil health and avoid disease.
Community Involvement and Outreach
Consider forming a gardening group. These groups foster shared knowledge and resources. They also provide motivational support and turn gardening from a chore into a social event. Look into local clubs or online communities to join like-minded individuals.
Host workshops to spread the word about brownfield gardening. These sessions can educate others on the importance of urban greening and teach practical skills. Whether it’s a talk on sustainable gardening or a hands-on planting session, engaging with the community can inspire new gardeners and strengthen bonds.
Even in a mini brownfield garden, pests and diseases can pose challenges. Opt for organic methods to manage these issues:
- Companion Planting: Some plants can naturally repel pests when grown together.
- Natural Predators: Attracting beneficial insects, like ladybirds, can help control pest populations.
- Organic gardening: This will usually help nature take care of itself.
Case Studies of Brownfield Gardens
New York’s High Line was built as a railway line in 1933 to transport goods across the city, the site was due to be demolished in the 90s after laying unused for decades, and now thanks to a Dutch garden designer, it’s a beautiful city oasis of wild plants and parkland. London’s Camden High Line has been inspired by this project.
In Somerset, this brownfield garden used to be a derelict area of rubble with an unused canal, railway line and even an old dairy farm, with compacted infertile soil. It’s now a beautiful meadow with large pond, a boon for native wildlife and insects.
And in Essex, one gardener used the ceramics from old toilets and building rubble to create a landscaped wildflower meadow. He uses everything from old shopping trolley to piping to create insect habitats and says he’s even partial to an ‘old car carcass’ to remove bits of, to use in his brownfield garden ideas.
