Unveiling the potential of urban and peri-urban horticulture: Transforming concrete jungles into green oases

Abstract

Urban and peri-urban horticulture is considered as one of the critical strategies for addressing many challenges posed by the modern cities, including food insecurity, environmental degradation, and the need for social equity. This review examines several urban and peri-urban horticultural practices and assesses their economic, social, and environmental benefits. The methods discussed include container gardening, hydroponics, aquaponics, vertical farming, rooftop gardens, etc. Each of these methods provides a different way to grow food in areas with limited space. These horticulture techniques have the ability to reduce urban heat islands, enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and promote community involvement as urbanization continues to increase on a worldwide scale. The importance of urban and peri-urban horticulture is emphasized in this study as a component of larger sustainability initiatives meant to build resilient and sustainable cities.