Incidence of agroecological-based practices in urban vegetable gardens: effect on crop diversity and production levels

Abstract

Agroecological-based practices (ABPs) play a vital role in urban vegetable gardens,enhancing the quality of life. However, factors driving ABP implementation and theirimpact on crop production and diversity are not fully understood. Our study assessedthe influence of socio-economic and environmental characteristics on ABP adoption,crop diversity, and totalTotal weight vegetable production in San Carlos de Bariloche,Argentina. Through interviews and a multi-model inference approach, we found thatABP implementation is tied to gardener experience and formative assets (e.g.,horticultural experience, specific trainingcapacitation). Crop diversity, integral to ABP,is affected by farming practices and farmer characteristics (Farm animals, Pollinator-friendlyFriendly pollinator practices, Experience, Additional training andEnvironmental knowledge). The Totaltotal weight produced was primarily influencedby the type of garden, the gardener´s experience and some ABPs. Long-standingcommercial and community objectives, and the use of farm animals and commercialseed led to greater production. Strengthening key drivers, such as farmer training,through public policies (e.g., income generation, financing, specific training, landaccess) can bolster the role of urban gardens in providing a healthy environment andpromoting food sovereignty.