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URBAN GARDEN PLANNING GUIDE <br /> OKO Green will follow the below steps to analyze how best to produce a vibrant crop on <br /> designated OKO Properties: <br /> 1. Assess the vacant lots: First, evaluate the lots for factors such as sunlight, size, soil <br /> quality, and accessibility. Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels and potential <br /> contaminants. Get in touch with your local University of Illinois Extension office for <br /> assistance in soil testing. <br /> 2. Engage the community: Involve local residents and other stakeholders to create a sense of <br /> ownership and shared responsibility. Hold community meetings to gather input and ideas, <br /> and promote the benefits of urban gardening, such as improving food security, <br /> beautifying the neighborhood,and fostering a sense of community. <br /> 3. Plan the garden layout: Design the garden to include features like raised beds, pathways, <br /> and seating areas. Consider incorporating pollinator-friendly plants, composting areas, <br /> and rainwater harvesting systems. <br /> i <br /> 4. Select suitable crops and vegetation: Given the potential soil limitations and the desire for <br /> low-maintenance plants, consider the following options: <br /> • Leafy greens: Kale,collards, spinach, and lettuce are all relatively easy to grow and <br /> can tolerate a range of soil conditions(University of Illinois Extension, n.d.). <br /> • Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, and radishes can also grow in various soil types and <br /> require minimal care(Purdue University Extension,2019). <br /> • Herbs: Basil,parsley, and chives are low-maintenance and can be grown in containers <br /> or directly in the ground (University of Illinois Extension, n.d.). <br /> 5. Establish partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations, schools, and businesses to <br /> secure resources, volunteers, and expertise. Reach out to the University of Illinois <br /> Extension and other agricultural experts for guidance on crop selection and best practices. <br /> 6. Implement and maintain the garden: Once the garden is established,create a maintenance <br /> plan that includes regular watering, weeding, and pest management. Encourage <br /> community members to participate in the garden's upkeep and harvest. <br /> 7. Offer educational programs: Provide workshops and training sessions on gardening <br /> techniques, soil health,composting,and organic pest control. Collaborate with local <br /> schools to develop curriculum-based gardening programs that promote hands-on learning <br /> and teach children about nutrition, ecology, and environmental stewardship. <br /> 8. Monitor and evaluate the project:Track the progress of the urban garden by regularly <br /> collecting data on crop yields, volunteer participation, and community engagement. Use <br /> this information to identify areas for improvement and to demonstrate the garden's impact <br /> on food security, health, and well-being to funders and stakeholders. <br /> 4 <br />