Ireland’s next generation of gardeners are younger, more eco-aware and into growing their own, according to a new survey by Bord Bia.
‘Gardening in Ireland’ found that about 63% of the Irish population now live in urban areas, often with ‘limited or no’ space to grow. In Dublin, a quarter of residents have no garden at all.
Ireland's next generation of gardeners
However over 1.3 million Irish people now garden on a regular basis, with three-quarters believing gardening is good for your mental health. A vegetable patch or area is the most popular planned feature to have in a garden, ahead of a patio or decking: the survey found 19% of gardeners in Ireland grow vegetables regularly at home, with 43% expressing an interest in growing their own, rising to over half (54%) of 35-44 year olds. And new technology is increasingly listed as a source of inspiration, from forums and apps to water monitoring devices.
Eco awareness is also high on the list, especially among younger gardeners. Composting is a must; rainwater harvesting is also popular and gardeners think hard about local sourcing and native planting, especially plants which are beneficial to bees, butterflies and other wildlife. Over half – 52% - said supporting wildlife and birds is an important reason for gardening.
