Nuffnang

Monday, February 18, 2013

Melbourne - Pop Up Patch

 

I'm presenting at the Sustainability Festival at Melbourne's Federation Square. It's a filthy hot day but before my talk I want to visit a new community garden that's been installed on the Federation roof top car park.


This 7 year old slab of unused concrete has been converted into a thriving veggie patch by the blokes from The Little Veggie Patch Company.


After much bureaucratic wrangling, they have the space for 12 months for 140 do-it-yourself veggie boxes.

Members of the public can rent or buy boxes for the year ....
 

... and can choose from a seasonal mix of seeds to plant.


 
And experts are on hand throughout the week to give you advice about what and how to plant.
 
 

 There's also an array of planting systems if you want to set up your own veggie patch but are squeezed for space.


All the restaurants and cafes at Federation Square have their own box so they can grow ingredients for their daily menus.


Inspirational, huh? For more details contact The Little Veggie Patch.

8 comments:

  1. Hmm - that's a really nice idea - especially with the restos and cafes all having a patch, but....for 12 months only doesn't seem very sustainable. What happens to all the plants and boxes and soil after that? And 12 months isn't a very long time to set up a well-established patch...hmmm.

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    1. Elseseven - they're hoping to make it permanent but that depends on their landlord Federation Square. The more gardeners they get the greater the likelihood that Pop up Patch will be permanent.Indira

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  2. Oh bummer, we just flew home from Melbourne tonight. I would've loved to have seen this. Goodluck with your talk - I always enjoy your talks.

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    1. Miss Piggy - that's a pity. It's there for a year so hopefully you can pop in next time you're in Melbourne. And yes the talk went well. You and I a part of a very exciting movement. Edible balconies are taking over the country! Indira

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  3. Was so lovely to meet you last night. Will be in touch... Great blog by the way!

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    1. You too Thang. Looking forward to your food tour.
      x Indira

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  4. I'm glad to see that the idea has thrived! Saw the plans for it last year.
    Just found your blog. I love it!

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    1. Welcome to Saucy littlebitofthyme. Yes pop up patch is fabulous isn't it? Hope fed Sq makes it permanent.Indira

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