The urban garden project at El Durazno in Puerto de la Cruz has become a vibrant community hub since its launch. Janos Hubert, a local resident and gardener, shared his joy upon harvesting his first zucchini, which inspired him to prepare a traditional Hungarian dish. He emphasised that the experience of growing food is incomparable to purchasing it from a supermarket.
Hubert tends to plot number 17, incorporating Hungarian vegetables like courgettes and cabbages, and is quick to highlight the camaraderie among fellow gardeners who share experiences and tips. The initiative has rejuvenated 19,000 square metres of agricultural land, creating a lively space for community engagement and personal well-being.
The project features 30 individual plots and communal areas, which include a banana tree avenue, fruit trees donated by locals, native plants, and a pond. Collaborating on tasks like watering and weeding fosters a sense of unity among participants. Each gardener cultivates what they desire within their 30-square-metre plot, accounting for the challenges of seasonal planting.
Among the gardeners is Margalida Figueroa, president of the local residents’ association, who admitted her lack of agricultural knowledge but expressed excitement about the results. Initially, the soil was full of debris and required the introduction of compost after a flock of sheep and goats failed to clear the overgrowth.
In addition to individual plots, special raised beds were created for those with reduced mobility, ensuring accessibility for everyone. The project has also been inclusive of senior citizens and social organisations, such as Visión Azul Autismo.
David Hernández, the council member overseeing the initiative, announced plans for a second community garden in Jardines Quintana, with ten accessible plots focused on supporting those with mobility issues. A waiting list of 80 eager residents has prompted plans for a third garden in another neighbourhood.
The council believes these community gardens not only recover underutilised public spaces but also foster healthier lifestyles and promote responsible consumption. Ongoing community activities, such as workshops and guided tours, have further enriched local engagement, creating a green space that is now integral to the community’s identity. The El Durazno garden is proof that the benefits of such projects extend well beyond the produce harvested.
