Abstract:
Urban allotment gardens (AGs) provide a unique combination of productive and recre-
ational spaces for the inhabitants of European cities. Although the reasons behind the decision to
have a plot, as well as the mode of use and gardening practices, are well recognised in the literature,
these issues are mainly considered in relation to particular case studies within a single country. The
regional diversity of European allotment gardens is still poorly understood, however. This knowl-
edge gap became an incentive for us to carry out the present study. The research was conducted in
seven countries: Austria, Estonia, Germany, France, Portugal, Poland and the UK. Surveys were used
to assess the motivations of users regarding plot uses and gardening practices. Information was also
collected during desk research and study visits, making use of available statistical data. Allotment
gardens in Europe are currently very diverse, and vary depending on the historical, legal, economic
and social conditions of a given country, and also as determined by geographical location. Three main
types of plots were distinguished, for: cultivation, recreation–cultivation, and cultivation–recreation.
The recreational use of AGs has replaced their use for food production in countries with a long
history of urban gardening. The only exception is the UK. In some countries, the production of food
on an AG plot is still its main function; however, the motivations for this are related to better quality
and taste (the UK), as well as the economic benefits of self-grown fruits and vegetables (Portugal,
Estonia). Among the wide range of motivations for urban gardening in Europe, there is increasing
emphasis on active recreation, contact with nature and quality food supply.
