Work

Urban Horticulture and Kitchen Gardening for Household Nutrition Security

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Urbanization and rising food prices challenge household nutrition in space-constrained settings. This simulation-based study evaluated 120 central Indian urban households across four arms over 16 weeks: container, vertical, and integrated gardening models versus a no-garden control. At endline, integrated gardens yielded the highest vegetable harvest (53.2 kg), increased daily fruit-and-vegetable intake by 174.8 g/adult-equivalent, improved Household Dietary Diversity Score (+2.0 food groups), reduced Food Insecurity Access Scale scores (-3.4 points), and lowered monthly expenditure by ₹420. Overall, 70% of integrated-garden households met recommended intake targets. Integrated gardens offered maximum benefits, vertical systems optimized space, and container gardens served as low-complexity options. Field validation remains recommended.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.23830287

Author: Kushwah, Akash

Language: English

Topic: Urban Agriculture and Sustainability

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, No poverty, Sustainable cities and communities, Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7224997314

FWCI:

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Related to: 10