Guerrilla Gardening: A Manualfesto

These modern-day Johnny Appleseeds perform random acts of gardening, often without permission. Typical targets are vacant lots, railway land, underused public squares, and back alleys. The concept is simple, whimsical, and has the cheeky appeal of being a not-quite-legal call to action. Dig in some soil, plant a few seeds, or mend a sagging fence—one good deed inspiring another, with win-win benefits all around.

Guerrilla Gardening outlines the power-to-the-people campaign for greening our cities. Tips for effective involvement include:

• Finding plants and seeds cheap (or free)
• Handling city officials
• Getting the dirt on soil
• Planting to bring back the birds
• Knowing when to ask first

Social activists, city dwellers, and longtime gardeners will delight in this fast-paced and funny call to arms.

David Tracey is a journalist and environmental designer who operates EcoUrbanist in Vancouver. He is executive director of Tree City Canada, a nonprofit ecological engagement group.