Sustainable Urban Horticulture Practices: A Review
Yogita
Maharishi Markandeshwar Deemed to be University, Mullana, Ambala, Haryana Pincode-133207, India.
Ashutosh Kumar
KVK Narkatiyaganj, RPCAU Pusa Bihar, India.
Robin kumar
Department of Horticulture and Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Jammu 180009, India.
Subhash Verma
School of Agriculture, Eklavya University Damoh, M.P.- 470661, India.
Abhay Saini
School of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering, IFTM University- 244001, India.
Jaya Bijaya Biraja Das
Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, India.
Rajnish Kumar
School of Agriculture, Eklavya University Damoh, M.P.- 470661, India.
Manjul Jain *
School of Agriculture, Eklavya University Damoh, M.P.- 470661, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Urban horticulture is vital in improving food security, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. With increasing urbanization, the need for green areas, sustainable food production, and optimal use of resources has been tremendous. In this review, different sustainable practices in urban horticulture such as vertical gardening, hydroponics, aquaponics, rooftop gardening, composting, and rainwater harvesting are discussed. It also emphasizes the importance of urban agroforestry, intelligent irrigation systems, and integrated pest management in the promotion of sustainable green spaces in urban areas. The benefits and limitations of these strategies are analyzed, highlighting their effects on urban ecology, climate resilience, socio-economic well-being, and environmental conservation. The review is finalized with policy integration, technological innovation, and public participation recommendations to maximize the sustainability of urban horticulture. In addition, it presents future strategies for sustainable food production in cities, new green technologies, and the incorporation of urban agriculture into the development of cities in order to guarantee long-term sustainability and efficiency.
Keywords: Urban horticulture, rooftop garden, hydroponic, aquaponics