As spring arrives, Zhangjiagang's shared gardens are coming to life, with residents eagerly taking on the role of urban farmers and enjoying the joys of spring planting.
In Houcheng subdistrict's Wenchang community, a riverside vegetable garden was established last October. Covering approximately 3,300 square meters, it features over 40 shared plots that residents can claim through a lottery system.
An aerial view of Wenchang community's riverside vegetable garden. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
"This area used to be a wasteland, but now it's well built. I grow cilantro, spinach, and lettuce—whatever my family likes to eat," said resident You Zhengxing.
Beyond serving as a shared vegetable garden for the community, the riverside garden is an educational site for Wenchang Primary School and Wenchang Kindergarten. It has become a vibrant recreational space alongside the community's fitness trails, basketball courts, and children's playgrounds.
Wenchang community's riverside vegetable garden is also an educational site for students. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
Across Zhangjiagang, more shared gardens are sprouting up, turning the urban farming dream into reality while supporting rural vitalization efforts.