No matter where we live—condo, apartment or house—gardens contribute to a healthy lifestyle, a stronger economy and a better environment for all. Whether you have a kitchen garden or community vegetable garden, growing food hyper locally reduces the carbon footprint of the food you eat. Small space? Create beautiful social outdoor living spaces with container or balcony gardens, perfect for entertaining. Front and backyard flower gardens increase property values; native plants are especially beneficial as they require less watering and are good for pollinators. Every tree or shrub planted produces oxygen, creates shade and reduces run-off. Finally, gardening provides health benefits to the gardener too, in the form of fresh air, outdoor exercise and reduced stress.