Urban Alchemy is a grassroots organization working to create more self-sufficient and sustainable urban areas through the creation of backyard and rooftop gardens throughout the city of Portland. These gardens will provide multiple benefits to individuals,communities, and the environment.



How it will work



Many urban residents with unused space on their property wish they had the time and know-how to have their own organic backyard garden. Urban Alchemy provides them with the opportunity to have one. Our staff and volunteers are experienced organic gardeners and passionate about the art and science of creating bio-intensive, sustainably managed garden spaces. And the best part? It is free for residents who host the gardens, requires little investment of time on their part, and they have free, fresh vegetables, fruit, and herbs to add to their diet. How does Urban Alchemy do this? Some of the food grown on each property is sold to local interested residents in a delivery service or at the farmers market, at a very reasonably price, possible due to our operating expenses being minimal. As well, we are hoping to gain the support of philanthropic organizations to help us carry out our objectives, at least until we become self-supporting within our two-year goal.



How you can help



Urban Alchemy is still in its infancy, and we need your support in making our dreams a reality. We are currently seeking people interested in donating their backyards, balconies, south-facing walls, rooftops, even paved areas. This is a long-term project, so please be able to commit for two to five years, if possible. Do you like the sound of having inexpensive veggies delivered to your doorstep? Send us an email with your location and we will let you know if there is a garden being developed in your area. Check out our wish list to see what else you can do to help this exciting project.