Friday, 20 March 2009

Victory Garden Victory at White House

Advocates at The WHO Farm are enjoying a sweet victory in their push for an organic farm on the White House lawn. According to a New York Times article today, the First Lady has laid plans for an 1,100 square foot garden. Following Elenor Roosevelt's legacy, Michelle Obama will get her hands dirty when she digs up the first shovel-full of White House soil today.

A map of the future garden ran with the article today.




A close look at the vegetable selections reveals blocks of flowers, leafy veggies and herbs. I wonder what a permaculturist would have to say about the biodiversity of the garden and the sustainability of the White House gardening practices. But the primary purpose of the garden is to teach young Americans the value of eating local and organic foods. It is truly a step in that direction. Perhaps next year's agenda could involve a more diverse selection of vegetables and maybe even a rain water catchment system!