“It’s about community”: Exploring social capital in community gardens across Melbourne, Australia

Abstract

Within the context of increased urbanisation, the value of access to and participation in green spaces (such as community gardening) is progressively understood as fundamental to the social, cultural, environmental and health needs of urban populations. This article is an exploration of six urban community gardens in Melbourne (Australia) towards understanding the social capital stocks and other related factors like mutual support, social networks and community connections associated with these settings. This is the first Australian study to review social capital across community garden settings. Twenty-three participants were involved in this qualitative study, which utilised semi-structured interviews. The results indicate that community gardens are perceived as a place for social interaction and support, which enable connections and mutual benefits that enhance a sense of community. Members identified factors reducing social capital stocks like exclusion, lack of support and vandalism. Although this study identified social capital benefits of community gardening, it was difficult to differentiate between bridging, bonding and linking social capital. Therefore, although some recommendations could be garnered from this study to enhance socially-desirable outcomes, more compelling research is required to make informed policy change around enhancing social capital and community gardening.