P-Patch Proximity

Recent posts on Sweet Digs Seattle:

• Seattle Ranks as Sin City
• Go West
• “Creative Sell” Sold to the Media

Seattle has a decidedly green tint to it—from its lush environs to the eco-conscious attitude of its inhabitants. The natural beauty glimpsed during daily routines is a big reason many of us live here; and I’m proud that Seattle is one of the top cities for recycling and has a relatively low carbon-footprint.

As the city experiences the inevitable growth though, one of the downsides is dwindling green space. I’ve wistfully witnessed old, stately homes being razed instead of renovated. In their place sprout zero-lot-line townhomes and new condos. The urban fringe areas of the ‘90s, like Squire Park, First Hill and the Central District are now densely-packed urban landscapes: not entirely evil, but certainly less green than just a decade ago.

Here’s where that progressive Seattle attitude comes in. Way back in the early ‘70s, when the green movement was in its infancy, Seattle established its P-Patch Program.  Community p-patches now provide garden space for over 6000 urban gardeners on 23 acres of land. They’re so popular in fact, there’s a waiting list for space.

For condo and apartment dwellers with an itch to scratch the soil and make things grow, p-patches may well be the way to go. Not only do you get the enjoyment of the garden without the maintenance hassle of its surrounding yard, but you also do something good for your fellow citizens. Seattle p-patch gardeners provide up to 10 tons of food to local food banks every year. Green space that gives back–gotta love it!

I’ll feature neighborhood p-patches in Central Seattle during the coming months. To get things started, here are some condo listings close to Capitol Hill’s p-patch at 20th and Republican:

1810 E Republican St #4 Seattle, WA 98112

2112 E Thomas #5B Seattle, WA 98112

520 20th Ave E A Seattle, WA 98112

116 20th Ave E #B Seattle, WA 98112
 

Garden space was a big priority when I bought my place. During those first few summers, canned pickles and tomatoes stuffed my shelves. Now time is precious and I’m more concerned with getting the weeds mowed than nurturing veggies.  If you’re in the market for new digs, how important is gardening in your decision? Is it even a consideration? Would you be happy in a condo close to a p-patch? I think I would.