By Umar Nsubuga
Imagine stepping out of your home and into a garden right in your front yard, a vibrant space where plants thrive, colours pop, and fresh produce awaits.
What may seem like a landscaping experiment to some has become a practical, rewarding way of life for Joseph Bukenya, a farmer from Kabwomero in Luwero district, who turned his own front yard into a lush, productive garden.
Alongside agronomist Gideon Zakke, Bukenya shares insights into how this choice benefits both his family and the environment, proving that the front yard garden is more than just a trend it’s a sustainable solution that can feed households, save money, and bring communities closer to nature.
Utilising space creatively
For Bukenya, the decision to transform his front yard into a garden was initially born out of limited land space.
“I realised that my front yard, though small, received the best sunlight during the day,” he shares.
By choosing crops that would thrive in the available conditions, Bukenya turned what was once an idle area into a productive garden where he grows tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and leafy greens.
Zakke, an agronomist, adds that using the front yard for gardening is an effective solution for urban or semi-urban households with minimal space.
“Every square metre counts,” he explains.
“You will be surprised by how much food you can produce even in small areas with the right planning.”
Zakke encourages other homeowners to consider incorporating vertical gardening or small raised beds to maximise space further.
Fresh produce at your doorstep
One of the main benefits of having a front yard garden, according to Bukenya, is access to fresh produce without leaving home.
He explains that it’s a relief to pick fresh vegetables for meals without visiting a market.
“Sometimes you’re in the middle of preparing a meal and realise you’re out of tomatoes or herbs having them right outside your door is incredibly convenient,” he says with a smile.
Fresh produce also means healthier meals for his family. Bukenya notes that he can control what goes into his crops, opting for organic methods to avoid pesticides.
For families who prioritize clean eating, a front yard garden can provide organic produce, supporting a healthy lifestyle while saving money.
Savings and sustainability
The financial benefits of a front yard garden are another compelling reason to start one.
“Food prices are constantly rising,” Bukenya says.
“Growing even a small portion of what your family eats can make a noticeable difference in your grocery bills.”
Zakke echoes this sentiment, noting that front yard gardens promote food security and reduce dependency on store-bought vegetables, which often come with high transportation costs and environmental impact.
“Gardening at home is a sustainable choice that cuts down on the carbon footprint associated with food transport,” he explains.
Community and curb appeal
Besides the practical benefits, Bukenya has noticed that his garden has sparked curiosity among his neighbours, often attracting passersby who admire his efforts.
“People stop to ask about what I’m growing and how they could start a garden, too,” he says, noting that it’s a great way to connect with the community.
Zakke points out that front yard gardens can be visually appealing, adding value and uniqueness to a home.
He suggests combining vegetables with flowering plants for a garden that’s both productive and beautiful.
“With a bit of planning, you can create an eye-catching design that blends function with aesthetics,” Zakke explains.
“Imagine rows of kale mixed with marigolds or a border of herbs like rosemary and basil the garden becomes a landscape feature.”
Learning opportunity for families
For families with children, a front yard garden can be a valuable learning opportunity.
Bukenya mentions that his children enjoy helping him tend the plants and learning about how food grows.
“It teaches them patience and respect for nature,” he says.
Gardening is an excellent way to introduce children to sustainability and help them understand where their food comes from, which is especially valuable in today’s fast-paced, convenience-driven world.
