Why Do We Eat Only a Few of the 200,000 Edible Plants and Grow Pretty Flowers in Cities Instead?

Our modern diet includes a range of edible plants, but why do we only consume a fraction of the over 200,000 edible plants available to us? Additionally, why do we prioritize growing ornamental plants in urban environments, often at the expense of providing food for the homeless?

Utilization of Edible Plants

The diverse range of edible plants among us is vast, yet we only consume a relatively small portion. This is primarily due to the ease of distribution and mass cultivation of certain plants. While it is possible to grow and sell a variety of edible plants, the logistics and economic viability often limit the range of edible items available in stores. For instance, densely cultivated items like carrots, lettuce, and tomatoes are highly transportable and suitable for large-scale agriculture, making them more accessible and profitable.

The Role of Aesthetics in Urban Development

Urban areas are often adorned with ornamental plants and flowers that serve aesthetic purposes. The desire for a visually pleasing environment drives this choice. These flowers and greenery contribute to the overall ambiance and help create a more pleasant living space for city dwellers. Moreover, many of these ornamental plants are also edible. Examples include lavender, fennel, and chives, which not only serve as visually appealing additions to cityscapes but are also beneficial as culinary herbs.

Feeding the Homeless

While it is commendable that some individuals and communities grow edible plants for the homeless, such efforts may not be the most sustainable or efficient solution. Services for the homeless are best provided through established and well-supported organizations rather than through occasional food donations. The availability of food through governmental programs, food pantries, and soup kitchens is a more reliable method of ensuring that the homeless have access to nourishment.

Attempts to grow edible plants specifically for the homeless can face numerous challenges. The logistics of managing and distributing such plants effectively are complex. For instance, the legal implications, financial costs, and labor required to implement a comprehensive urban farming program for the homeless would be substantial. Legal aspects such as liability for any health issues, financial accounting for crop yields, and labor-intensive management would all need to be considered. Additionally, not every edible plant is readily consumable without cooking or processing, which can be a significant barrier for the homeless who do not have the necessary facilities to prepare and cook food.

Alternative Approaches to Urban Agriculture

Instead of focusing on specific edible plants for the homeless, there are more effective and sustainable approaches to addressing food inequality in urban areas. Programs like "Incredible Edible," which encourages community gardening in small communities, have shown promise. These initiatives bring together local residents to grow and share food, fostering a sense of community and sustainability. However, successful implementation requires community engagement and support, which are often more manageable in smaller, close-knit communities.

Conclusion

While we consume only a fraction of the 200,000 edible plants available to us, and cities continue to prioritize ornamental plants over functional edible ones, there are practical and sustainable solutions to address food inequality. Through community-driven initiatives and better utilization of existing resources, we can work towards ensuring that everyone has access to healthy, nutritious food, regardless of their living conditions.