Exploring the links between agrobiodiversity and socioeconomic factors in urban homegardens of Bogotá, Colombia

Abstract

Homegardens constitute a prevalent form of urban agriculture and one of the oldest land use systems in the world. They are characterized by a high diversity of plant species, which explains their multi-functionality. A total of 119 homegardens in Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, were surveyed to assess their functional plant diversity. Semi-structured interviews were employed to document the socioeconomic status of the homegarden managers. A total of 253 plant species and their associated uses were documented. Hierarchical cluster analysis identified three distinct categories of homegardens based on the utilization of plant species: food, ornamental, and multipurpose. The results also revealed significant associations between cluster categories and agrobiodiversity, household size, and geographic location of the gardens. Food gardens had significantly lower plant diversity than the other clusters, and species were more evenly distributed in multipurpose gardens than in ornamental gardens. The predominance of lower socioeconomic respondents in the management of food-focused homegardens underscores their role as a crucial source of sustenance for underprivileged communities. In contrast, ornamental gardens, which are more prevalent in affluent areas, prioritize aesthetic values. In general, homegardens embody multifunctional spaces characterized by rich agrobiodiversity, meticulously adapted to the unique requirements of the households that manage them. The insights garnered from the study of agrobiodiversity in urban gardens hold significant potential to enhance management of urban green spaces and the well-being of their owners. Furthermore, these findings can inform policy initiatives that prioritize the adoption of more diverse and multipurpose gardens within urban environments.