Growing resilience in war-torn Ukraine – the victory gardens that keep community alive

“It was important to get food on the table quickly, and in new ways. People were forced to mobilise locally,” says Madeleine Bonow, senior lecturer in environmental science and associate professor of geography, who led the study alongside three Ukrainian research colleagues.

A revitalised strategy in times of crisis

In 2022, the year the full-scale invasion began, the Ukrainian government encouraged people to grow everything from potatoes and cabbages to herbs and fruit, just like during the world wars, when “Victory gardens” had a central role in the food supply in countries such as the UK and the US.

“Ukraine has always been a nation of food growers, but much of the production is large-scale. During the war, a rapid, local and small-scale solution was needed. That’s where the victory gardens came in,” says Bonow.

As part of the three-year GARDIN project, researchers have interviewed nearly 90 growers across the country about how their farms have functioned as societal innovation in a turbulent period.

“We have very little empirical research on how this type of system works in active conflict zones. Ukraine offers a unique opportunity to understand this,” she says.

Potatoes, watermelons – and unexpected creativity

In all the communities studied, local food production increased significantly. The growing boxes were filled with potatoes, courgettes, aubergines, sweetcorn and sometimes more unusual crops.

“Some people tried growing watermelons, even though they didn’t think it would work. But in a crisis, you’re prepared to try anything, and it went better than expected,” says Bonow.

The vegetables have been distributed to schools, the elderly, wounded soldiers, people who have been internally displaced, and others in need. For many schools, this also meant savings at a time when budgets are under pressure. Many people who particate have also learnt food conservation, food processing and methods for preserving milk and other ingredients – knowledge that strengthens contingency planning.

“These gardens demonstrate how true resilience works. People showed tremendous initiative and creativity in an emergency. A lot can be learned from this.”

A place of community in the midst of war

The victory gardens provided more than just food. They also became social hubs, places where people could meet amidst the uncertainty.

“They have had an important function for vulnerable groups, such as those who have mental or physical injuries due to the war. The gardens became a place where people could find a sense of belonging and support.”

However, there were challenges. Broken water mains and periods of drought have put pressure on the crops. In addition, gardening is a long-term commitment, something that can fade when life gets tough.

“If the real enthusiasts lose heart or have to move away, much of the momentum is often lost,” says Bonow.

Lessons for the wider world

So, what can other countries learn from Ukraine’s victory gardens?

According to the researchers, they are not just about growing food – they are about growing community, identity and local resilience.

“Community gardens can improve health, well-being and emergency preparedness. They bring people together and make local communities more self-reliant.”

Another decisive factor in Ukraine was the continued availability of older seeds and local plant varieties. These are adapted to local conditions and are invaluable when international transport networks break down.

“There is a long-term perspective in preserving local species, both flora and fauna. In that respect, Ukraine has done something that other countries should follow,” says Bonow.