For the first time since WWII, the White House will have a vegetable garden. Michelle Obama hopes that the organic garden will supply most of the first family’s vegetables and add produce to formal dinners as well.
The 1,100-square-foot garden will be tended by school children and will feature 55 vegetable varieties grown from organic seedlings. The children will participate in the project from planting to harvest in hopes that their experiences will filter back into the community as inspiration for other home gardens.
A web-based vegetable-garden design application, called Plangarden, is an interactive version of the garden for anyone who would like to have a look.
White House Locavores
Obama's Organic Garden Will Grow Food and Teach Children
Trend Themes
1. Locavore Movement - There is a growing trend towards sourcing local produce and supporting local agriculture, which presents opportunities for businesses to create platforms and services that connect consumers with local farmers and food producers.
2. Urban Gardening - The popularity of urban gardening is on the rise, creating opportunities for businesses to develop innovative products and services that cater to urban dwellers who want to grow their own food in limited spaces.
3. Sustainable Agriculture - The focus on organic gardening and sustainable farming practices is gaining traction, opening doors for businesses to develop technologies and solutions that support sustainable agriculture and help reduce the environmental impact of food production.
Industry Implications
1. Food Tech - The locavore movement and increased interest in sustainable agriculture offer opportunities for food tech companies to develop platforms and apps that connect consumers with local farmers and provide information on locally sourced food options.
2. Eco-friendly Products - The growing trend of urban gardening creates a demand for eco-friendly products such as vertical gardening systems, composting solutions, and sustainable gardening tools, presenting opportunities for businesses in the eco-friendly product industry.
3. Education - The emphasis on teaching children about gardening and organic food production presents opportunities for educational institutions and EdTech companies to develop interactive programs and tools that encourage hands-on learning and environmental awareness.