We’ve talked about how you can start being self-sufficient by propagating trimmings and plant parts that are often disposed of. But what if you want to start learning how to grow your own greens from seedlings?

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has the solution: Free urban agriculture starter kits. 

The DA’s Urban Agriculture Program is currently distributing kits comprised of seeds/seedlings, garden soil, compost, poly plastic bags, as well as materials listing tips to help you start urban gardening. These kits were put together by its Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), as a way of encouraging more people to grow sustainable food.

The ATI has also been offering online courses on agricultural practices for vegetable production, basic urban gardening and basic beekeeping.

[READ: The Agricultural Training Institute is offering online workshops on agriculture]

Metro Manila residents who want to get their hands on a starter kit can contact their Farmers’ Contact Center at 0920-9462474, or the Partnership and Accreditation Division (PAD) at 0919-0613115 and 0951-1077828. 

Those from rural areas and provinces can inquire through the DA Regional Field Offices and Regional Training Centers nearest them.

Header photo courtesy of Agricultural Training Institute

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