Debated in Parliament on 10 May 2021.
Ms Yeo Wan Ling asked the Minister for National Development (a) to date, how many seed packets have been issued under the Gardening with Edibles Programme; (b) what are the types of seeds that have been distributed; and (c) what are the considerations when deciding on which seeds to use for distribution into public housing estates.
NParks launched the Gardening with Edibles Programme in June 2020 to encourage Singaporeans to grow edible plants at home. This is part of our efforts to involve the community in the transformation of Singapore into a City in Nature. To date, close to half a million seed packets have been distributed to households across Singapore.
The seeds are mostly for leafy greens such as kang kong and xiao bai cai, and fruited vegetables such as tomato and lady’s finger. These plant species were chosen because they are easy to grow, fast-growing, and are commonly used in our local cuisine. NParks has also distributed seeds which are more challenging to grow, such as capsicum, radish and zucchini, to experienced gardeners who have attended its virtual gardening masterclasses. All selected plant species are generally suitable to be grown along common corridors, or in outdoor gardens such as the community gardens in our public housing estates.
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