Gardening in Iraq exists within a context shaped by cultural traditions, conflict, and emerging community-led green initiatives aimed at creating social space and environmental resilience. In urban and displaced communities, gardening appears through community gardens and greening projects such as the Hêvî Community Garden in Gawilan refugee camp, which integrates food and ornamental plant cultivation while addressing wellbeing and connection to land amid challenging conditions. Rural areas and household plots often emphasize food production, seasonal cultivation, and growing vegetables and herbs suited to climate and soil in local contexts. Participation is influenced by local knowledge, resilience practices, and support from NGOs and community groups that promote sustainable gardening and green spaces. Infrastructure constraints, including water access, land availability, and socio-political conditions, shape how gardening is practiced and sustained. Compared to other outdoor leisure or agricultural pursuits, gardening in Iraq often functions as a community-building activity with important roles in food security, mental health, and environmental restoration. With continued expansion of community gardens, irrigation support, and education, gardening in Iraq is positioned as a meaningful cultural and social endeavor.
