Multifunctionality in a vegetable garden.

Abstract

Farm multifunctionality represents nowadays one of the pivotal factors to add value to crop productions and enhance the development of agricultural sector in the urbanizing regions. Projects aim to make customers move closer to food production areas and didactical, recreational and social activities are interesting ways to diversify the services provided by farms. Innovative enhancement activities were developed in a farm in Ancona (Italy) on a surface (1500 m^2) cultivated as vegetable garden, throughout pilot projects implementation and experimental social paths. A self-service vegetable garden was designed and established in 2011 and equipped with a glasshouse for visitor’s reception. The project intended to allow citizens to hand-pick their own fresh vegetables, meeting the increasing need to rediscover the countryside and reduce the distance between food production and consumption. Further, the glasshouse was used as crucial center to implement several didactical, recreational and social natural themed activities dedicated to children and families. In the same area, a pedagogic project, called “Summer in the countryside”, was activated since the summer 2012. During the school vacation, weekly educational and play modules in the agricultural environment were offered for 4-11 years old children. During the activities, the vegetable garden was used as an open classroom and the natural environment served as source of materials to be used by children to experiment, learn and amuse, modeling toys with their own hands. Further, social farming activities were proposed and activated. Among these, the project “Active longevity in rural areas” was established in 2015, aiming to evaluate the clinical and therapeutic benefits of motor and cognitive activities held in the countryside in over-65-year-old seniors. The elderly were involved in practical activities, related to the care and maintenance of a dedicated vegetable garden, and in exercises for the mind to improve the mnesic performances and promote the recall of emotionally pleasant experiences, with the cooperation of specialized medical staff. The provided activities allowed the farm to diversify the range of offered services and to improve visibility among customers. The number of participants to educational activities increased over time. The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an effective location to host didactical, educational, recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfill the multifunction objectives.

Full text

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Multifunctionality in a vegetable garden
Lucasimone N. Kogoj, Martina Perugini, Jacopo Facchi, Francesca Massetani, Enrico M. Lodolini,
Federica Giaccaglia, Ludovica Lancianese, Davide Neri, Rodolfo Santilocchi1
Abstract – Activities to add value to crop productions
and enhance the development of agricultural sector in
the urbanizing regions were developed in a farm
vegetable garden in Ancona (Italy). A selfservice
vegetable garden was designed and established in order
to reduce the distance between food production and
consumption. The vegetable garden was equipped with
a glasshouse used to implement didactical, recreational
and social natural themed activities dedicated to
children and families. A pedagogic project, called
“Summer in the countryside”, was activated in the same
year offering summer weekly educational and
ludicmodules for children in the agricultural
environment andusing the vegetable garden as an open
classroom. Moreover, acare farming project called
“Evergreen” was carried outfor over65yearold
seniors with the objective to diffuse knowledge of
vegetable selfproduction techniques, promote cultural
exchange and evaluate the benefits of motor and
cognitive activities held in the countryside. The
implementedactivities allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
among customers. The number of participants to
educational activities increased over time. The “vege
table garden” environment proved to be an effective
location to host didactical, educational, recreational and
therapeutic activities and to fulfil the multifunction
objectives.1
Keywords – children,didactical activities,elderly, family,
farm, recreational activities, social activities.
INTRODUCTION
Farm multifunctionality (Van Huylenbroecket al., 2007)
represents one of the pivotal factors to add value to
crop productions and enhance the development of
agricultural sector in the urbanizing regions. Projects
to bringcustomers closer to food production areas and
didactical, social and recreational activities(Barbieri
and Valdivia, 2010) may diversify the services
provided by the farms.The need of awareness about
food production stimulated the development of
projects addressed to different population groups
(children, adults and seniors) in order to train new
generations on environment and food production
issues and promote the interaction between
generations, since respect for nature grow from
experience as a child (Keys et al., 2013).
1 Lucasimone N. Kogoj, Martina Perugini, Jacopo Facchi, Francesca
Massetani, Enrico M. Lodolini, Federica Giaccaglia, Ludovica Lancianese
are from HorticultureOriented to Recreation and Technique (H.O.R.T.)
Soc. Coop, Ancona, Italy (l.kogoj@hort.it).
Davide Neri is working at the Fruit Tree Research Center  Council for
Agricultural Research and Economic Analysis, Rome, Italy
(davide.neri@entecra.it).
Rodolfo Santilocchiis from the Marche Polytechnic University, Department
of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Ancona, Italy
(r.santilocchi@univpm.it).
MATERIALS AND METHODS: THE PROJECTS
Innovative enhancement activities were developed by
H.O.R.T. company in a farm in Ancona (Italy) on a plot
(1500 m2) cultivated as vegetable garden.
Self-service garden
A selfservice vegetable garden was designed and
established in 2011 as pilot project (not replicated,
yet). The project intended to allow citizens to handpick
their own fresh vegetables. The vegetable garden was
equipped with a dripirrigation system,a glasshouse for
visitor’s reception and labels to identify the plant
genotype. The glasshouse was used as crucial centre
to implement several didactical, recreational and
social natural themed activities dedicated to children
and families.
Summer in the countryside
In the same area, a pedagogic project, called
“Summer in the countryside”, was activated since
2011 and replicated in the following years. The project
intended to promote children to become more
confidentwith natural environment, plant growth and
vegetable food production. During the school vacation,
weekly educational and ludicmodules in the
agricultural environment were offered for 411 years
old children.The modules were focused on five main
themes: adventure (plants and natural materials to
build wild encampment), learning (vegetable and
countryside as teaching tools of English language),
natural environment (observation of the biodiversity),
horticulture (practical learning on vegetable growing),
and recreation (game and theatre with natural
objects).In every activity, the vegetable garden was
pivotal and used as an open classroom.The natural
environment served as source of materials to be used
by children to experiment, learn and amuse, modelling
toys with their own hands. At the end of the modules,
a sample of 15 parents was asked to evaluate the
experience.
Evergreen
The care farming“Evergreen” project was established
in 2015. It was dedicated to over65yearold seniors
andimplemented to improve the quality of life,
encourage relational services, evaluate the benefits of
activities held in the countryside, enhance the
knowledge and the diffusion of vegetable self
production techniques and promote the pass down
from one generation to another through cultural
exchange. The project was composed of two social
sessions: “Senses awakening”and “Countryside for
everybody”. In the first one(20 meetings), elderly
people was involved in practical activities, related to
the care and maintenance of vegetables, and in
exercises for the mind to improve the mnesic
performances and promote the recall of emotionally
pleasant experiences. The plants were grown in an
aboveground garden in order to facilitate the
movements. In the second session, people was

provided with horticultur
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senio
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
Self
The self
months (June
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
Other
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
garde
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
(47.
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
the project:
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
and 50% to the t
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
rent portion
Evergreen
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the se
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
provided with horticultur
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senio
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
Self
-
service garden
The self
months (June
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
Other
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
garden promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
(47.2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
the project:
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
and 50% to the t
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
rent portion
Evergreen
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the se
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
provided with horticultur
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senio
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service garden
The self
months (June
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
Other activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
the project:
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
and 50% to the t
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
rent portion
Evergreen
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the se
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
provided with horticultur
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senio
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service garden
service vegetable garden was active for 4
months (June
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
the project:
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
and 50% to the t
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
rent portion
of the farm.
Evergreen
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the se
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
provided with horticultur
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senio
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service garden
service vegetable garden was active for 4
months (June

September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
the project: 86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
and 50% to the t
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
of the farm.
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the se
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
provided with horticultur
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senio
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service garden
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
and 50% to the timing; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
of the farm.
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the se
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
provided with horticultur
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senio
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service garden
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
of the farm.
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the se
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
provided with horticulture lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senio
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
R
ESULTS
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
of the farm.
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the se
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
beneficiaries, and the senior centre of the “Amore e
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
ESULTS
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
Summer in the countryside
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
SD) participated in the second session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
experiences and knowledge
.
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
ESULTS
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
to enjoy the full taste and flavour.
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
Vita”companyproviding guests andpsychologists.
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
e lessons and a plot was made
available for each one to cultivate vegetables.The
project was carried in collaboration with INRCA
Scientific Institute (Ancona),providing specialized
staffto supervise the health conditions of the
r centre of the “Amore e
service vegetable garden was active for 4
September), produced 18 types of
vegetables and around 900 kg of products were sold.
activitiesheld in the glasshouse involved around
100 people.The investment for the farm consisted of
the glasshouse and the establishment of the garden
with irrigation system. The costs were partially
refunded through the vegetables sale.Further, the
n promoted the knowledge about the food
sources and showed how the plants look like and
where they grow.Customers were encouraged to pick
the vegetables at the right maturation stage in order
The project is well consolidated and 44 weekly
modules were activated. The number of participants
increased over time (Fig.1):about 190 children were
involved during 4 years and relationship between their
families and the farmwas implemented.Both male
2%) and female (52.8%) children (age: 7.2 ±
1.9years, mean ± SD) took part in the modules.The
children participation was mainly oriented to
adventure, learning and horticulture (24.8%, 23.9%
and 22.4% respectively) modules.Parents appreciated
86.7% declared the intentionto enjoy
again of theactivities in future and 73% of them
affirmed that they chose the service to introduce
nature and countryside to their children. The choice of
the modules was made 50% according to the theme
iming; 60% of familiespreferred the
adventure modules and 53.3% also appreciated the
other themes. The project resulted economically
sustainable: families paid the modulesto the activities
provider that consequently paid the farm owner for the
Eleven women (age: 88.3 ± 6.3years, mean ± SD)
participated in the first session of the “Evergreen"
project, and an average of seven people joined all the
meetings. Eleven men (age: 76.6± 5.9years, mean ±
cond session and started
cultivating the parcels.Around 165 hours of labour
were required to manage the garden and supportthe
seniors. Meeting between seniors and children (from
the summer project) occurred and promoted sharing of
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
confirmed to beve
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
activities are
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
among customers.
Authors would like to t
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
“La longevità
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Region (L.R. 21/201
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
Studies
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
Dris
connecting with nature in the back
Horticulturae
Van Huylenbroeck,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
d
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
in Landscape Research
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
project.
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
confirmed to beve
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
activities are
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
among customers.
Authors would like to t
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
“La longevità
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Region (L.R. 21/201
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
Studies
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
Driscoll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
Horticulturae
Van Huylenbroeck,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
in Landscape Research
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
project.
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
confirmed to beve
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
activities are
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
among customers.
Authors would like to t
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
“La longevità
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Region (L.R. 21/201
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
Studies 26: 465
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
Horticulturae
Van Huylenbroeck,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
in Landscape Research
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
project.
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
confirmed to beve
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
activities are
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
among customers.
Authors would like to t
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
“La longevità
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Region (L.R. 21/201
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
26: 465
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
Horticulturae
Van Huylenbroeck,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
in Landscape Research
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
D
ISCUSSION AND CONCLU
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
confirmed to beve
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
activities are
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
among customers.
Authors would like to t
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
“La longevità
attiva in ambito
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Region (L.R. 21/201
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
26: 465
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
Horticulturae 999: 81
Van Huylenbroeck,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
in Landscape Research
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
ISCUSSION AND CONCLU
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
confirmed to beve
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
among customers.
A
Authors would like to t
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
attiva in ambito
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Region (L.R. 21/201
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
26: 465

473.
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
999: 81
Van Huylenbroeck,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
in Landscape Research
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
ISCUSSION AND CONCLU
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
confirmed to bevery effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
among customers.
A
CKNOWLEDGEMENT
Authors would like to t
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
attiva in ambito
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Region (L.R. 21/2011
R
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
473.
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
999: 81
Van Huylenbroeck,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
in Landscape Research
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
ISCUSSION AND CONCLU
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
CKNOWLEDGEMENT
Authors would like to t
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
attiva in ambito
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
1
–
DGR 1283/2013).
R
EFERENCES
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
88.
Van Huylenbroeck,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
in Landscape Research, 1(3): 1
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
ISCUSSION AND CONCLU
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
CKNOWLEDGEMENT
Authors would like to thank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
attiva in ambito
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
DGR 1283/2013).
EFERENCES
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
88.
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
Mettepenningen, E. and
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
, 1(3): 1
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
ISCUSSION AND CONCLU
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
CKNOWLEDGEMENT
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
attiva in ambito
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
DGR 1283/2013).
EFERENCES
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
Verspecht, A.
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
, 1(3): 1
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
ISCUSSION AND CONCLU
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
CKNOWLEDGEMENT
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
DGR 1283/2013).
EFERENCES
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms.
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
Verspecht, A.
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
43.
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
ISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
CKNOWLEDGEMENT
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
DGR 1283/2013).
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
multifunctionalityin family farms. Journal of Rural
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
Verspecht, A.
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
43.
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
SIONS
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
DGR 1283/2013).
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
Journal of Rural
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
Verspecht, A.
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
efinitions, evidence and instruments.
Living Reviews
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
SIONS
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
DGR 1283/2013).
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
Journal of Rural
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
connecting with nature in the back

yard.
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
Verspecht, A.
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
Living Reviews
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
Journal of Rural
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
yard.
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
Verspecht, A.
(2007).
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
Living Reviews
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
460
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
development of similar projects. The pro

posed
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
Journal of Rural
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
yard.
Acta
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
(2007).
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
Living Reviews
Figure 1. Annual participants of “Summer in the country
-
side”
460
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
posed
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
Journal of Rural
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
Acta
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
(2007).
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
Living Reviews
side”
460
The “vegetable garden” environment proved to be an
effective location to host didactical, educational,
recreational and therapeutic activities and to fulfil the
multifunction objectives.Adventurous activities
ry effective to introduce children to
nature (Keys et al., 2013) and to plants, vegetables
and food knowledge. The participation to the pilot
projects for adult and elderly people encourages the
posed
replicable in other farms involving
specialized staff dedicated to recreation, education and
care.The projects allowed the farm to diversify the
range of offered services and to improve visibility
hank the farm “Azienda del
Carmine” for hosting the projects. The “Evergreen”
project received regional and national funding from the
rurale (Active longevity
in rural areas)” programme, promoted by Marche
Barbieri, C. and Valdivia, C.(2010). Recreation and
agroforestry: examining new dimensions of
Journal of Rural
Keys,E.B., Lindsey, P., Bradley,L.K., Werner, D. and
coll,E. (2013). Residential children’s landscapes:
Acta
G., Vandermeulen, V.,
(2007).
Multifunctionality of agriculture: a review of
Living Reviews
side”