One morning, after years of living in apartments in the city, LaManda's husband turned to her and suggested they buy a yard … with a house attached. That the house was second to the yard was no coincidence. LaManda was a frustrated gardener trapped in an apartment existence, and her husband recognized how much benefit she would get from having her own outdoor space. As it turns out, the benefit has spread far beyond LaManda's own yard…
Soon after moving into this house and transforming the neglected yard into what she has deemed her yarden, LaManda was inspired to start the Peterson Garden Project. Taking a cue from the victory gardens of WWII, LaManda wanted to create a resource for other urban dwellers who are interested in growing their own food. Peterson Garden Project turns abandoned lots into temporary community gardens and holds workshops on growing food. This year there are 7 community gardens in Chicago, with 763 plots and 3,000 volunteers.
Read all about LaManda's own gardening adventures on her blog — The Yarden.
• SUBMIT YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE OR PROJECT
• MY GREAT OUTDOORS ARCHIVE
(Images: Jason Loper)
Must-See Small Cool Homes: Week Two
Beth's Romantic & Retro Residence
Good Food to Share 
The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces 
Apartment Therapy Presents 
The Eight-Step Home Cure 
Shaw's Original Fir...
How to Bake a Potato: Three Easy Methods
How To Cook Tender, Chewy Wheat Berries on the Stovetop
This is just beautiful. Very nicely done.
Very nice. I have to admit that we looked in Bud Long Woods but I was turned off by all the yellow brick mid century bungalows. But after seeing this I will definitely go back to the neighborhood with a new outlook.
What? No pictures of the fab new green house?? Great pics, though, LaManda!
LaManda and Peters' home and garden is inspiring! #RealDeal in the Garden World of Chicago.
Best outdoor tour so far!
I started following the harden on Facebook a while back. She's given me much inspiration in my own Chicago garden! I wish she would help me find out how to start a community garden across from my apt. The lot has been vacant for over 3 yrs on a great sunny corner in Andersonville! Hint hint!
Beautiful garden! I was wondering where the swing/chair is from? Thank you!