Floating gardens (Mexico, Bangladesh) Floating gardens extend
the growing area of rural communities where land is scarce. They
are built by piling mud on top of anchored reeds in the water to
construct a fertile bed for growing vegetables. The method is
both cheap and sustainable. The method dates from pre-Hispanic
times in Mexico, when the Aztecs constructed chinampas or
floating gardens in the canals of Lago Texcoco. The gardens
became one of the most productive farming systems ever
developed. By the time the Conquistadors came, the area of
Xochimilco had become a rich agricultural district where many of
the city's flowers, fruits and vegetables were grown. The
gardens still produce flowers, fruits and vegetables today, and
have become a favourite spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Floating gardens are amongst the options promoted to support the
lives of the rural poor Bangladesh. Crops produced include Kang
Kong (leafy vegetables), okra (lady's finger), gourd, brinjal
(aubergine), pumpkin, and onions