Learn how to grow food at urban farms

You know that urban farming is big when patches of vegetables start popping up under freeway overpasses and alongside suburban housing tracts. It sometimes seems that community farms—professionally run, with farmstands selling produce—are appearing in every cranny of our urban landscape. Places like San Jose's Veggielution (at left), Portland's 47th Avenue Farm, and Albuquerque's Rio Grande Community Farm are eager for volunteers (even those with no gardening experience) to start seeds, mulch, compost, weed, and plant. What's in it for you? Free advice you can use to tend your own plot; fresh air and exercise; a chance to meet friendly fellow gardening fans; and the satisfaction of knowing you're helping bring sustainably grown produce to the neighborhood.