Urban gardens and backyard gardens have grown tremendously in popularity this year, both because of the economy and because of green living.

Regardless of the reason why you decide to create one, it’s important to take safety precautions and create a garden that is free of certain negative elements.

Eco Salon has put out a fantastic article on this subject and it covers the issue of lead in soil. Specifically the lead which can be found in certain areas, such as heavily trafficked roadways and or near old orchards.

Information collected since 2003 shows that in many big cities there are hazardous amounts of lead in backyard and community gardens.

This is putting gardeners at risk of double exposure to lead poisoning  – initially during the gardening process and later when consuming the fruits  (and vegetables) of their labour.

While any area is potential tainted with lead, it is primarily the older housing areas (pre-1978), areas close to old orchards and areas near heavily trafficked roadways that are at greatest risk of high levels of lead in the soil.

For tips on how to make sure you’re not creating a garden in a lead-rich plot, visit Eco Salon for 6 tips on a healthy garden.

*not affiliated with Keetsa