Which statement about urban garden benefits is true?

• A. They can decrease mental health
• B. They can improve mental health
• C. They can worsen air quality
• D. They require large funds to start

Answer: (B)

Engaging in urban gardening supports mental health by providing physical activity, time outdoors, social connection, and a sense of achievement from nurturing plants. These experiences help reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a sense of community, which is why improving mental health is the best fit for this statement. The idea that urban gardens decrease mental health runs opposite to evidence showing mood and stress benefits from gardening and nature exposure in cities. They don’t inherently worsen air quality—plants can help filter pollutants and reduce heat in urban areas, though effects depend on scale. And they aren’t inherently expensive to start, since many community or container garden setups begin with low costs.