Horticultural Cooperatives in Estonia and Lifestyle Change: The Case of Ihaste

Abstract

This article explores the historical development and transformation of horticultural cooperatives in Estonia, focusing on the example of Ihaste near Tartu. Initially established during the Soviet era to mitigate food shortages, these cooperatives provided urban residents with small plots for growing essential crops. Over time, legislative changes allowed the construction of summer houses, and by the late 1960s, thousands of families participated in cooperative gardening. The study highlights the
socio-cultural significance of these plots, which offered not only food security but also psychological benefits and a sense of autonomy during political oppression. Based on archive materials and interviews, the article examines how Ihaste evolved from a horticultural district into a suburban residential area, reflecting broader lifestyle changes. Following Estonia’s independence, privatisation and economic shifts transformed garden plots into permanent homes, while gardening practices shifted from subsistence to leisure and ornamental purposes. Current challenges include land rights, environmental risks, and urban development pressures. The case of Ihaste illustrates how horticultural cooperatives have adapted to changing social, economic, and ecological contexts, maintaining cultural continuity while responding to modern needs.