[WallShadow]

In addition to the "dirt in an old tire" planter, container gardening (5-gallon cat litter buckets et al), and the currently popular "upside-down tomatoes/strawberries" hanging planters, there is also the old-fashioned technique of window boxes and roof/balcony gardens, which could take advantage of the southern exposure to maximize the available insolation. The gardens could also be enclosed to make a greenhouse setup. This would make glass, glazing materials, plexiglass, framework components, and heavy transparent plastic sheeting a favorite on scavengers' "to find" lists.

And while roaches may be an insectoid proteinaceous delicacy, I'd let my clutch of semi-domesticated chickens fatten on them and other bugs, assuming I was able to obtain a breeding pair. I think that being the "Egg King" of Manhattan might focus some unwanted attention, however. Presenting a clutch of chicks as a peace offering or as an incentive for "good neighborliness" might make the difference between a lasting bond and continued friction. If they are going to be raising the chicks into a substantial flock, that requires a certain amount of peace and stability. Think of it as enlightened self-interest. Your potential loss is a couple of breakfasts skipped: their potential gain is that they've just been given a way to become more self-sufficient and, down the road, have a broader set of trade items--live chickens, chicken meat, eggs, feathers for pillows and comforters, fertilizer.

Come to think of it, ducks or even geese might be more likely as available domesticated poultry.