Save the garden

19 years ago

I asked around when I moved to this town and no one knew of a community garden. I asked at City Hall and was finally put in touch with someone to find out there is a community garden. It is in a terrible state, overgrown, untended with only a few faithful gardeners keeping their plots alive. The neighboring business owners complain about it and I fear we may lose it.

I do not have enough mastery of gardening to take on much of a leadership role, plus I have a baby and 3.5 year old attached to my side most of the time...but I'd like to help inspire the community to come together for gardening.

My thought is to do a big sheet mulching project (offering food...I read that other post about attracting people.) But it seems fall is the time for that and then there is a long lapse in time before planting begins.

The garden is along a long narrow path, with a playground and apple trees at one end, connecting two streets. Maybe a children's garden (Mothers Club?), homeschooling project...?? Any ideas?

Comment (1)

Anarie
19 years ago
Contact schools. Junior highs or high schools would be best since there's a lot of pretty serious work to be done, but even upper elementary kids could help. There's almost sure to be a science teacher or PE teacher who would be willing to get the kids out there working in exchange for a chance to observe insects and plant growth or spark kids' interest in vegetables and their role in nutrition. You should also call your county Cooperative Extension advisor to see if there are some 4-H clubs you can get involved. You might have to give the kids a rent-free plot or two to do their own gardening, but it doesn't sound like you have people waiting to join.

And don't overlook just getting the word out. Find a local radio gardening show and announce that yo've got spaces. The gardeners may just show up.
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