Growing Concern Sprouts Garden

May 4, 2010 -- During a pause in the rain on Saturday, April 24, a dozen volunteers broke ground for the People’s Garden at Oberlin Community Services (OCS). An effort to provide the entire Oberlin community with fresh vegetables, the People’s Garden is open to all Oberlin residents.

“Pick a tomato; pull a weed,” could be a way to describe the concept for this community garden, which will consist of three main areas. There will be a circle garden containing carrots, collards, zucchini, beets, cucumbers, beans, and squash; a greens garden with lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, and chard; and a kitchen garden with herbs, garlic, peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes.

According to Linda Arbogast, executive director of OCS, “The People’s Garden idea came about through a conversation about how to give anyone who needs the produce access to the garden and also to encourage ownership by the people who use the produce. The idea is that there will be a sign stating that the produce is for anyone who needs it and, if you have time, please spend some time in the garden while you are here. In addition to harvesting the food you need, do some weeding or watering.”

Starter plants for the garden will be provided by Green Circle Growers, seeds and plants have been donated by Giving Women, and garlic has been provided by Elizabeth Meadows.

The garden coordinator this year is Ed Phillips, an Oberlin resident.

While the garden is open to all, anytime, 15 committed volunteers and needed twice per month to ensure watering and maintenance over the growing season. To volunteer, contact Ed at edphillips@ameritech.net. Residents may begin harvesting the garden June 1 and through the growing season.

peoples garden proud participants planting
Oberlin residents, Oberlin College Spring Service volunteers, OCS volunteers, and members of Giving Women prepare planting beds for the People's Garden at Oberlin Community Services.




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