Sunnyland Garden Opens in Midtown
by Juliana Gay
Ever wanted to grow your own veggies but lack the space and sunlight? Or, want to hang out in the great outdoors while building new friendships? Join the newly founded Sunnyland Community Garden, located on 6th Avenue just west of MLK Boulevard. Shelby Stec is spearheading the project, inspired by the success of her Salvation Army Community Garden on Mabry Avenue.
Beginners are encouraged to join the CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program, wherein they pay a small seasonal fee to cover water, seeds, and other supplies. Each week the members put in two hours of work, a small effort considering the bountiful bag of produce they'll receive in return. So far we've planted strawberries, watermelon, canteloupe, corn, beans, squash, and several kinds of tomatoes. The CSA is limited to 20 members to ensure ample harvest for all, so be sure to join as soon as possible to reap the benefits! Gardeners with more experience may purchase individual plots for $25/season; here they can grow all the plants they want in any quantity they desire. Contact Jules Gay (jules3184@gmail.com) or stop by the garden any Sunday at 4:30 p.m. for more information.
Here are some of the goodies we've got growing...
Fresh, ripe strawberries... is there ANYTHING more delectable? Oh yeah, maybe some juicy watermelon... stay tuned for that...
Pole beans-- a staple crop that actually improves the soil. These guys shot up 6 inches within a week of planting!
Companion plants like marigolds and borage keep pests at bay and allow us to grow everything organically.
CSA members like Kait Alexander volunteer two hours per week keeping the garden watered and weeded.
Everyone, including non-members, is encouraged to bring their coffee grounds and food scraps to our compost bin. This process not only reduces the material entering landfills; it also provides a nutrient-rich soil that allows our garden to flourish!
Is Sunnyland Garden located too far away? Check out this website to find a garden near you:
Update: Sunnyland CSA is FULL, but if you're interested in started a community garden and think you know of a possible space to do it, contact stonesouptallahassee@blogspot.com
