Plains community garden grows in second year

PLAINS – In only its second year, the Plains Community Garden experienced a very successful year renting all 60 of their plots.

New improvements undoubtedly helped attract some gardeners. A new drip system was installed and provided water to all 60 of the garden plots.

“As a result of the new drip system, yields have increased dramatically,” said Garden Director Rena Johnson.

A well was also drilled on site, providing adequate water flows to meet the gardener’s needs.

The garden bloomed beautifully with all types of vegetables filling the lots. Anything from corn to squash and tomatoes could be seen. Herbs filled the landscapes and provided the gardener’s with a fresh supply to take home.

This year the garden sponsored several learning seminars – all of which were well attended. The seminars included seed starting, plant and seed swaps and canning.

The learning seminars were open to the public and were not limited to the members of the community garden.

Volunteer Glenda Wolverton believes the educational opportunities have helped bring more people to the garden.

“As garden director (Rena) is just a wealth of information,” said Wolverton. “I would say that the educational aspect is just going to continue to increase. I’m sure we’ll have more and more educational opportunities.”

Local businesses and community members helped the garden purchase a mantis, which is a small handheld, lightweight rototiller. Wolverton explained the machine is very easy to use and will be available for gardeners use this coming spring. A picnic table was also donated to the garden.

“For our second year, we just made a whole lot of progress,” said Wolverton.

The gardeners agreed and had nothing but positive reviews of the garden.

“It was a beautiful community garden this year with what looked like an abundance of everything,” said Charlotte Slider.

Another gardener agreed.

“This is one of the nicest community projects I have ever had the privilege to enjoy,” said Lores Porter.

For next year Wolverton said the garden will only improve. With a few small changes in the plans, the community garden is growing and becoming apart of the community.

An end of the year pot luck is planned for Monday, October 28 at 6 p.m. If anyone is interested in attending to learn more about the Plains Community Garden, contact Glenda Wolverton at 826-5223 for more details.

A few gardeners will not be returning next year and plots will be available for rent. Anyone interested in becoming a part of the community garden can call 826-6625 for more information.