It’s been a long winter and there’s no better way to shake off the lethargy than getting out into the garden.
Ponoka FCSS is now accepting applications from gardeners interested in tending a plot in the new 35th Avenue CommUnity Garden project
Plans are to have the site tilled and ready for planting in time for the May long weekend, said FCSS program co-ordinator Kimberly McMurray.
“There’s a whole lot of snow there right now. We’re wondering if that might hold us up a little bit.”
A 10 x 20 plot will cost a gardener $10 while a 20 x 20 plot will cost $30 for the season. Fees are to be paid at the time of registration. Gardeners will also receive an information package with some rules and suggestions to make the gardening experience pleasant for everyone.
McMurray said the project is open to anyone interested in growing their own chemical-free produce. It’s ideal for seniors and apartment dwellers who want to get back to the land and for families who want to pass on life skills and save a little money. Groups such as the Rising Sun Club House, Ponoka Outreach School and the PASS program at Centennial Centre are also interested in tending a plot.
“Food security is definitely one of the reasons we decided to do it,” McMurray explained. We’re finding ways of helping families to maximize the nutrition they are getting but minimizing the cost to them.
“It’s pretty much up to the gardeners what they want to plant, within the guidelines,” she said. “Gardeners may plant flowers or produce of their choice, excluding noxious plants, suckers, invasive, illegal, or perennial plants.”
McMurray said there will be a separate garden for potatoes outside the fenced-in plots.
The project is supported by a number of community groups and businesses including the PCHS woodworking class that is building a gazebo to be placed at the garden.