Planted memories: Jo Nichols sits quietly, enjoying her view at the Ponoka Community Garden on July 31. Nichols has been gardening at the site for 62 years, though it’s only been officially a community garden for the past eight years or so. It used to be an empty space owned by the hospital, that residents used for planting. At that time, it was known as “Little Europe.” She says there has been more interest in the garden this year, perhaps due to people having more free time. The garden’s gazebo was dedicated in her late husband’s memory, and Nichols says that would have meant more to him than any tombstone could have. To Nichols, the garden remains her peaceful, happy place — perfect for reading a book. Photo by Emily Jaycox
Sheila Lanz hard at work in her plot. Photos by Emily Jaycox
Jeff Lanz tends a plot of beans and peas.
By Emily Jaycox
Ponoka Community Garden more than a patch of earth