A few garden plots through the city’s Garden Plot Program are still available for those who want to dig in and grow their own vegetables this summer.
Registration was held on the weekend for residents who were new to the program. All the plots have been assigned at Michener Gardens, Piper Creek Gardens and Twin Spruce Gardens, but a few spaces remain at Parkside Gardens in Normandeau.
“I would encourage anyone interested to call in quick because there aren’t many left,” said Ken Lehman, ecological services operations co-ordinator with the city.
Medium size plots (40 by 60 square metres) for $39 for the season are likely still available. Call 403-342-8303, or email cemeteryservices@reddeer.ca to register.
He said plots for new gardeners are available on a first-come, first-serve basis so not everyone got what they wanted, but joining this year gives them an opportunity to maybe change locations or plots next year.
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Lehman said while there are no big changes to the program, there will be more patrols of the plots to deter theft which has happened at each of the sites. The city’s bylaw department will make their presence known, and some areas also have Neighbourhood Watch patrols.
Some sites have food forests or orchards where the public is allowed to pick. But the gardens plots have signs to warn people not to pick if they did not plant.
“I think most of it can be solved by getting to know your (garden plot) neighbours and being on the lookout. That goes a long way to curb inappropriate use.”
Another challenge for gardeners can be wildlife, like hungry deer.
He said the sites are not fenced because they are public land, but gardeners can help make their plots uninviting, for example with a few plants that animals don’t like.
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City workers will till and survey the plots to get them ready for planting. If the weather cooperates, plots will open to gardeners on May 17.
Lehman said gardeners are encouraged to use compost to enrich their plots, weed regularly, and use organic mulch to hold onto moisture and suppress weeds.
“We need gardeners to know it does take some work. Put in most of your effort upfront, and it pays off down the line. If you can weed it once a week, you’re going to stay on top of it.”
In early June “Weed it or Lose it” notifications will be sent out to gardeners who have not adequately maintained their plots.
Water tanks will be set up at each of the four gardens, filled by the city on a regular basis, and are meant to supplement water that gardeners bring.
Lehman said he has created a Gardening Resources page on the city’s website to provide helpful gardening information. Experienced gardeners are another good resource.
“There’s a lot of great information sharing that I’ve witnessed in the gardens. I learn lots from gardeners. It’s a great program that not only puts food in people’s hands but builds community.”
Getting outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine to work in the garden also helps people be active for better health, he added.
For information on the Neighbourhood Community Gardens program, which is mostly run by neighbourhood associations, check reddeer.ca for those in charge.