Are you eyeing a nearby empty plot of land drenched in luscious full sun exposure while envisioning the bushels of berries, tomatoes, and veggies it could produce? If you’re daydreaming of where and how to start a community garden, let me share the success story of a charming Ozark mountain town who has created a thriving garden plot:
How to Start a Community Garden
Every community garden must begin with land that receives 6 to 8 hours of full sun. You don’t need much space; most community gardens are less than an acre (1 acre = 43,560 square feet).
This land may be purchased, leased, or created within an existing public park. If you are hoping to have public land turned into a community garden, this generally requires a process of city council and tax payer approval.
Beginning the Process
Community gardens cost money to build. You are going to need to form a committee of dedicated locals who have the passion and determination to see the project through. Your committee will need to discuss all of the associated costs, fundraising ideas, and what the rules governing the garden will be. (Will you allow invasive plant species? What if someone wants to grow bamboo or marijuana? Will highly poisonous ornamental plants be allowed?)
Costs to Consider
Your community garden is likely to involve leasing land that is currently being underutilized. Not only will you have this monthly expense but your garden should also carry liability insurance that protects both the committee and the land owner. There will be the initial expense of disposing of broken concrete, trash, and debris cleared from the plot by volunteers. Soil testing, running water lines (and potentially adding a water meter if there is none), building individual raised beds, adding fencing and signage, plus regular mowing/weed eating to keep any grassy paths trimmed and paying monthly water bills are additional expenses that must be covered.
These costs typically require that your gardening committee engage in fundraising efforts, approach local businesses for donations, and collect dues from those using the garden.
Built to Last
Excitement (and donations) will be highest in the beginning so it is wise to build the garden beds to last as long as possible. Pressure treated wood can be used but the longest lasting beds are made of stacked pavers. Whatever you choose, the beds should be easy to mow and weed eat around while protecting the vegetables planted in them.
Adding a Shed
Ideally your community garden will have a small shed where basic tools can be stored. Shovels, rakes, watering cans, extra hoses, and perhaps an oscillating sprinkler can be kept right on property for quick access. The shed keeps everything protected from rain and from being blown away by storms. A 4-digit combination lock can secure the shed but allow growers access with one simple code.
Easy Access to Water
How will growers access the water they need for regularly watering plants? There should be at least one spigot with a contractor grade water hose that reaches to the farthest edges of the garden. A galvanized bucket or weather resistant watering can may be left in the garden shed for use.
Garden Signage
Consider investing in large, durable signage. One sign should make people aware that the plot is a community garden. Another sign should discourage picking and offer a way for interested individuals to contact the committee to join the wait list for a bed. Because many people think community gardens are grown to supply local families with free produce, you will need clear, concise signs that inform visitors to please not pick growing fruits & vegetables.
Consider Garden Bed Markers
A new gardener may be assigned a plot, but how does she know which bed is actually hers? Individual bed markers that hold up to watering and foul weather are a great way to lessen any confusion about who is assigned to what bed. Slate labels are long lasting but will need numbers painted on them or added with outdoor-grade vinyl lettering.
Fencing the Community Garden
Fencing your community garden may be necessary. Sometimes all you need is a boundary line that denotes the spot. If the area has deer, you may need something taller. Fencing should be low, so it does not cast a shadow over the raised beds, or made of metal wire that allows sunlight to stream through.
A Beautiful Example in the Ozarks
Jasper, Arkansas is an absolutely stunning small town who has successfully added a picturesque community garden. They have done everything right, with vibrant signage, sturdily built raised beds and a visually appealing layout. Their sun-drenched garden is close to the square, surrounded by the gorgeous treed hills of the Ozark Mountains.
When I visited in June 2024, I found the garden brim-full of growing plants and flowers, with well maintained grounds.
How Did Jasper Accomplish Their Garden?
Planning for the community garden began in 2015. A board was established, they registered with the state and filed for tax-exempt status under a 501(c)(3). It was the 501(c)(3) status that was so beneficial, as it allowed the group to apply for and receive grants and tax-deductible donations from businesses who wanted to support the garden. The 501(c)(3) designation even permitted Americorps volunteers to come help build and maintain the garden’s infrastructure.
It took a lot of effort from the group of dedicated volunteers and required strong leadership to bring this project to life. In 2016 the raised beds were created and the garden officially opened for use!
How Did They Obtain the Land?
The Jasper community garden sits on a 1/2 city block plot (about an acre) piece of land that was a vacant lot next to the Jasper Methodist church. The church agreed to allow the lot to be used for a garden. Insurance was obtained with liability waivers signed to protect the church’s generous lend of the land. There are also written agreements in place with the church and City of Jasper allowing use of the property as a community garden.
Building the Infrastructure in Jasper, AR
Volunteers were able to help prepare and build the garden. The raised bed blocks were purchased inexpensively from a local business that had them in a “bone pile”, which allowed the blocks to be salvaged and repurposed for use. Compost to fill the garden beds was donated by local farms. Seeds are also donated regularly to help new gardeners get off to a great a start.
The garden shed and pavilion, roofed in red metal, were added as a donation. Plumbing was donated by a church in Harrison, Arkansas. The arched main entrance sign was hand painted and donated by one of the committee members. So many were willing to help as the project came together!
Tips for Success
A member of the Jasper, AR community garden committee offered these additional valuable tips for success when it comes to creating a community garden:
• Gather a group with strong interest who are willing to help in the community.
• The Community Garden’s 501(c)(3) status allows them to continue to apply for and be awarded grants that help cover mowing expenses and upkeep for the garden, in addition to the generous help from the Americorps.
• Cooperation with Master Gardeners (who are required to do community service), schools, city government, and community residents was vital to the garden’s success.
• Dues (Jasper’s are currently $12 per year) are collected from each member who has a garden bed to help cover water. Business donations and fundraisers can help cover additional expenses.
• There is a wait list with more demand than there are available beds. Jasper’s Community Garden has been a beautiful success!
You Can Do This!
Knowing where and how to start a community garden can feel daunting but it is a worthwhile project. I hope this article has given you some exciting ideas as you undertake the beginning steps to organize a supportive committee and make your community garden dreams a reality!
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