Submitted by E. Dianne Campbell
The nasty winter storm has given us plenty of time to drool over the plant and seed catalogues.
We can envision the perfectly ripe, plump tomato, gently tugged from the stem, and savored while still warm from the sun. Or the sweet crunch of a green bean, fresh off its stem.
The perfect mental escape from seasonal doldrums is the prospect of what can come in a Community Garden plot at Pleasant Grove Park.
And the time to make it become a reality is now.
There are 97 10’ x 15’ plots available for summer rental, plus one raised bed designed for gardeners with physical limitations. The price of the season’s rental is $45 until February 14, and $50 after that.
Perimeter fencing protects from the critters that are familiar local nuisances, and members gain entry through four gates with combination locks. There is access to non-potable water and some tools, including wheelbarrows. A kiosk at the center of the garden is the place for announcements, gardening information, contact information for concerns, and an emergency first-aid kit.
Fluvanna Extension Master Gardener volunteers comprise the oversight team, which provides the gardening orientation program at the beginning of the growing season, plus ongoing educational advice. Master Gardeners also manage the garden to ensure that all good neighbor practices are being observed by the plot members.
The registration form, guidelines, and full details of the facility are available at the Fluvanna Parks and Recreation site, www.fluvannacounty.org.
Plots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, but the registration form allows members to request a specific plot site, since members develop friendships over the years of gardening together and may like to continue being gardening neighbors.
The growing season isn’t as far away as it seems right now, and planning for it is an easy way to preserve one’s sanity.
