- Because we did not submit a 2014 grant application to Gateway Greening for more raised beds, our members were not obligated to report garden harvest this year, but we are certain 2014 was the best growing season we’ve had for all of our members. All the beds were beautiful throughout the season. We are certain we harvested more than the 483 pounds of fruits, vegetables, and herbs reported in 2013. The variety grown was not much different than 2013. We grew kale, radishes, beans, onions, lettuce, a several varieties of tomatoes, all kinds of peppers and jalapenos, peas, beets, cucumbers, broccoli, basil, spring mix, zucchini, scallions, strawberries, cantaloupe, watermelon, potatoes, cabbage, eggplant, sweet potatoes and some really pretty flowers. Gateway Science Academy always grows a really impressive sunflower every year along with other successful produce. Our biggest production crop was probably tomatoes again. Two of the raised beds were full of fantastic tomatoes and a bird nest.
- We received more perennial flowering plants in 2014 from Gateway Greening’s Great Perennial Divide for our community flower garden areas. We also received seeds and signage for a Monarch flower bed which was installed in May. We got it growing and blooming and we even saw Monarch butterflies.
- We are beginning to attract squirrels and rabbits but none of our members installed squirrel nets or rabbit fences.
- Our members pay a small annual fee for the growing season (March through October) and sign a document regarding their membership responsibilities which include maintaining their raised-bed and contributing to community garden maintenance. Because our community garden is supported by Gateway Greening, our members may purchase seeds packets and seedlings at ridiculously low prices and they are able to attend free Gateway Greening classes.
- Nearly all of our members will continue to garden with us in 2015 but we have room for a few more members if someone cancels before the 2015 season starts. If you would like to join us, please contact Sharon and/or Milton mardelusa03@yahoo.com, skp93stlmo@yahoo.com, 314.647.7160.
- Please come by and visit us at 6517-19 Smiley. It’s behind Mount Tabor United Church of Christ, one block from Epiphany of Our Lord Church, near the corner of Leola and Smiley. Rest yourselves on our benches, chairs, and picnic tables and watch our great gardens grow.
