HOT SPRINGS – They may not know each other well when they begin, but by the end of the growing season, the participants in June Palmer’s community garden are friends and are trading gardening tips and tricks.
“I guess this is probably the third or fourth year I’ve had the garden,” said Palmer, who hosts the fenced 50’ x 50’ area between her home and art studio on Happy Hollow. “I have been here seven years and didn’t have the garden for at least a couple of years.”
This year’s spot is packed to the gills with thriving green plants, despite the higher than average temperatures this summer.
“We’ve had more heat than usual,” agreed John Grover, a longtime gardener but first time utilizer of Palmer’s community concept. “On the other hand, we haven’t seen any hail really, which kind of evens things out a bit.”
Palmer sets aside the center plot in the garden for flowers. Flowers draw the bees and such that pollinate the various vegetables. Franz Brown is caring for the flowers this year.
Surrounding the flowers are plots tended by other gardeners and by Palmer as well. In a very short period of time those in attendance at the garden have amassed an impressive array of seasonal vegetables for a picture.
“I guess I have seven gardeners this year – two of them women; three if you count me,” Palmer said. “People pay me $25 for the water is all. They take care of their own space and can plant whatever they want. The only stipulation is that it has to be all organic; no pesticides or herbicides allowed.”
Rowan Christopher, another of Palmer’s gardeners this year who is a Master Gardener to boot, said that he delivers for the Meals on Wheels program in town and has been able to add some of the fresh vegetables from his plot on a weekly basis.
“These folks will get first crack at a plot next year,” said Palmer, who said she has little problem filling her spaces each spring. “I guess if someone is interested in getting a plot, they can give me a call.”
If you would like to get your hands dirty and grow some of your own vegetables next year, but don’t have the space, give Palmer a call at 745-7739.
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