Monday, May 4, 2020

Gardening in Strange Times

Hi Gardeners!

This is Molly reaching out to you all across the internet in these strange times.  I'm sorry we couldn't have a garden opening or a spring sale this year where we could all meet each other. I hope you will all be patient with me as I try to step into Katje's shoes or follow (pretty far behind) in her footsteps. She did such an amazing job as the garden coordinator here! I'm just getting familiar with all the systems she set up, including this beautiful blog page. I can't duplicate Katje's crackling energy but I'll try to post updates now and then.

Right now, we are in COVID times. This means we should take precautions in the garden. It is pretty easy to practice social distancing at HACG. Remember to give each other lots of space and to  wear masks when interacting with other gardeners so that we protect each other as best we can. If you would like to read more about gardening and COVID precautions, please see the link on the right sidebar of this blog.

Meanwhile, the water is on at HACG and it is time to plant cold season crops. This is a good time to plant peas, lettuce, chard, kale, spinach, cabbage, broccoli, bush beans, beets, radishes, and turnips. I've noticed that the garden is already bursting with perennial plants like mint, sorrel, and onions. I see some beautiful strawberry plants developing and lots of raspberry canes. I'm amazed by how many expert gardeners there are here and at the variety of the expertise they bring from their places of origin.  I will write a blog about that later!

PAYMENT: Please see the links to pay the annual plot fee on the right sidebar of this blog. I know many people are facing hardship this summer. If that is you and you would like a scholarship to cover the annual fee, please email me at howardgarden@gmail.com so we can get you connected with one. If you are a gardener with extra financial love to give, please use the donate link on this page to contribute to a scholarship fund. In any case, please let me know one way or another that you are returning to the garden this year. If your lot is not worked by June 15 and I have had no news of you I will figure you've moved on.

If you are interested in gardening at HACG for the first time, please email me, Molly, at howardgarden@gmail.com to check availability and select a plot before you register or pay. 

Projects: This year I would love to replace the raised beds on the pedway and plant flowers between the boxes to beautify. If you are interested in helping with the pedway project, please do let me know. You can donate your labor and time and/or your hard-earned money at the link in the sidebar if you wish!

Leadership Team: Please let me know if you would like to help with garden plans, visions, and volunteer marshalling and management! It would be lovely to work with you. And the garden needs you.