By JASON GRAVES
K-State Research and Extension
Central District Horticulturist
It’s cold now, but gardening season is just around the corner. If you are looking for a place to grow fresh vegetables but don’t have enough space at home, the Salina Community Garden Program offers an excellent opportunity for residents to cultivate their produce while enjoying the benefits of outdoor activity and community engagement. Many city backyards are shaded or have obstacles that make gardening difficult. Still, a community garden plot provides a simple solution with ample space, access to water, and the camaraderie of community gardening.
Each year, the City of Salina and K-State Research and Extension—Central Kansas District sponsor three community garden sites, making over 100 plots available to local families. Each plot has access to water, and hoses are provided. When supplies allow, mulching materials such as straw or wood chips are available, and wheelbarrows are provided for moving the mulch or other materials. Gardeners are responsible for all other tools and supplies needed to care for their plots.
The largest of the three community garden sites is located at the former Stimmel Elementary School. There, 64 plots—each approximately 500-600 square feet—are available, and many are still open for reservation. Other garden locations with available plots include the Carver Center Community Garden and the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank Community Garden raised beds.
Plots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Those interested can sign up by visiting the K-State Research & Extension office at 2218 Scanlan Ave. on the K-State Salina campus. The office is located in the Extension Center building on the north side of campus. Look for our purple sign. You can also call 785-309-5850 to check availability. The share of maintenance costs for each garden is either $15 or $20 and must be paid when the plot is reserved.
Seeing new folks enjoying the outdoors and making new friends around a common interest is always fun. Many even use their gardens to benefit others and enjoy sharing the fruit of their labor with other family or friends. Don’t let the lack of space in your backyard be an excuse any longer. You might find that a community garden plot and all its benefits are too good an opportunity to pass up. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.