Post by Sarah Brown from Dunmore Farm Estate Community Garden on behalf of Replenish
I’m back with part two of our community garden journey, but do have a read of part one if you haven’t already ‘The making of a community: from idea to action‘
Part two focuses on the people and positivity that have enabled our initial vision to become a reality.
Positivity, planning and perseverance
We have had lots of positive comments and the council have been really pleased with how the garden has progressed. We have completed everything we outlined in such a short time. During the quieter autumn months we added signs to the garden beds, planted spring bulbs and cut back the plants that had gone over. Next we plan to install a system to harvest rain water and build a structure to attach signage and frames to display our newsletters.
People power
Many hands make light work – a monthly volunteer rota helped us maintain and water the garden over the summer. It proved invaluable when the weather was so hot! Whilst there are a lot of people interested, we have a team of volunteers who have created the garden, whether helping physically or growing seeds to plant into the beds. One in particular filled the water butts daily and regularly cut the grass; his talented daughter designed our name sign. Another built the raised beds and will be helping to make our new structures.
The volunteers have been amazing to help build the garden. Without their help and support, we wouldn’t be where we are today. I solely run it and do all the background work from seeking donations to creating the signs, leaflets and newsletters. Admittedly, it is hard work and hopefully I can get others onboard who would be able to help. But it is so satisfying when I hear the positive feedback and witness how it has brought everyone together. I am really proud of the garden and what has been achieved since we began and am grateful to everyone who has been involved to make it happen.
I would say to anyone looking to create a community garden, it does take time, but is extremely rewarding to see the benefits. Volunteers are a must if it is to be successful. From my experience, there may be mixed views with the suggestion of a garden, but as long as it is done correctly and everyone’s opinions are taken into account, it can be achievable. Those with concerns could likely enjoy the garden as much as anyone.
We are fortunate to have the large raised beds, but the vast majority of our plants and other supplies are donated or home grown. It doesn’t have to be expensive to build a garden space. I have managed to get lots of donations just by speaking to people – whether whilst at a garden show or on my daily shop. As the saying goes, ‘if you don’t ask, you don’t get’. When I have told people about what I have done, the support has been amazing. I have never done anything like this before, so everything I know I have learnt along the way. Google has been my friend in all that I have done with this and the street party – it just shows you don’t need to be an expert, if I can do it anyone can!
The community spirit and the wildlife within the garden have thrived because of what we have created. Neighbours have become friends. People of all ages and abilities walking by are visually encouraged to look around the garden and explore, whilst engaging with others. What was once a disused blank canvas, is now a beautiful, colourful garden, providing a natural fauna and flora habitat.
Thank you for reading part 2 of our journey. If you have been inspired to start a community garden in your area, take a look at these excellent resources: Bridge Street Community Garden Playbook by Tila Rodriguez Past and Edible Streets – A Guide to Community Growing in Urban Streetscapes.
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