Applications For Hartford Community Gardens Now Open

Information via KNOX

HARTFORD, CT – Thirty years ago Amanda and Jose signed up for their first garden plot at the Battle Street Garden with KNOX! Every year since, they have planted, tended, and harvested many vegetables for their own use at home. Over the years the couple has adapted to share any extra produce with their now grown children and several lucky neighbors.

The couple recently renewed their application for space in the Battle Street Garden, one of the twenty (20) KNOX Community Gardens KNOX manages throughout Hartford. Last year the number of gardeners doubled at KNOX due to COVID-19, and it is anticipated that the need for available space will continue to expand.

New this year is the online application process for all – both returning and new gardeners with KNOX. Gardens Coordinator Jennie Martinez is excited to provide this new offering to the residents of Hartford and how it brings convenience to the participants, however she also appreciates meeting people in person.

“It’s interesting to hear the history each garden has for the people of Hartford,” Martinez shared. “Everyone is excited for spring, and like me they are ready to get their hands into the dirt again!”

Community gardens beautify and uniquely enhance a neighborhood, provide fresh local food and foster community self-reliance and well-being. They are ideal for those people interested in organic, sustainable food production, and for community members seeking additional ways to provide for their families.

KNOX has been the leader in providing this service to Hartford for decades. Executive Director Patrick Doyle shared “Community gardens provide a welcome opportunity for all too safely get outside, while also ensuring that all in Hartford have access to fresh, local and healthy food.”

During challenging times especially, the need for a safe and reliable hands-on solution to food security for all is vital. Everyone in the city is invited to garden with KNOX.

“We’ve spent the past year working on upkeep and creating additional garden space so our neighbors can grow and access fresh produce. It feels great knowing that during this challenging time we are able to make this service available to our community,” said Doyle.

In direct response to the overall effect of the COVID-19 virus in Hartford, KNOX has taken extra steps to help people stay healthy in the garden. The organization worked closely with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture on guidelines for gardeners that reflect the advice an recommendations from food and health experts. With those guidelines, plans are again in place to boost produce donations through volunteers, staff, and (as always) community gardeners.

The need for public growing space in urban areas is vital, with a clear connection between gardening and physical and emotional health. Garden plots are available now. If you are interested, visit www.knoxhartford.org or send an e-mail to jenniferm@knoxhartford.org.