The Fishers Community Garden program offers a fun way to approach gardening without dealing with it at home. The spots for the garden go extremely fast, so read on and make sure to check out our FAQ section at the bottom for quick answers to common questions!
How to Get Involved
Getting started with the Community Garden Program (CGP) is easy. Follow these steps:
Check Availability: Visit the Fishers Parks website to check the availability of garden plots. If you don’t see “Community Garden Program”, chances are you’ve missed out this year.
Choose a Plot: Select the type of plot that suits your needs - conventional, organic, or raised bed. Consider your gardening preferences and abilities when making this decision.
Register: Once registration opens January 2nd, secure your garden plot by completing the registration process. Remember, only one plot per household is allowed, so be sure to register early.
Prepare Your Plot: Once the gardening season begins in April, it’s time to prepare your plot. Clear any debris, till the soil, and address any necessary maintenance tasks. Consult local gardening resources or attend workshops to learn best practices.
Garden and Maintain: Throughout the season, tend to your garden plot regularly. Water, weed, prune, and harvest your plants as needed. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn from experienced gardeners and share your own knowledge with fellow participants.
Winterize: As the growing season comes to an end, you’ll be responsible for properly winterizing your garden plot.
Benefits of Community Gardens
Participating in a community garden offers numerous advantages. Here are some key benefits:
Fresh, Organic Produce: By growing your own fruits and vegetables, you have access to the freshest, most nutritious ingredients. You can enjoy produce that is free from pesticides and chemicals, providing you with peace of mind and a healthier diet.
Cost Savings: Growing your own food can help you save money on groceries. Instead of buying produce from the store, you can harvest it from your garden, reducing your grocery bill and putting more money back into your pocket.
Improved Physical Health: Gardening is a physical activity that can enhance your overall fitness and well-being. It provides an opportunity for exercise, stretching, and movement, all of which contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Stress Relief: Spending time in a garden can be therapeutic and calming. The act of gardening has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It allows you to connect with nature and provides a peaceful escape from the demands of daily life.
Community Engagement: Community gardens bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. You can meet like-minded individuals, share gardening tips and ideas, and build lasting relationships with your neighbors.
Sustainable Living: By growing your own food, you are embracing a sustainable lifestyle. You reduce your carbon footprint by eliminating the need for long-distance transportation and excessive packaging. Additionally, community gardens promote composting and recycling, further minimizing waste.
For those without access to a backyard or suitable gardening space, community gardens serve as a valuable resource. They provide an opportunity to grow your own produce and engage in environmentally friendly practices.
FAQ
When are sign-ups open?
Sign-ups open at 8:30 am on January 2nd, 2024 at this link.
When does the program run through?
Gardening starts on April 13th, and runs through October 31st, 2024
Is the community garden free?
No. The community garden costs $30 for residents, and $45 for non-residents
Where is the community garden located?
The plots are located at Cyntheanne Park. The address is 12383 Cyntheanne Rd, Fishers, IN, 46037
What types of plots are available?
There are 3 types. Conventional, organic, and raised bed. All plots cost the same.
What if I missed the sign-ups?
You'll have to wait until next year. Fortunately, every year sign-ups reset. Meaning every year, you will have a chance. Sign-ups usually start at the beginning of the calendar year.
