Community Garden Available in Effingham for Second Year

The Effingham Community Garden is now in its second year.

The Community Garden is a joint venture between the Effingham Park District, Effingham U of I Master Gardeners and the City of Effingham. The Passalacqua family graciously allowed the organizers to open up this land to the community and offer sectioned-off plots for gardening. The garden plots are located south of Bob's Salvage and directly behind the building that houses Poss Music, Gotcha by the Hair and Tan Express.

To get started on renting a plot of your own, contact the Effingham Park District, U of I Extension Office or Effingham Visitor Center for a registration packet. Plots will begin to be assigned in late March, but registration packets will be accepted at the park district until all plots have been filled.

The community garden season will run from April 1st to November 1st. Plots come in two sizes this year. You can get a large plot (15 ft x15 ft) for $25 a season or a small plot (6 ft x 15 ft) for $15 a season, for residents of the City of Effingham.

The community garden provides wheelbarrows, hoses and water for all gardening needs and there is a compost pile onsite. A picnic table is also available for use by gardeners. The Community Garden is looking for someone to donate a used tiller, a garden hose and gardening tools. The community garden is not currently handicap accessible, but accommodations are planned for future seasons.

This year a 4H group will be using the garden for their program, "Invest an Acre." All produce from this program will go to local food banks.

The U of I Master Gardeners are available to help with any questions or concerns during the season. The Master Gardeners hold office hours one day a week at the Effingham Extension Office. Throughout the season, the Master Gardeners will hold "work days" at the community garden to offer assistance and expertise.

For further guidelines or questions, please contact the Effingham Park District at 217-342-4415 or the Effingham Visitors Center at 217-342-5310.