"Hoe, Hoe, Hoe"; It's Community Garden Time

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Published on April 14 2014 4:35 pm
Last Updated on April 14 2014 4:39 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

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 is again allowing the organizers to open up the land to the community and offer sectioned-off plots for gardening.  The garden plots are located south of Bob's Home Improvement 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 are now being assigned, and registration packets will be accepted by the Park District until all plots have been filled.

The community garden season will continue until November 1.  Plots come in two sizes this year.  You can get a large plot (15X15 feet) for $25 a season or a small plot (6X15 feet) for $15 a season, for residents of the City of Effingham.

The community garden provides wheelbarrows, hoses and water for all gardening needs.  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 4-H 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 answers to questions, contact the Effingham Park District at 217-342-4415 or the Effingham Visitors Center at 217-342-5310.