Associated Press
Looking to start a community garden? Once you’ve found the land, here are some suggestions from staff of the University of California Cooperative Extension, Los Angeles County, that should help.
You need:- Well-defined in-ground garden plots ranging in size from 10-feet by-10-feet to 20- feet-by-20-feet. Raised beds require less stooping but are more expensive to build. If you decide to go that route, then make the beds no wider than 4 feet to avoid stepping inside and compressing the topsoil and plants. Design pathways wide enough so wheelbarrows and other equipment can pass.
– A watering system of some kind, including hoses. Hand watering generally is more practical than using drizzler- or soaker-type hoses in community gardens.
– A perimeter fence with lockable, drive-through gate to help deter vandalism and pilfering.
– A tool shed or shelters for tool and materials storage. Reclaimed metal shipping containers are a good choice if you can find and transport them.
– Benches or tables where people can picnic, take their coffee along with some neighborly conversation or rest and reflect after digging in the dirt.
– Signs or bulletin boards specifying working hours, operating procedures and contact names and numbers.
– Shared compost bins for nourishing the natural discards.
– Supervised play areas for children or special gardens where they can mimic the work of the adults.