Spring has sprung at the Swannanoa Community Garden, sponsored by Friends and Neighbors of Swannanoa (FANS). This “garden that gives,” located off Lake Eden Road, is managed and run entirely by volunteers; last year over 750 pounds of fresh produce were donated to local food banks and other organizations serving our neighbors in need. The winter cover crops have been turned under and planting has started on this year’s crops. Peas, spinach, carrots, and potatoes are sprouting up, as well as cabbage and broccoli. The strawberry beds and the apple orchard have abundant blooms, hopefully forecasting a tasty and bountiful harvest.

The community garden has recently entered into a partnership with students from Charles D. Owen High School. One group of students is studying crop rotation and will help identify the best crops to plant in each garden location. The other group is working on a plan to increase student and community involvement with the garden. Owen High school students will also work on fundraising activities to help raise money for garden supplies and materials.

The garden continues to receive strong support from students at Warren Wilson College as well. A group of students will be working next week on spring cleanup, general garden maintenance and planting. Another group from Warren Wilson will analyze the quality of the garden’s soil and make recommendations on how to improve it.

Volunteers from the community are always needed. If you enjoy getting your hands dirty in a garden, making new friends, communing with nature, and helping feed those in need, then please call Sandy Drake, Garden Manager, at 581-9020, or send her an email.

Although this is primarily a giving garden, a few plots are available for rent to those who would like to grow fresh produce for their personal use. If you’re interested in renting a plot, please contact Sandy via email or phone (see above).

To visit the garden on Facebook, please click here.