Heather Latter
Despite the drop in temperatures this past week, the Fort Frances Community Garden is gearing up for its kids’ club—and still has some spaces available.
“We can definitely accommodate more kids, for sure, if there’s interest,” said Elaine Fischer, a member of the Fort Frances Community Garden committee, noting about a dozen have registered so far.
The kids’ garden club is scheduled to start June 3 and will run each Wednesday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. until the end of August.
The cost to join is $5 per plot.
Fischer said the club will be co-ordinated by Katie Cuthbertson (Gizhewaadiziwin Access Centre) and Anne-Marie Armstrong (Métis Nation of Ontario).
“They are bringing in a couple of new additions this year,” added Fischer, noting the pair will be incorporating a three sisters garden—a garden that features beans, corn, and squash that help each other grow—and a pumpkin patch for the kids.
“And they will be learning a lot,” she stressed.
“The first week is going to be around garden preparation, some rules, and positive gardening,” Fischer explained.
“And then they’re going to be able to pick some plants that they’re going to plant the next week.”
Some of the other topics that will be covered include planting, the importance of maintaining the garden, pollination, good bugs and bad bugs, harvesting, and garden chores.
They also will do some crafts and hear from guest speakers.
“There is lots lined up for them this year,” Fischer remarked, adding the age range is quite wide.
“Our youngest gardener is two and the oldest is 11,” she said.
Youngsters involved in the kids’ club do not have to have any knowledge of gardening.
“They will learn along the way,” Fischer noted.
“It’s a great opportunity to introduce kids to growing their own food and learning food skills each week.”
During the upcoming work bees, Fischer said they plan to pair people up who are interested in being part of a “buddy system,” so that those new to gardening can get some assistance from experienced ones.
Garden tools are provided and are available on site.
“Kids are more than welcome to bring any special things they would like to plant but everything they need will be provided,” Fischer pledged.
She also recommended kids wear a hat, sunscreen, as well as clothing that’s appropriate for digging and getting dirty.
Fischer said she’s really pleased with the interest in the community garden this year.
“We are almost full,” she noted. “[But] we will gladly take a couple more and then we’ll be full, for sure.”
Fischer indicated high school students are building five new raised beds, which also are full.
“It’s shaping up to be a great year,” she enthused.
Anyone interested can stop by the health unit or call Fischer at 274-9827.
You also can visit the Fort Frances Community Garden on Facebook or their website (ffcommunitygarden.com)
