Community Gardens

The economic downturn has left many communities looking decimated, with empty lots, vacant stores, and unemployed people with too much time and too little money.

Many of these people have started a positive trend across the country by taking over vacant lots, empty rooftops and unused parks to create community gardens.

These community gardens are a great way to get both children and adults involved in beautifying the neighborhood and benefitting the community with better nutrition and green spaces.

In 1944, American gardens produced up to 40 percent of all the vegetables consumed nationally. It was considered each American's "patriotic duty" to have a Victory Garden, and many a vacant lot was commandeered to grow squash and corn. People everywhere were plowing up their lawns, planting their backyards and setting out containers on apartment rooftops and patios.

Recently, Victory Gardens have seen a resurgence in popularity, as people begin to fight climate change. Growing your own vegetables reduces the amount of pollution generated by shipping food thousands of miles from the farm to your table. These "food miles" burn lots of oil, cost us money and contribute to climate change. Add to this the recent salmonella scare, and renewed concerns about food security and eating locally.

People who are conscientious about where their food comes from are also aware of how much energy they burn maintaining a lush lawn. The national organization Food Not Lawns is a resource for people wanting to transform front yards into Victory Gardens. Cofounded by author Heather Flores, who wrote a book titled "Food Not Lawns," the organization offers workshops and programs like tool sharing and seed swaps.

The American Community Garden Association is a national organization that oversees many of the community gardens in the nation. It offers tips on starting and maintaining community gardens.

Want to start a community garden in your neighborhood?

— Check your local laws! Ask your local government or block organization if there are any "weed ordinances" or restrictions on lawn plants.

— Have your soil tested! Check the soil for lead contamination, salt buildup from fertilizer or pesticide residues. At the same time, check your soil's pH, and adjust the soil accordingly.

— Have a Plan! There are many workshops in edible gardening, permaculture, and xeriscaping that can help you work with the natural features of your yard to create an aesthetically pleasing and productive garden. Plan now for next year's garden.

— Don't bite off too much! Try converting a small part of a park or empty lot. Your neighbors will appreciate seeing a well-planned garden and may want to get involved.

— Some organizations sell or rent garden plots for a nominal fee, like $25 per year, to help pay the cost of a garden.

Enlist the neighborhood children! Once parents see their children excited about the gardens, they will want to be a part of it as well.

Shawn Dell Joyce is an award-winning columnist and founder of the Wallkill River School in Orange County, N.Y. You can contact her at Shawn@ShawnDellJoyce.com.