The city of Columbus has announced that space is available in the city’s Community Garden.
Large plots (45-feet by 22.5-feet) are $25 and small plots (22.5-feet x 22.5-feet) are $15. The plots that are available represent those that have not been renewed by last year’s gardeners.
Gardeners are welcome to plant vegetables, herbs, flowers, or any combination they choose. The city provides compost, mulch, and water as well as containers for any garden waste.
The Columbus Community Garden is located just off Cessna Drive at the Columbus Municipal Airport.
Closing dated for the garden will be Oct. 23.
The community garden program began in 1982 when the former local philanthropic organization Irwin Sweeney Miller Foundation launched a community garden project in Columbus. The initial purpose was to give city residents that did not have a suitable area for their own garden the opportunity to grow food, or to practice amateur gardening. The original location for the Columbus community garden was in the area now occupied by FairOaks Mall on 25th Street.
The city assisted Irwin Sweeney Miller Foundation with the project in 1983. The community garden was moved to Middle Road on Columbus Airport property that year. The following year, 1984, the city of Columbus assumed full management of the community garden project. The garden has remained at the airport, but has since been moved to its third, and current location off Cessna Drive.
This year is the 38th year of the Columbus community garden. The current lay-out of the garden features 62 large plots, and 51 small plots. The project is funded solely by gardener’s rental fees. Community garden receives support from Columbus City Utilities, Columbus Engineer’s Office, City Garage, and the city’s Aviation Board.
Those participating are asked not to plant trees, invasive plants or build any permanent structures.
Pesticides and herbicides are not permitted. Organic products may be used. All gardeners maintain common areas.
At the end of the season, it is the gardener’s responsibility to clean up his or her plots.
As an opportunity to help the community, the city asks each gardener that if they are able, to plant an extra row to grow vegetables for Love Chapel’s food pantry.
For more information, contact the city’s Community Development department at communitydevelopment@columbus.in.gov or 812-376-2520.
