The Community Gardens of Hancock County program is accepting applications for the 2018 garden season with the inclusion of free membership to the Men’s and Women’s Garden Club of Findlay for all who apply.
“Now is the time to think spring and gardening,” said Heather Heilman, president of the Men’s and Women’s Garden Club of Findlay and former coordinator for the Community Gardens of Hancock County.
The Community Gardens of Hancock County is located at 1800 N. Blanchard St., and anyone can apply for a plot. Because the garden’s mission is to educate and equip individuals to be food secure and work in harmony with their neighbor, low- to moderate-income families or those on assistance are especially encouraged to apply and are given preference. Agencies, organizations, churches or youth groups that want to grow a plot and donate at least a portion of the produce to those serving food to insecure households may apply as well.
There is a $20 participation fee for each household. A $10 refund will be provided if the garden plot is maintained and cleaned at the end of the season. This fee is waived if the gardener is on any type of financial assistance.
To offer support to the community gardeners, the Men’s and Women’s Garden Club of Findlay’s free membership provides the opportunity for monthly community interaction with other gardeners, whether they be a novice or experienced.
“Gardening can be quite overwhelming for beginners. Successful gardening or ‘having a green thumb’ comes from a combination of education and experience,” said Tim Stumpp, former Community Gardens of Hancock County advisory board member.
Applications can be filled out at http://liveunitedhancockcounty.org/community-gardens and will be accepted through Feb. 28. Applications are also available at The Family Center (1800 N. Blanchard St.) and United Way of Hancock County (245 Stanford Parkway). Plots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis with preference given to those on assistance.
Gardeners can anticipate planting their gardens in late April or early May, depending on the weather. The gardens remain open through mid-October. Gardeners are expected to weed and maintain their plot to encourage harmony in the gardens.
Master Gardener volunteers are available to answer questions and guide gardeners through the process from planning to planting to harvesting.
For more information about the gardens or the club, contact United Way of Hancock County at 419-423-1432 or email Heather Heilman, community impact director, at heather.heilman@uwhancock.org.