If you’ve had dreams of growing an outdoor garden, but have no place to have a garden, there may very well be a solution for you (at least if you live in Juab County).
For the past several years, Juab County has had a community garden, allowing its residents to grow fresh produce in their own outdoor space.
In fact, the community garden that is run by a Utah State University extension program has been operating since 2012.
And according to Agg agent Ruger Carter, the garden is something he hopes more residents will take advantage of.
“The garden is a great asset to the community, particularly for those who live in apartments, or in a place where they don’t have outdoor space,” Carter said. “Not only do we offer the space, but we are here to help educate you on how to grow a garden.”
The Juab County Community Garden has been made possible by county grants, and it provides the land, water, and gardening tools on site.
There are 20 raised beds that are available to rent with just a $25 plot deposit fee that is fully refundable if you clean out your garden at the end of the season, and all you have to do is bring your own seeds and plants.
And while Carter says that the garden is in an area with plenty of sun and water, there are some plants that don’t generally do well.
“Many plants do well in our climate, while others don’t,” Carter said. “This is why it’s such a great place to start a garden if you are new to gardening. My staff and I are here to help you with any questions you might have. We also offer consultations to people who have home gardens, and who might need a little help improving it.”
Having a garden, whether in the community or at home, Carter says, is more than just growing food.
“Gardening is such a great experience, and I believe that the food you grow always tastes better because you put in the work,” Carter said. “You’re going to eat healthier when you know what it took to grow that vegetable.”
To reserve a plot, residents need to fill out a gardner application by going to https://extension.usu.edu/. More information can be found on the Juab County Community Garden Facebook page. (Brown is a Serve Daily contributor.)
