Objectives: The Hillcrest Community Garden is made available by Hillcrest United Church as a community outreach program to enable gardeners to produce fresh, healthy food, reduce food costs, socialize with fellow gardeners, and promote physical, mental, and spiritual wellness through connection to the land.
Garden Operations: The garden area is organized, limed, manured, cultivated, and the grass trimmed by volunteers of Hillcrest United Church. Garden tools are provided. The operation of the garden is overseen by Garden Guardians and a garden committee.
Costs: At this time, there are no charges or fees for those participating in Hillcrest Community Garden. However, donations to Hillcrest United Church Garden Fund are appreciated.
Donations: Donations can be made to Hillcrest United Church (please note Community Garden Fund on your envelope). Tax receipts are available for donations of $20 or more. The office hours and the mailing address are posted on the Community Garden bulletin board.
Plot Size: Standard plots are approximately 420 square feet. Smaller plots are also available.
Timing: Garden plots will be available for use by early-to-mid May depending on when the land can be prepared, and the plots are marked. You will be contacted when your plot is ready to plant.
Plot Assignment: One plot per household will be assigned unless additional unused space is available. Upon request by March 15, returning gardeners with well-maintained plots in the previous season will be assigned their original plot or have first choice to select another unassigned plot. All other unassigned plots will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Pregreistration & Assignment: To reserve a plot for you or your group, preregister by emailing [email protected] or by calling the office at 902-838-2698. To finalize registration gardeners must agree to adhere to the Hillcrest Community Garden Rules and Guidelines by signing the Garden Agreement form.
Introductory Meeting: There will be a meeting early in the season after plots have been laid out and assigned. Information on the operation of the garden will be reviewed, gardener responsibilities will be discussed, gardeners will have an opportunity to meet each other, garden tips will be shared, answers to questions will be provided, etc. All gardeners are encouraged to attend.