Independence Community Garden returns for another season

by Laura Bednar

After a cold winter, Independence Community Garden plots will again bloom with color this spring. 

The garden, located south of the Independence Fieldhouse, has 60 plots, all filled, for 2025. Garden Treasurer/Plot Coordinator Pam Dengler said this year had the highest gardener return rate since the garden’s inception in 2012. 

A $25 fee guarantees a gardener a 10-by-10-foot raised bed and access to water, tools and compost on site. A plot reservation is good for one calendar year.

Dengler said the plot fees help purchase supplies, such as replacing hoses. She said a couple of wheelbarrows were donated, and an Eagle Scout built a tool shed. With a grant through AMES Tools, the garden obtained various gardening implements.

Dengler said the garden’s operation is a partnership among the community, city and local businesses. Through the city’s mulch program, the garden has a compost pile, and New Heights Tree Service donates wood chips for paths between garden plots to keep the area weed free.

The garden is open year-round, though with the harsh temperatures, Dengler said, “No one went up to the garden this winter. We are hoping for an early spring.”

Gardeners can tend their plots between sunrise and sunset. Most plant primarily fruits and vegetables, though some plant pollinator plants for a splash of color or to attract butterflies.

“A new gardener last year planted a fig tree,” said Dengler adding that other gardeners planted elderberries along the fence line to prevent weeds from growing in the open space.

The garden is home to an active beehive, and many gardeners plant things that promote healthy bee activity. Vertical plants must not cast shadows on other plots, consequently sunflowers and sweet corn are prohibited, as well as any thistle plants, which are invasive.

Dengler said one of the gardeners plans to take some of their produce to local food banks, but there is no formal program for food donation.

Those interested in reserving a plot can be added to a wait list in the event someone relinquishes their plot during the season. Dengler reminds those interested: “Gardening, no matter how big or small, requires attention.”Those interested can email indycomgarden@gmail.com for a registration form and be added to the waiting list. 

Photo caption: Gardener Patrick Cosiano’s plot flourished last year. Photo courtesy of Bonnie Pandin.