May 18 was our opening day, during which Redeemer members and some of our gardeners planted seed and plants in the ground.  Donations of hundreds of edible plants came from the Marion/Polk Food Share and other individuals.  These were shared with our gardeners and planted in Redeemer plots.

A beautiful dedication ceremony was held in the church for the garden on May 23.  The potted fig tree has been placed in the garden, near the shed.

The cool rainy weather continued through most of June, keeping some gardeners at bay and plants looking a little peaked.  It's truly amazing what this past week of sunshine and warm weather has done for gardeners' spirits and the plants' ability to spring forth new growth.

This past weekend we planted five apple trees, which were donated by Christ the Vine Lutheran Church in Damascus.  These trees will be espaliered along the fence adjacent to Lancaster Dr.  Fruit will be within reach to share with passersby, as well as with our gardeners and the Food Share.  We could still like a few more fruit trees, blueberry bushes, and other edible plants to use as landscape along the south side.  Don't forget to vote for us to receive a fruit tree grant at  http://www.communitiestakeroot.com/Plant/Index  Be sure to follow the directions carefully.

What's Next:  Work parties the last Saturday of each month (9-noon).  We still need to build compost bins, put a step in front of the shed and plantings around it, and cover those weeds on the south side with chips.  Everyone is welcome!