TERRE HAUTE —
Drive due north of Haythorn on Fruitridge Avenue in Terre Haute and there off to the east is a trash can labeled “Fat Man’s Veggies.” That can is the sign for the newest community garden. Jasonville native David Frayser moved to Terre Haute this year because he said he had the opportunity to start his own garden.
“This area is a little too noisy and has too much traffic. The garden is looking good so I am tolerating being in the semi-city,” David Frayser said.
His garden is not small by any means; it is absolutely massive. Frayser says it took him two weeks to plant everything all by himself. He grows sweet peas, corn, okra, peppers, watermelon and more. Even though he loves to eat, he does not eat everything he grows. He sells some of it, but gives the majority of it away.
“What satisfies me most is when someone comes around who is needy and needs something and you help them out,” Frayser said.
The garden sits on the edge of a mobile home community. The fruits and vegetables are irrigated by water provided to the residents of the community. Frayser says neighborhood kids will stop by while he is out in the garden and ask questions. He says the opportunity to educate the kids about farming is his favorite part. Frayser spent the better part of his life working at an agronomic co-operative. Through his career he says he became knowledgeable about caring for a garden. Now he is passing on his wisdom to Wabash Valley children.
“A couple little neighborhood kids have really enjoyed it. They will come over here before I am out of bed and look at the garden to see what they helped do. They are proud of it, very proud. It is quite a joy,” Frayser said.
Master Gardener Sister Terri Boland says what Frayser’s venture is a wonderful contribution to the community.
“I think it is what brings people together. Especially in times when there is such an economic downfall. There is such economic stress in families, so being able to get fresh produce on the table and providing it for your kids is just excellent,” Boland said.
Frayser also believes the food he is providing is healthier than many of the vegetables one could buy at the grocery store.
“Large farms are starting to utilize all of the micro nutrients in the soil. These home grown gardens still have a lot of the trace minerals and micro nutrients that make vegetables healthier,” Frayser said.
Growing a garden can be labor intensive but it is not difficult especially if you seek help from someone who has been gardening for a while. Basically, it is deciding what kind of garden will work for you. Whether it is starting out with containers or cultivating rows, to be successful at any kind of gardening you need to be observant of what is happening with your plants.
“You have to have a sense of observation when you plant. You have to know your soil and know when your plants are stressing. Being a successful gardener doesn’t mean you don’t lose things, because sometimes you do. Sometimes it is trial and error. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned gardener, you learn something new each year. The garden has a lot to teach us,” Boland said.
Below are a few helpful tips for those looking to start a garden in their neighborhood:
• Stage an organizational night for anyone interested in starting a community garden.
• Contact your county extension agent for advice.
• Learn from other gardeners.
• Check out books from library.
• Select an area.
• Check the soil.
• Check with county/city for needing a permit.
• Start small.
• Allow room for expansion.
• Have fun.
• Share food with others.
Jane Santucci is an environmental freelance writer for the Tribune-Star. Santucci is a proud volunteer with TREES Inc. and Our Green Valley. She also sits on the Wabash Valley Goodwill Industries Board of Directors. Share your environmental stories and tips with her at JaneSantucci@yourgreenvalley.com.
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JANE SANTUCCI: Community Garden helps feed Terre Haute neighborhood
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