The Roanoke Community Garden Association announces that it has opened its registration for community garden plots for 2013. RCGA operates three community gardens in Roanoke and will be developing a fourth garden this year. We are seeking new gardeners to join us.

Community gardens provide space for residents to grow fresh crops (fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers) of their choosing. Gardeners register for plots that range in size from 50 to 300 square feet. Tools, water, storage, garden space and educational support are available to gardeners. Sunshine and rain are included, as well. Community gardens are enhancing the quality of life in Roanoke neighborhoods by combining recreation, education,and social opportunities to people from all backgrounds. Registered gardeners are offered monthly meetings, ongoing workshops, information on garden-related events and are often provided free seeds and seedlings. Plot dues for 2013 are $15 and $20, depending on location. No one will be excluded from the RCGA due to lack of funds.

Gardens are located in Southeast and Southwest Roanoke neighborhoods. Addresses of the existing gardens are listed on the website at www.roanokecommunitygarden.org. Garden rules and registration forms are available online, as well.

RCGA’s mission is to promote, educate and provide information about organic gardening principles, diet, nutrition, and food security that sustains the Roanoke region through the creation of community gardens.

As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, RCGA relies upon volunteers of all backgrounds and financial support from the public. For information about making a donation or making a secure online contribution, please go to RCGA’s website.

– Submitted by Mark Powell