Wellness Gardens to blossom at Cemetery

Applications now open for free gardening plots as part of Community Wellness Program

Fresh air and the promise of homegrown produce can do a lot for one’s wellbeing, especially during these isolating times.

This week, the community garden plots at St. Marys Cemetery are being resurrected as part of the municipal response to COVID-19. Collectively called the “Wellness Gardens”, the 20 plots are available via a first-come, first-served application process. This year, there is no charge for the plots as they are part of the Town’s Community Wellness Program for COVID-19.

Volunteers are helping plot the 20 ft. by 20 ft. allotments, and St. Marys Landscaping has generously donated tillage of the gardens, which will be ready by week’s end, weather permitting.

“There has been a renewed interest in gardening in light of the pandemic,” notes Jenny Mikita, Senior Services Supervisor. “Gardening not only allows for access to healthy food, it also allows for physical activity in a safe, socially distanced manner.”

As such, gardeners will have to bring their own tools and watering cans, as well as to bring a method of sanitizing hands after using water spigots. As well, social distancing guidelines will be enforced, including reminder signage and an alternating work schedule for plot holders.

Application forms are now available for download at www.townofstmarys.com/wellnessgardens, or call the Community Wellness Program at 519-284-3272.

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Contact

Jenny Mikita | Senior Services Coordinator
519-284-2340, ext. 629 | jmikita@town.stmarys.on.ca