Edible Landscape Project

Laura:

I finally got to see firsthand the Edible Landscape Project in Jericho Center, putting in some volunteer time last weekend (pulling lamb’s quarters from a compost heap, kind of fun!) On Brown’s Trace Road adjoining Mobb’s Farm, the project boasts plenty of space, as well as its share of challenges. (Read below about volunteer needs).

According to co-organizer Ann Gnagey, the site was a quarry years ago and the town dump after that, so the topsoil is compromised. She says, “we are working hard to make it more productive. In addition, we would like to establish native plants and sources of food for people and wildlife in the future. With challenges like climate change and uncertain food supplies, these kinds of activities will become important for the future of the people in our town.”

With the goal of establishing small scale food production using native fruit and nut trees, berries and pollinator plants, she and husband/co-organizer Tom Baribault, have already made some headway having planted to date: 100 feet of potatoes, four blueberry bushes, cranberry, elderberry, black walnut, asters, violets and poppies.

It was great to see the land, and to meet Kurt Melin, the very supportive neighbor (new dad and avid gardener himself) and I do hope to get back there for some more slightly grungy, yet rewarding work!

Ann and Tom are seeking more volunteers to help. Here are specifics on upcoming workdays, from Ann:

The next two weekends we will meet at the project site (across from 501 Browns Trace) from 10:00 to 11:30 am Saturday,  Sept 18 and 26.  (In case of rain, we will meet the following days, Sept 19 and 27.)

Activities:  Plant trees, shrubs, wildflowers and learn the challenges of establishing native plants on land that has been neglected and soils impoverished.  

What to bring:  face mask, gloves, water to drink, tools (any of the following would be helpful: shovel, hoe, or spading fork, 5-gallon plastic bucket)

Work to be done:  dig holes, haul compost, carry water, plant trees, shrubs, and wildflowers
We would be happy to give advice (and possibly plants and seeds) to people who wish to establish an edible landscape at the own home.

To sign up, contact Ann Gnagey or Tom Baribault at 899-6736 
[email protected]  or [email protected]