- Located at: 97 Avenue and 98 Street, Muttart Conservatory
- Number of plots: 1
- Total garden area: 1300 sq. ft.
- Gardening style: In-ground (2007)
- Number of participants: 45
- All produce grown is donated to the Food Bank.
In 1998 Lindsay McWhirter read an article in a magazine about backyard gardeners growing an extra row for their local food bank. With the Edmonton's Food Bank assistance and support from Winnipeg Harvest's Grow a Row Program, Lindsay began in Edmonton and area what is today a national campaign of gardeners growing a little extra for their food bank, or donating their excess fruit and vegetables at the end of the season. The Plant-a-Row Grow-a-Row garden at the Muttart Conservatory enjoyed its 10th season in 2007 and is currently partnered with Edmonton's Food Bank and the Muttart Conservatory (City of Edmonton).
The Plant-a-Row Grow-a-Row garden uses organic fertilizers, seeds and compost. Earth's General Store provides fertilizer and Cleanit Greenit Compost System provides compost. Local support from businesses such as Cal's Whitemud Garden Centre, Arch Enterprises and Training Association, and Ellerslie Gift and Garden provide seeds and plants. Sunflowers, root crops, beans, cabbage, squash, broccoli, corn and cauliflower are just some of the crops grown at the site. Participating gardeners are asked to drop off their produce at specified depots. For depot locations, call Edmonton's Food Bank.
Community gardens and all gardeners are encouraged to Plant a Row and Grow a Row for the Foodbank. The Foodbank need potatoes and often have to buy them. However, of all the root vegetables turnips not required.
Challenges, Needs, Barriers:
- Volunteers are needed to plant and maintain the garden through the growing season. Volunteers are needed to pick up produce at drop off sites and take it to their local food bank.
- Expertise in growing in small spaces.
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