The Erica Ball Community Gardens in Natick is off to a good start during its first summer season: Plants are bearing fruit, vegetables, and flowers.
We swung by this morning, before temps got too high, to take in the lush new gardens, a combination of 40 raised beds and in-ground plots located behind Natick Housing Authority at 72 South Main St.
We discovered lots of tomato plants, most with green or light red tomatoes, plus peppers, squash, and strawberries.
Also, the 10-foot-high tree stump carving by chainsaw artist Michael Legassey is complete. Gone was the scaffolding from our last visit during the spring.
Plotting and scheming
In addition to the Erica Ball Community Gardens, the Town of Natick operates three other organic community gardens for residents to grow food recreationally and supplementally during the spring and summer months.
Gardeners can use their plots from April to September. Gardeners must reapply every year, but existing members are given priority. Plot fees are due each year and are $75. There are a select number of low-cost plots available to residents for $50. Residents are encouraged to provide their own seeds and tools, but water access and seasonal tool storage is available at each garden.
Questions about the community gardens program can be directed to the Community Gardens Coordinator at communitygardens@natickma.org or by calling 508-647-6400 ext. 2013.
Please send tips, photos, ideas to natickreport@gmail.com
