What are the Community Gardens

Back in 2007 two local young residents, Katie Hayes and Joe Natale, decided they wanted to build and support an organic community garden. At the time, the mission of Sustainable West Milford (now Nature Connection of West Milford) was to support participant-led projects… so of course we said yes!  Robin Rose Bennett, a local herbalist and author, introduced us to Anne Thornton who owns Apple Acres. We asked if she had room to accommodate a community garden, and she said YES. 

After many backbreaking hours of work turning over the old Apple Acres cow pasture and building a garden fence from a deck on the property that our volunteers had helped deconstruct, the community gardens were born. 

By 2011, we had so many people on the waiting list that we created a second garden at Wallisch Homestead. Today, there are 65 garden plots in total: 30 at Apple Acres and 35 at Wallisch. Each year 3 to 4 plots of the 65 are turned over to new gardeners on the waiting list, but some of our long-term gardeners have even been willing to share their larger plot with new members. 

An 8x8 community garden plot at either Apple Acres or Wallisch Homestead costs $40 for the year. Soil amendments, pest control resources, education, and a community of like-minded people who support each other are all included as part of the membership fee. Because our gardeners range greatly in age and working schedules, we tend to have a group of people sprinkled throughout the week during the mornings and afternoons, as well as a different group that tends to garden more on weekends. 

At least 30 of our gardeners engage in the regular fun and lively social events at both gardens where you will find them sharing food they made from what they are growing, and enjoying a mocktail (or cocktail) while gathered around a bonfire. In addition to social and educational events, garden members have exclusive opportunities to purchase organic plants from local farmers, bring their skills and talents toward overall garden improvements that benefit all members, and are encouraged to contribute to a garden committee to help keep the gardens maintained and thriving. (mowing, pest control, composting, etc.). The gardens truly have become a community meeting place all season long. 
For those who wish to garden with us, but are not ready for a plot, the Ample Harvest Culinary Herb Garden project is a great place to start.

Community Gardens November Update

Wallisch Gardens

This was a banner year for Wallish Garden’s Community Gardens. Some of our accomplishments this season include:

Securing a lumber donation from Kuiken Brothers, which allowed us to build eight new plots: 

• 2 plots for Ample Harvest

• 2 plots for Culinary Herb pilot

• 4 plots to clear the wait list

We continued building community connection with the Wallisch Homestead leaders: 

• Luke from Nature Connection West Milford began attending monthly board meetings

Mark L secured a plot to partner with John & Wendy on Culinary Herb pilot 

• Jim, Sandy, Kathy and Wendy started culinary herb plot and completed two deliveries of basil and parsley to the Vreeland Store

We reapplied for a DigIn Grant to continue to improve operations for next year

Thank you to everyone we may not have mentioned who volunteered their time, money and other donations to keep the gardens running this season. We couldn’t do it without you!

Our goals for 2024 include:

• Building a partnership with Apple Acres Community Gardens

• To continue garden education workshops to increase gardener engagement

• Host a public seed swap in January or February

• Revisit the potential for kitchen scrap composting program

• Secure manure and compost

• Map out a plan for Culinary Herbs in 2024, perhaps building a hoop hut depending on demand

Apple Acres

We had our final work day at the garden on the 15th. It was a light showing but everything we needed was accomplished by hard working volunteers.

Norma and Karl began prepping the compost piles for the winter.  Our next step is to apply lime and then cover it for the winter.

Tom has disassembled the water supply and he and Patrick will be moving the tote to winter storage in the next week.

The infamous "Joh's hole" has been filled and the weeds cut down around the fence, both inside and outside

We expect the gardens to be cleared in the next week or so.  We have a garden or two we may have to clean out—they have been mainly no shows for a large part of the season.

We have one more social to plan for, that will be the Winter Solstice, no details at this time.

Sue

Community Gardens October Update

Apple Acres

Apple Acres Organic Community Garden hosted a memorial tribute dinner to Giovanni "John" Macaluso on Saturday, September 23. John was a very special member of our community who passed away last October. He was a warm, generous, friendly man who gave of himself to all. His gardening advice and willingness to help endeared him to everyone. He was a tireless worker and his plot was lush and bountiful. In memory of John, the gardeners purchased two beautiful outdoor tables that convert into benches. The quality and flexibility of the tables ensure that they will be used for many years to come.

John's wife, Maria, their children, grandchildren, his sister, extended family and friends were honored guests. Everyone participated in a lavish potluck dinner that included delicacies from our garden plots. Everywhere, there were conversations about John's love and generosity. We miss him but he is always in our hearts. 

Wallish Gardens

The growing season is winding down at the Wallisch Homestead organic community garden.

A small and spirited group gathered to celebrate the fall equinox on 9/22. We enjoyed some yummy fresh food and good company.  Our gardeners extend their talent to capturing the beauty of the property.  Wallisch really shines in many ways and we just love capturing it to share, remember and reflect.

We may not see them on a regular basis but many volunteers are keeping our property well maintained,  giving thanks to:

• Donna, Neil and Jim for keeping the grass mowed and whacked

• Dori for keeping the water tank filled 

• David and Mary Beth for fixing the gates

• Sierra for planting the flowers along the borders

• Jim, Courtney, Jessica for keeping the Ample Harvest and Culinary plots tended and watered

• Jean for organizing our social gatherings

Culinary Herbs Plot

We started the Culinary Herbs plot a month late but the really good news is that the plot flourished. The basil came in abundance and the oregano is really growing. We were able to share samples of basil and parsley with the Vreeland store. Plans are underway to further develop the program for 2024.

Our plants are winding down, and for some this means putting our gardens to bed for the winter.     For others, a gardener favorite, garlic, will be planted.  Both of these tasks are planned with the Wallisch Work Day. Our gardens are set to close on Oct 28th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.    

We reapplied for the Dig In! City Green grant.   

If we are accepted, the grant will allow us to receive educational workshops and supplies to improve the garden. We will hear in early 2024 if we are accepted.   

For any topics related to the above or the Wallisch Community Garden, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at cgb2673@optonline.net or 201-264-3528.

Community Gardens August Update

Wallisch Community Gardens

The growing season at the Wallisch community garden is in full bloom including an ambience added by our many pollinator flowers. Our Wallisch gardeners are also cross-pollinating! We have been taking in the great events offered at the Wallisch Homestead, including drum circles, yoga and Monday night music, just to make a few.

We may not see them on a regular basis but many volunteers are keeping our property well maintained. We give many thanks to:

• Donna, Neil and Jim for keeping the grass mowed and whacked,

• Dori for keeping the water tank filled, 

• David and Mary Beth for fixing the gates,

• Sierra for planting the flowers along the borders,

• Jean for organizing our social gatherings.

Culinary herbs are growing, albeit slowly. Not sure if heavy rains are helping or hindering. We are staying patient as herbs tend to be hardy once established.  What do they say? Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Fellow gardener, Katie, has continued her exploration on the topic of soil health. She recommends reading “The Third Plate” by Dan Barber. Dan is the head chef and co-owner of Blue Hill restaurant and Blue Hill Farm at Stone Barns in New York. The book details how he established the organic farm and how he incorporates farm to table practices in his restaurants. Dan came to “learn the language of the soil” through conversations with organic farmers who explained that soil health is absolutely vital for the success of a garden or farm.   

For any topics related to the above, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at cgb2673@optonline.net or 201-264-3528.

Culinary Herb Pilot program at the Wallisch Homestead

With support from the Friends of Wallisch Homestead we are pleased to announce a new culinary herb program we are piloting at the Homestead.   Click the link above to learn more

We also extend many thanks for the community partnership in action at the Wallisch Homestead.

Apple Acres Community Gardens

Everyone seems very happy and the garden is humming along.  We have a few very strong committees that operate exceedingly well. The weed whacking and mowing committees, chaired by Bill Hall and Tom Latchford respectively, are extremely well organized and do a super job, respectfully.  Composting and Social are also strong committees—Norma and Deb are our ladies in charge there. 

We have some fabulous new members that have really gotten involved and mix in well with the existing crowd.  

Our first work day was super well attended, I think a record breaker.  It was wonderful to see gardeners working with gardeners.  The seasoned ones giving advice and a helping hand to the new ones.  Following close behind the work day was our second social which was also extremely well attended. The weather drove us inside but that only made the evening more special!

For any topics related to the above or the Wallisch Community Garden, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at Cgb2673@optonline.net or 201 264 3528.

Wallisch Organic Community Garden July Update

These are our Wallisch Organic Community Garden reflections from this past month.

• Jim and Courtney built eight new plots this month. Jim, Courtney, Jessica, Kim and Wendy prepared the plots for planting. We now have a dedicated Ample Harvest plot and a plot for our Culinary Herb pilot.  

• Peggy and Sue from Apple Acres graciously donated shovels to supplement the existing tools.

• Sierra gathered the cardboard that we used as sheet mulching for the new garden beds.  

• Sandy and Sue from Friends of Wallisch provided gardeners with Wallisch membership cards.

• Dave from DC Power Repair generously donated a gas-powered weed whacker. Donna and Neil have been keeping the grounds well weed-whacked and mowed and are grateful for the donation.

• Barbara from Midsummer Farm donated a tray of plants for the Ample Harvest plot, happily planted by Cathy and Wendy. Jim added potato grow bags to increase our planned contributions to local pantries. 

• Jim built a protective fence for the Ample Harvest plot.

• Dori has been keeping the water tank filled for all our watering needs.

• Richard Anderson, a Friends of Wallisch visitor, built a handcrafted table from pallets. It arrived in time for our first garden mocktail event!

• Jean organized our first garden mocktail event. It was a wonderful evening in the garden. Jean, Courtney and Jim mixed up very refreshing drinks, and Kim captured the ambience of the setting with awesome photos.

Thank you to all of the garden supporters and volunteers for your help this season!

We also extend many thanks for the community partnership in action at the Wallisch Homestead.

For any topics related to the above or the Wallisch Community Garden, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at Cgb2673@optonline.net or 201 264 3528.

Culinary Herb Pilot program at the Wallisch Homestead

With support from the Friends of Wallisch Homestead we are pleased to announce a new culinary herb program we are piloting at the Homestead.   

We are growing herbs to sell to a few local restaurants this season. We believe that this program will showcase the rich climate for growth at Wallisch, and hope it will enhance our partnership with the Friends of Wallisch while creating a revenue stream that we can continue to reinvest back into the garden. 

We are looking for gardeners with herb-growing expertise to help steward this program. With the right mix of energy and volunteers, this program has great potential for the garden and our local restaurants. 

If interested, or for more information, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at Cgb2673@optonline.net or 201 264 3528.

Community Garden Updates

APPLE ACRES 

Sunday May 21st was Opening Day at Apple Acres and it was a wonderful success!  We had a great turnout with a perfect mixture of seasoned gardeners and newly joined members.  It was heartwarming to see how perfectly everyone got along.  

The day began with bagels, fruit salad and coffee, organized and arranged by our outstanding Social Director. The spread was completed when one of our gardeners arrived with the most delicious crumb cake......this was completely devoured.  

With the eating and socializing behind us we helped new gardeners till their plots and attended to our own where needed. It was a wonderful day and we were so happy to be a part of it!!!

We also wanted to announce the creation of a fund in honor of one of our gardeners who passed away last fall after a battle with cancer. All donations supporting the fund will go toward the purchase of a new picnic table to replace one of our aging ones. We are also going to create a carved plaque to be placed under the tree in the flower garden. Please contact us if you are interested in contributing.

Garden Coordinators

Peggy White & Sue Latchford

AMPLE HARVEST

The basis of Ample Harvest is to rescue produce for gardeners that grow too much… Don’t let your produce go to waste in the garden—collect it and donate it to the local food pantry. Pantry clients benefit with nutritious, fresh-grown food.

Last year we donated 300 pounds of fresh produce, which was distributed to Queen of Peace, West Milford Presbyterian, St. Joseph’s, Holy Faith Lutheran and SOS Shelter. This year we have a chance to greatly increase our impact!

The Organic Community Gardens, under Nature Connection of West Milford, are hosting two plots for 100% organic produce donation to our local food pantries—one at Apple Acres and one at Wallisch. 

Team Wallisch was able to prepare the new plot for Ample Harvest at the garden workday, May 21st. HOORAY!!

Our dedicated plots are intended to promote growing for donation to those in need. We encourage  our community gardeners to grow a little extra and/or donate your excess to the food insecure in our local area. Team Ample Harvest will gladly harvest your excess for you.

Ample Harvest is looking for volunteers to weed, water, tend and harvest the plots - Jim and Kim are signed up at Wallisch. Courtney is signed up at Wallisch and Apple Acres. Looking are always seeking additional volunteers to help water, tend and harvest our plots during our work days, or any days. Ample Harvest workdays are planned for Saturday mornings at Apple Acres,  and weekdays at Wallisch. Harvests are aligned to the food pantry operating hours so produce is distributed fresh. 

Snowpeas, radish and beets are sprouting in the Apple Acres plot. Thanks to Barbara at Midsummer Farms for healthy donation of plants for Ample Harvest.

Upcoming Ample Harvest events:

• Weed and water (ongoing)

• Flags will be coming out (mid to late June) 

• Harvest (target start date mid to late June)

Suggestions for improving our operation are always welcome.

Please reach out to Cathy Bruce to join the West Milford Ample Harvest team!

WALLISCH GARDENS

Welcome Jessica and Courtney as new members to the Wallisch garden !

Thanks to for helping out during our most recent work day!

New plots are in progress… the Wallisch team, comprised of Kim, Jim, Kathy, Courtney, Jessica, Jean and Jim, completed assembly of one single and one double plot. Jessica got straight to work loading her new plot with soil. The double plot was started with soil and will be used for Ample Harvest. 

More manure will be acquired for the Wallisch garden and we will need additional cardboard to complete the remaining plots. More topsoil will also be acquired if needed.

Wallisch still has two plots open for any interested gardener! 

Gardeners also got a chance to take in the upcoming Art Show. The view of the garden from inside the barn is quite lovely.

Please join us for a City Green workshop at the West Milford Library on May 30th at 6pm: Dirt Matters! Growing Healthy Garden Soil

The West Milford Community Gardens news and updates

Community Garden directors, Cathy, Sue and Peggy are pleased to announce two garden workshops for Apple Acres and Wallisch Homestead community garden members. These one-hour workshops, held at the West Milford Library (1470 Union Valley Road), are hosted by the Community Gardens and will include speakers from City Green.

Upcoming workshops for community garden members:

May 30: Dirt Matters! Healthy Garden Soil

Community Garden member workshops are held at the West Milford Library

Springtime at Apple Acres

All the plots at Apple Acres are filled with enthusiastic gardeners this year. Screened, organic topsoil and manure has been delivered for use in all of the plots. Committees have been formed, and some early spring maintenance is underway. Tom Latchford set up the water tank and installed the faucets. Our official opening is May 20th, but the garlic is coming up and seeds are in the ground. We are looking forward to a productive year!

Community Gardens Opening Day at Wallisch Farms

April 15th was a successful garden opening today at Wallisch. The grass is mowed and whacked, gates are cleared for entry/exit and our gardeners energies outlasted the weed whacker battery juice. The community joined in to clear the raspberry plot for future growth, and gardeners shared spirit and cultivation of ideas for a great 2023 garden season.

Shout out to DeMarcos for pizza donation.

Ample Harvest is active at Apple Acres

With thanks to the West Milford Rotary Club for their $350 donation and the helping hands of Karl and Pat, the Ample Harvest plot was framed in the Fall 2022. To build a good soil foundation where plants will thrive, the plot was loaded with a combination of cow manure, top soil, kelp meal, humic acid and earthworm castings.

Cold weather seeds of radish, snow pea, beet and carrot were planted on two separate dates (April 9th and 21st)) to allow the harvest to extend and spread to multiple pantries. Radish, snow pea and beets are already sprouting!   

The fence frame is up in preparation for climbing plants—zucchini and cucumber. We will round out the plot with a few tomato plants, parsley and basil. Beans will be planted along the fence by the back gate in keeping with John’s tradition. The seeds were graciously donated from Debbie.

We are trying to squeeze as much into a small space as possible to produce high yields for our grateful food pantries. If you have any suggestions, please contact Cathy Bruce.

Ample Harvest is a community effort! While a single plot is dedicated to Ample Harvest, we invite our fellow gardeners to share a portion of their excess harvest.  

Upcoming work in the gardens:

Clear space and plant beans (mid May)

Plant tomato, parsley, basil, zucchini, cucumber (post Memorial Day)

Weed and water (ongoing)

Flags system refresher (mid to late June) 

Harvest (target start date mid- to late- June)

We will be exploring expansion of Ample Harvest to Wallisch Homestead ,and are actively recruiting volunteers to help plant, maintain, harvest, deliver and grow the impact. If you are interested in joining the team, please reach out to Cathy Bruce to join the team!

Preparing for our 6th Season - Come sign up on March 22nd!

Join us at the West Milford Library in Rooms 1-2 on March 22nd from 7:00-8:30pm!

This is your chance to sign up and pay for a plot in one of our gardens and to learn more about organic gardening. We will go over this year’s approach, collect all of the paperwork, and then our dear friend Barbara Laino from Mid-Summer Farm in Warwick will provide education + Q&A on how to get the best out of your organic garden.