A Communal Act

Growing a garden is a communal act. It may not seem like it when you are tending to your crops, alone with your thoughts. But I promise you, your neighbors are looking. They are watching you work the soil, inspect your plants, and harvest the fruits of your labor. You are inspiring friends and family. You are actively taking a role in the beautification of your neighborhood, no matter how big or small your space may be. You are building community.

I cannot tell you how many conversations I have struck up with neighbors, both at home and at my allotment garden. Growing food is universal. Language barriers topple in an instant. Gardeners may seem stuck in their ways, but in my experience, most are curious and willing to learn from fellow growers. Gardeners are givers, sharing seeds, knowledge, expertise, support, encouragement, and of course, harvests with one another.