Smoke Rise Community Garden Marks First Year

The Smoke Rise Community is celebrating its first year with a successful community garden.

Doug Reynics is the mastermind and energy force behind the concept and execution of the 60 bed organic garden plot that is located at the entrance to the Smoke Rise Community. He has rallied a small group of dedicated volunteers to help with another successful summer growing season.

There are big plans for the installation of a pollinator bed with the assistance of Dekalb Master Gardener Wayne Cook. There are even plans for the installation of several bee hives in the very near future. The little garden with a big heart is a recipient of the Tucker Civic Association garden grant. The money will be used to build a work shed.

Homes in Smoke Rise are generally built on one acre lots and one would think that would allow for plenty of gardening space. Not so! These large home lots often have several large, old hardwood trees, obstructing the sunlight needed for successful vegetable gardening.

The Smoke Rise community garden has made it possible for many Smoke Rise residents to grow their own food. Home grown heirloom tomatoes are not the only thing growing in the Smoke Rise garden - a wonderful sense of community and good old fashioned neighborliness is growing as well.

There are a number of gardeners that could very well could at home but choose to join the Community Garden as a way to get to know the neighbors - and compare growing secrets.

Smoke Rise Community Garden is a pesticide free garden. Spaces are available for rent for $60 with a one year commitment. Please visit the website for plot rental information.