Through its Farm Philly program, Parks & Rec hosts dozens of community gardens and orchards on its properties. The volunteers who tend to these gardens are part of a coalition called the Community Gardens Network. The Network builds communication and skill sharing among the gardens.

In September, the Network hosted a tour of three community gardens throughout the city. An enthusiastic group of gardeners attended the tour. At each stop, local residents shared information about their garden’s history, as well as urban gardening experiences, stories, advice, and helpful tips. Both attendees and the hosts agreed it was a great experience.

The sites visited and experiences shared include:

Schuylkill River Park Community Garden (25th & Spruce streets)

Volunteers:

• discussed their 30+ years of community gardening experience.
• explained their garden structure.
• gave a tour of their many City Harvest beds.
• told about the fun activities they host, like the Ladybug Release Party.

Brewerytown Community Garden (27th & Master streets)

Volunteers:

• showed off their farm stand and community garden space.
• shared stories of their community events, including Jazz Night, movie screenings, and harvest parties.

Roots Garden at Fisher Park (N. Marshall & W. Spencer streets)

Volunteers:

• displayed their photo albums to show how the garden has grown and changed over the years.
• explained how the park hosts many events, such as outdoor movies and concerts.