For Immediate Release - December 10, 2021
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — With the holidays approaching, everyone is looking for a meaningful way to give back to their loved ones. What better gift than the gift of gardening? Middletown Township today announced its community garden that will be opening in March 2022 at Stevenson Park, located on West Front near Shadow Lake. This will be the first public community garden in the town’s history and will provide residents with the opportunity to grow and harvest organic produce that benefits the environment, as well as learn and exercise together as a community.
“Many residents have expressed an interest in having a community gardening space where they can get outside and be in nature,” said Mayor Tony Perry. “This garden will help meet that need, enhance the passive nature of Stevenson Park, and allow us to continue our commitment to making Middletown a greener and more sustainable place to live.”
Residents will be able to reserve up to two 8’ x 16’ plots for the season (March through November) for $50 per plot ($30 for seniors). Water, mulch, and gardening tools will be provided. Community Garden members will be required to volunteer 3 hours per season by either maintaining the common areas of the garden, such as walkways and entrances, or assisting with educational programs offered throughout the season. The garden will be open between the hours of 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
“Education will be an important component of this garden,” said Clean Communities Coordinator Jessi Ticino. “We will provide opportunities for first time gardeners, as well as children, to learn how to grow their own fruits and vegetables organically.”
Due to overwhelming interest, the Middletown Community Garden has reserved all plots for the 2022 season. Residents can join a waiting list by emailing communitygarden@middletownnj.org. If a plot becomes available, residents will be contacted on a first come first served basis. Thank you for your interest!