Around two and a half decades ago, I embarked on my gardening journey, primarily focusing on vegetables. However, moving to a new place broadened my perspectives, leading me to explore ornamental plants. A while back, the urge to grow vegetables resurfaced. My home setting wasn’t ideal due to limited sunlight, so I connected with a community urban farm close by: Anderson Urban Farm. Situated in Ohio’s Anderson Township, this once-bustling farm is now under the care of the Anderson Township Historical Society. The land boasts historical houses, a captivating barn, free-roaming chickens, and a majestic beech tree, one of the grandest I’ve ever encountered.

The farm offers rental plots, approximately measuring 8′ x 20′, and if you wish to invest more, you can get double that space. With fertile ground and donated compost available for gardeners, it’s a perfect spot to cultivate.

To be honest, I’ve never delved deep into the guidelines or kept up with the communications from the President of the farm. It’s not out of disinterest; my life has been overwhelmingly hectic. I feel a tad guilty about not participating in the various activities or volunteer days. I genuinely hope to be more engaged soon because it seems the community has a great time together.

When it comes to the plots, the array of vegetables is astonishing. The dedication of some gardeners is evident in the yield they produce. The gardens’ uniqueness shines through with some plots focusing solely on veggies, while others incorporate pollinator plants. Amidst the greens, you’ll notice quirky artworks. From whimsical figurines and signs to amusing spinners, the creativity varies. Some pieces captivate me, while others are a bit much, but it all adds to the lively atmosphere.

Though I haven’t immersed myself entirely into this community, I deeply admire what it stands for: the passion for gardening, the emphasis on sustainability, and the spirit of camaraderie. There’s a certain nostalgia I feel observing from a distance, understanding my place within this intricate tapestry. But I know that being an active participant, building relationships, and relishing the shared moments would be far more rewarding. I aspire to rebalance my commitments soon. Taking a step back from the constant hustle to enjoy simpler, enriching experiences, like spending time at the farm, is a change I’m looking forward to.