How does the Garden work?
Generally a community garden needs a core group of 8-10 committed volunteers (which we have) who tend the plot regularly and then other members can dip in and out as time allows. There is always someone on site who is an experienced gardener so we can accommodate everyone at all levels.
Members can turn up at any of the gardening sessions whenever it suits them; we don't need a hard and fast commitment. Obviously we do welcome people who have a lot of time and energy to give to the garden but some people just want to visit 3 or 4 times a year and that is fine too.
How the Garden sessions work
Once the session ends the lead gardener will update the priority list so gardeners for the next session know what has been done and what needs to be tackled next.
Whats happens to the produce?
Everyone asks how we divide up the harvest – and we can assure you, it’s all very civilised. We pick what’s in season and leave it out on the table for anyone who is working that day to help themselves. Visitors to the garden can also take produce in exchange for a donation. But Gardeners get first dibs on the best veggies and of course they're free to them. With such a large plot we always have plenty to go round. Between July and October in particular there is a huge variety of fruit and vegetables to choose from!
We have a committee who meet monthly and are responsible for administration, membership, communications, planning and budgets, funding and grants and our relationship with Fingal County Council.
We have a formal Constitution, keep minutes and have an AGM every year; so we are fully accountable to our members and supporters. We use email to keep in touch with, and to update our members. We also use our website and social media.
What we can offer our Gardeners
For the Experienced Gardener: The Walled Garden is an opportunity to take part in a wonderful experiment – restoring the garden to it’s former glory and turning it into a beautiful and thriving area, cultivating fruits and vegetables, tending to a heritage orchard and eventually developing an ornamental garden.
For the Novice Gardener: We offer guidance, support and advice. Many of our members are inexperienced gardeners but are enjoying learning how to garden, gaining confidence and knowledge as the months unfold. We have a huge site so every willing pair of hands is appreciated.
Why join a Community Garden rather than have an allotment?
- The Garden isn't run like allotments - we don't give out plots to individuals. Instead we all garden together to one communal plan.
- Tools, seeds and plants are all provided. We have lead gardeners who develop a weekly To Do list and there is always someone 'on duty' who knows what needs to be done.
- So you can dip in and out, as and when you like. You can come twice a week or twice a year - whatever suits you best.
- Weekend gardening sessions are Saturday and Sunday 11am to 1pm.
- Midweek gardening sessions are Wednesday and Friday between 2pm and 4pm. (In Summer months and when daylight and weather allow sessions often start earlier and extend 'til after 6pm ).
- It's not all work. Our mid-session tea breaks are a great way to chat and get to know other members.... and to share some wonderful cakes and buns baked by our members (often made with produce from our garden).