The concept of “Farm to Table” took a big leap forward this year at Reynolds Lake Oconee. Just one year after the Landscape Committee proposed the idea of a Community Garden where residents could have a new and unique way to come together; the group gathered at a rustic table to enjoy an informal luncheon and raise their glasses for a toast to the eight raised beds they all work to maintain on a weekly basis.
“We started with fifteen gardeners and eight raised beds in April as a ‘trial run,’” says Carolyn Taylor, full-time resident and chair of the landscape committee. “After just three short months, I have a list of twenty-five additional residents who are interested in starting their own beds or sharing with another member.”
Located adjacent to the water tower on Plantation Lane, the eight raised beds, filled with organic composted soils premixed and amended, are surrounded by a secure “deer-proof fencing,” and complete with irrigation hookups and a small tool shed.
Taylor, who is one of three active Master Gardeners that maintain beds, says the garden started with only vegetable beds, but over the trial, the beds have evolved into mixtures of vegetables and flowers. “Each plot is assigned and maintained self-sufficiently by residents,” says Taylor. “We encourage the garden area to be treated with pride. Now that it is established, the garden has added a new dimension to Reynolds Lake Oconee, improving the quality of life for the many involved.”
The area has a dual purpose for residents – gardening and fellowship. Many gather daily to tend their beds, while trading tips between one another. “We all like to bring our favorite beverages, and dishes made from the crops in the garden, and just sit in the garden together,” explains Taylor. “We chat about our beds, learning from each other and growing as gardeners.”
To celebrate the Community Garden initiative, a “Community Gardeners Appreciation Luncheon” was hosted last May inside the fenced in garden area. A rustic, farm-style table was set with sunflower arrangements as the gardeners munched over picnic-style selections such as deviled eggs, pimento cheese biscuits, flatbreads, and stuffed strawberries.
“The luncheon was beautifully done. Everyone was so pleased,” says Taylor. “We are so thankful for the support we have received from the Property Owners Association.”
