Garden @ the Community Hub on Joyce
This spring, the planting area of the garden at the Hub on Joyce has continued to be improved and extended. 2025 is the fifth season that something had been planted. Thanks to the Visions members who cleaned up the property line and maintained plantings in front of the building. JHS workers and interns helped with some planting and planter box preparation. Some local children have done some plantings too.
A few Hub residents have been active in keeping things clean around the garden and building, improving the planting boxes, mowing down vegetation and providing encouragement. Thanks largely to a couple volunteer days involving employees of local businesses, many beds have been prepared, weeds composted and seedlings planted. A group from MAGMA also participated in seeding.
United Way’s “Day of Caring” allowed completion of four “sub-irrigated planters” at the edge of the garden, which should last many years and require minimal maintenance and be a good height for anyone who cannot garden at ground level. A more accessible pathway along them is still needed.
A secure and well stocked shed is a blessing this year. Early this year, three people indicated their desire to help with the garden, and during our recent day of activity, two more indicated their desire. JHS can provide access to the shed, however only during normal working hours, so alternate arrangements will need to be made. JHS has attempted to get Hub user groups involved in the garden. There is continued interest from nearby residents in the plantings (especially strawberries).
Funds provided by Visions United last year still are sufficient for purchases of seeds and other items when needed, particularly since funding for some capital projects has been secured from NB Liquor ($2200) and City of Moncton “Quality of Life” ($5000). The project funding however focuses on purchases of items and so the projects must to be undertaken by volunteers.
Anyone who wishes to assist in harvesting maintaining and improving the garden can ask the JHS summer students (Paige and Chris) or alternately the Hub coordinator, Pablo, for access to the tool shed and for some direction if needed. You are certainly welcome to view the garden, hang out in the gazebo and pick a few weeds anytime you wish!
by John Russell - June 2025
Visions United has links to the Kitchen & Garden at the Community Hub on Joyce, so keep informed!
