by Gary Johnson, community relations developer at Valley Natural Foods

The vernal equinox has taken place and the days in the northern hemisphere are starting to lengthen giving clues to the birds and plants that they alter their seasonal behavior. This same awakening takes place in the human frame as well, though there maybe some denial of the effects of the increasing amount of solar power bound in the building light intensity. Unavoidable as the effects of King Sol are for us, it seems to have a greater effect on community gardening community.

The phrase “Holy Thundering Community Gardeners Batman!” is starting to crescendo around the city and county. New communities are deciding to engage in the art of gardening, and are gathering their efforts to establish a sustainable response to the need for fresh produce in their community.

Maybe you are part of something like this in your community already. Perhaps you have signed up for gardening space in a community garden, or perhaps you are playing a role in the development of a new garden. Whatever your choice is, gardener, developer or catalyst, there is always room for more. There are many models and purposes to work from, and there is always the possibility for something new. If you have any questions on this subject, please contact us at community@valleynaturalfoods.com.

Community gardening is an exciting topic and rewarding activity. Local community gardening gurus with plenty of online information are the folks at Gardening Matters. Their website www.gardeningmatters.org, a great place to start. There are many ways to begin—larger container gardens, small plots in your yard, community garden plot, or …well you get the picture.

If enjoying the very local produce of your own garden and physical efforts is just a little to “local,” consider purchasing a share of a local farm through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). Eating locally grown foods will become easier as the growing season for this year progresses. Valley Natural Foods continues to support CSA farms through the use of our facility as a “drop” and “pick-up” point for five local CSA farms. Click here for a current listing of CSA farms.

Maybe 2011 will be the year to “drop the top” and “pop the clutch” on your gardening and fresh vegetable goals!

You can read previous community gardening postings at  Co-op Community Gardens.