The 2025 growing season began long before the first signs of spring. In February, residents from throughout Nassau County began registering for raised-garden plots for the upcoming season (April – November). We are thrilled to see that many of last year’s garden members have returned, joined by some exciting new participants. We’re also proud to announce that all garden plots have been sold, setting the stage for a vibrant and productive season ahead.

On March 28th, under the leadership of Darcy McDowell, Associate Director of Stewardship, and Carter Rogan, Volunteer Coordinator, volunteers and staff gathered at the Wawapek greenhouse to assist with starting seedlings. Crops such as tomatoes, collard greens, peppers and thyme were planted and will be transferred to the Garden during our Annual Planting Day in May.

On April 25th, after rescheduling due to rain, we officially welcomed the season with our annual Earth Day event in the Garden. 30 dedicated volunteers joined us for a successful garden cleanup. From weeding to tidying up garden beds, the hard work and enthusiasm of the volunteers were instrumental in getting our community garden ready for the growing season. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed their time and energy—your support makes all the difference in the continued success of our garden!

We hosted our Annual Square Foot Gardening demonstration and Annual Planting Day on May 10th. Led by Master Gardener Reese Michaels from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County, participants learned how to divide their garden space into 1-foot by 1-foot squares, each dedicated to a specific plant. This method is ideal for maximizing space, conserving water and minimizing weeding. After the demonstration, garden members dug in by planting the seedlings started in our greenhouse.

We’re looking forward to another bountiful season of food, learning and community, never forgetting the vital connection between protecting land and our food sources.