Address and Location?

The Roosevelt Community Garden is located at 59 E. Fulton Avenue, Roosevelt, New York 11575, in Nassau County, within the Town of Hempstead. Parking is available on the street, but visitors should be mindful of the neighbors. Please look for a brown fence with signage on the gate, as the garden may not be immediately visible.

The Garden is within walking distance of several local community landmarks, including the Roosevelt Post Office (0.3 miles, about a 5-minute walk), the Town of Hempstead Rosa Parks Senior Center (0.4 miles, about a 5-minute walk), the Roosevelt Public Library (0.5 miles, about an 8-minute walk), Ulysses Byas Elementary School (0.6 miles, about a 12-minute walk), Centennial Avenue Elementary School (0.7 miles, about a 14-minute walk), and Washington Rose Elementary School (0.8 miles, about a 16-minute walk).

Two Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) bus routes offer easy access to the garden, including the N40 and N43.

Hours of Operation

The Garden is open to garden plot holders during the growing season, from dawn until dusk, seven days a week. Thanks to our solar lights, garden members can enjoy extended hours and stay in the garden until 9:30 PM during late summer and fall. Gardeners are welcome to visit and tend to their plots at their convenience within these hours.

Please note that the garden may be closed during specific maintenance periods or special events, which will be communicated in advance. We encourage all visitors to respect the garden’s hours and maintain a peaceful environment for everyone.

Important 2026 Dates to Remember

• February 23 – Online registration begins for past garden members
• March 1st – Online Registration begins for new garden members
• March 31st – Deadline to register for garden plot
• April 15th – Plot assignments are finalized and distributed
• April 31st – Deadline to cancel for a full refund
• November 31st – Garden Closes for the winter

Garden Plot Sizes and Allocation

Plots are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. However, returning gardeners are given priority to keep the same plot from the previous year, provided they register before the deadline. After the deadline, any unclaimed plots will be released to the general public and those on the waiting list.

Garden Enthusiast Plot (4′ x 20′)
Available only for families, groups or experienced or returning gardeners

Square Foot Plot (4′ x 4′)
Perfect for beginner gardeners, or those in need of a smaller space.

Friends and Neighbor Section (A section of a 4′ x 20′ plot)
Ideal for those who enjoy working side-by-side, beginners or those in need of a smaller space.

Beginner Plot (3′ x 5′)
Ideal for new or inexperienced gardeners.

Registration Process

(1) Submit your online application at northshorelandalliance.org/roosevelt-community-garden
(2) We will verify your payment and check plot availability.
(3) Plot is assigned
(4) Once confirmed, you will receive a final email with your plot number and gate code.

Submitting an online application does not guarantee a plot.  If you are not able to complete the online application process, please contact the Land Alliance at 516-922-1028.  Garden members are NOT permitted to select, change or reassign their plot(s) to a friend, relative or neighbor. If a member does not wish to maintain their plot, he/she must notify the Land Alliance. Reassignment will follow a “waiting list” order.

Once all plots are reserved, you can add your name to the waiting list by emailing your name, phone number and desired plot to andrea@northshorelandalliance.org.  Once a plot is available, you will be contacted.

Refunds

If you have registered for a plot but are unable to participate, please contact the Garden Manager at 516-922-1028 or andrea@northshorelandalliance.org to cancel and request a refund.  Requests must be made by May 31st.  No refunds issued after this date.  Refunds will be processed within 10 business days and issued to your original payment method.

What to Consider Before Securing a Garden Plot

1. Time Commitment – To keep our community Garden inviting and welcoming to all (insects and people), plot holders are required to tend to their plots weekly to weed, water, and harvest. This is especially important during the peak of the season (July and August) when growth is most rapid. Plan to spend at least 2–4 hours per week on your plot.
2. Weekly Maintenance – Weekly maintenance ensures that plants stay healthy and reach a full harvest. This includes:

• Pruning and trellising plants to ensure vegetables and vines do not spill into the shared paths.
• Keeping common walkways clear for the safety and accessibility of all members.
• Harvesting regularly to prevent over-ripening and rotting, which can impact soil quality and attract pests.

3. Seasonal Planning – By securing a plot, you are a making a commitment to partner with us for the entire season. Consider your travel or vacation plans between April and November. If you are away, you will need to arrange for a “garden buddy” to water and harvest your plot to keep it in good standing.
4. Organic & Sustainable Standards – We are committed to eco-friendly gardening! We use sustainable gardening methods that minimize risks to the ecosystem while remaining cost-effective. Our practices are also designed to protect local pollinators and wildlife. Members should be prepared to use organic seeds and natural pest control methods to grow their food.

5. Physical Activity – Please be aware that gardening involves tasks like bending to operate water valves and pulling hoses. Ensure you are comfortable with these physical movements before securing your plot.
6. Plot Size & Management Think carefully about the size of the plot you reserve. Larger plots require significantly more time and effort. If you are unsure about your availability, consider sharing a plot with a friend or securing a smaller space to start.

⚠️ Note on Abandoned Plots: In an effort to reduce waste and encourage active participation, plots that show no signs of maintenance (weeding, watering, or harvesting) for 14 consecutive days will receive a check-in notice. If no action is taken within 7 days of that notice, the plot will be considered abandoned and reassigned.

Basic Garden Member Guidelines

The following rules and guidelines are designed to keep our Garden safe and pleasant for gardeners, neighbors, and the general public to visit. After registration, each gardener will receive comprehensive Garden Guidelines to read, sign, and return before plots are assigned.

• Ensure all pots and overgrown vegetation are moved or trimmed back to allow for safe, unobstructed walking
• Properly dispose of debris and vegetation in the garbage can.
• Please chop all vegetation into pieces no longer than 12 inches before tossing. No “ghost space”—if it’s sticking out, it’s too long! This ensures that everything stays contained within the garbage bags and the sanitation department will pick up.
• Pick crops often during the peak growing season to prevent rot and waste.
• Clean and return gardening tools to the shed so everyone has access
• Properly coil the hose and return it to its designated place after each use. (Tip: Follow the natural curve of the hose to prevent kinks and tangles)
• Report any structural damages to the Land Alliance promptly
• Begin planting by June 1st (weather permitting).  After this date, unattended plots will be reviewed and reassigned to someone on our waitlist. If you plan to be away for an extended period, please make arrangements with another garden member to tend to your plot in your absence.

Benefits of gardening at the Roosevelt Community Garden?

• Your Own Dedicated Space: A designated garden plot available from April through November to grow your own organic vegetables, herbs, and fruits.

• Education & Community: Access to hands-on gardening and agricultural workshops focused on sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and community-building events.

• Seeds & Starts to Get You Going: We provide starter seeds and plants to jumpstart your harvest. Note: To keep our Garden healthy, please ensure any outside plants are sourced from reputable suppliers to prevent the spread of pests or disease.

• Tool Library: Full use of our shared gardening equipment for planting and harvesting (though you are always welcome to bring your own favorites).

• On-Site Irrigation: Reliable water sources and shared watering equipment are provided to keep your plot thriving all season long.

• Student Engagement: Meaningful volunteer opportunities are available for high school students to earn service hours and learn local agriculture.

Note: Applying for a plot does not guarantee a plot, and receiving a plot in the current year does not guarantee a plot for subsequent growing seasons.

Prohibited Activities

• Use of Pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, or non-organic fertilizers in garden plots. We encourage the use of organic growing practices, including native flowers and plants that help deter pests, are edible, and/or attract pollinators and birds
• Pets
• Growing corn
• Loud music
• smoking
• Removing gardening tools or other items from the Garden
• Stealing vegetables

Monthly Garden Schedule

April – Garden cleanup the Garden/Plots and, if weather permits, plant cool-weather seeds.
May – Transplant seedlings (tomatoes, peppers) once the frost-risk has passed.
June – Maintenance & Mulching: Consistent weeding and applying mulch to conserve moisture as the weather warms up.
July  – Peak Growth: Water and monitor for pests. Harvest early summer crops like beans, herbs and cucumbers.
August – Heavy Harvest: Peak production for tomatoes and peppers. Prune plants to encourage final ripening before fall.
August is also a good time to sow more crops for a fall harvest but before the first frost (usually mid-October to early November in our region)
September – Second Season: Harvest summer crops and plant frost-tolerant crops
October – Fall Cleanup and Garlic Planting: Remove spent plants and start clearing your plot of any plant garlic for next spring.
November – Winter Prep: Final harvest and putting the bed to sleep by covering the soil with leaves, deadheading, raking and general garden clean-up to protect and preserve these green spaces during the colder months.

Amenities and Features:

• Gardening Tools and Equipment: A variety of gardening tools, such as shovels, rakes, hoes, and watering cans, are available for garden maintenance and cultivation.
• Watering Systems: Irrigation systems, hoses, and watering stations are provided for garden upkeep.
• Outdoor Education Space: A shaded seating area is available for educational programs or for visitors to relax and enjoy their gardening experience.
• Paths and Walkways: Well-maintained paths allow easy access throughout the garden while minimizing plant damage.
• Informational Signage: Signs about the garden’s history, plant species, ecological features, or gardening tips to enhance visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the garden.
• Restrooms and Facilities: Restroom facilities are available at the front of the garden, subject to funding
• Children’s Play Areas and Sensory Garden: The Kids Gardening Area was added tot he Garden in 2024.  This area is designed for children ages 4 to 11 to explore and learn about gardening and nature.
• Solar Lighting: Solar-powered lights have been installed in 2024 to improve the garden experience, allowing us to host evening programs beyond sunset.
• Compost: No compost bins are currently available.

Youth Activities

Children are welcome in our Garden and parents are encouraged to bring their youth to garden with their children and grandchildren so they can learn how to grow their own food.

Volunteer Opportunities

We welcome volunteers of all ages, skill levels and backgrounds who can help steward the garden or provide educational programs. Youth under the ages of 16 must have adult supervision.  To learn more about our volunteer opportunities,  contact Andrea Millwood at andrea@northshorelandalliance.org.

Educational Programs

We offer monthly educational workshops, where garden members and visitors are welcome to attend free agricultural and gardening sessions led by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County Master Gardener Volunteers. Advance registration is required. For additional guidance, feel free to ask one of our seasoned garden members.