Fruit and Vegetable Garden

Fruit and Vegetable Garden

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This garden was revamped and brought back to life this spring by a talented team of Master Gardener volunteers.

When the Bartlett family lived on the property, this sunny walled-in garden was the site of many lively parties. In 2008, the fruit and vegetable garden was established on this site behind the Greenhouse, with decoratively arranged raised garden beds, pathways, ornaments, espaliered fruit trees, fruiting shrubs, and a variety of vegetables. The garden is completely organic with directly sown seeds as well as sets planted in the spring. Natural amendments such as egg shells, banana peels, and seaweed are used to encourage growth, and insects are deterred with companion plants such as garlic, onions, and marigolds. Companion plants help others to grow by encouraging beneficial insects, discouraging pests, or providing nutrients, shade, or support.

Along the perimeter, succulent black and red currants, raspberries, figs, and apples ripen naturally. Apple trees are espaliered, growing symmetrically against the garden fence, enabling them to be grown in a limited space. Perennial and seasonal vegetables serve the community as a source of education and vegetable gardening throughout the region.