Jo and Ken

I'm so grateful to EGP for the opportunities I’ve had to learn more about gardening, the local community and the abundance of nature.

I’ve been matched with a wonderful garden owner, Ken, who welcomed me and my 'give-it-a-go' approach. Along with another volunteer, I've been growing salad, root vegetables, tending the established raspberries and strawberries. I've planted spring and summer bulbs and attempted to do some pruning(!) in the space. I live in the centre of town in a small space and my only experience before volunteering was houseplants and herbs. I've learnt so much much over the years and It amazes me that, even with the level of knowledge I have, things do grow! I’m still surprised when something so small, like a sunflower seed, can produce a magnificent flower with a multitude of new seeds!

This image is from summer 2019 and the huge sunflowers that seemed to thrive, despite a relentless onslaught of slugs. Unfortunately, the slugs got most of the vegetables I attempted to grow.

I am now watching a new crop of seedlings come up from the sunflower seeds I saved, and I’m sending some out to other people in the post. The simple joy that can come from knowing that my care and attention facilitated the existence of this flower is wonderful, and I want to be able to share that joy. I don't think I would’ve have had this experience if it weren’t for my garden partner’s generosity and EGP. Thank you!