In Our Backyard is partnering with Anchor Gardens and Yarducopia to create berry beds and perennial gardens on site, including many medicinal plants, that both our residents and the general public can enjoy. Last weekend, a team of volunteers—including guests who are staying at In Our Backyard—participated in a “Lasagna Layer Garden Class” before starting work on the south and west sides of our site. Piles of wood chips, bags of grass clippings and leaves, shredded paper, mounds of manure, and truck loads of topsoil were stocked up prior to the big build. Bins of food waste, buckets of coffee grounds, and a fish tote of spent grain all added to the sights and smells of the project. We started with a layer of cardboard to kill the weeds and set the stage. All of the “layers” came from the waste stream and are now going to be part of the “grow stream” for a full-circle, zero-waste garden project!
After 14 hours, spread over 2.5 days, 18 people created and prepped the beds for plants. Raspberry, currents, gooseberries, strawberries and more were planted.
Another day for planting is planned for Saturday, May 31st from 4:00 until the sun sets (Ha, in Anchorage that might mean 2:00am!). We will also schedule additional planting days as needed. Come on by, wear work gloves, and prepare to have some fun!
We need additional donations of perennials, annuals to add spots of color and funds for our three foot high fence and two arches. The gardens are open to the public to walk through, to pick berries later in the summer, and to sit on benches overlooking the garden with a view of the Chugach Range. A team consisting of guests at IOBY and volunteers will maintain the gardens. Interested in being a volunteer? Sign up here!
Part two of the garden project will be funded by Lions International. We have graciously received funding to build raised garden beds inside the fenced area, away from curious moose. Local Lions will be building the beds with assistance from IOBY guests. A garden shed, community room and more are all part of this phase.
Loaves & Fishes,
Julie
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