N. Avery Garden: How it works

 
 

The N. Avery garden is managed by the Garden Society, a student group on campus supporting and directing gardening efforts on campus.


There are currently 32 individual plots in the Avery garden as well as 1 community plot.  Individual plots are allocated to 1 or 2 individuals.  They are responsible for the space, and own of all of the plants in the space.  The community plot contains mostly perennials.  The produce from the community plot is for Avery gardeners only, since it is supported in part by membership fees.


Gardeners are obligated to sign the community garden contract as well as pay a small per-season fee to help pay for tools, irrigation hardware, and soil amendments.


The Avery Garden is completely organic.  Pesticidal sprays, weed killers, etc. are not allowed.

 

How it works:

New plots typically become available at the end of each growing season (March/April and Sept/Oct).  If you’re interested in a plot, following these steps will help you get started:


  1. 1. Read over the garden contract.  Make sure you feel comfortable adhering to these rules.


  1. 2. If you’re going to be out of town for more than a few weeks, it may make more sense to wait until the next season to start planting.  If you expect to be too busy to keep up with the garden, consider sharing a plot with several other people.  Experience is not necessary, but commitment is.


  1. 3. Plots can open up at any time and in the event all the spots get filled up, the turnover is usually pretty high, and a waitlist helps to strengthen our case for more gardening space on campus.  Please drop us a line at garden [at] caltech.edu to let us know that you’re interested.

  2. 4.  Do some research.  New gardeners and new-comers to Southern California should familiarize themselves with gardening in Southern California.  We have lots of great books available to anyone that is interested - even if you’re just gardening at home.  Gardening is a learning experience!

  3. 5.  Meet your neighbors.  The best resource for pests, plants, and other issues will be other Avery gardeners.  We are lucky to have several local experts.

If you’re interested in gardening from home, or just learning more, subscribe to our email list.  Sign up for our listserve here:

CHECK PLOT AVAILIBILITY HERE

Plot Guide:

If you would like to get involved: