The grey clouds covered the blue sky on a July Saturday but that didn’t stop the enjoyment Master Gardeners had when they visited an inspiring and award winning community garden in Horncastle. The visit was part of the Lincolnshire Master Gardeners in-service training, one of six they receive during their 12 months as Master Gardeners.

Master Gardener James raises a point

Nigel Wright, chairman of the local residents association explained the history of the site, which was previously a grassed area where ball games were not allowed. He had to answer some probing questions by information hungry Master Gardeners, many of whom are already assigned to various community gardens around the county. The site is gardened by local residents who are allocated a bed and tend that themselves.

Local resident and plot holder Mitzi and her grandson Macauley led Master Gardeners around the plots and explained what residents were growing and why. There were examples of what could be award-winning onions being grown, making the Master Gardeners more than a little envious! The Master Gardeners left feeling very inspired by the site, it’s development and especially the residents stories of learning and community development.

Other aspects of the day included an exploration of seasonal growing as we approach winter, how to organically tackle pests and diseases as well as discussions around the Master Gardener volunteer role. Master Gardeners were introduced to Garden Organics ‘I Don’t Dig Peat’ Campaign as well as offered information about WRAP’s ‘Love Food Hate Waste’ campaign and discussed how to incorporate these campaigns into the messages that Master Gardeners represent and pass on. Boston Council was represented during the day to help them better understand the role of Master Gardeners and Garden Organic in the Health and Well Being funded projects.

Residents show Co-ordinator Rick what they are doing in their plots

The training day was held at the newly refurbished Stanhope Hall in Horncastle and food supplied by Louth’s Royston’s Deli culminating in a very enjoyable and productive day. (Group image copyright John Aron 2011)

Relevant websites:
I Don’t Dig Peat – Garden Organic campaign to cut Peat use in gardening – tips and information.
Love Food Hate Waste – full of useful information how to stop wasting food!
Stanhope Hall – Community owned venue in Horncastle
Royston’s Deli – Artisan fine foods in Louth