Here Are Some Tips for a Successful Community Garden

Looking to start a community garden? Once you've found the land, here are some suggestions from staff of the University of California Cooperative Extension, Los Angeles County, that should help.

You need:

- Well-defined in-ground garden plots ranging in size from 10 feet by 10 feet to 20 feet by 20 feet. Raised beds require less stooping but are more expensive to build. If you decide to go that route, then make the beds no wider than four feet to avoid stepping inside and compressing the topsoil and plants. Design pathways wide enough so wheelbarrows and other equipment can pass.

- A watering system of some kind, including hoses. Hand watering generally is more practical than using drizzler- or soaker-type hoses in community gardens.

- A perimeter fence with lockable, drive-through gate to help deter vandalism and pilfering.

- A tool shed or shelters for tool and materials storage. Reclaimed metal shipping containers are a good choice if you can find and transport them.

- Benches or tables where people can picnic, take their coffee along with some neighborly conversation or rest and reflect after digging in the dirt.

- Signs or bulletin boards specifying working hours, operating procedures and contact names and numbers.

- Shared compost bins for nourishing the natural discards.

- Supervised play areas for children or special gardens where they can mimic the work of the adults.