While community gardens are becoming increasingly popular and sprouting up in various locations, for those who have never heard of the concept, they are often left confused by what community garden sites are, their function, and what they can represent.

In various low income communities, where I have developed community gardens, many residents have never heard of community gardens and are nervous to approach the ones built for their use because they are unsure if they are welcome or have access to the garden. This is where having colorful and inviting signage in a community garden can help bridge the gap between uncertainty and feeling welcome.

Figure 1: Alachua Farm to School to Work Hub Community Garden. Photo Credit: Malory Foster

Simply having a sign with the name of the garden such as “John Doe Community Garden” can help establish the garden in a given area and create interest. Furthermore, having smaller colorful signs create additional visual appeal to draw in local residents.

Figure 3: Alachua Farm to School to Work Hub Community Garden. Photo Credit: Malory Foster

For more information on starting a community garden, visit http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep124, and feel free to contact your local extension office for advice and help.
UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County
Eden Santiago Gomez
Community Gardens Program Assistant
(352)518-0156
esantiagogomez@pascocountyfl.net

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