You can rent a garden plot in Loyal

Folks around Loyal who would like to plant a veggie patch or maybe a flower bed but don’t have enough sunny space in their yards can get a plot this spring in the new community garden. The dirt in an empty lot along Bluebird Lane in City View Estates is being tilled and residents can get a plot to plant what they want for a nominal cost.

Curtiss Lindner has volunteered to organize the community garden. He said 16 plots of varying size will be available this year, on a first-come, first-served basis. Brochures with more information on the garden project can be obtained at Loyal City Hall, the Loyal Public Library, and Fourmen’s Farm & Home.

Lindner said there will be nine lots of 20’X20’ in size, four lots at 10’X10’, and three lots of 10’X20’. The largest plots will cost $35 for the season, the mid-size ones will be $25, and the smallest ones can be rented for $15.

The city of Loyal is allowing use of the empty lot, which is part of the residential subdivision on the city’s southwest corner. It will also supply equipment for the initial plot tilling. Some simple garden tools and water will also be available at the site.

Citizens who rent a lot will be asked to follow a few simple rules, such as planting their plot by June 1 and keeping it planted throughout the season. Lots that are not taken care of may be tilled under and/or assigned to another interested party.

Lot renters can keep all produce from their garden, although arrangements will be made with the local food pantry for any excess.

Lindner said he has seen community gardens in other communities, and they can become more than a place for someone with a small yard to come to exercicse their green thumb. Lindner said he foresees a local gathering place of people with similar interests.

“I really want this to be an outdoor gathering place,” he said.

The lots will be available as spring weather allows, and can be rented now. Call Lindner at 71-937-3928 to rent one or for more information.