We have begun and there are 3 gardens and a 3x3 raised bed involved in our efforts. The 3x3 raised bed is at my home and is planted with both Red and Keuka Gold Potatoes. There are also some Guardian Onion Plants (more on that later). We have started planting at the Shul. So far we have planted spinach, arugula, swiss chard, perpetual spinach, beets, edible pod peas, onion sets and some onion plants and mixed leaf lettuce. We have set out head lettuce, cabbage and broccoli plants. We hope to put in vegetables that require warmer weather within the next two weeks. Oh, by the way we have red lettuce, thyme and dill that came up from last year - the Lord must have planted them.
New row of arugula |
Planting Onions |
There is at least one more good thing. My brother has donated a small quanity of semi-unique seeds. I have started the tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, cabbage and onions. I intend to plant some of the other seeds into the gardens. I regret that I did not get the celery started.
Now let me tell you the cautions. Some people have contributed their land. Some have contributed money. One has contributed unique skills. These people have made their contributions, but if you have not I am asking for money to go toward seeds and fertilizer etc... If there is one person in your family, I think $10.00 is fair. If you have a large family, I think a larger sum is needed, perhaps $50. We will try to divide crops according to contributions and family size. So that you know, I have spent about $140 on seeds, potatoes and onion sets. I have started plants for the project. We also need to buy fertilizer and perhaps some bags for dividing. I believe that we will all receive more than $50 worth of vegetables this year. In fact, I am hoping that we can each preserve some.
Planting Head Lettuce |
I have laid this before you and I acknowledge that it is a lot of work. I will be doing much of it, but I cannot do it alone. We will attempt to give approximately 10% of our produce to the congregation (especially the oneg) and those in need. The act of gardening may also help prepare us in some small way for the future.
Please pray for this as a ministry remembering: Psalm 67:5-7
Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee.
Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us.
God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him.