ST. ALBAN'S GARDENS

Then God said, “Let the earth put forth vegetation: plants yielding seed,

and fruit trees of every kind on earth that bear fruit with the seed in it.” And it was so.

- Genesis 1:11

SEEDS COMMUNITY GARDEN

One of the joys of life is planting a seed, then waiting and watching as it turns into a glorious profusion of blossoms, vegetables or fruit. The SEEDS Community Gardens began with the seed of an idea and has joyfully grown into 49 raised garden beds. It began when some parishioners who share a love of gardening chatted about digging and planting together. Today SEEDS has grown into a ministry for the community with gardeners coming from as far away as Concord and Huntersville.

Gardeners use organic practices, so all the food that comes from our gardens is healthy. We help each other, share gardening tips and enjoy our community and the beautiful space. You don’t have to be an experienced gardener. Some people garden year-round, others just spring, summer and fall. We supply water, tools, mulch, bed frame repair and picnic tables. There is a yearly rental fee of $80 to cover our costs. What is grown in the Gardens? Just about anything! We also have a garden bed dedicated for food donation and another for our pre-school.

Food for the body and for the soul -- that’s what our gardens grow. Our space is beautiful, a place to feel peace and marvel at God’s creation. Thanks be to God!

If you are interested in more information or in renting a space in our community gardens, please contact the church front office or catch Jean Bonnyman or Ginger Knudson in church.

THE CALDERA GARDEN AT ST. ALBAN'S

The Caldera Gardens are above the fenced-in raised garden beds that it is the SEEDS Community Gardens to the right of the church. As a ministry of Saint Alban’s, and the generosity of our neighbors, the Caldera Gardens are for everyone to enjoy. Mina Price had the vision years ago; David Beall and Gwen Miles have put in countless hours and investment to making the Caldera Gardens come to fruition again.

What will you find in the Caldera Gardens? Benches that are shaded in the afternoon. Two picnic tables for morning coffee, lunch with family and friends, or evening gatherings. There is a large grassy lawn for children to run around on, or set up a croquet game, badminton…. When was the last time you sat quietly, listening to the birds, watching the clouds, and seeing God’s beauty all around you?

What will you see in the Caldera Gardens? In the spring, first come the Lenten roses (hellebore), then the native columbine, spectacular iris from Oregon, and azaleas greet you at the side entrance. As you walk inside are tulips, daffodils, phlox, peonies and a deep red rhododendron. Every year we have blue birds too. In the summer and fall, all kinds of flowers take turns in the two horseshoe shaped gardens. Goldfinches and butterflies are everywhere. May the peace of God be with you in this lovely space.