Organizers of Tarentum garden eye prosperous growing season

Organizers of a community garden in Tarentum are working hard to see the site prosper in 2022, despite being targeted late last year by vandalism.

“While the snow is on the ground, the leadership of the garden is already marking plans,” said the Rev. Phil Beck, pastor of First United Presbyterian Church.

Beck is the organizer of the group that tends to the Greg Blythe Friendship Garden on First Avenue, adjacent to Dreshar Stadium. The garden was planted as community outreach in 2015.

In late December, a Rubbermaid shed used to store tools and equipment was torn down and ripped apart by vandals. It was valued at about $500.

The incident was reported to borough police. No one at the department was able to be reached for comment regarding whether there has been an arrest.

As disheartening as the incident was, Beck said the community has rallied.

Volunteers are focused on a fruitful spring and summer.

“We have had both the offer of a used shed and have received donations for a totally new one,” he said.

The garden first sprouted as a way to provide harvests to people in need. It’s named for Greg Blythe, former pastor of Abundant Joy Fellowship and co-founder of the garden, who passed away after a battle with cancer.

What makes the garden special is that it’s open to anyone, Beck said. Organizers post “pick now” signs that direct visitors to ready-to-eat carrots, peas and other items. There also is a free pantry for anyone in need of shelf-stable items.

Passersby are welcome to pluck tomatoes or herbs, or any other crop, as long as they pledge some time to weeding or watering the 60-by-160-foot lot.

More than two dozen raised beds are brimming with fruits and veggies each year. Apart from the pandemic, the garden hosts community planting days where groups of people can socialize while they work.

The Tarentum property draws people from across the area. The now-destroyed shed was donated by a New Kensington family who frequents the site.

Beck is undaunted by the vandalism. He said the garden this year will have new signs, more blueberry bushes and additional fruit trees.

He hopes to add seating and possibly a picnic table where visitors can sit down for lunch or a cup of coffee.

“Our beloved sunflowers will make a return, as well as some of the favorite vegetables, including beans, greens, cucumbers and peppers,” Beck said. “Spring is coming, and we can’t wait to get our hands in the soil.”

Planting days will be posted soon on the Facebook page.