Over 3,000 Pounds Of Produce Given To RARA Pantry
This past summer, the Rockbridge Area Master Gardeners (RAMGA) launched its newest project, “The Giving Garden.”
This project is an offshoot of RAMGA member Jim Kvach’s significant efforts to supply fresh produce for the Rockbridge Area Relief Association (RARA) Neighborhood Grocery.
Kvach has numerous 50-by-30-foot plots where he grows tomatoes, yellow squash, onions, cabbages, strawberries, sweet peppers, lettuces, beets, and radishes.
In December of 2024, RAMGA members Peggy Agnor and Jan Smith met with Kvach to brainstorm how RAMGA could assist in his project and be educated in gardening skills at the same time.
He “donated” a plot of his land to RAMGA so members could independently plan and grow new varieties with the goal to test their productivity and popularity with the RARA clients.
In early spring, the planning became a reality with the tilling of the soil. Various seeds were started indoors while other seeds were sowed directly into the soil. Marigolds and zinnias were planted as companion plants to attract pollinators. Vegetables growing in the garden included tomatillos, delicata squash, cucumber, hot peppers, cantaloupe, green beans, Swiss chard, basil, parsley, and dill.
Following best practices in food production, there are 23 RAMGA members dedicated to the success and mission of the garden.
Throughout the summer months these volunteers worked in the garden multiple days each week weeding, watering, and harvesting. With final harvesting completed, the volunteers prepared the garden for winter by tilling organic matter into the soil and planting cover crops to add nutrients.
In total, 3,384 pounds of fresh produce were delivered this growing season to help with food insecurity in the Rockbridge area.
