The Menomonie Community Garden is a vibrant hub of activity, where locals come together to cultivate more than just the soil. For 17 years, gardeners have been tending to their plots on the city’s south edge, despite the challenges of working with what they affectionately call “awful” soil.

But it’s not just about the soil – it’s about the sense of community that comes with working alongside fellow gardeners. Louis Stone, a 10-year community gardener said “the garden has things no other community gardens have, a fence and water.” An Nguyen, a recent Stout graduate, appreciates the convenience of having tools and expert advice on hand, as well as the opportunity to grow her own organic produce and learn new skills.

As you stroll through the garden, you’ll notice a diverse array of plots, each reflecting the personality of its gardener. Some are meticulously tilled, while others feature raised beds or colorful flowers spilling out of trellises. The gardeners take pride in enriching the soil, coaxing forth a bounty of herbs, squash, potatoes, tomatoes, and more.

One section of the garden is dedicated to community, featuring a thriving compost pile, raspberry bushes, and a small orchard. The neighboring beehives buzz with activity, and the pollinator garden is a haven for monarch butterflies. It’s a space where gardeners can come together, share knowledge, and simply enjoy the beauty of nature.

The garden is home to over 100 plots, tended by individuals, families, and friends. Many experienced gardeners, like Jan and Jim Erdman, are members of the garden. After moving from their farm, they found their city lot too shaded to grow some vegetables which they now plant in the community garden.

The Menomonie Community Garden is more than just a collection of plots – it’s a gathering place. Gardeners come together for Sunday bonfires, harvest potlucks, morning coffee, and impromptu gatherings. Some share plants, tips, and books, while others simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

The garden’s impact extends beyond its walls, too. A designated plot provides fresh, pesticide-free produce to the local food pantry, making it a valuable resource for the broader community.

If you’re interested in renting a plot, you can reach the garden organizers at [email protected] or visit menomoniecommunitygarden.com

Plots fill fast but they maintain a waiting list. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, the Menomonie Community Garden is a place where you can grow, learn, and connect.

Annemarie McClellan is a Menomonie resident and has a backyard garden.