Dalton resident Alan Dakey watering his garden recently at the South Abington Community Garden. Dakey said the community garden provides a chance tor plenty of sunshine and amenities, as well as a chance to get to know like-minded felllow gardeners.
Geri Gibbons | For Abington Journal
SOUTH ABINGTON TWP. — South Abington’s community garden is now in full bloom, despite a dry summer which has required gardeners to be extra diligent when it comes to keeping their plants watered.
Dalton resident Alan Dakey said the effort is worth it and translated into a bounty of fresh vegetables for the family table, which includes beans, tomatoes, squash, brussel sprouts and broccoli.
Dakey, who tends the garden with his wife Diana, said the couple is careful to include some flowering blooms as well, to attract pollinating insects and make for a healthier garden.
He notes that the gardens also attract a variety of birds, including the Kildeer, which plays dead in an attempt to draw attention from its young and keep them safe.
Dakey, who said he’s had a spot at the community garden for about five years, said the couple tends to stick with the same types of vegetable plants year after year.
“We know what we like and what works for us,” he said.
Dakey said he is appreciative of the community garden, “because my own property is filled with shade and deer.”
He pointed out that in addition to being provided with a great spot for gardening and necessary amenities, including water, members are required to participate in a community work day.
Any extra vegetables harvested are either shared with other gardeners or donated to the area’s food pantry, he said.
Dakey said some vegetables will see a final harvest, but others, including brussel sprouts and squash, will successfully make it through the end of September.
The garden is a mix of healthy vegetables and colorful flowers.
As the summer moves forward, crops and colors change.
In August, for example, sunflowers rise above the other plants in a range of yellows.
In early autumn, pumpkins will mark the season with a variety of golden oranges.
The Abington Community Garden was built in 2008 with donations from community leaders, businesses and organizations.
It is a program of the Abington Area Joint Recreation Board and run by volunteers.
