*St. Mary’s Community Garden in Central Lonsdale. Photo: Ghislaine Courcelles*

August is the time to stop and smell the roses. Check out one of our many community gardens. Gardens on public land are open to anyone. So if you want to go inside and take a look at the plants, feel free - but no picking the flowers or veggies.

In the context of climate change, community gardens play a crucial role in fostering resilience and sustainability. Here on the shore, we see various models for these gardens responding to the need for localized food production and environmental stewardship. Municipalities, such as the District of West Vancouver, oversee some gardens, like those along Argyle Avenue and at the Glen Eagles Community Centre. These spaces benefit from the care of dedicated volunteers and members who help cultivate both plants and community ties.

Community associations run others; for example, the North Vancouver Community Garden Society is a non-profit that administers seven different garden locations in the City and District of North Vancouver.

*Tomatoes look yummy - but please don’t pick. Photo: Heather Drugge*

*Kohlrabi and chives Photo: Heather Drugge*

Housing Coops and strata buildings run others.

*4th floor patio and garden plots at 15 West in Central Lonsdale*

Sometimes neighbours get together and beautify traffic circles, boulevards, and laneways.

*A utility corridor garden in my neighbourhood. We call it ‘Little Tuscany.’ Photo: Heather Drugge*

There are as many models for a community garden as you can think of, and probably more. With climate change impacting food security and increasing the need for ecological awareness, the concept of community gardens has never been more important. The chief requirement for a garden is land, of course. Many plots exist on public land adjacent to schools, such as Queen Mary Garden, or recreational centers like the Lynn Valley Lions Garden. Not all gardens are at ground level; some thrive on patios or rooftops, maximizing urban spaces.

*Nasturtiums are edible. Photo: Heather Drugge*

*Solitary bee hives at the Queen Mary garden. Photo: Heather Drugge*

Allotment Gardens

Don’t have an outdoor space, but want to grow flowers, veggies or fruit? Allotment gardens give you that chance. There is a nominal annual fee of between $15 and $100 - depending on the garden. There’s a wait list for these gardens across the shore, so put your name down today for a plot tomorrow:

North Vancouver

West Vancouver

Gardens attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems. Many gardens include hives to house local pollinators. These bee homes are in the Lynn Valley Community Garden Photo: Heather Drugge

The Edible Garden Project

The Edible Garden Project runs ‘farm’ style gardens at Loutet Park and Sutherland Secondary school. These gardens were created in partnership with the North Shore Neighbourhood House, the City of North Vancouver and the University of BC. The goal is to teach the community about food systems, helping people become involved in local food production and gaining access to locally grown produce. This is increasingly vital as climate change challenges global supply chains.

*Poppies and tickseed Photo: Heather Drugge*

The hidden services gardens provide

Not only are community gardens beautiful, but they also offer essential services in the face of climate change. They foster social bonds, cultivate physical and mental health, and enhance our environment. Here’s a list of their many benefits:

🌱 Environmental Benefits

Stormwater Management: Soil and vegetation help absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and flooding.
Reduced Food Miles: Growing food locally reduces transportation emissions.

*Dramatic Clematis blooms. Photo: Heather Drugge*

*Native species, like this Fiddleneck attract pollinators Photo: Heather Drugge*

🧠 Health & Wellness Benefits

Access to Fresh Produce: People can grow and eat nutritious fruits and vegetables. Gardens with fruit trees can provide many homes with produce.
Physical Activity: Gardening is a low-impact form of exercise that promotes mobility and strength.
Mental Health Boost: Being in nature and working with plants can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Therapeutic Value: Many community gardens serve as healing spaces for trauma recovery or disability support.

*Loutet Farm Market Photo: Ghislaine Courcelles*

🤝 Social & Community Benefits

Social Bonds: Neighbours meet, collaborate, and build relationships through shared gardening efforts.
Cultural Exchange: Gardens often reflect the diverse backgrounds of participants, fostering cross-cultural learning.
Educational Opportunities: Kids and adults alike learn about biology, sustainability, and nutrition.
Community Empowerment: Residents take ownership of their space, often leading to broader civic engagement.

*Abundance at the Queen Mary community garden Photo: Heather Drugge*

Partnerships make our gardens grow

Gardens flourish through collaboration. Local businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, and educational institutions contribute resources, making community gardens financially viable and sustainable in the long term. Many of these gardens occupy land owned by municipalities, schools, churches, or other organizations, reinforcing the importance of community-led solutions to environmental challenges.

As we navigate the impacts of climate change, community gardens represent a vital strategy for enhancing resilience, promoting sustainability, and building connections within our neighborhoods. Let’s create as many as we can.

North Shore community gardens are bloomin’ everywhere