Union County Master Gardeners Share Harvest With Those in Need

The Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County are proud to announce another bountiful season from their Sharing Garden, where dedicated volunteers have donated fresh, locally grown produce to help address food insecurity throughout the county.

"We are immensely proud of our Master Gardeners, who have generously volunteered their time and effort through this program to support those in need within our community. Thank you for not only placing nutritious food on the tables of so many families, but for bringing hope for the future of this great county," said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon.

Located at the Demonstration Gardens in Watchung Reservation, the Sharing Garden has produced and donated more than 31,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables since its founding in 2002. All produce is distributed to 13 agencies throughout Union County, including local food pantries, shelters, and community organizations serving families in need.

This volunteer-powered garden is tended by certified Rutgers Master Gardeners-community members trained in sustainable horticulture through the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County. The Sharing Garden operates in partnership with Union County and reflects a shared commitment to supporting local residents through education, service, and environmental stewardship.

Volunteers are active in the garden for a full nine months of the year. Seeding begins in our greenhouse in mid-March and planting in the raised garden beds starts in mid-April. Produce harvesting and distribution kicks off in June and lasts through the end of October. Early crops include beets, turnips, lettuce, scallions and bok choy. Summer crops include peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, green beans, summer squash, zucchini, carrots, collards, basil, and Swiss chard.

"Every tomato, carrot, and pepper harvested here represents a small act of care and community," said Terry Moore, Sharing Garden Coordinator. "We grow more than just food-we grow hope."

"The Sharing Garden is a shining example of what happens when passionate volunteers and public support come together for the public good," said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski. "The Board of County Commissioners is proud to support this initiative, which not only provides healthy food to our neighbors in need, but also nurtures a culture of giving, learning, and environmental responsibility."

In addition to the original Sharing Garden, a Sharing Garden Annex was added to increase growing capacity. With the support of county grants and community volunteers, the garden continues to expand and inspire.

Visitors are welcome to explore the Demonstration Gardens on occasional Saturday mornings throughout the summer. Guided group tours may be arranged by calling the Rutgers Cooperative Extension office at (908) 654-9854.

The Sharing Garden is located at the Demonstration Gardens behind the Trailside Nature and Science Center, 452 New Providence Road, Mountainside, NJ.

For more information about the Master Gardeners program, including how to volunteer, visit www.mastergardeners-uc.org or email [email protected]