Eighteen folks at Unity of Tucson have come together to “grow” a community garden from an old volleyball court. They are getting the area ready by building raised beds, bringing in compost and building soil, with the goal of being ready for the September planting.

Community residents are invited to join the efforts. For those who love to garden or grow their own food, this is an opportunity to get back to earth. Experienced gardeners and those wanting to learn are welcome.

Each gardener is responsible for building his/her own raised bed, helping with the group tasks, planting, fertilizing and maintaining the garden. The individual will need to provide a timer for part of the irrigation system as well as chip in to get the initial materials needed—fencing, shed, irrigation system, compost, tools, etc.

The materials for a raised bed, depending on the size, are a one-time cost of around $40 to $50. Though the water is free from Unity’s well, there will be a small fee to offset the cost of electricity to pump the water. Grow boxes with a self-watering system is also a choice.

“Families with young children can participate. This is a good way for kids to learn how food happens. It also encourages them to develop a taste for vegetables, as well as spending time digging in dirt,” says Molly Nelson, Unitics Coordinator at Unity of Tucson.

Location: 3617 N. Camino Blanco, Tucson. For more information, call 520-488-8284, email [email protected] or visit UnityTucson.com. See ad, page 18.