In the concrete jungle of New York City, pockets of green are sprouting up, bringing life and vitality to urban neighborhoods. These urban oases are transforming not just the physical landscape of the city, but also the lives of those who tend to them.
At the heart of New York City's thriving community garden scene, you'll find Matt Zebroski, a dedicated gardener and community leader. For over a decade, Matt has been an integral part of the St. Mark's Community Garden in Brooklyn, transforming it from a simple plot to a vibrant community space. His journey began with a desire for outdoor space and quickly blossomed into a passion for urban gardening and community building.
Over the years, Matt's commitment led him to join the board of directors of the Brooklyn Queens Land Trust (BQLT), where he helped manage operations and property for numerous community gardens across the boroughs. From installing wrought iron fences to organizing jazz concerts in the gardens, Matt's hands-on approach and creative spirit have left an indelible mark on NYC's community gardening landscape.
A Brief History
Community gardens in NYC have a rich history dating back to the 1970s. As Zebroski recounts, "The history of community gardens in New York City starts back in the '70s, when the city was artistically really fascinating and interesting and cool but economically like f***." During this time, vacant lots proliferated, and creative individuals saw an opportunity to transform these neglected spaces.
One of the pioneering groups was the Green Guerillas, still very much active today. Zebroski explains, "The Green Guerillas used to do stuff like make seed bombs out of Christmas ornaments, and throw them over razor wire to just grow flowers in vacant lots, all kinds of really cool ways to grow plants and make these dirty, desolate areas better."
Over time, the community garden movement grew and evolved. Today, these gardens are protected by various land trusts, including the Brooklyn Queens Land Trust (BQLT), which Zebroski has been heavily involved with. "We have lawyers, we have insurance, we have rules, like the gardens have to be open to the public for a certain amount of hours. They're run by the gardeners themselves, and they're owned by the land trust. So we work together."
The Community Aspect
One of the most appealing aspects of community gardens is the diverse group of people they bring together. Zebroski explains, "Community gardens in New York are special in that the gardeners don't have a lot in common in terms of their jobs. You have all kinds of different people, they all like to grow things, but you'll have a doctor, you'll have a musician, you'll have a lawyer, you'll have a guy that works in sanitation, a teacher, you know, it's people that would never meet otherwise."
This diversity creates a unique social environment. "It's super rewarding when you do stuff, like build something that makes somebody happy, to be involved in a place where somebody gets married. I mean, people have been born in these gardens, people have been married in these gardens, people have died in the gardens. They are heavy places where community involvement happens at every level that you can imagine," Zebroski shares.
The impact of these gardens extends far beyond just growing plants. Zebroski emphasizes their role during challenging times: "Community gardens were really, really, really helpful keeping people from losing their minds. In COVID times where people are really isolated, I think it saved a lot of people's lives."
What to Expect as a New Gardener
For those inspired to join a community garden, Zebroski offers practical advice. "Just go there and hang out and ask questions and spend time there. You'll just find yourself getting involved, you'll learn something that you didn't know you wanted to know. And you'll just follow a path."
What can a new gardener expect? Most community gardens offer individual plots where members can grow a variety of plants. While practices vary, many gardeners grow a mix of flowers, vegetables, and herbs. The possibility of growing fresh, organic produce is a significant draw for many city dwellers looking to eat healthier and connect with their food source.
Zebroski's garden, like many others, maintains a composting system. Composting is the process of recycling organic matter (like food scraps and yard waste) into a valuable fertilizer that can enrich soil and plants. Gardeners often contribute their kitchen scraps and garden waste to communal compost bins, which not only helps their gardens but also reduces waste sent to landfills, benefiting the environment.
Time Commitment and Resources
The time commitment for community gardening can vary widely depending on the individual and the garden. Zebroski, being heavily involved, spends a significant amount of time in the garden, especially during the growing season. However, many gardeners might visit their plots once or twice a week for a few hours to water, weed, and tend to their plants.
As for what to bring, most gardens provide basic tools, but gardeners often bring their own gloves, small hand tools, and of course, seeds or seedlings. Some gardens may have membership fees to cover shared expenses like water and compost.
Getting Connected
For those interested in joining a community garden in NYC, the process usually starts with finding a garden in your neighborhood. GreenThumb, NYC's community gardening program, maintains a list of registered community gardens. Once you've found a garden near you, the next step is to visit during their open hours, meet the members, and inquire about joining.
Be aware that popular gardens often have waitlists for individual plots. However, many gardens welcome volunteers even if plots aren't immediately available, allowing newcomers to learn and contribute while waiting for their own space.
The Future of Urban Gardening
The potential for growth and expansion of community gardens in NYC is exciting and filled with promise. Despite the challenges of urban real estate, Zebroski remains optimistic. "New York City real estate is obviously at an insane premium compared to the way it was in the '70s. But there are still open lots, there are still vacant lots. And there's still people claiming those vacant lots and trying to get them owned by land trusts."
Looking at the tapestry of community gardens across New York City, it's clear that they're more than just plots of land – they're the living, growing embodiment of community spirit and resilience. They represent the power of grassroots action to transform urban spaces and improve quality of life for city residents.
In a world facing increasing urbanization and environmental challenges, the humble community garden may just be the seed of change we need to cultivate more sustainable, connected, and vibrant cities for the future. Whether you're looking to grow your own food, meet new people, or simply find a peaceful green space in the city, community gardens offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature and your neighbors in the heart of the concrete jungle.
