The Co-op Food Stores

added 02/21/08

One of the many benefits of Co-op membership is the opportunity to rent a garden plot for the summer. Plots are available at the Co-op’s Community Garden, located on Route 5 in Norwich, Vermont. The gardening season runs from approximately the third week in May through September 15. Each year, the Co-op holds a drawing to allocate plots to interested members.

Renters make a payment of $40 in the form of two $20 checks, one of which will be returned if the plot is cleared of all stakes, markers, and other non-plant debris in early fall. The other check covers the rental of a 20-by-20-foot plot, pre-season rototilling, hay mulch, and on-site water pumped from the adjacent wetland. Half-size plots, renting for $15 plus a $15 clean-up deposit, will also be available.

All gardeners must tend their plots with organic gardening methods, limiting themselves to natural or organic fertilizers and pest control methods. Plastic mulch is not permitted; the use of hay or other organic mulch is strongly recommended as both a weed control and a means of retaining soil moisture. In the spirit of cooperation, gardeners are considerate in their use of water, a limited resource. Assistance from gardeners in maintaining the overall well-being of the garden area is welcomed.

To enter the drawing for a plot, send your contact information and two checks for $20 each, made out to the Co-op Food Stores, to

Missy Jordan, Member Services Coordinator
Hanover Co-op
P.O. Box 633
Hanover, NH 03755

so they are received on or before Monday, March 31. Winners will be notified by phone or e-mail on Tuesday, April 1. If there are more requests than plots available, a waiting list will be established. Checks will be returned to those who do not get a plot.

If you have further questions, contact Missy at (603) 643-2667 ext. 6323 or please email us.