A Farm in the City

Today we visited Luscher Farm in Lake Oswego.

Several themes surfaced as we queried gardeners, pondered inner city social problems, mismanaged open spaces, and photographed the garden.

Garden Art #1

First we appreciated garden art, and the artistic flare of some gardeners. Second, was the lengths gardeners went to in order to hasten growth or extend the season. Next, was the creative means of depriving rabbits and deer from devouring their garden treasures. We observed one serious mixologist-he had a barrel and other containers and was obviously cooking up some serious compost teas to feed his grateful plants.



Garden Art#2



Extending the Growing Season



No Critters Allowed



Compost Tea Feeds Plants

Contast that with encountering dozens of men and women holding cardboard signs reading "Anything helps", "Will work for food", "Need food for me and my girl" etc., and vast unused spaces that could be planted with edible landscape. Just what is edible landscape? Blueberries, rhubarb, artichokes, asparagus, columnar fruit trees are just a few low maintenence plants that could beautify the road side, and serve a dual purpose-feeding the hungry.

Artichokes: Attractive Fruit Grows on Top

Some might argue that fruit is messy. My counter would be first, that weeds are not very pleasing to look at either. At least when fruit drops, animals can eat it. A more practical argument is who will water the plants? The same problem exists with ornamental trees and shrubs. There are a few possible answers. First, have a group adopt and care for a specific area. Second, plant items suited for the Northwest. Lastly, prepare the ground well, and use soil conservation methods to prevent erosion and conserve water.



Long Lasting Asparagus: Fern Stage