When I first heard of the guerrilla gardening concept just a few days ago I was fascinated. Then I realized, I also was a part of this effort while I lived in New York almost twenty years ago.
My Story
Back in 1995, I remember planting bushes and trees on the streets of Corson Avenue and Victory Boulevard in Staten Island, NY. It was the thrill of knowing that green will prevail in spite of the industrialization of this location.
I felt empowered to be a part of this, even if it was only one time. I do not recall asking for permission from property owners, and if not that would be one prime example of guerrilla gardening. Furthermore, I often passed by community gardens present in downtown Manhattan. One of the most famous of all local landscape projects of this type is the Liz Christy Community Garden. It is found on Bowery at Houston Avenue, nearby Second Avenue.
Now this spot resides with permission of the city, so it really is more thought of as a community led regeneration project. However, the name of the organization that is very actively involved in outdoor projects like this is the Green Guerillas. Therefore, it often is referred to as a guerrilla gardening plot.
About the Liz Christy Community Garden
It was founded under the name First Community Garden in 1973. However, the presence of it dates back to the 17th century which then the location of it was Bouwerie and North Street.
From the mid-1970s onward the Green Guerillas took over the planting and care of it. Then, in 1986 it was dedicated to Liz Cristy, it’s founder. Over the past two decades, this garden has continued to flourish as a result of local dedication of passionate community regeneration volunteers.
It is open to anyone who wishes to take a nature walk or sit and relax somewhere along the path of vast shades of wildflowers and diverse types of greens. Pets and children are allowed, as long as they are kept under careful supervision. Anyone also can become a member and after 20 hours of volunteer service they can obtain a garden key.
Any flowers, bushes, or trees planted are there for the enjoyment of all but of course they don’t want anyone to touch-just look! Over the years, fruit trees, berry bushes, and vegetable plants have grown here. Guerilla gardening members have also planted redwoods and birches as well as flowering perennials and annuals.
Other New York Gardens
The NY York community led regeneration and guerillas gardening project also has brought continual life to other gardens.
Example sites include Papa and Mama Jones’ Community Garden in Brooklyn, The West Side Community Garden in Manhattan, and the Two Coves Community Garden in Queens.
Flora that can be find in various New York plots include geraniums, trillium, apples, tulips, orchids, and violets. Greens and flowers are implanted year round, and as a result something is always blooming at one of these community led gardens.
New York’s first Community Garden
http://www.lizchristygarden.us/
