Community garden planting has officially begun with the combined effort of individuals and agencies from around Carter County. For some, it was their first experience planting a garden, and others with more experience helped show where to place each plant.

“Everyone played an important role in making this a reality,” said project leader Jilian Reece, the health educator for the Tobacco Settlement with the Carter County Health Department. “We appreciate everyone’s efforts and can’t wait to see the progress this summer.”

The planting took place at the Elizabethton Housing and Development Agency (EHDA) Tuesday, where 12 beds were planted with herbs, cucumbers, squash, tomatoes, peppers and other summer and fall veggies.

Lowes donated all the plants and seeds, and Down to Earth supplied the soil at a discounted rate.

Volunteers ranging in age from toddlers to seniors with Build it Up East Tennessee, BABE Breastfeeding Coalition, Rural Resources, EHDA, Southern Appalachian Birth Network, Downtown Chiropractic, UT Agriculture Extension and others participated.

The gardens at Village Pediatrics are planted as well, and the gardens at the Elizabethton Senior Center and Elizabethton/Carter County Public Library will be planted soon.

Reece said residents of public housing will maintain and benefit from the gardens there, while the gardens at the Senior Center will be maintained by seniors. Gardens at Village Pediatrics will be maintained by moms in the Breastfeeding Coalition, and gardens at the library will be maintained by children in summer programs and by the Boys and Girls Club.

The gardens kick-off event at Covered Bridge park will take place on Saturday, May 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with activities for all ages, food vendors and live music. A plant swap will take place, and the winners will be announced from the community gardens naming contest held earlier this Spring.