The James Bay Neighbourhood Association is pushing for urban growth — as in the cultivation of berry bushes and fruit trees in city spaces.
Over the past four years, the association has planted a variety of apple trees in a green space off Montreal Street near MacDonald Park, while Charles Redfern Park by Laurel Point is now home to two apple trees and three hazelnut trees.
Today at Victoria council, advocates will present a plan to add berry bushes to the mix, said association president Marg Gardiner. A city grant has funded previous work.
Two spots have been identified as possibilities for berry patches, she said — one at Quebec and Pendray and the other at Montreal and Kingston. Both include seating in the preliminary drawings. The proposal is to do the Quebec/Pendray patch first and see how the community likes it, Gardiner said.
The types of berries to be planted have not been determined, and it will be up to volunteers to plant, maintain and harvest the fruits.
Once plantings are established, Gardiner said, the berries, fruit and nuts will be available to anyone walking by. “Currently, the city-managed herb garden at the corner of Fisherman’s Wharf Park is well-used by residents and others.”
The first harvest from the trees planted near MacDonald Park is anticipated this fall, Gardiner said.
The program gives residents, especially those who live in multi-family dwellings without private yard space, the opportunity to get their hands in the earth while contributing to the community, she said.
Also included in the effort is a herb box, created in partnership with Discovery Coffee, and a partnership with the Montreal Street allotment garden.
A native plant and pollinator garden is envisioned for a Montreal Street boulevard.
Volunteers help with the design and ongoing maintenance of each area, Gardiner said.
The program has also promoted gardening over the years with plant swaps. The next one will be May 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at Irving Park, at Menzies and Michigan streets.
“Take anything extra you have or go to pick up things and enjoy the company.”
People can bring along whatever garden-related items they like and either sell them or donate them, she said.
