people looking at a raised vegetable bed in full bloom
Members of the Knox County Local Food Council visit the community garden at Faith Lutheran Church on Aug. 6, 2024. Credit: Cheryl Splain


MOUNT VERNON – Growing your fruits and vegetables brings a sense of accomplishment to the gardener and provides an alternative to store-bought produce. As springtime approaches, now is the time to plan.

The Knox County Local Food Council is promoting four community gardens with beds available throughout Mount Vernon:
–Arch Park, Arch Avenue, 740-393-1736

–Community Roots, 1104 West Gambier Street, 740-263-7848

–Faith Lutheran Church, 170 Mansfield Avenue, 740-393-3666

–Vine & Lawn, 1009 East Vine Street, 740-397-5721

Water and some tools will be available at each location. Fencing is provided to keep deer and other wildlife from helping themselves to the gardens’ bounties.

Crops that grow well in central Ohio include tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, squash, melons,
beans, and herbs. You can also grow flowers.

The Knox County Local Food Council is made up of ​local agencies, organizations, businesses, and individuals. Their mission is to promote fresh, healthy, affordable local foods and bring awareness for opportunities to support a thriving local food system. This is done by supporting local producers, farmers markets, community gardens and food assistance agencies.

For more information about community gardens, contact the Knox County Local Food Council at knoxcountylocalfoodcouncil.@gmail.com.