The fourth annual plant sale was held on April 19th at the Miller Red Barn in Christmas Hill Park, showcasing thousands of organic plant starts for $5 each, carefully cultivated by the group’s members in their home gardens.
- Heirloom tomatoes
- Asian vegetables
- Rare peppers
- Diverse selection of annual flowers
These organic plant starts, grown using good soil and a commitment to sustainable practices, have been a staple of the group’s sales, attracting visitors from throughout the community. According to Mary Lou Mazzone, board director and volunteer coordinator, “This is our fourth year,” and the event has grown significantly since its inception during the pandemic.
| Member | Contribution |
| Rich Yamashida, President | Started the group during the pandemic |
| 45 members | Grow a lot of our produce from seed, organic, using good soil |
A new feature added this year was a professional speakers’ series, offering insights into various topics such as grape vine cultivation, landscape design, and organic fertilizers. These presentations not only educated attendees but also provided an opportunity for members to learn from each other. “For those who actually grow all of their own vegetables, it’s a great resource,” Mazzone explained. “They come here and get the plants because they know they were grown by us ourselves. The city provides soil, compost, and mulch, so we can share resources with our community.”
The Gilroy Gardening Group, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicates the proceeds from this event to various community organizations, including the Miller Red Barn Association, Operation Freedom Paws, and local school gardening programs. The group also facilitates knowledge sharing and plant and seed exchange among its members, further strengthening the community bonds.
“We want to create a community that is connected through gardening and growing our own food,” said Mazzone. “It’s not just about the plants, but about the relationships and the knowledge we share.”
The event’s success is a testament to the group’s dedication to promoting sustainable gardening practices and fostering a sense of community among its members. By providing a platform for knowledge sharing, plant exchange, and education, the Gilroy Gardening Group continues to thrive and grow, ensuring the long-term sustainability of its members’ gardening endeavors.
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