Plant a little extra for the hungry

On days like today, harvesting anything from the garden seems like ions away. But we know that we must plan, dig and sow now, in order to enjoy the fruits (or vegetables) of our labor later. 

 Last year we learned that we planted way too many tomato and zucchini plants and had more than our family could enjoy. We shared what we could, but regrettably, there was some waste.

I’m thrilled to have found a great way to share our harvest with other families who really need it. The Oregon Food Bank has a program called Plant a Row for the Hungry which encourages us to grow extra produce for our local hunger-relief agencies. They’re always in need of fresh fruits and vegetables, and will make sure the hungry folks in Oregon can enjoy our produce.

Getting started

Fruits and vegetables are easy to grow in our Pacific Northwest climate, but if you’re new or want to learn more, you can attend one of Oregon Food Bank's free gardening workshops.

Simply set aside a row in your garden to grow food to donate. Plant and tend your row and deliver the food to an agency in your neighborhood once a week.

Most wanted produce

Food pantries and soup kitchens need produce that stores and transports well. Refrigerated space is often limited, so foods that don't require refrigeration are always wanted. Here are some recommendations:

• Tomatoes (pick while slightly under-ripe)
• Green beans
• Winter squash (acorn or butternut)
• Garlic
• Hot peppers
• Cucumbers
• Zucchini
• Collard greens
• Onions

Some of these were on our list anyway for this year, so we’ll plant a few extra. We’re also replacing anything that didn’t survive our harsh weather with something edible so there should be plenty to share.

Please share this program with other family gardeners who know that can help. And if you don’t live in Oregon, check with your local food bank for a similar way to share your bounty.

Comments

[Michelle]

Thanks for writing about this. I hope to give it a try in our garden this year. It's the first year I am giving our veggie patch my 100% and I'll definitely want to share with someone who needs it. Great tips!