THE call has recently gone out to the green thumbs of Millicent to create edible gardens over the month of May.
The Millicent and Surrounds Food Network and Pine Lime Designs have recently announced the first round of the Victory Verge challenge which runs until May 31.
The two groups are behind this year’s successful revival of the Millicent Community Garden in Fifth Street, which is currently closed as a result of coronavirus protocols.
According to the organisers, the growing of a Victory Verge or Victory Garden was timely given the stresses associated with the current COVID-19 pandemic.
“In times of uncertainty, self-reliance and resilience are naturally ideas that pop into everyone’s mind,” Millicent and Surrounds Food Network chairman Jared Robinson said.
“The frustration of not knowing what to do next or where to start building resiliency in your own food security and home economics can be overwhelming.
“The solution, however can be found in your front yard.
“Victory Gardens, also called war gardens or food gardens for defence, were gardens planted both at private residences and on public land during World War I and World War II to reduce the pressure on the public food supply as a result of the war effort”.
Mr Robinson said the COVID-19 protocols did not preclude people getting out into their gardens in their front yard and interacting with their neighbours.
“During this time of isolation, it is good to have such interaction,” he said.
“At this time of the year, it is best to have fast-growing plants like radishes, peas, garlic onions, potatoes and broad beans.
“We are offering seed packs as prizes.”
Millicent Business Community Association chairman Lee Morgan welcomed the cultivation in front yards to promote sustainable living.
“It is a great way of getting the community to interact at a distance during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Morgan said.
“From an association perspective, anything that brings pride and confidence to the town is supported.
“Our association has noted there has been a surge for hardware purchases as residents focus on upgrading and painting their homes and investments.
“It is marvellous to see the town improving in its look and feel and this will attract future confidence, investment and newcomers to Millicent.”
