ediblecentraloregon.com | 27 free classes every year, both in person and also in webinar format. Some of the classes in spring 2026 included Seeds, Growing Vegetables in Central Oregon, and Bouquets from the Garden. These Master Gardener volunteers are also available for personal support at the gardens, answering any questions that come up. A GLIMPSE OF BEND’S COMMUNITY GARDENS Miller’s Landing Located in the Old Bend neighborhood along the river, Miller’s Landing Community Garden has been around since 2015. It is frequently visited by passersby, especially since the river access and park were updated that same year. The garden has a perimeter of cherry, plum, apple, peach, and pear trees, as well as flowering plants. Even in March, the garden was filled with garlic and various greens that had successfully overwintered. When I visited at the beginning of spring, I was greeted by two gardeners, Dave and Kathy. Dave, 86, was wearing a bright yellow windbreaker and helmet. In nice weather, Dave bikes two miles downhill to the garden and two miles uphill back home. He has a PhD in microbiology, which gives him an advantage for optimizing soil health. He has been gardening in the same bed since his second year and was busy cleaning up to prepare for spring planting. He said that every year, members gather for opening and closing work days and occasional events to hear a speaker and share a meal. Kathy is starting her first year at the garden. It took her two years to secure a spot after also entering the lottery for Discovery Park. Following her move to a smaller house, she missed having the space to garden. Once she won the lottery, she was able to choose from four available spots and picked hers based on how much direct sun it receives; she wants to have maximum light for summer veggies. When I met her, Kathy was looking forward to the beginning of the gardening season, which is determined by Bend Park and Recreation District. Once the water turns on, everyone shows up to get started. Hollinshead Opened in 1988, this is the oldest community garden in Bend. It’s located on the edge of the Orchard District in the “Banana Belt.” There are areas here that are slightly warmer than others, and even a degree or two can make a big difference. This garden is part of a 160-acre ranch originally developed in the 1800s; just over 16 acres was Miller’s Landing
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