My Bronx Garden Tour

BY: Kelvin Fabian
The following web page is an account of a tour of community gardens throughout the Bronx. The gardens we visited are currently threatened with development. The tour was led by GreenThumb, and along for the ride were students from M.I.T.
This is me, Kelvin, with City Councilman Serrano. He joined us for a tour of community gardens in his district, because these are gardens may soon get built on. The councilman will get to choose which ones are "up for go", and others are up for development.

This garden is called "Jardin Criollo, Inc.". This garden has the only Pumpkin Apple tree in the South Bronx. They also grow California tomatoes, tulips, apple trees, and peppers. It has a small farm in the back with rabbits and hens. They have barbecues for small get togethers.

This site is called "Rincon Riollo Garden". This garden has been around for 28 years. Before that, it was a big hole with junks and old cars. Jose Chemasoto was the founder of this place. Seniors come to visit this garden, and they help tend plants that can act as medicines. Some of the leaves in the garden are used in teas that help lower blood pressure. They also grow beans, lettuce, peppers, apples, and pumpkins.
This garden is called the "Voyage Community Garden". It has been here for eight years. They grow peaches and tomatoes. Between 20 and 30 people help out. They have small parties and a place to relax.
This garden is located on 151st Street and Melrose Avenue in the South Bronx. The name of the garden is "Neighbor Advisory Community Garden, and has been around for twenty years. Until this day, folks from group homes help out. Children of all ages (including teens) also help out, and they have small parties and gatherings. Also, they have lightings on Christmas. Last, there is plant grown in memory of squad 411 for 9/11 in the garden.

 

This photo was taken in the Rincon Riollo garden. This group put on a musical performance for us.

photos and text by Kelvin Fabian

April, 2004

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