Several years ago one of the board members of the Fayette Senior Center and a couple of Fayette’s Master Gardeners thought a therapeutic garden on the grounds at the center sounded like a fine idea.
That idea has come to fruition. The official opening is today (June 15) at 10 a.m. next to the Fayette Senior Center.
Because the 15,000-square-foot space was really a drainage field, fill dirt and top soil needed to be brought in. In addition, funds were needed for the project. It was estimated that the entire project would take about $65,000.
The venture began in earnest eight weeks ago. County workers brought in fill dirt from around the county, $35,000 had been received in cash, and volunteers were rounded up.
The original garden plan was first laid out by Andy’s Nursery in Fayetteville.
Several Boy Scout troops sent volunteers; the Fayette County Bar Association sent a couple of judges, Stephen Ott and Fletcher Sams, bar member Chris Brown, Probate Judge Ann Jackson, and others who would show up in the mornings before it would get hot. Dan Gibbs volunteered untold number of hours as the project manager.
The funds purchased good top soil, and sprinkler system, fencing, bricks, marble pavers, blocks, cement and a conservatory.
There will be fruit trees, blueberry bushes, tomatoes, and many, many kinds of flowers. The vegetables will given to Meals-On-Wheels, and used in the Senior Center kitchen.
It is hoped to obtain more donations so that a second conservatory can be added, as well as a tool shed, and a gazebo.
A number of benches will be placed throughout the garden, as well as two fountains for therapeutic visits.
The speaker for today’s ceremony will be Fayette native, Walter Reeves, a graduate of Fayette County High School. Reeves is well-known for his gardening shows on Georgia Public Television.
Refreshments and a garden tour will be immediately follow the ceremony. For information phone 770-461-0813.
