University of Florida Agronomy-Soils Club Towne Parc Gardens.

Towne Parc is a rental community located in Gainesville, less than two miles from the University of Florida campus, and houses over 500 residents.  About a year ago, a member of the Towne Parc staff contacted one of our Agronomy-Soils club members, stating the community was interested in creating a garden that its residents could utilize, and wanted advice on the best way to complete the task.  After assembling a team of members from our club that was interested in assisting with the project, we went out and evaluated the site location.  After considering the field conditions, soil, and irrigation concerns, we began taking soil samples and sent them to the UF soil lab for testing.  First, we looked at the content of heavy metals to ensure the soil was safe for the use of food production.  Next, we met with the Towne Parc management and discussed plot sizes, equipment needed for maintenance, and the most feasible way to provide irrigation.  Once we agreed upon the plot sizes, we tilled the field with a small disker.  We then took another soil sample, looked at the nutrient availability, and followed the recommendations given by our soil lab.  Once the garden was ready for use, we gave a presentation to the Towne Parc management and residents.  We explained the terms agronomy and soil and informed them of the pests and pathogens that commonly afflict vegetables grown in Florida.  We also discussed the concept of integrated pest management and the benefits of incorporating such practices into their gardening.  Thus, with the help of some of our club members and the property management team, a piece of Towne Parc property was converted into a vegetable garden.  The goal of this project is to continuously provide recommendations and educate the Towne Parc staff and residents wishing to utilize the garden.