WE ARE THE UNIVERSITY'S GARDENING PROJECT.
We are a student-led group that manages and cultivates a large allotment space on campus. We work and grow our produce collectively and we welcome new volunteers.
GROWING AND BUILDING
Some of the crops that we have successfully grown or are currently growing include potatoes, raspberries, gooseberries, red currants, sweetcorn, tomatoes, artichokes, radishes, salad leaves, a variety of herbs, carrots, onions, beetroot, strawberries, chillies, peas, green beans. We also have a few fruit trees! We work together to grow our produce and share it between members.
SUSTAINABILITY
We strive to be as sustainable as possible in our activities. We use second-hand and repurposed resources where possible and aim to incorporate permaculture into our use of the space. We also regularly engage with sustainability events on campus. During the harvest periods we sell surplus produce on campus, saving members of the community from purchasing food from less-sustainable sources.
WELLBEING & VOLUNTEERING
Outdoor activities like gardening are often discussed as great ways to improve mental health and general wellbeing. Whilst gardening isn't a cure-all for mental ill-health, we strive to create an inclusive, welcoming and safe space for students, staff and members of the public to work together and build friendships. We ensure that all our produce is either gifted to students, or given to people in need.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
You can register here! The project's comms officer will get in contact with you.
🗓️ Sundays, 11am-3pm
📍 email vteamgreen@essex.ac.uk for details
.🥾Green Thumbs is an outdoor project - please remember to wear wellies, boots, or sturdy flat shoes – and dress appropriately for the weather!
Click here to register!