Williamsburg Community Growers Host Cut Your Own Sunflower Event

News Summary

The Williamsburg Community Growers will hold a fundraising event and free garden workshop on August 2. Attendees can pick sunflowers at $1 per stem and participate in a food preservation workshop. The nonprofit organization supports healthy living and sustainable practices in the community, offering garden plots and operating a community-supported agriculture program. All proceeds from the event will be reinvested into community initiatives.

Williamsburg – The Williamsburg Community Growers will host a Cut Your Own Sunflower fundraising event and a free garden workshop this weekend on August 2. The event will run from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the sunflower field near Wanner Stadium at the Warhill Sports Complex. Visitors can pick their own sunflowers for $1 per stem, and the event will operate on a cash-only basis.

At 10 a.m., following the sunflower picking, a workshop will be held that focuses on food preservation techniques. Participants will learn about methods such as freezing, canning, pickling, and curing fruits and vegetables. This workshop aims to empower individuals with knowledge on how to save and utilize their home-grown produce effectively.

The Williamsburg Community Growers is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting healthy living and sustainable practices in the local community. The community garden supported by the organization includes more than 100 gardeners who cultivate various flowers and vegetables, some of which are internationally focused. Additionally, the garden serves as a source of local produce for individuals in need, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to supporting community wellness.

Since its establishment 10 years ago by Charlie Morse, the garden has grown significantly. It occupies a 10-acre tract of land situated beneath Dominion power lines, which allows for the utilization of land that may otherwise remain neglected. The Colonial Soil and Water Conservation District was integral to launching the garden. To date, the garden has harvested over 13,460 pounds of produce, of which 8,462 pounds have been donated to local nonprofits.

As part of its efforts to make fresh produce accessible, the nonprofit operates a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program, which boasts 32 subscribers. This program offers produce shares from May to November, reflecting the garden’s ongoing commitment to helping the community thrive.

All funds raised during the sunflower event will be reinvested back into the nonprofit community garden and farm, further supporting initiatives that benefit the local community. Visitors to the farm should be aware that bees are common in the area, and those with allergies are advised to take appropriate precautions. Additionally, individuals interested in volunteering or learning more about the community garden can find more information at growwilliamsburg.org.

Garden plots are available for rent at a cost of $65 for a 10-by-10 foot space or $130 for a 10-by-20 foot plot, providing opportunities for residents to engage in gardening, which has been embraced by the community. Nearly 400 volunteers have participated in the garden’s operations, highlighting the community spirit and collaboration that are key components of this initiative.

In summary, the upcoming sunflower event and preservation workshop is an opportunity for the community to enjoy the outdoors, learn valuable skills, and support a nonprofit organization that is making a difference in Williamsburg. With a commitment to sustainable practices and community enhancement, Williamsburg Community Growers continues to be a valuable resource for local residents.

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Williamsburg Community Growers Host Cut-Your-Own Sunflower Event

Additional Resources

• WYDaily: Cut Your Own Sunflower Event
• Wikipedia: Sunflower
• Daily Press: How Does This Garden Grow
• Google Search: Williamsburg Community Growers
• WYDaily: Williamsburg 11U All-Stars
• Google Scholar: Community Gardens
• Williamsburg Families: Library Events
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Gardens
• WYDaily: WM Alums Featured in HBO’s Hard Knocks
• Google News: Williamsburg Virginia