WESTFIELD-With “exciting” plans for this spring at Grandmothers’ Garden, John DeFeo hopes area residents will consider donning garden gloves to help in the volunteer effort.
“We are in dire need of volunteers,” said DeFeo, noting that the current workforce is “dwindling.”
By the end of April or early May, DeFeo said volunteers will resume work on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to approximately noon. Physical tasks will range from weeding, transplanting and pruning to deadheading.
Volunteers are needed to continue the upkeep of Grandmothers’ Garden in Westfield. (Submitted photo)
“Volunteers can work the entire time or any length of time that works for them,” said DeFeo, adding that all tools are provided so volunteers only need to bring work gloves and are encouraged to also bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
Since its creation in the 1930’s, Grandmothers’ Garden has been lovingly operated and maintained by volunteers. Located off Smith Avenue, the colonial revival style garden is open to the public and several events are conducted each year including the popular Garden Party and Tour to raise funds for ongoing maintenance.
DeFeo noted that the formal garden is a particularly tranquil place to stroll through and relax or to take photographs for a variety of occasions. For couples considering getting married at the garden, there is a small fee.
“We have two teams this spring set to revitalize the herb garden and the Goshen Stone patio and raised garden areas,” said DeFeo, adding that because those teams will have specific tasks, volunteers will also be needed for the ongoing upkeep of the garden.
“We don’t want to see the garden fall into disrepair so we are in need of labor hours,” said DeFeo.
DeFeo, an aerospace machinist who also has his own garden, said one of the reasons he enjoys getting involved at Grandmothers’ Garden is the camaraderie that exists among volunteers.
“Not only is it a really pleasant way to spend a morning but you also meet such nice people, many master gardeners, who are willing to answer any questions you too might have about your own garden,” said DeFeo.
In addition to the revitalizing efforts happening this spring, DeFeo noted that several workshops are now in the planning stages. Topics will include composting and cooking with herbs. Also, Chester resident Anne Wellington will present a lecture on the history of Grandmothers’ Garden as part of the offerings.
“Anne Wellington will be a presenter at a flower symposium in South Carolina next month about Grandmothers’ Garden as part of the book she is previewing which we are very excited about,” said DeFeo.
For more information on volunteering, contact DeFeo via email to [email protected] or call him at (413) 374-4719.
“We take all skill levels,” said DeFeo, adding that adults are preferred, however, if a scout troop overseen by a troop leader wanted to help that too would be welcomed.
DeFeo said one of the benefits to also volunteering is many times volunteers go home with plants since perennials in particular need to be divided.
“As the season progresses and trimmings are done, volunteers also have opportunities to take home bouquets of flowers,” said DeFeo.
As workshops and events are added to this year’s programming, visit www.grandmothersgarden.org for more details.
