In the winter 2018 edition of The Green Sward, the official publication of the Ontario Parks Association, the City of Belleville garden displays have been recognized as feasts for the eye and body. Through the artistic and skilled blending of edibles with floral and folia the City transformed what were formerly traditional flower beds into edible landscapes.
The concept was introduced by Rowland Cave-Browne-Cave, Supervisor & Weed Inspector for the City of Belleville and embraced by Marie-Anne Ascott and Randall Koke, who took Rowland’s vision and developed creative designs throughout the City for everyone to enjoy. The beauty of these visual enhancements took on a richer meaning this fall when rather than being mere flower beds to clear away, they were food sources to be harvested and donated to local organizations. The Salvation Army, the main recipient of the vegetable donations from the City of Belleville, reported they received an estimated 673 bags of produce which included hot peppers, cabbage, rosemary, tri-coloured sage, basil, coriander, kale, Swiss chard and lavender.
“I’ve always mixed edibles with floral and folia in my own gardens and it was very exciting to bring this vision to our City landscapes,” explains Rowland Cave-Browne-Cave. “I appreciate the support of our department in transitioning this concept into a reality.”
“I commend the City Parks and Open Spaces Department on implementing this creative initiative that serves to not only enhance the beauty of our City but supports our residents in a practical, socially responsible way,” says Mayor Mitch Panciuk. “It is this type of thinking that enriches our community and I encourage others to bring forward new ideas which can help to strengthen the City of Belleville as a whole.”
To view the article published in the Ontario Parks Association Newsletter visit: http://ontarioparksassociation.memberlodge.com/resources/Documents/2018%20OPA%20Winter%20sward%20final.pdf