Established in April 2008 by Evergreen, Fort York Community Garden with started with 26 4’x8’ raised bed plots. To reflect the community some plots were designated individual, some are community group, and a a few plots were designated “communal”. Currently these latter plots have been designated for “Herbs” and “Garlic”. After our first successful year, an additional 12 plots were constructed. In 2011 the garden became self-governed and self-sufficient, although satellite support is still received from a key liaison at Evergreen. Membership is limited to Toronto residents living within 3km of the garden with no other access to planting facilities. Two celebrations are held during the planting season. A community gathering & garden blessing heralds the start of planting, while traditionally a potluck has celebrated our harvest. Other events – such as workshops – may be planned.
We take pride in our location, and enjoy being part of being the Fort’s outreach efforts. In return we participate on some Fort activities. In 2008, Evergreen initiated a planting of 200 Native wildflowers and grasses which FYCG members planted. Additionally There are opportunities to participate in historical garden and cooking programs at the Fort.
Visits: Visitors can call for garden session times, or visit during Fort York open hours toronto.ca/culture/museums/fort-york.htm) . Please keep in mind that Fort York is a National Historic Site museum and entrance fees are required to enter any of the buildings. The public is invited to respectfully walk through the site, and to visit the community garden.
Location: On the North side of Historic Fort York, 100 Garrison Road
Directions: On foot, you can access the garden from Bathurst St and Front St. Walk on the west side of Bathurst heading south across the bridge. Look for the garden on the north side of the Fort walls. Take the footbridge on your right into the Fort York, and head around the walls to the right to get to the garden. Or, enter the site from the main entrance on the west, and walk all the way through the site on the main path; the garden is a hard left once you pass through the east gate. By car, enter Garrison Road off of Fleet St or Fort York Blvd where there is free parking.
Accessibility: The main pathways at Fort York are paved, but the garden site is well maintained grass, with fairly flat terrain. The garden plots are all 1’ raised beds. We hope to build a higher raised bed in 2009 for those with mobility issues. Washrooms are accessible, though not always open.
