Tending your community garden plot can be a stress-relieving activity and an important way to supplement your grocery shopping during the COVID-19 pandemic. The health department has assured us that gardeners can continue to use their community garden plots. However, even as the City and County reopen, it is still important to be aware of the potential to spread the virus even if you don’t know you are ill. The following guidelines should still be followed at your garden.
Below are our recommendations for gardening at this time:
- Do not come to the garden if you are not feeling well or someone you live with does not feel well.
- Do not enter the garden if there are already 10 people there; come back later.
- Keep your distance (6 feet or more) from other gardeners. The CDC says this virus can be spread by people without any symptoms. If you need to be within 6 feet of another gardener, wear a mask.
- Clean off tool and hose handles before and after use because the virus has been found to survive up to 3 days on hard surfaces. We recommend you bring a towel or rag and use a solution of 4 teaspoons of bleach per quart of water to wipe down any tools that you use after removing any dirt.
- Please wash your hands with soap and water before and after gardening. If soap is not provided then consider bringing some with you.
- Use your own hand tools if you have them.
- Wear gloves if possible. Although they can spread the virus, they may help you remember not to touch your face.
We hope you’re able to enjoy spring weather and make use of your gardening opportunity this year, despite the unusual circumstances. Stay safe, respect your fellow gardeners and happy gardening!
