Dig Into Fall at Portofino’s Community Garden

Hi neighbors, Emmy here!

This morning I decided to take the long way down to the Community Garden, strolling past the bicyclists and enjoying how some of the leaves are just starting to turn those pretty golden colors.

By the time I got there, the sun was peeking over the rooftops, warming up the little paths that weave between the plots. I had my wicker basket on my arm and a cup of coffee in the other hand.. a perfect way to start the day.

I wasn’t the only early bird either! Shortly after I arrived, I spotted two neighbors already at work.. one kneeling in the dirt with gloves on, carefully tucking seedlings into place and another giving their tall sunflowers a good drink of water. We waved, and before long I had set my coffee down on the wooden plank and joined in on the chatter. Someone asked me how my basil was doing, and I couldn’t resist clipping a handful to share. In return, they tucked a little bunch of rosemary into my basket.. that’s the kind of sweet exchange that makes this garden feel so special!

Not long after, a few kids wandered through, tugging along their parents, pointing out pumpkins and marigolds as if they were discovering treasure. One little one insisted on smelling every flower in sight, and I couldn’t help but laugh along with their mom as she tried to keep up.

By the time I’d finished gathering tomatoes, basil, and some mint leaves for tea, my basket looked like a painting straight out of a fall recipe book. Standing there with neighbors swapping stories, trading recipes, and comparing which herbs were thriving the most.. I couldn’t help but think, "this garden isn’t just about what we plant, it’s about the community we’re growing together."

And since fall is the perfect time to join in, I’m thrilled to remind everyone about our Harvest Special running from September 5th through September 30th:

Rent a Garden Plot for 3 weeks and get 1 week FREE!

Plus, choose a MyStory or DFS Garden Gift Basket to help you get started.. a little starter kit of goodies for your very first day in the garden!

If you’ve been thinking about trying your hand at gardening, this is such a cozy and fun way to jump in. Whether you’re dreaming of herbs for cooking, bright flowers for your home, or fruits and veggies to share with friends, there’s a plot waiting for you! Come on down, dig in, and let’s make this harvest season the most colorful one yet here in Portofino!

I’ll be out there again tomorrow morning.. probably with another cup of coffee in hand so don’t be shy about stopping by to say hi. Maybe we’ll even swap a few recipes!

Happy Gardening!