As spring arrives in earnest, Herriman residents lacking garden space may watch longingly while neighbors begin their planting season. However, the city has maintained an organic communal garden for years, though many may be unaware of the gated space tucked away between a residential neighborhood and a church in Old Herriman. Located at 12707 S. Pioneer St. (6000 West), the city-owned community garden is available for public use during the growing season. 

“Not everyone has the space at home for a garden, so this program gives residents a chance to grow their own vegetables and plants in a shared space,” Parks Operations Coordinator Krystal Brklacich said. “It’s a simple way to support gardening in the community.”

The garden’s mission is to increase awareness of community gardening and gardening in general, ensure plot maintenance, support community gardeners and recognize Herriman’s gardening and farming heritage. 

“We love seeing residents come out to enjoy the community garden each year,” Herriman’s Mayor Lorin Palmer said. “Whether they’re growing produce or just spending time outdoors, it’s a great way for people to connect and take part in something they enjoy.”

The Herriman City Community Garden Committee manages the space, and committee chairs act as points of contact between gardeners and the city. The committee encourages families to use the garden, commonly allowing one garden plot per household. Children under 14 must have parental supervision. 

“Preferences will be given first to returning members in good standing; additional plots will then be assigned on a first-come first served basis,” the garden website writes. Gardeners may use more than one plot if extra plots are available. 

Though nonresidents may use the garden, Herriman residents are likely to receive preference. 

There is no cost to use your plot, but a refundable deposit is required—$40 for a single plot, which is 30 feet in length and includes three rows and two half rows, and $60 for a double plot, which is 30 feet in length and includes six rows and two half rows.

“The deposit will be refunded at the end of the season if you remain a gardener in good standing… and your assigned plot is cleaned out… by the designated date,...” the website writes. Generally, this date is in mid-October after the first frost.

To remain in good standing, gardeners must diligently tend their own plots as well as contribute to the garden as a whole. Before planting, they must review orientation materials and commit to helping with two community weeding days, one harvest for donations if needed and one irrigation pull where the garden is irrigated. Irrigation pulls take place every ten days, but gardeners may use the on-site hose in between pulls. 

Gardeners must also maintain their plots and walkways, keeping them free of weeds and any debris throughout the season. In addition, the committee may need help with marking plots and fall cleanup. “A plot at the Herriman City Community Garden… is a privilege,…” the website writes.

Plots will become available for use after Mother’s Day, May 11, and as demand is usually significant, gardeners must develop their plots no later than Memorial Day, May 26, if weather permits. Plots remaining undeveloped after Memorial Day will go to those on the waitlist, and deposits will not be refunded. 

“The Garden encourages the cultivation of edible plants. Do not cultivate dangerous or illegal plants (i.e., poison ivy, poison mushrooms, etc.). Do not cultivate any invasive plants (i.e mint, rhubarb, etc.),” the website warns.

Pest or weed control chemicals are prohibited, including germination inhibitors and traditional or organic Preen brand products.

To register to use the community garden, visit www.herriman.gov/community-gardens. For questions, please contact the Herriman City Community Garden liaison, Krystal Brklacich, at [email protected] or (801) 285-9722. λ