Changing Lives and Growing Gardens

As some of you may know the Fidelis Foundation is blessed to have Sybil Lee as part of our board.  I do not remember when I first met Sybil, but I do remember hearing her name associated with many non-profits in Horry County serving the at-risk and disadvantaged.  It has been 7 years since I have entered the non-profit world and I am glad to say that she and I are on the same team!  Her enthusiasm is contagious!

Yesterday, she and I met at Double C Ranch, the home of Fidelis, to begin our garden.  Although fearful of snakes and other creepy-crawlies I jumped right in.  Double C Ranch is located on the Socastee Swamp.  Although at times it makes for messy paddocks for our horses, it is an ideal location for a garden!

For those readers with green thumbs, the specific location on the property was chosen because it is close to water access, is on a downward slope, has some shade combined with direct sunlight, and is far enough out of the way that it will not interrupt the daily business of the barn.  Here is our before photo.

As you can see, it was run over with weeds and random cinderblocks.  Not to worry!  We were able to use those to construct a wall on the other side.  After some raking and replanting of those "weeds" we were able to find some great soil.  We replanted the weeds above our garden to help with soil erosion.  

The after picture looks promising!

As you can see under the hearty soil was a concrete slab. Although we don't know why it is there, it will make a great solid ground for raised beds.  Also in the after picture, you can see the beginnings of a compost pile in the upper right hand side.  This was constructed using 5 pallets and some left over lumber that was behind the barn!  While constructing our compost pile we found a pile of angry fire ants.  Did you know that baking soda and vinegar will remove these pests from your yard?  

This garden will provide not only a learning experience for our Fidelis riders, but also means for us to reach out into the community.  The vegetables grown here will be donated to various organizations in the community, except for the carrots.  I know a few horses that will be glad to munch on them right here at Double C.  In the mean time we are seeking support from various community members and businesses.

Our needs list currently includes:
Gloves
Shovels
Hoses and nozzles
One raised garden bed
Various vegetable seed
Community members with green thumbs who wish to help!