The Norwood Community Garden is more than just a place to grow vegetables, it’s a thriving hub where neighbors come together to nurture the land, support one another, and give back to the community. Located on Mylod St., in South Norwood near Coakley Middle School, the garden provides families with the opportunity to grow organic, earth-friendly produce for themselves and for the Norwood Food Pantry.

Founded on the belief that food should be healthy, accessible, and grown with care for the environment, the garden welcomes participants of all experience levels. Gardeners focus primarily on edible crops, using flowers as companion plants to deter pests and support pollinators. Sustainability is central to every aspect of the garden, from using recycled and natural materials for trellises and decorations to avoiding plastics whenever possible and following organic gardening principles.

True to its name, the Community Garden emphasizes connection and cooperation. Members share knowledge, labor, challenges, and harvests, as well as building lasting relationships along the way. Stewardship of the soil is a top priority, and gardeners express gratitude for the Town of Norwood, visionary Susan Clare, volunteers, local businesses, and the natural resources that make the garden possible.

The garden is run entirely by volunteers who play an active role in its success. All gardeners are expected to attend seasonal work parties and join task teams that assist with fence and equipment maintenance, pathway upkeep, produce delivery to the food pantry, and administrative needs. Gardeners are also expected to follow the Community Garden Code of Conduct to ensure a respectful and productive environment for all.

The garden currently features 90 plots, each measuring 8 by 16 feet. The annual fee is $35 per plot, along with a $5 donation to the Norwood Food Pantry. This fee includes access to water, compost, and topsoil.

The Norwood Conservation Commission owns and manages the section of Endean Park where the garden is located, supporting the garden’s mission while promoting natural resource protection throughout the community.

Residents interested in joining the Norwood Community Garden or learning more can email [email protected] for information and registration details.

The Norwood Community Garden was founded in the spring of 2012 by Norwood resident Susan Clare, with support and approval from the Town of Norwood, the Department of Public Works (DPW), and the Conservation Commission. With support from local banks and donated supplies from area businesses, the DPW and 32 gardening families broke ground, built fencing, installed watering stations, and planted the first seeds. Over the past 13 years, the garden has grown to 90 thriving plots.

The Norwood Community Garden currently donates produce to the Norwood Food Pantry and partners with other local groups, including the Norwood Trails Advisory Committee and Morrill Memorial Library’s events and seed library.

Susan Clare had the vision and dedication for Norwood’s continued efforts for sustainability through a community garden and was supported by many civic departments and organizations: 

The Town of Norwood

Norwood Conservation Commission

Norwood Department of Public Works

Norwood Community Development Department

Norwood Bank

Dedham Savings Bank

Blue Hills Bank

PJ Hayes and Southridge Nursery