Enso Village’s Kitchen Garden Takes Root

September 6, 2024

The First Fall Planting: A Collaborative Success

Something truly special is taking root at Ensō Village—it is the inaugural fall planting in the Kitchen Garden. This moment, celebrated with dirt-stained hands and smiling faces, marked the beginning of a collective tradition. Under the guidance of Kitchen Garden Manager Aris Curtis and with the  participation of the Community Garden Group, residents and team members worked side by side, planting the seeds and starter plants of what will become a significant source of nourishment for the community. It’s more than vegetables being grown here; it’s a sense of belonging, collaboration, and a connection to nature.

This is the first step in Ensō Village’s journey toward a sustainable, home-grown supply of fresh produce that community chefs will use in delicious dishes served to residents at Ensō Village. There’s a certain magic in knowing that the same hands that planted the seeds will enjoy the fruits of their labor, creating a deep connection between the garden and each plate of food shared.

Residents expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to this unique aspect of life at Ensō Village that is not found in other retirement living communities. Carol Engberg, a resident of Ensō Village, shared, “It was such an honor to be part of the transformation of the garden space into a true connection for people to enjoy food grown from that soil.”

At the origin of this garden’s success is the thoughtful collaboration between Aris Curtis and Chef Kyle Evans, Director of Nourishment. Together, they carefully selected crops that would thrive in Healdsburg, California’s unique climate—vegetables hearty enough to endure both the heat of summer and the cooler fall. “We made sure to select crops that not only tolerate the heat but also meet the demand for nutrient-rich meals that the residents enjoy,” Aris reflected.

August Preparation for Fall

August is the perfect window to prepare for a bountiful fall harvest. The timing was ideal for the first planting, with the cooler weather just around the corner. Aris also took this opportunity to introduce more California native plants—an effort to cultivate vegetables and a balanced and thriving ecosystem. “The native plants are a vital addition—they help create a balanced environment that allows the vegetables to thrive,” he explained.

Kitchen Garden Plants (so far):

• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Cabbage
• Kale
• Carrots
• Beets
• Onion
• Radish
• Turnip
• Lettuce

Environmental Stewardship: A Guiding Principle

The guiding philosophy behind Ensō Village’s Kitchen Garden is as simple as it is profound: “Give back more than you take.” This belief forms the foundation of the decisions and actions taken in the garden. The collaboration between residents and Aris also embodies this principle, with each individual not simply planting seeds but investing in the future of their community. “Working alongside residents keeps everyone engaged and helps ensure the long-term success of the garden,” Aris reflects.

The first fall planting at Ensō Village’s Kitchen Garden is more than a gardening milestone—it celebrates community, sustainability, and shared purpose. As the garden grows, so does the anticipation of the flavors and nourishment it will bring, a true testament to what can be achieved when hearts and hands come together.

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