GARDENING GULF the

Words by Jeff Rosenberg and RoxAnn Rankin Wicker

Unsurprisingly, the Coast guarantees a Spring time experience that leaves visitors and communities begging for it to last. The weather hits that sweet spot of cool and brisk in the mornings and warms to a mild heat in the afternoons. While the weather is perfect so is the opportunity to tour community gardens, formal gardens, rose gardens, and pollinator gardens. Here is a collection of our favorite gardens that offer traditional native flora and glorious grounds.

Community Gardens

Ruth’s Roots | 130 Court St. Bay St. Louis

Community gardens are becoming a new trend here on the Gulf Coast. Shared gardens provide neighbors and residents an opportunity to introduce themselves, as well as the vegetables and herbs they bring. Perhaps they illustrate a social innovation of sorts, a strategic model to ignite the social needs after COVID, promote a sense of community again, teaching and learning from one another, or possibly increase awareness of sustainable foods.

One such garden in Bay St. Louis hits the mark in their community. Ruth’s Roots Community Garden, located at 130 Court Street, began as a project with Hancock County Juvenile Drug Court. The community garden would aide local adolescents and residents with knowledge of gardening, flora and nature while pursuing inner development and individualized expression.

With seasonal planting, Ruth’s offers fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs and honey to the community. Visitors will find an array of producers, such as chickens, worms and honeybees. Others enjoy just sitting and listening. The garden provides a sense of solace and rest for those just needing a moment of peace. This beautiful little spot continues to be a catalyst by creating a positive sense of security, fostering a safe place for community meeting and reinforces the identity of Bay St. Louis.

If you would like to donate to this community garden, please make checks payable to Hancock Community Development Foundation with “Ruth’s Roots” notated in the memo line and mail to 100 S. Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, MS 39520.