About Magnuson Community Garden

The 4-acre Magnuson Community Garden was created and is managed through a partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation, the Department of Neighborhoods P-Patch Program, and the Magnuson Community Garden (MCG), a 501(c)(3) non-profit formed of community volunteers with a vision for a multi-purpose garden that expanded on the core functions of the P-Patch. The creation of a community garden in Magnuson Park was included in the Seattle City Council Resolution No. 30063 on the Magnuson Park Concept Plan. The garden was designed by Barker Landscape Architects through a public participation process. A Department of Neighborhoods Large Project Award, Pro Parks Levy funds, private donations, small grants, and a tremendous number of matching volunteer hours went into the construction which began in the fall of 2001.

 

There are two components under the name “Magnuson Community Garden” – the 4-acre garden, and Magnuson Community Garden, 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer organization which formed to facilitate the design, development, funding, building, and long-term maintenance and operation of the garden. The non-profit organization is governed by a board of directors, with the manager of Magnuson Park and the manager of the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods P-Patch Program as ex officio members.

There are seven specialized areas within the garden:

P-Patch: The 140-plot garden is managed through the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods P-Patch program. Individuals are assigned a plot for a fee and are required to contribute at least 8 hours of volunteer time toward the care of the site. There are also plots dedicated to food bank donations, and to community groups, including the Magnuson Community Center Nature Programs.   Ornamental borders line the trails.

Demonstration Orchard: Apples, pears, plums, and an espalier are arranged in a display of plants suitable for urban gardens. The Seattle Tree Fruit Society is our partner organization in providing stewardship, fruit evaluations, and education. After fruit is evaluated, the harvest is donated to food banks. Education and work party events are coordinated with STFS.

Children’s Garden: Designed with the inspiration and input from children and families, planting designs include a Starfish Border, Grey Whale Garden, Tide Pools, Salmon Survival Path, Rolling Hill, Log Pile, and Lookout. There are child and adult-size picnic tables and benches. Designated trails and gathering areas are covered in woodchips. The plants are selected for interesting shapes, colors, scents, and wildlife habitat. The King County Master Gardener Program and the Magnuson Community Center Nature Programs are key partners. Stewardship events and Family Garden Days are held once a month from spring to fall.

Tranquil Garden: This patio-style garden was designed as a quiet place for meditation, with amenities for persons with special needs. The fountain was installed in honor of Alice W. Sandstrom.

Amphitheater: The amphitheater and arbor were completed in 2004 and has since been host to a wide variety of public events and activities.

Native Plant Border: The border curves around much of the P-Patch area. It is a demonstration of native plants and provides valuable wildlife habitat and educational opportunities. The Magnuson Environmental Stewardship Alliance (MESA) is a key partner organization.   Regular volunteer work parties are held the First Saturday of the month, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Native Plant Nursery: As part of its programs, the nursery provides planting stock for restoration plantings throughout Magnuson Park and the greater Seattle area.   Partner organizations are the Washington Native Plant Society, Earthcorps, and Magnuson Environmental Stewardship Alliance. Regular volunteer work parties are held the first Monday of each month, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m

MCG continues to work toward strengthening its outreach and collaboration with other groups within the park and from the local community. Current connections the Magnuson Community Center Nature Programs, Seattle Audubon, YMCA, Outdoors for All, Waldorf School, Brettler and Solid Ground housing,

The MCG has sustained active stewardship over the life of this garden through grants, partnerships with community service volunteers from Eagle Scouts, Girl Scouts, Seattle Works, United Way Day of Caring, Master Gardeners, Washington Native Plant Society and local colleges and universities, and the dedication of its core volunteers and garden committees.

The Magnuson Community Garden continues to work toward strengthening our outreach and collaboration with the local community and other organizations at Magnuson Park. We have many ongoing opportunities for volunteer participation in the ongoing stewardship of the different garden areas and programs. For more information about how you can become involved with our great community garden, contact us at [email protected]