_{^{Project co-coordinator John Weeg (center) stands amid JCMG volunteers as work began on the hügelkultur garden at Ecumenical Towers in Iowa City on Sun., Oct. 15, 2023.}}

Johnson County Master Gardeners created a hügelkultur garden in 2023 that is providing residents of Ecumenical Towers an innovative, accessible garden space for attracting pollinators. For this effort, led by project coordinators John Weeg and Michael Hesseltine, JCMG in March received the Search for Excellence Award from the Iowa Master Gardener program. Read Alicia Herzog’s feature for ISU Extension News here.

The garden on Washington Street, near downtown Iowa City, features a hügelkultur bed, a sustainable gardening method that JCMG Project Earns Search for Excellence Award involves burying wood and other organic materials to improve soil structure, retain water and enhance nutrient availability. This method is cost-effective and easy to replicate, making it an ideal choice for community gardens.

The hügelkultur project was initiated to update and redesign the garden space at Ecumenical Towers, a subsidized apartment complex for low-income older and disabled adults. The project aimed to create a more attractive and functional garden area accessible to all residents, including those with mobility issues.

Additionally, a raised, galvanized steel garden bed was installed to provide wheelchair access, allowing residents to easily grow plants. The project also incorporated a unique water feature that utilizes condensation from the building’s air conditioning system to provide a continuous water source for the garden. This innovative approach not only conserves water but also ensures that the garden remains well-hydrated throughout the summer months.

The Search for Excellence Award recognizes Master Gardeners demonstrating outstanding contributions to their communities, providing significant learning and impact in the local area. The award was presented on March 10 during the ISU Extension and Outreach annual awards ceremony.