One of our most active and 
social community groups, these 
resident “green thumbs” tend, 
cultivate and care for more than 
100 individual plots of rich soil. 
Some tend a single patch, some 
two or three. Says Anne, “We 
started out with one as it had been 
years since we tended our own 
garden in the backyard. Now we 
manage two adjacent plots. That 
first summer at Shannondell, I 
wanted to grow cut flowers and 
Mark had his eye on harvesting 
tomatoes, squash and peppers. 
Well, not only did we get helpful 
advice on what we might want 
to start out with, but also hands-
on labor in prepping the plot and 
properly spacing our plants. We 
all look out for each other and our 
cherished gardens.”  
	
Every summer, the group hosts 
a much-anticipated open house in 
the Gardens, not only showcasing 
their growing efforts, but also 
sharing the bounties – from 
vegetables and melons to flowers 
and herbs – with residents and 
staff. And every summer, tentative 
would-be resident gardeners get 
“the bug” and an earful and an 
armload of encouragement to 
give it a try next season. Whether 
rutabagas is on anyone’s wish list 
remains to be seen. But if so, Phil 
will be ready with a proud story of 
how-to, or possibly what not to do. 
“Ask me in September,” he says 
looking up from his garden bench 
with a smile. 
First Garden 
Tips
1
It all starts with soil quality. 
Have it tested and append any 
major nutrient deficiencies.
2
Practice constraint your first 
year. A good rule of green 
thumb is 5-10 plant species. 
3
Favor “starts” (seedlings) 
versus seeds when planting. 
4
Grow the veggies you eat. 
Planting what you enjoy will 
be the most rewarding return 
of your garden. 
5
Beginner-friendly veggies: 
tomatoes, eggplant & peppers; 
cut flowers: sunflowers, 
cosmos & zinnias.
Good Planting! 
visit shannondell.com
2
We all look out for each other and our cherished gardens.
– Anne, resident gardener 
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