Pumpkin Smash set for Nov. 7 at Naperville garden plots

Gardeners at the Ron Ory Community Garden Plots this summer enjoyed an abundant harvest of tomatoes, peppers and other vegetables that thrive in the sunshine. As the gardening season wound down, gardeners had a chance to reflect on the summer and ready their plots for the end-of-season cleanup.

"We had a successful gardening year, in spite of a later start that was due to restrictions related to the pandemic," said Nature Center Manager Angelique Harshman.

Volunteer Manager Lynnette Hoole noted that gardeners made a special effort to take good care of their plots and to adhere to the social distancing guidelines, which created a friendly environment where people felt safe and healthy.

"We are grateful for the delicious produce that we will enjoy throughout the winter," said returning gardener Lorie Piel. "Being out in the sunshine and seeing other gardeners, along with their flowers and garden plots, lifted our spirits and gave us a safe destination to enjoy."

In late October, a local farmer will plow the fields to prepare them for next season.

The annual Pumpkin Smash will take place from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Ron Ory Community garden plots, 811 S. West St.

Area residents may bring their jack-o-lanterns and pumpkins to be smashed and composted into the soil at the garden plots, adding nutrients and water back into the soil.

In 2019, more than 5,000 pounds of pumpkins were composted and kept out of the landfill.

Prior to attending the Pumpkin Smash, participants are asked to review the COVID-19 Participation Guidelines for Outdoor Events. For weather cancellation information, visit napervilleparks.org/cancellations.