Residents can reap what they sow in Deerfield Twp. by buying one of the 25 community garden plots at Kingswood Park for $30.

Deerfield Twp. residents and 60 years or older receive $5 off.

“We wanted to create a sense of community,” said Deerfield Twp. Parks and Recreation Director Joel Smiddy. “Those who don’t have a lot of yard space, or live in an apartment with no backyard, can grow fresh food.”

The community garden was created three years ago, after residents’ requests. Plot owners grow food for their intake or create decorative floral landscapes.

“People want to live healthier and be greener, now,” said Stephanie Gebele, recreation coordinator and camp director for Deerfield Twp.

Plots are available for purchase until all are sold. About half are still available and multiple plots can be purchased, pending vacancy.

Plot owners receive an hour-long orientation at Deerfield Towne Center Whole Foods Market on April 1 by Chrissy Bender, the store’s healthy eating specialist. Tips about watering, protecting gardens from animals and seasonal growing are given.

Bender also oversees the market’s Adopt-a-Plot program at the Deerfield Twp. gardens. Individuals and organizations, such as scout troops and businesses, donate a self-selected portion of crops from their cultivated 4-by-4 plot to the Mason Pantry. Eight, free plots are available through March 20. Email Bender at christina.bender@wholefoods.com for an application.

“Community gardens are a great way to share ideas,” said Bender. “You see what others plant, how to do companion planting, and build a community of like-minded people.”

Bender offers additional gardening classes at her store that can be found at www.wholefoodsmarket.com by searching for the Deerfield Twp. location, then events.

Gardens must be cultivated by June 1 and plot owners are in charge of the mulch walkway in front of their plot. The park is open from 7 a.m. to dusk, April 1 through October 31, which could be extended, depending on the weather. Lean more at www.deerfieldtwp.com, under departments, then recreation.