Organic Garden
The Organic Garden has been an integral part of Bowdoin since 2005. Growing vegetables, fruit, and flowers for use in the dining halls is only part of the gardens’ purpose. The Organic Garden also provides a space to build community through shared work and educational workshops.
Many students spend time engaging in work at the garden on a weekly basis, especially members of the student Organic Garden Club. In addition to weekly work hours throughout the growing season, many special events and workshops, such as a fresh maple syrup tasting and herbal tea blending, are offered.
Certified organic by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA), organic and no-till principals are central to the operation of the garden. Permanent raised beds ensure minimal soil disturbance and have helped build the soil from very sandy to a loose and rich loamy texture. Perennial plants are incorporated into the garden system and help to create pollinator and beneficial insect habitat throughout the garden. These growing practices ensure the soil will stay healthy for many years to come.
Some favorite Bowdoin Dining recipes featuring produce from the Organic Garden are the chocolate zucchini cake, fresh pesto, roasted root vegetables, and pea shoot salad.