Planting the Seeds for a Greener Austell

Spencer Burton Webb, MGE Board Director and Executive Director of Grow Like Nature shares gardening wisdom with event attendees.

We are thrilled with the turnout and energy shared during our recent “Grow Where You Are” workshop at the I.T. and Lodemia Community Garden in Austell. What began as a vision from the Austell Agriculture Committee has blossomed into a series of meaningful community events designed to highlight the dedication, resources, and potential this outdoor space offers—and will continue to offer—to residents of Austell.

Thanks to the generous support of Food Well Alliance, and in partnership with Grow Like Nature, CreateAustell, The Alchemist Den, and the I.T. and Lodemia Garden team, this event marked a vibrant step toward realizing the shared vision for a more natural and nourished Austell.

The day began with an engaging and informative breakdown of soil health led by Spencer Webb, Executive Director of Grow Like Nature. His insights reminded us that growing food begins beneath the surface—healthy soil is the foundation for successful, sustainable gardens.

Andrea Searles, Master Gardener and longtime garden leader, followed with a powerful reflection on the garden’s origins and its transformation into a green haven for Austell residents. Attendees were then guided on a tour through the garden beds—many of which are maintained by local community members. The best part? These garden beds are available at no cost through a simple sign-up process with Austell Parks and Recreation.

Andrea Searles, Master Gardener and Chair of the Austell Agriculture Committee, shares the history of this space.

To close the day, the Natural Resource Manager from My Green Earth led a nature walk exploring the biodiverse areas surrounding the garden. Participants had the chance to observe native species including Wild Blueberry, River Cane, Wild Ginger, Partridge Berry, Silver Bells, and Persimmon. These thriving native fruiting plants are just part of the inspiration behind the planned expansion of a mini food forest as a living extension of the community garden—further strengthening access to safe, locally grown food and fostering deeper connection with the land.

But this event was about more than plants. Research consistently shows that access to green spaces and time in nature are vital for human wellbeing. Just 120 minutes in nature per week has been linked to significantly better health and wellbeing outcomes, according to a 2019 study published in Scientific Reports. Exposure to natural environments reduces stress, improves mood, and has been shown to lower the risk of depression by up to 20%. For children, time outdoors is even more impactful: studies show that students who learn in nature demonstrate improved focus, higher test scores, and increased motivation to learn.

This gathering reminded us of the power in coming together—not only to grow food, but to grow connection. Community gardens feed more than bodies; they nourish spirits, strengthen neighborhoods, and create healthier, happier communities. Together, we are planting the seeds of a greener future for Austell.