Many community gardens use large wooden boxes for their growing environment. These planter boxes are large rectangular wood structures built specifically for the purpose of growing plants in a space that otherwise wouldn't be used for planting, like in a parking lot or some other large area covered in concrete. However, The Green Bronx Machine (GBM) method recommends you start by using recycled containers for planting, so this guide will focus on how to create a garden using containers that are found or donated.

But the concepts and processes are the same and your team should use whatever you'd like when designing your garden.

In the Resources section at the end of the guide you'll find links to instructional videos that will be helpful if you decide to build your own planter boxes. Or, you could also explore a completely different type of garden (one that doesn't even involve soil) by using one of Stephen's favourite tools, the Tower Garden .

At the end of the day, it doesn't matter how or what type of garden you choose to plant, what matters is that you choose a method that works for you and your community of gardeners, and that you have fun doing it!

Here's what you'll need:

• Curiosity: A community garden should be about everyone learning new things together and trying new flowers and vegetables
• Cooperation: Let everyone take part and try their hand at different roles - allow people to take ownership in different ways
• Space: A few square feet of space
• Sun: Sunlight (preferably 6+ hours)
• Water: Access to a water source
• A Plan: A bit of careful planning
• Time: Time from you and the rest of the community
• Seeds: To start growing
• Fun: Have fun with the garden

You may find that growing food with your community is one of the most enjoyable ways to connect with people and nature.