The Garden Path
So far, we are three quarters of the way to opening day. Join us on this journey!
Events
San Diego Master Gardeners Class June 16th 2026
Held at the Linda Vista Bayside Environmental Learning Center the event had a light dinner with introductions followed by a garden tour. The participants included representation by SD Master Gardeners, the Bayside Community Garden, people in various stages for starting or moving a community garden and few gardeners just getting their hands in the earth.
Many ideas were exchanged and discussed at the table with the conversation focused on navigating government bureaucracy, grant funding, garden infrastructure, and management policy. There was very little flora at the table beyond the bánh mì and salad.
The dining was under one of the two pergolas built by the garden specifically sized to avoid needing additional city issued permits. Atop one was added a solar powered WiFi access point installed by San Diego Parks and Recreation as part of their access for all program.
The garden tour started with water management. All gardeners are required to take two classes with the first on being all about water. The rental beds are all fitted with drip lines on timers and hand watering requires dipping watering cans into a well rather than using a hose.
The rental beds are 4 by 12 feet in size and were built with labor supplied by the carpenters union. These beds are not strictly ADA accessible as the garden wanted to ensure a certain amount of organic under footing.
A percentage of the raised beds are designed to be ADA accessible with room for getting a wheelchair tucked under or working at waist level. The drain system under the bed in the photo allows water to escape the plastic lining that protects the wood structure.
Decomposed granite pathways have additional width in areas where wheelchairs might be used while carrying tools across the lap. The path through the native garden would not require this width and is the standard 4 foot ADA compliant width.
The native garden leading to the education areas features a wide array of native plants which are moderately groomed and include a few non-native bulbs that are toxic to gophers. Structures in the garden include volunteer built plant signs, bird houses, native bee habitats, and decorative stepping stones.
The end of the native garden path terminates with two outdoor classrooms with metal powder coated chalkboards and stumps suitable for both children and adults. The back sides of these panels provides a surface for inspirational messages facing the ball fields next door.
Of the two classrooms, one has a DG floor while the other has wood chips. In the background of this photo you can see the affordable housing for seniors which supplies a steady stream of customers for garden activities.
Public access to the space is limited to when gardeners or the garden manager are present and the Bayside Garden is fortunate to have a full time garden manager which increases the hours available for the public to drop in and enjoy the space.
Council District 9 Beatification February 7th 2026
Photos of our event in coordination with the City Council District 9 Park Beatification event.
Breaking Ground Event April 19th 2025
One of our first events preparing the site by pulling weeds, removing trash, and leveling the site. All photos of this event are by Kai.
Project Details
The community garden is being built at the south end of Ward Canyon Neighborhood Park by the community in collaboration with the community volunteers, local businesses, San Diego Parks and Recreation Department, Council District D-9, Normal Heights for Smart Growth 501(c)3, Normal Heights Community Planning Group, and San Diego Master Gardeners.
The garden will be authorized on a three year, renewable Special Use Permit (SUP) issued by the City of San Diego.
When completed, amenities will include raised beds, waist-level garden boxes, compost and trash areas, a tool shed, running water, ADA compliant graded paths, and a native/pollinator plant garden. The existing Juniper tree, pergola and bench will be retained.
Click the image below to view a full screen image. Note, the shaded area on the right side indicates an area changes planned by the City in the future to avoid having to remove trees or structures at a later date.
FAQ
When will the garden be ready for planting?
We are working on getting a Special Use Permit in place by fall of 2026 along with the installation of a water source. Subscribe to the NHCPG newsletter and/or the Normal Heights for Smart Growth newsletter to stay updated.
How do I get a plot?
We can’t wait to help people get set up with garden plots! First there is a lot of preparation in the works, though. We need to acquire the final permit, water line, insurance, and keys. We will also start purchasing as many raised beds as we can (capacity is 33 not including the native plant and orchard areas). Meanwhile, we are preparing the soil: pulling and killing weeds and preparing for mulching to create a good base for planting.
How can I help?
There are several ways you can help!
- Volunteer to help build the garden at the announced volunteer events. Activities vary greatly in the amount of physical effort so there is opportunity regardless of age or ability.
- Volunteer to serve on the Garden Oversight Board.
- Donate money! The cost of getting water service to the area is very expensive and we need all the $$ we can get. The Selby Team has pledged $5,000 in matching funds and donations made to Normal Heights for Smart Growth 501(c)3 earmarked for the garden are tax deductible.
Will the schools be involved?
Yes! Normal Heights Community Garden President, Julia, has been interacting with local schools and looking for opportunities for education and grants. There will also be an area reserved for children to cultivate their own plants.
Documents
Community Garden Plan (Google Doc)
Normal Heights Community Garden Bylaws (PDF)
Site Plans
Community Garden Site Plan – Existing Condition (pdf)
Community Garden Site Plan – Final Design (pdf)
Application
Community Garden Application Form (pdf)
Community Garden Development Checklist (pdf)
Site Photos
Administration
Community Garden Contract – Initial Draft
Funding
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