If you want to maximize your time outdoors before winter, you need to visit the gardens tended by Thorncliffe Park Urban Farmers.
The grassroots neighbourhood group, which goes by the abbreviation TPUF, maintains two vegetable gardens on residential high-rise properties behind 53 and 71 Thorncliffe Park Dr.
Though small and limited in seating, the gardens are vibrant and welcoming. You’ll be surrounded by the forest along the Don, a native pollinator garden with fruit shrubs like serviceberry, and makeshift vegetable beds growing tomatoes, okra and much more.
The garden is about more than fresh food. It acts as a third space where locals can socialize as well. Located in the densely populated neighbourhood of Thorncliffe Park, these gardens act as a backyard for nearby residents.
There are a few wooden stools and benches, as well as a picnic table for people to gather and rest.
Anyone is welcome to come by the garden. You’ll need a code or someone to let you in — so check in with the team before heading there. Throughout the warm season, you’ll typically find volunteers on weekends, seeding, weeding, harvesting or composting.
TPUF also hosts many programs throughout the week, including children and seniors sessions. You can also join a wide variety of workshops for art, poetry, woodworking, composting and plant dyes. You’ll find the full calendar of events here — so make sure you take full advantage before the end of the summer.
Residents often volunteer their skills and time to improve the garden. “Collectively, it becomes a really magical space,” says Michelle Delaney, TPUF founder and project lead.
“Our gardens are obviously a place for community,” Delaney says. “That’s also part of our well-being — connecting to people and doing something together as a collective. It’s truly invaluable for people’s well-being when we have spaces like this.”
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