Roosevelt Island’s Community Garden

The Roosevelt Island Community Garden’s space on a tucked away island harbors an urban retreat impossible anywhere else. A gift from the state flourishes with well-kept plots and a near secret lily pond.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

By David Stone

Roosevelt Island Daily News

The Roosevelt Island Community Garden relaxes between athletic fields, its natural vibrancy a buffer zone. It’s home is a gift from RIOC. Plots moved north when Southtown construction forced them out of lot south of the subway station.

Related: Roosevelt Island’s Iconic Tram

Images of New York City

That was back in the ’90s. Right now, the waiting list for a plot of your own is two years.

Plots in the area tucked between playing fields are protected by rules that restrict visitors to weekends, and kids must be with an adult.

Garden club members pride themselves in the civility and respect for nature that makes this quiet place an urban exception. And it has secrets.

Getting to know Roosevelt Island…

Get to know Roosevelt Island in history…

• The Queensboro Bridge / Greater Astoria and Roosevelt Island Historical Societies
• Roosevelt Island (Images of America) / Roosevelt Island Historical Society
• Damnation Island / Stacy Horn

Tucked inside is a hidden lily pond at the Roosevelt Island Community Garden…

The lily pond, stocked with goldfish, is a pleasure you have to seek. It doesn’t call you, and you must discover.

This garden welcomes along narrow paths with intersections of surprise.

Conclusion

The Roosevelt Island Community Garden plays a special, quiet role in the community. It’s a constant reminder that peace is possible and that nature is friendly

We’re lucky to have a rich sample in our community.

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