The Ogier Gardens are the University of North Florida’s uncertified organic gardens.
When the garden was first started, it was much smaller and was in a different location on UNF’s campus. After Bruce Ogier’s generous donation, the garden was moved to a larger location between Lot 18 and the skate park. The new garden is dedicated to Ogier’s parents, Frederick and Ophelia Ogier.
The move allowed the garden’s size to grow as well as making it possible for a wider variety of produce to be grown.
Health Promotion employees and student volunteers nurse plants from the time they are seedlings to the time they are ready to harvest. Then, volunteers are allowed to keep the produce they grow. Health Promotion also offers classes to teach students how to cook the fresh vegetables.
Vegetables and other edible produce are not the only things grown in the Ogier gardens. Many beautiful flowers are also grown there.
Keeping with the “green” theme of the organic gardens, gardeners have come up with several creative ways to use recycled materials when growing plants. These materials include wood, bricks, old tires and even old canoes.
Gardeners also use traditional growing methods, such as potted plants, raised beds and trellises for climbing plants.
Overall, the University of North Florida’s Ogier Gardens are a valuable asset to the university and its students. The gardens provide enriching opportunities and all UNF students are encouraged participate.
