sterlingmade Spring 2026

Sterling Heights Community Garden Nelson Park, 2775 15 Mile Road The Sterling Heights Community Garden is a welcoming place for residents to grow their own vegetables, flowers and native plants. Gardeners can rent a variety of beds for the season, including in-ground, above-ground, ADA-accessible and even small children’s beds. The garden is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. from May through September and from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in October. Soil, compost, tools and water are all provided. The space also hosts educational programs, group visits and volunteer days to encourage community involvement. For more information, visit myshpr. net/communitygarden. 2026 Garden Bed Rental Application Garden bed rentals open Jan. 2, 2026 for residents and March 2 for non-residents. Pricing for residents/non-residents 4’ x 12’ In-Ground Garden Bed: $120/$156 3’ x 6’ Above Ground Garden Bed (Small): $60/$78 4’ x 8’ Above Ground Garden Bed (Large) : $80/$104 ADA/Accessible Garden Bed (Adult): $60/$78 ADA/Accessible Garden Bed (Children): $30/$39 Children’s Above Ground Garden Bed: $30/$39

spread into a full garden of American native flowers and grasses — not only for the pollinators and visitors, but in celebration of our country’s 250th birthday in July,” she said. “Which is, by the way, peak season for butterflies and many native plants.” Sue is also looking forward to more butterflies joining her in the Conser vatory, as well as the many new larger raised gardens being added for the up coming season. With so many resources available, she hopes more people will try some thing new, get a plot of their own, volunteer and continue to grow as the Community Garden does for years to come. “Volunteers are always supported by friendly staff members who are on hand to help and guide them, so there’s no need to hesitate,” Sue said. When the garden gates open for another season, Sue — and the butterflies — will be ready to welcome everyone back.

features inside and answer any questions,” she said. One visitor in particular left an impression: a little boy who quoted The Very Hungry Caterpillar as she pointed out the eggs, cat erpillars, chrysalises and butterflies in the Conser vatory. “He was amazing,” she said. “His mother just beamed.” Sue watched more than plants and butterflies grow during the garden’s first season. “I saw friendships bloom and grow, as well as the plants,” Sue said. She saw neighbors get to know one another, share tips and even leave “garden mail” for each other. These handwritten notes — tucked onto plots — included recipes, advice and ideas. The exchange began when one gardener left a note asking a neigh bor to water their plot during vacation. Now that the native plants have taken root, Sue is eager to see them flourish when sunny days return. “I can’t wait until it has

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SPRING 2026

sterlingheights.gov