A garden grows in Woodland Park that is more than just a garden. It’s a reflection of community and commitment.

With produce such as zucchinis, potatoes, yellow squash, onions, spinach, tomatoes, potatoes, strawberries, rhubarb and a variety of herbs, the garden is a feast presented by Community Partnership Family Resource Center.

Last week, CP’s executive director, Jodi Mijares, and her staff hosted a party in the garden for the public.

A tour with CPs Master Gardener Sharon Lembo reveals culinary possibilities with more than a dose of healthy eating. “I am constantly learning,” she said.

Artist as well as gardener, Lembo has prepared an earthly exhibit, a gallery of color and sensory experiences. In one raised bed, Lembo offers ingredients for vegetable soup while another says “Pizza,” with tomatoes, basil, peppers and parsley.

“Everything but the pepperoni,” Lembo said.

To alert the senses, Lembo planted beds of rosemary, lavender, sage, pineapple sage, lemon balm, chicory and borage, among other herbs.

“You can eat the flowers and leaves of borage,” she said. “The bees love it.”

To avoid providing ongoing snacks for the deer population, Lembo planted marigolds in the more tempting beds. It works, she said.

Lembo reserved a spot for children from a play group who became instant gardeners.

“I love seeing the kids and their excitement,” she said. “They love seeing things grow.”

The garden at city hall is larger than the original at Woodland Park Community Church and is the result of a partnership with the city. As it has in the past, CP donates the produce to the Community Cupboard. But with the new location, the SP and the city, the produce is available to the public – any time.

“We were looking for a collaborator to facilitate this project,” said city councilman George Jones. “We have a great relationship with Community Partnership.”

For Lembo, the collaboration is an opportunity to prove that vegetables and herbs can be grown at high altitude.

“We all have a green thumb; we just have to find it,” Lembo said.