The gardens of Findhorn Community are a testimony to the spiritual discipline practiced here. It is a testimony to the hard work and intelligent efforts put forth in growing fruit, vegetables, flowers, and herbs. Henry and I were curious about the gardens, so went directly to investigate the source of the community’s fame. What we saw was extraordinary. On a large plot of land, adjacent to the sandy soil that morphed into the nearby beach, green grass and large tilled garden fields were sprouting beautiful heads of lettuce nestled in herbs. Under the arched canopy of quonset hut styled greenhouses, row upon row of tomato plants, stood six feet tall, with huge marigolds nestled at their feet. Nasturtium plants, with their beautiful flowers and leaves grew in abundance, producing capers and caper berries as well as the edible flowers. Cucumbers ripened on the vine, intertwined with one another. Outside, the gardens with herbs and delicate vegetables were tucked into white gauzed sheeting to keep the rabbits away. Apple trees, berry vines, sweet peas, and beautiful mint and basil could be seen growing, practically smiling in the sun. Henry and I marveled at this abundance, and also noted the large barrels of filtered water standing nearby. We also noted the almost scientific compost piles, each with a different purpose. One compost pile was proclaimed to be a “Short Term Compost”. This compost pile was rectangular in shape, layered with hay, and with a scattering of lettuce leaves recently added to the top layer. Interesting. We left knowing that we have a lot to learn from the Findhorn Community gardeners, wise experts in the world of vegetable gardening.

PHOTOS: Left Column: 1.Nasturtium plants thriving with large leaves and abundant blossoms. 2. Several rows of germinating seedlings in the greenhouse. 3. Beautiful, delicate heads of lettuce nestled among herbs. 4. One of many types of gourds ripening in the “pumpkin patch”. 5. Perfect, insect-free tomatoes ripening on the vine in the greenhouse. 6. A huge marigold flower growing at the foot of the tomato plants in the greenhouse atmosphere. Center, Top: Trellises made of thin bamboo support the tendrils of climbing plants.. Center, Middle: The green houses in quonset hut design. Rectangular compost piles of various types stand in front of these huts. Center, Bottom:  Wooden kegs hold rainwater used for watering the garden. Right Column: 1. Cucumbers growing on vines in the greenhouse.  2. One of several greenhouses growing row upon row of tomato plants, some bordered with marigolds and basil.  3. A sign for Short Term Composting, next to a pile of vegetable leaves.