Where It All Began: A Return to the Lots That Sparked Trefoil Gardens
From Forgotten Lots to Living Landscapes: Returning to Where Trefoil Gardens Began
Every farm has its origin story. Ours didn’t begin with a land grant or a tidy patch of cultivated soil—it began with two forgotten lots and a group of neighbors with a shared dream.
Back in 2016, these lots sat wild and unused in the heart of our neighborhood. Together with a few friends, we imagined turning them into a community garden - a space for growing food, building relationships, and reclaiming something beautiful for the block. We started clearing space and drawing up ideas, squatting not out of rebellion, but from a deep desire to reconnect with the land in a shared way.
But before we could bring that vision to life, the owner caught wind of our efforts and listed the lots for sale. We couldn’t afford the price - and just like that, the dream slipped out of reach.
And then something quietly extraordinary happened: one of our neighbors said, “If you still want to grow something, you can use our yard.”
We said yes.
That yes became Trefoil Gardens.
Nine Years Later, We’ve Come Full Circle
This month, we found ourselves standing on those same lots again—only this time, not as hopeful squatters, but as caretakers.
After nearly a decade of growing and learning alongside this community, we were able to purchase the very pieces of land that inspired us to begin.
What once felt like loss has now returned as invitation.
What Comes Next?
We don’t have a detailed plan yet—and honestly, we’re not in a rush to make one.
What we do know is that these lots will be approached with the same care, curiosity, and commitment to regenerative relationship that’s shaped every part of our work.
We want to listen. To observe. To let the land speak first.
And over time, we hope to rehabilitate and restore these spaces in a way that honors both their history and their future potential.
Why It Matters
These lots were the beginning of everything.
Coming back to them now—on the other side of nearly a decade of growing, harvesting, and community connection—feels like a full-circle moment. A homecoming of sorts.
They remind us that land doesn’t forget. That sometimes what we lose is simply waiting for the right time to return.
And that even when we don’t know exactly where we’re headed, we can still move forward with clarity, care, and a deep respect for the process.
Want to Follow the Journey?
As we begin this next chapter, we’ll share glimpses of the unfolding. If you'd like to stay connected:
Join our newsletter
Visit us at the market for updates
Or just send us a note—we’d love to hear your own stories of land, beginnings, and coming full circle
With gratitude and open hands,
The Trefoil Gardens Team