UNF’s Frederick and Ophelia Tate Ogier Gardens is still flourishing despite some damage from Hurricane Irma. 

While the garden fared well overall, some plants just couldn’t handle the strong wind. The moringa trees had all of the leaves blown off, and some calamondin oranges fell off the trees. A pomegranate tree and several sorghum plants were also blown over.

“For the most part we only had minor damage,” said Kevin Anderson, director of the Ogier Gardens.

One positive result of the storm was that the heavy rainfall helped the shiitake mushrooms grow, resulting in a larger crop. Thankfully, the kumquat and lemon trees suffered no damage. 

Fall is the start of the garden’s planting season, so volunteers are needed. Volunteer hours are Tuesday 9 a.m. until noon, as well as on Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (weather permitting.) 

Students can just show up to the garden to volunteer, no need to make an appointment. Just remember to wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirt on. 

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