Gardening program teaches food sources at former reserve building grounds in Gary

By Post-Tribune

PUBLISHED: May 13, 2022 at 1:15 PM CDT | UPDATED: May 13, 2022 at 5:15 PM CDT

Master Gardener Carmen McKee describes the Lemon Basil that she is growing at Market of Life Oases Botanic Gardens at 3519 W, 15th Ave, in Gary on May 10, 2022. (John Smierciak / Post-Tribune)

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2022/05/13/gardening-program-teaches-food-sources-at-former-reserve-building-grounds-in-gary/

[excerpt]

Carmen McKee said she just wanted to create a space in the city where people could connect with nature, relax, and maybe learn how to use edible plants in their own yards.

With the help of a group of volunteers and the permission of the Gary property’s owners, in 2019, she began reclaiming the overgrown exterior space of the former U.S. Army Reserve building at 3510 W. 15th Ave., to do just that.

Today, the space is home to Oases Botanical Gardens, and McKee of Gary said the next step is making the spot an agritourism destination...