There are seven specialized areas within the garden:
P-Patch: The 140-plot garden is managed through the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods P-Patch program. Individuals are assigned a plot for a fee and are required to contribute at least 8 hours of volunteer time toward the care of the site. There are also plots dedicated to food bank donations, and to community groups, including the Magnuson Community Center Nature Programs. Ornamental borders line the trails.
Demonstration Orchard: Apples, pears, plums, and an espalier are arranged in a display of plants suitable for urban gardens. The Seattle Tree Fruit Society (STFS) is our partner organization in providing stewardship, fruit evaluations, and education. After fruit is evaluated, the harvest is donated to food banks. Education and work party events are coordinated with STFS.
Children’s Garden: Designed with the inspiration and input from children and families, planting designs include a Starfish Border, Grey Whale Garden, Tide Pools, Salmon Survival Path, Rolling Hill, Log Pile, and Lookout. There are child and adult-size picnic tables and benches. Designated trails and gathering areas are covered in woodchips. The plants are selected for interesting shapes, colors, scents, and wildlife habitat. The King County Master Gardener Program and the Magnuson Community Center Nature Programs are key partners. Stewardship events and Family Garden Days are held once a month from spring to fall. For more info, or to subscribe to our free “Magnuson Nature News” monthly e-newsletter, visit Magnuson Children’s Garden.
Tranquil Garden: This patio-style garden was designed as a quiet place for meditation, with amenities for persons with special needs. The fountain was installed in honor of Alice W. Sandstrom.
Amphitheater: The amphitheater and arbor were completed in 2004 and has since been host to a wide variety of public events and activities.
Native Plant Border: The border curves around much of the P-Patch area. It is a demonstration of native plants and provides valuable wildlife habitat and educational opportunities. The Magnuson Environmental Stewardship Alliance (MESA) is a key partner organization.
Native Plant Nursery: As part of its programs, the nursery provides planting stock for restoration plantings throughout Magnuson Park and the greater Seattle area. Partner organizations are the Washington Native Plant Society, Earthcorps, and Magnuson Environmental Stewardship Alliance. The Magnuson Community Garden Native Plant Nursery (NPN) was designed and constructed in 2003 in cooperation with the Magnuson Environmental Stewardship Alliance (MESA), the Wasthington Native Plant Society (WNPS), Earth Corp (EC), Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR), and the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Located in the northwestern corner of the community garden, it is northest of the brig and south of NOAA, along the fence that separates NOAA from Magnuson Park. For information about the donation program for native plants, visit Washington Native Plant Society.