The History of Varatun Community Garden
The area granted to Varatun Community Garden by Sandnes Municipality was once a poorhouse that had been unused for decades. The municipality owns the land and prepared it for the garden, including marking individual plots and creating paths accessible to visitors with wheelchairs and strollers. While the garden’s structure was pre-determined, the board’s role has been to design and develop the surrounding space for the benefit of plot holders and visitors. The official opening took place on May 9th, 2020. Initially launched as a three-year pilot project, the garden has since become a permanent initiative.
Varatun Community Garden serves as a meeting place for those without access to green spaces at home who wish to grow their own food. It fosters both individual creativity—each plot holder personalises their plot—and community engagement through shared activities like “busy bees” and casual get-togethers.
A local green oasis
Dubbed Sandnes’ “local green lung,” the garden reflects a growing interest in urban farming nationally. Members continuously learn from one another, sharing successes and challenges, and participate in annual workshops to enhance their skills.
Community Gardens and Allotment Gardens
Unlike allotment gardens, community gardens like Varatun, have no physical barriers such as hedges or fences between plots, nor do they allow cabins for seasonal living. Instead, plots are rented solely for growing vegetables or plants.
Shared Areas and Equipment
In addition to its 90 plots (each 12 m², rented annually for 500 NOK), Varatun Community Garden features shared areas with communal planting beds for berries, herbs, and more. A tool shed with equipment is available, along with seating areas throughout the garden.
An Organic Garden
We endeavour to grow food in a way that aligns with organic principles. This means that we do not allow the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilisers. In this way, we protect the health and biodiversity within the garden as well as groundwater. This commitment is also important given our proximity to Varatun Kindergarten, which uses the garden for educational purposes.
Soil Improvement
To enhance biodiversity, the garden composts green waste from the plots. In addition, the municipality provides biochar to members which is used to develop soil quality. Mulching is also employed to improve soil health.
A Break from life’s daily routines
Varatun Community Garden offers a peaceful retreat where members can relax through hands-on work, connect with nature, and spend quality time with family and friends. It supports Sandnes Municipality’s vision of being “inclusive, bold, and healthy” by fostering a diverse and welcoming community environment.
For more information on urban farming’s social and environmental benefits, click here to watch a short film in Norwegian.