Schumacher Farm Park's Heirloom garden is planted with varieties typical of those planted in a farm garden of the 1920s and 1930s. An heirloom plant is a cultivar that was commonly grown during earlier periods in human history, but which is not used in modern large-scale agriculture. Heirloom varieties fell out of use as more "modern" varieties were introduced. They are usually hardy, flavorful and disease-resistant. Our seeds come from the Seed Savers Exchange® and date from 1840 to 1940. The garden also features a strawberry patch, grape vines, rhubarb, asparagus, raspberry and currant bushes. No herbicides or pesticides are used.
Students from Waunakee High School's horticulture class get hands-on experience working in the garden. In early spring, students start seeds in the school’s state-of-the-art greenhouse and nurture the seedlings until planting time. Students also help in the garden with various tasks throughout the year.
Garden produce that is not utilized by volunteers or for program purposes is donated to the Waunakee Food Pantry.
We are grateful for our community partnerships.
Adopt-a-Row Volunteers: Working in the garden is a tasty and rewarding service opportunity for a high school or church group, or anyone wanting to learn more about these delicious heirloom fruits and vegetables. Volunteers may take home personal size quantities of produce in exchange for weeding. Call or email the Park Administrator to become a regular garden visitor or arrange a work day. Click here to register online to become a volunteer.