At The Avenues Crofton Park in Broomfield, Colorado, community isn’t just a concept; it’s something we actively cultivate. One of the most vibrant ways that connection comes to life is through the shared community gardens.
For new residents Jim and Twila S., the community gardens have helped them feel grounded in their new home. Originally from Indiana, the couple spent 40 years on a 35-acre property where Jim regularly mowed four acres himself. Although much of their land was leased to a local farmer, the upkeep became too much after their four kids left home. After downsizing to a 55+ townhome, they moved to The Avenues seven months ago to be closer to their adult daughter.
“It’s nice not to have the worries of upkeep of a house and everything that comes with it,” said Twila.
Still, they missed one part of their old life: gardening. Fortunately, a plot was available this season at The Avenues. The previous resident gardener left behind a patch of irises that took up much of the space. Jim and Twila regifted most to their daughter and left a few in the corner.
Their bed is now thriving with three varieties of sunflowers, cherry and early girl tomatoes (though still green), zucchini, peppers, lavender, dill, and more. On their private apartment deck, they also grow basil, rosemary, and flowers in pots.
“Everything’s growing like crazy,” Twila said.
Although the rain’s been helping, Twila says they are still getting used to the dryer climate and regular watering.
“We’ve just had to adjust to the climate as there’s no humidity like where we lived before.”
The community gardens are nestled between The Avenues’ main apartment building and the 20 stand-alone cottages. Residents can tend one of eight, eight-foot-square plots, either individually or as part of a shared effort. Avenues staff prepare the soil, supply water and fertilizer, and maintain a well-stocked garden shed with tools like trowels, shovels, rakes, carts, and hoses. Residents bring the seeds—and the passion. Some grow vegetables and herbs, others plant flowers. All help cultivate a sense of connection.
The benefits of gardening go far beyond the harvest. Gardening offers physical activity, stress relief and cognitive stimulation. It’s also a fun and social way to build friendships. Neighbors admire each other’s plots, swap tips, and leave extras—like carrots or rhubarb—on a table in the lobby for others to enjoy.
“We’re not familiar with how cold it gets so soon, so we hope we get some tomatoes before it cools off in the fall,” said Twila. “Next year, I want to plant heirloom tomatoes.”
For Jim and Twila, the community garden is more than a hobby; it’s a comforting reminder of home and a way to stay connected to something they’ve always loved. At The Avenues, gardening is as much about cultivating community as it is about harvesting vegetables, and everyone is welcome to get their hands in the dirt here.
The Avenues Crofton Park is always looking for more green thumbs to plant seeds and help our award-winning senior boutique living community flourish. Call 720-328-9548 or schedule a personalized tour online today.