Inspired by another family on our street, we’ve recently planted some tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants and herbs on our verge. Why would we do this when we have a perfectly decent-sized back yard for such a garden? Well, the neighbours and their kids love sharing the produce and it greens up the verge while providing us with some home-grown fare. Then there’s the passers-by who come by and pass comment on it as we pick, garden, and hand water. So there’s an element of community about it.
My Italian Father-in-law swore we were crazy because dogs would do what dogs do on it. We give everything a good wash and so far haven’t suffered any ill effects.
Then there’s the laughable situation from the Cottesloe council. Thankfully we don’t live there.
They will require ratepayers to submit a plan, and a $100 permit fee. On top of this, a $500 bond in case the council have to reinstate the verge if said garden should fall into disrepair. Surely the council’s views and resulting legislation don’t represent those of the wider community? Or do they?
Verges: for lawns or lettuces?
Cottesloe’s ‘verge-o-crat’ policy wonks
Neighbour's produce
Our mentor's garden
