From Vine to Market: Community Gardens Set to Deliver Fresh, Packaged Fruit

Above: Edward Chikwayi ZDDT Agri-extension officer showing off the ripe grapes at Hlanganani garden.

Greenfield and Hlanganani market gardens are bursting with colour as their lush, healthy fruit ripens in preparation for the upcoming market season.

Gardeners from both sites are eagerly gearing up to sell their fresh, succulent produce to the local community, marking yet another milestone in their thriving urban agriculture journey.

With grapes, maize, vegetables and other seasonal fruits reaching peak quality, excitement is building among residents who look forward to accessing locally grown, nutritious food.

During a lively meeting at the gardens, ZDDT Agri-extension officer Edward Chikwayi (pictured) led an insightful discussion on proper grape packaging, emphasising the need for attractive, hygienic, and durable presentation to enhance market appeal.

He also highlighted opportunities for selling the produce directly to a nearby supermarket, a move that could significantly increase income for the gardeners. His guidance encouraged the teams to focus
on quality, consistency, and presentation as they prepare to bring their richly ripened harvest to customers eager for community-grown produce.