Cultivating Community with Trefoil Gardens in Woodstock, GA

Woodstock, Georgia is home to Trefoil Gardens, a thriving community-based urban farm. Co-managed by Rob Miller and Melanie Jones, this innovative venture is reshaping local agriculture. Their approach combines sustainability, herbal medicine, and local food systems to create an inspiring model of community integration and self-reliance while also making botanical products easily available online.

 

The Story Behind Trefoil Gardens

Trefoil Gardens’ name reflects its mission and philosophy. “Trefoil” symbolizes abundance and fertility, drawn from Celtic traditions. The farm embodies this meaning by integrating flora, fauna, and fungi. They grow fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, and medicinal plants, all while focusing on hyper-local, sustainable farming.

Although the name sometimes confuses people unfamiliar with its roots, their loyal customer base has embraced it. The farm’s goal is to connect neighbors through food, wellness, and education.

 

What They Offer

Trefoil Gardens operates on a simple, community-focused model. They use yard-sharing arrangements where neighbors allow them to grow gardens on their properties. In exchange, homeowners receive fresh, seasonal produce weekly. The surplus is sold at local markets, enabling the farm to sustain itself financially.

Their products include:

• Herbal teas: Handcrafted blends made from locally grown herbs.
• Hydrosols and tinctures: Plant-based extracts for wellness.
• Market bouquets: Fresh, ornamental flowers.
• Locally grown vegetables: Wholesome fresh produce for the community.

Their offerings emphasize quality, sustainability, and care.

 

A Hyper-Local Focus

Trefoil Gardens operates entirely within a five-mile radius. Their commitment to bioregional herbalism and food production sets them apart. Every product they sell is grown, harvested, and processed in-house, on the farm. This ensures fresher, higher-quality goods compared to mass-produced alternatives.

Their philosophy stems from the idea that plants adapt to their environments, producing nutrients uniquely suited to those who live nearby. This connection between people and plants drives the farm’s hyper-local approach.

 

Building Resilience Through Food Security

Trefoil Gardens is not just about growing food—it’s about fostering resilience. By challenging the traditional aesthetics of lawns with productive gardens, they empower neighbors to grow food and reduce reliance on external supply chains. This approach offers:

• A buffer against inflation.
• Support during supply chain disruptions.
• Fresh food security for the community.

Rob and Melanie believe their model can inspire other neighborhoods, creating sustainable micro-communities in urban and suburban areas.

 

What Sets Them Apart

Rob and Melanie stand out for their commitment to local, small-scale production. Unlike larger suppliers, they ensure every herb and vegetable is handled with care. Their products – vibrant and nutrient-rich – reflect this dedication.

For herbal medicine enthusiasts, Trefoil Gardens offers a direct connection to the source. Customers can visit the gardens, see how products are made, and feel confident in their quality.

 

A Personal Journey

Trefoil Gardens is deeply personal for Rob and Melanie. Their journey began with their son’s severe food allergies, which led them to grow their own food. Rob’s recovery from a traumatic brain injury further deepened his connection to the land. Working with soil became both therapeutic and transformative, inspiring the couple to expand their farm into a thriving business.

 

Community Impact

Beyond providing fresh produce, Trefoil Gardens plays a vital role in Woodstock’s community. They:

• Partner with local food banks and charities.
• Distribute free seeds through libraries.
• Double SNAP benefits to make healthy food accessible.

Their efforts extend beyond farming to include mentorship. They’ve helped launch other herb farms and guided home gardeners toward self-sufficiency.

 

A Vision for the Future

Trefoil Gardens is more than a farm. It’s a vision for sustainable urban living, rooted in community and care. Rob and Melanie aim to inspire other neighborhoods to replicate their model, proving that small-scale farming can make a big impact.

If you’re ever in Woodstock, stop by their farmer’s market booth or explore their gardens. You’ll find more than just food – you’ll discover a community committed to growth, resilience, and well-being.

 

Explore the small batch herbs and botanicals from Trefoil!

Phone: 678-453-8654
Website: www.trefoilgardens.com
Email:  trefoilgardens@gmail.com
Location: 122 Bascomb Dr, Woodstock, GA 30189