What to expect
Once you’ve been patch-matched, here’s how a Lend & Tend garden-sharing arrangement usually unfolds — from first introductions to settling into a rhythm together.
Getting started
Introductions
Once you've agreed to meet at the gardening space, talk through your plans and a reasonable timeline for the shared project.
Garden materials
Not every garden comes with a fully kitted-out shed. Always ask before using the lender’s tools, and be ready to bring your own.
Your agreement
When both lender and tender are happy, confirm the garden-sharing agreement so you each have a record of what you agreed.
Track your progress
At the exciting getting-started stage, take some before pictures and plot a reasonable timeline for your project.
Your first few months
Every garden is different, but this is a realistic shape for a first growing season. Treat it as a guide, not a deadline — the most important thing is keeping in touch.
- 1
First month
Begin garden-sharing
Once you've both confirmed the agreement, meet at the garden, sort out the practicalities and make a start. Take some “before” photos.
- 2
Second month
Clearing & establishing
It may take a few weeks to clear or establish the space. Keep talking — a quick message goes a long way.
- 3
Third month
Starting to grow
You may now be ready to start raising crops; a more seasoned gardener may already be seeing the fruits of their labour.
- 4
Fourth month
Review & reflect
In full swing, or time to reassess the terms? The most important thing is keeping the line of communication open between lender and tender.
Ready to make it official?
When you’ve both talked things through, set up a simple garden-sharing agreement so you each have a record of what you agreed. It only takes a minute and you can review it later.