Although it might not seem like it at the moment, spring is right around the corner in southwest Michigan.

In anticipation, the Niles Community Gardens is gearing up for another season of planting, cultivating and harvesting in the City of Four Flags.

“It is just a really fun community time,” said Jay Clancy, director of Niles Community Gardens. “It is about getting very fresh, organic foods, meeting friendly people, being outside and engaging with the Earth.”

For several years, Niles Community Gardens has helped people in the greater Niles area produce their own vegetables and fruits by offering four different garden spaces, each open to anyone in the community.

For $25 or less and a few hours of work each week, people join the planting activities in one of four gardens:

• Ballard Elementary Garden, 1601 W. Chicago Road

• Holy Trinity Garden, 1819 Oak St.

• Northside Garden, 2020 N. 5th St.

• Westside Garden, 111 Spruce St.

In addition to different garden spaces, the program offers different options.

People can purchase an individual plot or join a community plot where everyone shares in the work.

The planting season, while different for each garden, begins in either mid March or early April.

Clancy is encouraging anyone interested in joining to attend the final sign-up and informational meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 10 at the Niles District Library.

A person in charge of each garden will be at the meeting along with other members.

Clancy said people could still join even if they miss the sign-up meeting.

Niles Community Gardens had approximately 80 members last year.

For more information, visit the organization’s website at nilescommunitygardens.org or find it on Facebook.

People can also call Clancy at (269) 815-5023.