Dr. Mitchell Mutter began developing his Lookout Mountain vegetable garden as a way to commune with nature, but it turned out to be a way to meet his neighbors, too.
Located on a lot about a block from his house, Mitchell’s vegetable plot has become a magnet for passersby, who invariably stop to chat. He welcomes visitors, especially the young ones. “I love to have children come and see things growing, see where food comes from,” he says.
Mitchell’s also generous with the fruits of his labor. Every summer, he hosts a potluck in the garden. Nearly 200 neighbors help set up tables, harvest the vegetables, and make a big salad Niçoise. “That’s what gardens are for,” he says, “to commune with nature and your neighbors.”
Text by Vicki Ingham
