Hi, Christa.

I’m curious about the kinds of trees that have grown in the space and how large they are. Do you have any photos to share? Any photos you have of the space would be helpful!

The images and any information you share will help me compose an answer.

Thanks.
Julie 

Hi! A few images attached. See the edges of old garden beds. Is this space salvageable in some way so we can grow more food or flowers for our community? =) We purchased a chainsaw and also have the potential to put down compost or new raised beds, but I did not know if the trees would just grow back through. Thanks for any feedback!

Hello again, Christa.

Thanks for sharing a few photos of the space. I think it's great you are trying to add beauty to your community with this project.

It appears you could remove the "volunteer" trees that have taken up residence there, but some have diameters that might be challenging for you. I also share your concern about their regrowth and the choice to remove the volunteer trees mechanically instead of chemically. Without knowing exactly what they are (hard for me to discern without leaves), I would advise cutting down the trees and then using hand trowels or shovels to dig around the stump to loosen it from the soil. Rock the stump and continue to separate the roots from the soil until you can get as much of the stump and root system out of the space. In my own yard, we've had to use a winch at times to remove larger stumps. This U of M Extension post about unwanted trees might be helpful.

Because the area has not been a garden space for quite a while, consider submitting a soil sample to the U of M's Soil Testing Lab. That way, you'd have an idea of what might need to be added to the soil for best garden growth. 

I noticed the larger trees near the potential garden space, and those make me curious about the light available to the plants you add. As you select plants, be aware of the sun/shade needs of your choices.

If you decide to work on raised beds, these are good resources:

https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/raised-bed-gardens

 https://extension.psu.edu/how-to-construct-a-raised-bed-in-the-garden

https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/ask-extension-will-perennials-grow-well-raised-beds

When considering your plant choices, remember that many perennials, especially native plants, have deep root systems. The last link has an embedded link to one of my favorite video resources: Right Plant, Right Place. 

Feel free to reach out again if you have more questions. 

Kindly,

Julie