Two part-time gardeners work there, as do lots of volunteers.

"It's the only plant in the garden the deer don't like to nosh on," said Linda Ahlin, one of the part-time gardeners.

A part-time gardener is now needed just once a week in season, and twice a week in winter.

Over the years, large cooperatives and state farms have gobbled up individual plots, and peasants tied to the land all their lives have turned into part-time gardeners.

The gardens were tended by a team of part-time gardeners who came from a local nursery to keep them properly maintained.

So I did that for about nine years, while also working as a part-time gardener and a part-time bus driver.

"You are a part-time gardener."

Two years ago, a private foundation contributed money for a part-time gardener.

Those are some of the problems endured by determined part-time gardeners.

But he also recognizes the specific burdens that come with being a part-time gardener.