Sarah Bortfeld carefully considers where to place new plants in the Darby Street Community Garden, knowing that the success of one plant's growth is impacted by those nearby.
The same could be said for the group of volunteers who work on the Cooks Hill green space.
Together, they have created a place that equally benefits Darby Street residents and their environment.
For more than five years, community members of all ages have been doing their part to make their suburb brighter and more environmentally sustainable.
They've got a pomegranate tree, strawberries, lemons, limes, herbs, passion fruit, and a lot of team spirit.
Ms Bortfeld has been managing the garden since June and has found it to be beneficial and rewarding in many ways.
"I think it's just good to have the green space," the Cooks Hill resident said.
"A lot of us around here live in apartments and don't have space or time to do gardening at our own place.
"To have that garden that is accessible to everyone, whether they want to pop over in their lunch break, or volunteer more time, I just think it's a really positive thing for Darby Street.
"A lot of people just pop in randomly.
"I think there have been so many mental health benefits through being connected to nature.
"I've lived here six years and I think it's definitely brought something to the area. It's been a completely positive thing for me."
Ms Bortfeld said the garden had encouraged neighbours to interact more.
Whether there's a planned working bee or one person taking time to prune and water, someone's usually keen for a chat.
"There are retirees and students; it's a whole mixed bag of people who, in any other circumstance we wouldn't have met each other," she said.
"It's great having a good support network and having a couple of really committed volunteers who love to get their hands dirty.
"We sort of want it to be everyone's garden so anyone can come down and take whatever they need."
Ms Bortfeld would like to acknowledge everyone who has contributed to the garden, from those who created it to those who work on it daily.
"I'd really like to put emphasis on the fact that the garden wouldn't be here without all of the volunteers both past and present," she said.
"In particular, Jane Andrews is a legendary volunteer who is there at the drop of a hat; Andrew Garner has taught me so much about gardening and has helped out so much; and Mark Pepperall from Newcastle City Council has helped me with resources and contacts."
