Page last updated on December 5, 2023 at 5:21 pm
About the Community Gardening Program
Community gardens are a place for all levels of gardener, from aspiring to master gardener. Join us and reap all of the benefits that community gardens offer. Access to delicious, nutritious, fresh food is just the beginning.
Gardeners ...
- experience physical and mental health benefits
- enjoy the sights and sounds of nature
- meet people with a shared interest
- carry out their own food culture
- engage children in experiential learning
- help their families develop healthy eating habits
- learn tips from gardening experts in our classes
- join us at community events
The Bloomington Community Gardening program provides the infrastructure so that you can grow your own food, flowers, herbs and more.
We provide:
- fencing to keep deer and other animals out of the garden
- access to water
- communal tools
- composting
- knowledgeable garden staff who are ready to help you
- a monthly garden newsletter
Garden Plot Rental for 2024
Garden plot rentals are closed for the 2023 season. Sign up here to receive email updates regarding garden plot rental opportunities for 2024.
Returning gardeners in good standing can register for the same plot they used in 2023 from February 19-27, 2024.
Registration for gardeners wishing to switch plots, and all new gardeners, begins on March 4, 2024 at 10am. Registration takes place online and is first come, first served. The registration link will be made available on this website on March 4. Garden plots are available to rent throughout the season or until all plots are rented.
Hours of Operation
Dawn to dusk, April through October.
Community Gardener Agreement
The 2023 Community Gardening Program Gardener Agreement can be read below.
Accessibility
The Community Gardening program offers garden plots based on varying accessibility needs. Raised beds are available at both the Willie Streeter and Butler Park locations, and raised beds that are wheelchair-accessible are available at Switchyard Park.
Sponsorships and Donations
The Community Gardening program benefits from generous donations from corporations, businesses, groups and individuals in the form of seeds, plants, tools, soil amendments and other supplies, which allow us to keep our gardening opportunities affordable to all. There are a number of opportunities to become a donor to or sponsor of the Community Gardening program. Sponsorships or donations are accepted throughout the year. For more information about making a sponsorship or donation to the City's community gardens, contact Sarah Mullin at 812.349.3704 or email communitygardens@bloomington.in.gov.