Update May 1, 2020

Plots are currently full at Butler Park and Switchyard Park, as are small plots and raised beds at Willie Streeter.

If you would like to be added to the wait list for one of these plots, please email communitygardens@bloomington.in.gov or call 812-349-3704. Remember to state if you have garden location or plot size requests.

About Butler Park Community Gardens

Located in Rev. Ernest D. Butler Park at the intersection of West Ninth and North Fairview Streets, the Butler Park Community Gardens enable gardeners to learn and practice the techniques of organic gardening in rented plots. The garden includes 50 organic in-ground plots in two sizes and three raised beds for rent.

The Community Gardening program offers a variety of gardening opportunities for individuals, families, groups, and organizations. Services provided in the gardens include the initial preparation of the garden area, water access, maintained paths, composting facilities, deer fencing, access to mulch, the advice of knowledgeable staff, and the Garden Beet newsletter. Communal tools are available for use at scheduled times during the week. Our three garden sites have plenty of conveniently located parking and are accessible by Bloomington Transit bus routes. Plots are available for use starting in mid-April. 

For more information about the community gardening program, or about renting a garden plot at Butler Park Community Gardens, contact Sarah Mullin at 812-349-3704 or mullins@bloomington.in.gov.

Registration and Garden Plot Rental

• New gardeners and returning gardeners who wish to garden in an additional plot, or in plot(s) other than those rented in 2019 may register on a first-come, first-served basis starting on Feb. 19, 2020.

Registering gardeners must complete the Program Registration Form and 2020 Gardener Agreement, and all participating gardeners must read and sign the contract as well. The registration forms must be submitted in person at the Bloomington Parks and Recreation office, 401 N. Morton St. Suite 250 inside City Hall. The registering gardener will select from available plots on the maps at the Parks and Recreation office. New gardeners who want to rent more than one plot or a plot with year-round use must contact gardening program staff before registering.

• Community Gardening Program Registration Form
• Community Garden Agreement
• Rev. Butler Park Community Gardens Plot Map

For more information about the Community Gardening program, email communitygardens@bloomington.in.gov.