As youth gardens continue to gain widespread popularity, the need for knowledgeable, community-minded volunteers is also on the rise. Extension educators can play an important role by coordinating Master Gardener Volunteers (MGVs) to fill this need. The mission of Master Gardener Volunteer programs is to train MGVs to become community volunteers who help people understand horticulture and the environment and perform horticulture-related work for their communities. This publication provides Extension educators and school garden coordinators with tips for creating mutually beneficial relationships between MGVs and school gardens, so that both come away asking for more! Download Brief »
Gardens for Young Learners
Everyone has a place in a garden. Careful attention to the garden design and materials used will help ensure an inspiring and safe space for even the youngest learners. Download Brief »
Funding Your School Garden Program
Having adequate resources for a successful school garden program can be daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. Take a cue from the financial industry and diversify your revenue streams! A mix of grants, donations, and sales of value-added products may be the perfect equation for a long-lasting school garden program. This brief will offer suggestions to fund a school garden program now, and for years to come! Download Brief »
Connecting the School Garden to the Cafeteria
Bringing school garden produce into the school cafeteria can be a win-win: food service staff find a local source of fresh produce and students enjoy the bounty that they helped plant and harvest. With proper attention to food safety, both in the garden and in the cafeteria, students are able to see their food change from seed, to plant, to lunch! Download Brief »
Connecting the Child Care Garden to the Table
A garden at your early childhood center will not only grow delicious fruits and vegetables, but it will also grow healthier children! Youth gardens offer early childhood sites access to fresh produce and offer children opportunities to plant, care for, and taste a variety of fruits and vegetables. In this document, you will learn the benefits of youth gardens and the measures to take to keep your students and your garden healthy and growing! Download Brief »
