Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that cost is an important consideration for our community gardeners. Grow and Give plots are free plots that give gardeners the chance to contribute to the community through their produce. By reserving a free plot, gardeners are asked to 1) donate a percentage of their harvest to the community and 2) serve on one of the Community Garden committees. This way, we can collectively make a meaningful impact by providing fresh, healthy food to those in need.
Gardeners that reserve an Exclusive Harvest plot will have exclusive access to their own plot, allowing them the freedom to grow a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs tailored to their preference. The plot fee covers water usage, compost, and other garden resources, ensuring a productive and vibrant gardening experience.
A member from the MSR Community Garden team will reach out to schedule an on-site orientation session. Garden plots are assigned after orientation is complete.
If it’s been more than 7 days since you reserved a garden plot and you have not heard from a member of the team, please reach out: msrgardencos@gmail.com / (719) 900-2170
Sign ups for each growing season are posted February 1st. We anticipate a wait list to start by March.
Getting involved is easy! You can start by signing up for a garden bed, attending our community events, or volunteering. Check out our Join the Community page for more details.
We appreciate your generosity! You can make a financial donation through our website's donation page. If you would like to donate materials or volunteer, please reach out to msrgardencos@gmail.com.
There is a nominal fee for exclusive use of a garden bed. These fees help cover the cost of garden maintenance, water, and communal resources. Grow and Give plots, volunteering, and scheduled events have no fees.
You have the freedom to choose what you'd like to plant, with caveats.The growing of Cannabis (marijuana) or any illegal substance is strictly prohibited, and you want to steer clear of noxious weeds.
The garden is maintained through a collaborative effort. We rely on our gardeners to keep their individual plots well-maintained and to help with weeding, composting, and general upkeep.
Absolutely! Our garden is open to the public. Feel free to explore the space, attend workshops, and participate in events. We encourage everyone to enjoy and learn from the garden.
Absolutely. We welcome folks from all neighborhoods.

Organic methods of fertilizing and pest control are encouraged. Chemical fertilizers and chemical pesticides may be used on your garden; be sure that they are applied only on non-windy days to mitigate drift into surrounding gardens. Herbicides are banned from the gardens.
The community garden is located right next to the Shooks Run Trail and our office at the Sustainacenter on 702 E Boulder St. You can find it on the northwest corner of El Paso and E Boulder St.
You're welcome to bring your gardening tools. Communal tools are available for shared use. Please be respectful and return them to the designated area after use.
We regularly organize workshops, classes, and events to educate our community on sustainable gardening practices, composting, and more. Check our Events page for upcoming opportunities.
We welcome community members to propose and host events or workshops. Please reach out to msrgardencos@gmail.com with your idea, and we'll work together to make it happen.
The growing season is March 1st – Oct 31st.
The water is turned on after the danger of a hard frost has passed, typically in mid May. The water is turned off before the first hard frost, typically in October.
Our garden is equipped with a water line with hose bibs, hoses, and hand sprinklers. Gardeners are responsible for watering their own plots.
Unattended watering is not permitted. Please water wisely and only when needed. It is better to water deeply and less frequently. Always turn the spigot(s) off and disconnect hoses when leaving the garden.
Gas or powered lawnmowers and weed eaters are never allowed in the garden. Gas rototillers and hand held tools are allowed.