What is a community garden all about?
We are groups of individuals and families of diverse backgrounds who choose to garden together. We welcome people of all cultures, speaking all languages, making any kind of income, with little or a lot of gardening experience. Each household gets a garden plot to tend and contributes some volunteer hours to help run the garden.  Gardeners collect fees, maintain paths, mow, hold meetings, elect chairs, and divide all tasks among us. Most gardens have no paid staff people, so we all pitch in by volunteering for different tasks.

How big are plots?
Plot size is usually around 400 square feet. Half-plots are available as well.

How many plots can I get?
It depends on how many gardeners sign up for plots. Most gardens should have room for everyone to have at least one. You may request additional plots, and the garden registration volunteers will honor your request as space allows. Returning gardeners may request to keep the plot(s) they gardened the previous year.

What do I get when I sign up?

• A plot of approximately 20' x 20' for your use during the season.

• Use of a few shared common tools, and some free seeds and plants.

• Access to city compost which is delivered at least once per season.

• Access to water.

• A supportive environment for learning about gardening and meeting neighbors!

How much does it cost?
Payment for plots is based on a sliding scale, set to be affordable for everyone while still collecting enough money in your garden bank account to pay for tools, hoses, water, etc. The number of people in your household and your income determine how much you will pay for a plot. The cost ranges from $10 to $65.

What extra things can I purchase?
Floating row cover and straw or hay for mulch are available at wholesale cost at Spring Registration. See separate sheets for why you might want these.

Are the gardens organic?
There are different meanings of "organic gardening." Many of the gardens are organic, others allow non-organic or chemical pesticides (insect spray, Sevin Dust). No herbicides (like Round-Up) are ever allowed in the gardens. Compost is provided, and organic fertilizers are encouraged. If you are unsure about a particular product, contact the garden coordinator for the garden you are interested in to find out if you can use it.  CAC can help your garden schedule a workshop on organic pest control.

What about people who have never gardened before?
One of the greatest benefits of community gardening is learning from other gardeners. Someone will always be there to help. We have a range of experience in the gardens and many resources to help people who are just getting started. Some gardens pair new gardeners with more experienced ones. Workshops are offered through CAC and Troy Gardens.  The most important thing is to ask for help and suggestions from your fellow gardeners. It's a lot of fun! Experienced gardeners are usually quite glad to share their knowledge and skills with gardening novices. Flatter experienced gardeners with your questions! Also, check out the public library for hundreds of books on how to garden. We particularly recommend the "Wisconsin Garden Guide" written by Madison resident Jerry Minnich.

How much time does it take?
Gardening is fun, but it's also hard work. You have to weed, harvest, and maintain your plot. If you are going to be out of town for an extended period, you'll have to arrange for someone to tend your plot. Gardening also demands more time at different points in the season than others. If you don't think you can tend to your plot twice a week, consider sharing with someone else.

Once I have a plot, what do I have to do?

• Be a good neighbor by following the rules and maintaining your plot.

• Perform the required hours of voluntary-service for your garden.

• Enjoy the garden and the community of gardeners!

What about theft?
All the gardens experience at least a little theft or vandalism. Gardeners have found that theft diminished with signs and outreach to neighbors to tell them about the garden and invite them to get plots. Fences can also help. 

Are the gardens tilled?
At most gardens, no-till and tilled plots are available. Mention if you have a preference when you sign up at Spring Registration.