Grow a Garden– seeds, seedlings & know-how

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The application period for Grow a Garden has closed for 2017. Click here for a reminder when applications open for 2018!

Formerly known as the Seeds & Transplants Program (read about program changes here), DUG’s Grow a Garden ensures that in-need individuals, families, seniors and groups have access to the necessary seeds, seedlings and education to grow a successful, productive vegetable garden thereby improving local food security for program participants.

How does it work?

  • Participants apply to the program using an online application during the January application period. Participants may also go to a distribution center to fill out the online application if they need Internet access or additional assistance. You can find a list and map of our distribution centers here.
  • Individuals and families select up to 10 seed packets and 5 two-packs of seedlings and can attend a gardening workshop. Groups can select up to 20 seed packets and 18 two-packs of seedlings and can attend a gardening workshop. Click here to learn more about the seeds, seedlings and learning opportunities available through this program.
  • Individuals, families and groups will receive their seeds and seedlings and attend a workshop at the distribution center of their choice. Seeds are available for pick-up in March and seedlings in May. Distribution centers will host a gardening workshop during seed distribution for participants to attend. Additionally, DUG offers a series of gardening workshops throughout the year at no additional cost to Grow a Garden participants.

Who can participate?

This is an income-qualifying program for individuals and families and home and community gardeners alike. Those who live in Denver Metro and have a household income of less than 80% of median income qualify. Income limits are listed below. If your household income is above the limit listed for your household size, you are not eligible to participate in this program. We are able to accept one application per household. The program fee for individuals and families is $5, and the fee can be waived upon request. If you do not qualify for the program, mark your calendar for DUG’s annual plant sale.

Group applications are for those applying on behalf of in-need groups such as schools, classrooms, educational, human service or faith-based organizations and community garden donation plots. The intention of group applications is to serve in-need groups that would not otherwise have access to seeds, seedlings and education needed for their gardening projects. Groups in the Denver Metro area are eligible to apply. The program fee for groups is $15.

This program is brought to you by Denver Urban Gardens with support from the City and County of Denver.

How do I participate?

The online application will become available below on the following dates:

  • DUG community gardeners – Monday, January 2nd
  • General public (including home gardeners) – Monday, January 9th
  • All groups – Monday January 9th

The deadline to apply is Tuesday, January 31st. New extended deadline: Friday, February 10th.

Seeds will be distributed to distribution centers on Monday, March 13th

Seedlings will be distributed to distribution centers the week of May 8th. We will contact you with exact pick-up dates for seedlings in May.

Thank you to our donors!