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.
How do I participate?
The online application will become available on Monday, Monday, January 1st.
The deadline to apply is Wednesday, January 31st. Due to the nature of the program, we are unable to accommodate applications after this deadline.
Seeds will be distributed to distribution centers on Monday, March 12th
Seedlings will be distributed to distribution centers in mid-May. We will contact you with exact pick-up dates for seedlings in May.
