Every spring, gardeners across Denver find their way to a vibrant seed hub that’s sprouting hope, healthy food, and community connection: DUG’s Community Seed Distribution. What started as a simple way to share seeds has grown into Denver’s largest publicly available collection of free seeds, welcoming thousands of residents to pick up vegetable, herb, flower, and greens seeds at no cost and with no barriers.
A Seasonal Favorite With Real Impact
Each year, starting in late February, DUG opens the doors of our Curtis Park office in Denver so families, neighbors, and community organizations can swing by and collect free seed packets curated for Colorado’s high‑desert climate. This model helps gardeners of all levels grow food close to home—whether in a backyard, patio, or community garden plot.
With an estimated tens of thousands of packets distributed annually, DUG’s seed program is more than a giveaway—it’s a trusted resource. In fact, past seasons have seen thousands of families and community partners jumpstart their growing season with seeds from DUG, making this drop‑in seed pickup a beloved ritual for Denver residents who want to grow healthy food and connect with their neighbors through gardening.
Growing Community, One Packet at a Time
What makes the Community Seed Distribution stand out isn’t just the quantity of seeds; it’s also the accessibility and community focus. There are no eligibility requirements or fees; seeds are available to anyone—from families planting their first tomatoes to nonprofit gardens cultivating pollinator habitats.
And while the program traditionally runs through late summer or until supplies run out, popular seasons have seen seeds claimed quickly as gardeners enthusiastically return each year. The program’s collection also includes diverse varieties chosen to thrive in homes and shared growing spaces, reinforcing resilience, sustainability, and local food production.
Gratitude to Our Generous Seed Donors
This program wouldn’t be possible without the support of businesses and organizations that generously donate seeds each year. DUG extends heartfelt thanks to:
Burpee, Botanical Interests, MASA Seed Foundation, Renee’s Garden, True Leaf Market, BBB Seeds, Denver TrueValue Hardware Plant, Hart’s Seeds, High Mowing Organic Seeds, Hilltop Gardens, Kitzawa Seed Co., n.e. seed, Seed Savers Exchange, Tagawa Gardens, and City Floral.
Thanks to these partners, thousands of Denverites can access the seeds they need to grow food, flowers, and community.
More Than Just Seeds
Beyond giving away packets, DUG invites community participation throughout the year. Volunteers help sort and organize seeds in the winter months, ensuring that when spring arrives, the distribution is smooth and welcoming.
Through efforts like this, DUG isn’t simply handing out seeds—it’s cultivating community. People who stop by for a few free seeds often end up learning about workshops, joining a community garden, and other programs that deepen their connection to food, land, and each other.
Support DUG and Help More Seeds Grow
If you love seeing this program in action and want to help DUG continue putting seeds into the hands of Denver gardeners, consider making a donation. Every contribution helps expand access to free seeds, educational resources, and community gardening programs.
