DUG’s signature Grow a Garden program has once again inspired thousands to bring fresh, healthy food into their homes and neighborhoods, this year with an unprecedented level of enthusiasm. For the first time in the program’s decades-long history, all available garden kits sold out in just four weeks, making this the quickest sell-out ever recorded.
Now in its 29th year, the Grow a Garden program removes barriers to home gardening by offering ready-to-grow kits that include locally sourced seeds, seedlings, and bilingual educational resources. Delivered on a pay-what-you-can model, the program is designed to make gardening affordable, if not free, for Coloradans of all backgrounds, regardless of income.
In addition to popular favorites such as the Salsa, Pizza, and Epic Salad kits, this year’s lineup included options like the Fry & Ferment and Stir Fry Garden Kits, each thoughtfully assembled to thrive in Colorado’s unique climate and support home cooking from early spring through late summer.
The early sell-out reflects a growing interest in food sovereignty, community resilience, and sustainable living. Participants reported not only the joy of digging in the dirt, but also the satisfaction of harvesting their own fresh produce—yielding more than nourishment, but also a meaningful connection to place and community.
This milestone couldn’t have happened without the generous support of the program’s sponsors. Denver Urban Gardens extends heartfelt thanks to DaVita Kidney Care and CSU Spur for making Grow a Garden possible this year and helping empower thousands of residents to grow healthy food close to home.
As DUG looks forward to future growing seasons, the record sell-out serves as a testament to the strength of community spirit and a reminder that with the right tools, resources, and partners, anything can take root and flourish.
Stay tuned in May for distribution week, potential walk-up kits, and more.
