The Community Garden Program was established in 1977 as an avenue for people to cultivate their own vegetables. The first garden, Mi Tierra (now known as Nuestra Tierra), was built on a five acre parcel that had been a City tree nursery. The majority of the gardens are older than 15 years. The newest garden, Guadalupe, was opened on November 1, 2008 and the 2 oldest have been in operation for more than 30 years.
About the Community Gardens Program
The community gardens provide an avenue for people to learn different growing methods from each other and to cultivate friendships as well as produce. There are a wide variety of participants which include community members, educators, retirees, families, church groups and school groups.
Anyone age 18 or older who lives in the City of San Jose may participate in the Program.
Currently, there are 19 community gardens on approximately 35 acres of land with over 900 gardeners participating. A community garden is located on public or private land subdivided into garden plots for persons to grow their own vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers. The selling of produce is not allowed. Excess food/produce can be preserved for future use and gardeners are encouraged to share with friends and neighbors or donate to local food banks.
Garden plots are issued year to year, from February 1 to January 31, on a first come first served basis dependant on garden plot availability and the individual garden waiting list. Plot sizes vary from garden to garden and range in size from as small as 100 to as large as 600 square feet.
The cost to rent a garden plot varies from garden to garden. The costs range from 0.11 cents to 0.35 cents per square foot. This fee will cover expenses related to water usage and basic upkeep of the garden. An additional fee may be implemented for maintenance and administrative cost.
The Program adheres strictly to the gardening principles, concepts and practices popularly called “organic.” The use of pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers or other such substance or practices inconsistent with organic gardening are prohibited.
Garden Locations
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