How can I partner with GRuB to Get a Garden?
GRuB’s Kitchen Garden Project (KGP) partners with individuals, families and organizations to build backyard vegetable gardens. Our goal is to connect low-income people in Thurston and Mason Counties with the sustainable food movement by providing access to the knowledge and resources needed to grow fresh, healthy and culturally appropriate foods. KGP gardeners receive: a raised bed (above ground) or double dug garden (in-ground), seeds, starts and cover crops, free access to our extensive gardening workshop series and a connection to the greater gardening community. Receiving a KGP garden is a two step process that includes an application and site visit.
What Do We Expect Of Our Gardeners?
- Gardeners are expected to assist GRuB staff and volunteers on the build day. Exceptions may be made for those with physical limitations or for those with work conflicts.
- Gardeners are expected to attend at least 2 GRuB workshops or volunteer for GRuB for at least 4 hours during the year you receive a garden.
- Gardeners are expected to maintain their garden and keep it weed free, watered and healthy. For a successful food garden you can expect to spend 1-4 hours in the garden per week, depending on the season.
Are KGP Gardens Free?
We believe that access to fresh, healthy, and culturally appropriate food is a basic human right and we strive to provide gardens to low-income people at a minimal cost. KGP gardens are highly subsidized by grants and donations. However, gardeners are expected to contribute to the construction of their garden. We work with applicants on a case by case basis to ensure that the contribution is not a burden. Please contact us for details.
Double Dug or Raised bed – What’s the best option?
A double dug bed allows a gardener to create a space that best fits their yard. By digging a beds into the existing landscape, we create a garden that is the size and shape you want. Double digging aerates the deeper layers of your garden’s soil. This allows your plants to grow bigger and more vigorously because they have room for their roots! It also improves drainage greatly, which is very important for healthy plants. The KGP typically creates 100 square feet of garden using this method.
A raised bed garden is constructed from 2″ by 6″ untreated fir. Three 4′ by 8′ frames are filled with an organic garden soil and compost mix. A trellis capable of supporting tomatoes, peas or beans is attached to one of the beds. Raised beds are excellent choices for people with mobility issues. The 4′ by 8′ frames can be stacked to raise the bed to a height that can be managed by those with limited mobility. Raised beds typically last 6 to 8 seasons in the Northwest.
Kitchen Garden Project Staff conduct a site visit with potential gardeners. A soil sample is taken and tested for toxins. Based on the test results, the needs of the gardener and the site conditions, GRuB will make a recommendation for a double dug or raised bed garden.
How do I apply for a garden?
We are no longer accepting applications for the Spring Build Season. The KGP will be will begin accepting application for Fall Garden Builds this Summer. Check back for information about the application process or subscribe to KGP News and be the first to know.
