How to Get Involved in Your Local Brooklyn Community Gardens

If you’re living in Brooklyn, you might be interested in exploring and contributing to the vibrant community garden scene connecting the borough. These green spaces are more than just pretty spots—they’re vital hubs that exemplify New Yorkers’ dedication to their neighborhoods. Here’s how you can join and participate in these thriving gardens.

1. Discovering Community Gardens:

Many community gardens are scattered across Brooklyn, often tucked between high-rises or nestled in vacant lots. You can easily find them using the interactive map provided by the Green Thumb program.
Gardens are concentrated in areas like north Brooklyn, northern Manhattan, the South Bronx, and the Lower East Side.

2. How to Get Involved:

No Experience Required: Community gardens are open to everyone, regardless of gardening experience. You can show up and start a conversation with garden coordinators or volunteers to get involved.
Attend Information Sessions: Many gardens host regular information sessions where you can learn more about their activities and how to participate. For instance, The Farms in Red Hook invites interested volunteers to their information sessions.
Follow on Social Media: Keep an eye on the garden’s social media pages, such as Instagram and Facebook, for updates on events, volunteer opportunities, and news about the garden community.

3. Why Community Gardens Matter:

Community gardens are a testament to the commitment of New Yorkers to their communities. They started as an initiative by locals, gradually growing into government-funded programs that transformed unused land into thriving community spaces.
These gardens are not just about plants but about fostering community connections, providing a space for cultural celebrations, and educating people about different foods and traditions.

4. What’s Expected of Volunteers:

The tasks in a community garden can vary, but they often involve weeding, watering, planting, and general maintenance. Even dedicating a few minutes a week can make a significant difference.
Some gardens have specific rules and may require volunteers to commit a certain amount of time each month to support the community.

5. Financial Considerations:

Some community gardens charge fees to cover maintenance and supplies; however, many will waive these fees if they pose a financial burden. Contact the garden’s manager or the GreenThumb coordinator for more information.
Others are free for members, provided they actively participate in the garden’s upkeep.

Joining a community garden in Brooklyn allows you to connect with your community, cultivate new skills, and contribute to the neighborhood’s green spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie, your presence and contribution are valuable to these vital community hubs. Explore the gardens around you, engage with fellow gardeners, and discover the joys of gardening right here in Brooklyn.