Community Gardens
Urban Land & Water
The Urban Land & Water Program aims to reconnect urban communities with their natural environment, including land and waterways. Since 2006, we have accomplished this by supporting local community gardens and urban agriculture initiatives and by educating the public on locally significant topics like water conservation, native planting, and more. These efforts combine to form our Community Gardens Network: the backbone of Urban Land & Water, this network promotes locally-led community revitalization efforts that focus on social and environmental benefits.
Why Community Gardens?
Community gardens have a positive impact on many aspects of urban life. They have the ability to transform landscapes and communities alike.
- Access to green spaces. In San Antonio, less than half of residents live within a half-mile walk of green spaces. Spending time in nature is a known way to boost physical, mental, and emotional health. Community gardens are a great way to utilize empty land and can provide a welcoming green space that’s close to home and easily accessible.
- Availability of fresh produce. One in four low-income San Antonians lives in a food desert, or an area with no access to fresh, healthy food, yet cooking and eating fresh fruits and vegetables is a necessary way of life. Having a food-focused community garden nearby is a helpful way to expand access to fresh produce.
- Community identity. As urban centers grow, communities tend to become less easily navigable and less socially connected. A community garden can relieve these pressures by providing a place to gather, celebrating local culture, and giving gardeners a sense of ownership of their environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can my garden become a member of the Green Spaces Alliance Community Gardens Network?
Network membership is simple and rewarding. Community gardens within San Antonio city limits are eligible for membership.
When you become a member of the Green Spaces Alliance Community Gardens Network, you gain automatic access to many exclusive benefits and services.
- Technical expertise and consultation
- Access to apply for funding through the Green Spaces Alliance Sustainability Fund
- Assistance in conducting educational outreach and workshop events
- Notification of donated plants or materials
- Promotion of garden events on Green Spaces Alliance social media channels
- Educational and training resources
- Underwriting for grants and/or other funding opportunities
- Access to the Green Spaces Alliance tool library program and seed library
How do I start a community garden?
A community garden requires more than soil and plants. In addition to preparing the physical site, take the time to organize volunteers and leaders, work together to determine your garden’s purpose and vision, and start networking with potential partners and supporters. Paying attention to all of these elements will help your garden thrive long-term.
Â
I would like to volunteer at a community garden. How do I get started?
Check out our map of community gardens to find a location near you. Here you’ll find garden contact information, work day schedules, and more.
Â
What should I plant right now?
In hot weather: cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers. In cool weather: leafy greens, peas and brassicas.
For comprehensive information on seasonal planting, consult resources like the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, Central Texas Gardener, and the Farmer’s Almanac
Can I donate garden materials to the Community Gardens Network?
Yes, we are glad to accept donated materials for the gardens at this time. Please contact us for more information.
Upcoming Events
Gardening for Bats - Online
- 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Summer Gardens Meeting
- 6pm - 8pm