How to Start a Community Garden in Denver

Community gardens are more than just patches of soil where vegetables grow—they are vibrant hubs of connection, sustainability, and resilience. In Denver, where urban development continues to expand and access to fresh, locally grown food remains uneven across neighborhoods, community gardens offer a powerful solution. They transform vacant lots into thriving green spaces, foster social cohesion, promote environmental stewardship, and empower residents to take control of their food sources. Starting a community garden in Denver is not just about planting seeds; it’s about cultivating a movement rooted in equity, education, and community pride.

Denver’s unique climate, diverse population, and growing interest in urban agriculture make it an ideal city for community gardening. With over 100 active community gardens across the metro area, from the heart of the City and County of Denver to neighborhoods like Five Points, Montbello, and West Colfax, the movement is strong—but there’s still room for more. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete beginner, this guide will walk you through every step needed to launch a successful, sustainable community garden in Denver. From securing land and navigating city regulations to building community buy-in and maintaining long-term success, you’ll find everything you need to turn an empty plot into a living, breathing community asset.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Assess Community Interest and Identify a Vision

Before you dig a single hole, you need to know if there’s genuine interest in your neighborhood. A community garden cannot thrive without active participation. Start by talking to neighbors, local schools, faith groups, and community centers. Host a casual meeting—perhaps at a park, library, or even a backyard—to gauge interest. Ask questions like: “Would you use a community garden if one were available?” “What would you like to grow?” “Are you willing to volunteer or pay a small fee to maintain it?”

Document responses and look for patterns. Are people interested in growing vegetables? Herbs? Flowers? Do they want educational programming for children? Is there a desire for a space to gather socially? Use this feedback to define your garden’s mission. Is it focused on food security? Environmental education? Cultural expression? A clear vision will guide every decision moving forward and help attract funding, partners, and volunteers.

Step 2: Identify and Secure a Suitable Plot of Land

Land is the foundation of any community garden. In Denver, potential sites include vacant lots, underused public land, schoolyards, church properties, or even private land owned by a sympathetic landlord. The ideal plot should receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily, have access to water, and be relatively flat with good soil drainage.

Begin by researching city-owned vacant lots through the Denver Department of Public Works or the Denver Open Data Portal. You can also contact the Denver Community Gardens Program, which maintains a list of available sites and can connect you with landowners open to leasing. If you’re targeting private land, approach property owners with a formal proposal that outlines the benefits of a community garden—increased property value, reduced vandalism, beautification, and community goodwill.

Once you’ve identified a potential site, confirm ownership and obtain written permission. For city-owned land, you’ll need to submit a formal request through the Denver Community Gardens Program or the Denver Parks and Recreation Department. Be prepared to provide a detailed garden plan, including layout, water access, fencing, and maintenance commitments. The city typically requires a lease agreement and may ask for a small annual fee or in-kind contributions.

Step 3: Form a Governance Structure and Recruit a Core Team

A successful community garden needs leadership. Assemble a core group of 5–10 committed individuals to serve as a steering committee. Assign roles such as coordinator, treasurer, communications lead, volunteer manager, and outreach liaison. Establish a simple set of bylaws that outline decision-making processes, membership rules, fee structures (if any), and conflict resolution protocols.

It’s important to ensure your team reflects the diversity of your neighborhood. Include residents of different ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds to ensure the garden serves everyone equitably. Consider holding an open election for leadership positions to build trust and transparency. Regular monthly meetings (in person or virtual) will keep momentum going and allow members to voice concerns or suggestions.

Step 4: Design the Garden Layout and Infrastructure

Design is both an art and a science. Start by sketching a rough layout of your garden. Divide the space into individual plots (typically 4’x8’ or 4’x10’) for members, along with communal areas for composting, tool storage, seating, and educational signage. Leave wide pathways (at least 3 feet) for accessibility, including wheelchair access.

Plan for water access early. Most Denver gardens rely on municipal water, so ensure your site has a spigot within reach. If not, you may need to install one—a process that requires approval from the city and potentially a contractor. Rainwater harvesting systems are encouraged and may qualify for rebates through Denver Water’s Green Infrastructure Program.

Install fencing to deter animals and theft. Chain-link fencing is common and affordable, but consider adding a decorative element like trellises or native plants to enhance aesthetics. Provide lockable tool sheds or storage bins to house shovels, rakes, gloves, and seeds. Label each plot clearly and create a garden map for members and visitors.

Step 5: Secure Funding and In-Kind Donations

Starting a garden requires upfront costs: soil amendments, fencing, tools, signage, irrigation, and possibly compost bins. Budget realistically. A small garden may cost $1,500–$5,000; larger ones can exceed $10,000. Funding sources include:

• Denver Community Gardens Program – Offers grants up to $3,000 for new gardens.
• Denver Foundation – Supports neighborhood-based initiatives focused on food access and equity.
• Local businesses – Hardware stores, nurseries, and restaurants often donate materials or sponsor garden plots in exchange for recognition.
• Crowdfunding – Platforms like GoFundMe or Kickstarter can help raise small amounts from community members.
• Nonprofit partnerships – Organizations like Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) provide technical support and sometimes funding.

Don’t overlook in-kind donations. Ask local nurseries for free seedlings, hardware stores for discounted tools, and schools for volunteer labor. A well-documented funding plan will strengthen your grant applications and demonstrate organizational readiness.

Step 6: Prepare the Soil and Build Garden Beds

Denver’s native soil is often clay-heavy and low in organic matter. Before planting, conduct a soil test. The Colorado State University Extension Office offers affordable soil testing kits and expert analysis. They’ll tell you pH levels, nutrient content, and whether contaminants like lead are present—especially important in older urban areas.

If soil is contaminated, use raised beds filled with clean, certified compost and topsoil. Raised beds (12–18 inches high) are also ideal for improving drainage and reducing back strain for gardeners. Fill them with a mix of 60% topsoil, 30% compost, and 10% perlite or vermiculite for aeration.

Amend the soil with composted manure, leaf mold, or worm castings to boost fertility. Avoid synthetic fertilizers—opt for organic, slow-release options. Mulch pathways with wood chips or straw to suppress weeds and retain moisture. Label each bed with its intended crop and planting date to help members stay organized.

Step 7: Recruit and Train Garden Members

Now it’s time to open membership. Set clear guidelines: How many plots are available? What’s the annual fee (if any)? Are there work requirements? Most Denver gardens charge $10–$50 per year to cover water and maintenance. Some offer subsidized or free plots for low-income residents—this is a critical equity measure.

Use flyers, social media, local newsletters, and word-of-mouth to recruit members. Host an orientation session to explain rules, responsibilities, and gardening best practices. Provide a garden handbook that includes planting calendars, pest control tips, water conservation methods, and conflict resolution steps.

Offer beginner workshops led by Master Gardeners from Colorado State University Extension. Topics might include “Composting in Denver’s Dry Climate,” “Growing Tomatoes in High Altitude,” or “Water-Wise Irrigation.” These trainings build confidence, reduce mistakes, and foster a culture of learning.

Step 8: Establish Rules and Maintenance Protocols

Clear rules prevent conflict and ensure fairness. Common guidelines include:

• Plots must be tended regularly (e.g., at least once a week).
• Organic practices only—no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
• Compost only garden waste; no meat, dairy, or oily foods.
• Keep pathways clear and tools returned to storage.
• No selling produce without approval.
• Respect shared spaces and other gardeners’ privacy.

Assign rotating maintenance duties: weeding communal areas, cleaning tools, emptying compost bins, or checking irrigation. Create a sign-up sheet and rotate tasks quarterly. Consider appointing a “Garden Steward” to oversee upkeep and enforce rules gently but firmly.

Step 9: Launch with a Community Celebration

Don’t underestimate the power of a grand opening. Host a planting day with food, music, and family activities. Invite local officials, media, and partners. Provide free seedlings, gloves, and water bottles. Take photos and share them on social media and local blogs.

Use the event to reinforce your garden’s mission and thank everyone involved. This public recognition builds credibility and encourages ongoing participation. Consider creating a “Garden Wall of Fame” with photos of founding members and volunteers.

Step 10: Plan for Long-Term Sustainability

A garden that thrives for five years is more valuable than one that lasts five months. Plan for succession by mentoring new leaders, documenting procedures, and creating a “Garden Legacy Binder” with contact lists, budgets, meeting notes, and vendor relationships.

Apply for annual grants, host fundraising events like plant sales or harvest festivals, and partner with local schools for student gardening clubs. Build relationships with nearby restaurants that may buy surplus produce. Track your garden’s impact—how many pounds of food were grown? How many families were fed? How many volunteers participated? This data will help secure future funding and support.

Best Practices

Establishing a community garden in Denver isn’t just about planting—it’s about building a resilient, inclusive, and adaptive system. Here are proven best practices to ensure your garden thrives for years to come.

Embrace Equity and Inclusion

Denver is one of the most diverse cities in the Rocky Mountain region. Ensure your garden reflects that diversity. Offer multilingual signage, translate materials into Spanish, Somali, or other commonly spoken languages in your neighborhood. Provide free or sliding-scale plots for low-income residents, seniors, and people with disabilities. Partner with local refugee resettlement agencies to help newcomers connect with gardening traditions from their home countries.

Practice Water Conservation

Denver receives only about 15 inches of rainfall annually. Water is precious. Install drip irrigation systems instead of sprinklers to reduce evaporation. Use soaker hoses for raised beds. Mulch heavily to retain moisture. Collect rainwater in barrels (Denver Water allows this and even offers rebates). Educate members on the importance of watering early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize loss.

Prioritize Soil Health

Healthy soil equals healthy plants. Compost all garden waste and avoid chemical inputs. Rotate crops annually to prevent nutrient depletion. Plant cover crops like clover or rye in the off-season to protect and enrich the soil. Test soil every 2–3 years and amend based on results.

Integrate Education and Youth Engagement

Children who garden are more likely to eat vegetables. Partner with local schools to bring students for weekly gardening lessons. Create a “Kids’ Corner” with child-sized tools and fast-growing plants like radishes and sunflowers. Host seasonal workshops on pollinators, composting, and nutrition. Consider applying for a Denver Public Schools Community Garden Grant to support educational programming.

Build Partnerships

No garden operates in isolation. Collaborate with local nonprofits, libraries, churches, and businesses. The Denver Urban Gardens network connects over 100 gardens and offers free training, resources, and networking events. Partner with Denver Food Rescue to donate surplus produce to food-insecure families. Work with Denver Public Library to host gardening book clubs or seed swaps.

Document Everything

Keep a digital and physical record of decisions, expenses, volunteer hours, and harvest yields. Use free tools like Google Sheets or Notion to track progress. This documentation is invaluable for grant applications, annual reports, and training new leaders. It also helps preserve institutional memory when volunteers move on.

Plan for Winter

Denver’s winters are long and cold. Protect your garden during the off-season. Cover raised beds with tarps or row covers to prevent erosion. Store tools indoors. Clean and disinfect pots and trays. Use winter months to plan next year’s crops, attend gardening webinars, and repair infrastructure. Consider planting cold-hardy crops like kale, spinach, or garlic in late fall for early spring harvests.

Encourage Social Connection

Community gardens are social spaces first, agricultural ones second. Host potlucks, harvest festivals, and seasonal celebrations. Create a “Garden Bulletin Board” with recipes, gardening tips, and member birthdays. Encourage storytelling—ask members to share where they learned to garden or what their favorite plant reminds them of. These moments build lasting bonds.

Tools and Resources

Launching and maintaining a community garden in Denver is far easier with the right tools and trusted partners. Below is a curated list of essential resources to support your journey.

Key Organizations

• Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) – The leading nonprofit supporting community gardens across Denver. Offers free training, soil testing, tool loans, and grant assistance. Visit dug.org for resources and contact information.
• Colorado State University Extension – Denver Office – Provides Master Gardener volunteers, soil testing kits, workshops, and expert advice on native plants and pest control. Call (303) 730-1980 or visit extension.colostate.edu/denver/.
• Denver Department of Public Works – Manages city-owned vacant lots. Submit land inquiries via their website or by calling (720) 913-0999.
• Denver Water – Offers rebates for rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and water-wise landscaping. Learn more at denverwater.org/green-infrastructure.
• Denver Community Gardens Program – Administers city-sponsored garden leases and provides technical support. Email communitygardens@denvergov.org.

Essential Tools and Supplies

• Hand trowels, forks, and hoes (durable, ergonomic models)
• Gloves and kneeling pads
• Wheelbarrow or garden cart
• Drip irrigation kits with timers
• Soil testing kit (available through CSU Extension)
• Compost bins (stackable or tumbler styles)
• Tool shed or weatherproof storage containers
• Signage (weather-resistant plastic or metal)
• Locks for tool storage
• Seed packets (choose varieties suited to Denver’s USDA Zone 5b–6a)

Recommended Reading and Online Resources

• The Community Gardening Handbook by Nancy Ondra
• Denver’s Urban Agriculture Guide – Free PDF from Denver Urban Gardens
• Colorado Gardener’s Companion by Michele Owens
• YouTube: “Denver Community Garden Tours” by DUG
• Podcast: “The Urban Farm” – Episodes on high-altitude gardening
• Online: gardeners.com – Search “Denver gardening tips”

Grant and Funding Opportunities

• Denver Community Gardens Grant – Up to $3,000 for new gardens (DUG administers)
• Denver Foundation Community Grants – For neighborhood improvement projects
• Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment – Healthy Communities Grants – Supports food access initiatives
• Whole Foods Market Community Giving Program – Local store donations for food-related projects
• Home Depot Foundation – Grants for garden infrastructure projects

Real Examples

Denver is home to dozens of thriving community gardens. Studying successful models can provide inspiration and practical insight.

1. The Montbello Community Garden

Located in one of Denver’s most diverse neighborhoods, this 1-acre garden serves over 80 families, many of whom are refugees from Somalia, Bhutan, and Mexico. The garden features culturally significant crops like okra, bitter melon, and cilantro. With support from DUG and local mosques, the garden hosts weekly cooking classes and multilingual workshops. Over 1,200 pounds of produce are harvested annually and distributed to families in need.

2. The Five Points Community Garden

Established in 2010 on a former vacant lot, this garden became a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization. It includes a pollinator garden, a children’s learning plot, and a composting station. The garden partners with the nearby Five Points Library for storytime and gardening events. It was featured in Denver Magazine for its role in reducing crime and increasing property values in the area.

3. The West Colfax Youth Garden

Created in collaboration with West Colfax Elementary School, this garden is entirely student-run. Children plant, maintain, and harvest crops, then sell produce at a weekly farmers’ market. Proceeds fund school supplies. The garden has won state awards for youth engagement and now serves as a model for other Denver schools.

4. The Baker Community Garden

One of Denver’s oldest gardens (established in 1998), Baker Community Garden has survived multiple leadership transitions thanks to meticulous documentation and strong bylaws. It features a “Legacy Plot” where longtime members plant heirloom seeds passed down through generations. The garden holds an annual “Seed Swap Day” that draws over 200 participants.

5. The East Colfax Garden Project

This garden was born from a partnership between a local church and a group of seniors. They converted a neglected alley into a therapeutic garden with raised beds, benches, and sensory plants like lavender and mint. The garden now serves as a daily retreat for residents with dementia and mobility challenges. Volunteers from nearby senior centers help maintain it.

Each of these gardens demonstrates that success isn’t about size or funding—it’s about intention, inclusion, and consistent care.

FAQs

Do I need a permit to start a community garden in Denver?

If you’re using city-owned land, yes. You must apply through the Denver Community Gardens Program or Denver Parks and Recreation. For private land, no permit is required, but you’ll need written permission from the landowner. Always check zoning regulations—some areas restrict agricultural use.

How much does it cost to start a community garden in Denver?

Costs vary widely. A small garden (5–10 plots) may cost $2,000–$5,000 for soil, fencing, tools, and irrigation. Larger gardens can cost $10,000 or more. Grants and in-kind donations can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Can I grow food in Denver’s high altitude?

Absolutely. Denver sits at 5,280 feet, which means a shorter growing season (roughly 120–150 frost-free days). Choose cold-tolerant varieties like kale, carrots, beets, peas, and determinate tomatoes. Use season extenders like row covers or cold frames to lengthen your harvest.

What if the soil is contaminated?

Soil testing is critical. If lead or other contaminants are detected, use raised beds filled with clean soil. Avoid planting root crops in contaminated areas. The CSU Extension Office can help interpret test results and recommend safe practices.

Can I sell produce from my community garden?

Most community gardens prohibit commercial sales to maintain their nonprofit, community-focused mission. However, some allow surplus donations to food banks or small-scale sales at neighborhood events with approval from the garden’s leadership.

How do I get water access for my garden?

Most gardens connect to existing municipal spigots. If none exist, you may need to install one. Contact Denver Water for guidance. Rainwater harvesting systems are encouraged and eligible for rebates.

How do I handle conflicts between garden members?

Establish clear bylaws and a conflict resolution process from the start. Most issues are resolved through open dialogue. If needed, appoint a neutral mediator from your steering committee. DUG offers free mediation training for garden leaders.

Can I start a garden on my own property?

Yes! Many Denver residents start small “micro-gardens” on patios, balconies, or front yards. While these aren’t “community” gardens, they’re still valuable. You can invite neighbors to join you or donate surplus produce.

What plants grow best in Denver?

Best vegetables: Lettuce, spinach, radishes, carrots, beans, peas, zucchini, tomatoes (determinate types), peppers, and potatoes. Best herbs: Basil, thyme, oregano, mint, chives. Best flowers for pollinators: Sunflowers, coneflowers, lavender, and borage.

How do I get volunteers?

Post on Nextdoor, Facebook groups, and local bulletin boards. Partner with schools, churches, and civic organizations. Offer flexible hours and simple tasks. Highlight the social and health benefits of gardening.

Conclusion

Starting a community garden in Denver is one of the most impactful actions you can take to strengthen your neighborhood, promote environmental health, and ensure equitable access to fresh food. It’s not a project you complete—it’s a legacy you build. From the first soil test to the last harvest, every step you take contributes to a greener, more connected city.

The challenges are real: limited water, short growing seasons, and bureaucratic hurdles. But so are the rewards. Watching a child pick their first tomato. Seeing elders share seeds from their homeland. Hearing neighbors laugh over compost bins. These moments are the true harvest.

You don’t need to be an expert to begin. You just need to care. Reach out to Denver Urban Gardens. Talk to your neighbors. Test the soil. Plant a seed. The rest will grow.

Denver’s future is not just in its skyline or its streets—it’s in the soil beneath our feet, tended by hands that refuse to give up. Start your garden. Grow your community. And watch what grows alongside it.