Your Guide to Gardening in Chicago

Today we are talking all things garden, whether it’s how to start your own garden in Chicago or where you can find community gardens in the city.

How To Start a Garden in Chicago

If you are lucky enough to have space for a garden, here are some ways to get it up and running.

• Start by growing your seeds inside. The temperature can still drop this time of year, which can kill your plants.
• Make sure to keep your plants by a sunny window so they get enough sunlight.
• When the ground thaws, you can then transfer your plants outside.
• If you don’t have a yard, but have some space outside of your home, you can create a raised bed garden.
• Pro tip: You might be able to find free seeds at the Chicago Public Library.

Where To Join a Community Garden in Chicago

No space at home, but still want to work out that green thumb? Check out some of Chicago’s community gardens 🌱

• Chicago Women’s Park and Garden Community is an edible garden open for growing vegetables and flowers. | 1801 S. Indiana
• Clara D. Schafer Park Community Garden is a seven-acre garden for edible plants. The South Chicago spot is connected to the Urban Growers Collective farm. | 8900 S. Green Bay Ave.
• Diversey Harbor Community Garden is a 7,245-square-foot garden for edible plants. It’s located in Lincoln Park, right by Diversey Harbor Yacht Club. | 2601 N Cannon Dr.
• Indian Boundary Community Gardens is a garden maintained by volunteers. The focus of this garden is to plant native Chicago-region plants to help local pollinators. | 2500 W. Lunt Ave.
• Valley Forge Harvest Garden offers organic gardening programs for kids. Registration is free and open to children ages 6 to 12. | 7001 W. 59th St.
• El Paseo Community Garden is a nonprofit garden in Pilsen with membership and volunteer opportunities. They also teach beekeeping. | 944 W. 21st St.

How To Start a New Community Garden

While there are over 70 community gardens in parks around the city, maybe you’re looking for one closer to home.

The Chicago Park District has a location request form for new community gardens. They also provide a checklist of what you will need to get it up and running.

If you’re more of an indoor plant person, we’ve got a guide for that, too.