As Urbana emerges from a winter slumber, it’s time to think about gardening. Urbana Park District has several organic plots for rent, and everyone is invited to rent one for this growing season.

“The garden program season is March-November,” said Chelsea Prahl, Environmental Education Coordinator. She continued, “During that time, gardeners are expected to keep their plots free of weeds and following our published guidelines. You can find that information in the Garden Manual on our website.”

The park district has full plots (30 by 17 feet), half plots (15 by 17) and a limited number of raised plots (11 by three).

The cost to rent the plots are:

• Full plot - $50 for residents, $75 for non-residents
• Half plot - $30 for residents, $45 for non-residents
• Raised plot - $20 for residents, $30 for non-residents

“Once gardeners register, they will receive an orientation email with resources and information about the program and expectations. If gardeners would prefer to receive hard copies of the orientation packet, that can be arranged,” Prahl explained.

What is people grow more produce than they can use? “Urbana Park District is a partner in the community-wide Solidarity Garden initiative and has plots on-site at Meadowbrook. If folks are interested in donating extra produce, through the Solidarity Gardens is a great way to do so,” Prahl said.

People can call the park district at (217) 367-1544 to rent a plot.

Or, if they have any questions, they can call Prahl at (217) 384-4062.

Prahl concluded, “People garden for all types of reasons. It is a happy and healthy pastime. The community garden plots at Meadowbrook Park can provide that opportunity for folks who cannot garden at home due to space, sunlight or lack of resources.”