![a group of students work with adults to plant seeds and seedlings in a raised-bed garden at a school garden. [credit: uf/ifas extension sarasota county]](/media/sfylifasufledu/sarasota/images/banner1650x470/2017_Comms_T4_plantingSchoolGdns_1650w.jpg)
SCHOOL GARDENS
School gardens help kids grow. Whether focused on fruits and veggies, native plants or wildlife, school gardens provide hands-on connections to science, nutrition, math and a variety of other subjects. Make the most of your school garden with Sarasota County Extension:
- The expertise of UF-trained Master Gardeners
- Free, public workshops on a broad array of topics
- A wealth of design, curriculum and grant ideas
- Connection to a network of other successful school gardens
Currently, there are more than 60 school gardens across Sarasota County, from pre-schools through high schools. Most school gardens are not open to the public. However, tours may be arranged in advance at certain locations. If you are interested in visiting a specific site or would like more information about school gardens, call 941-861-5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.
Grant Programs
Please check individual grant program sites for details regarding funding availability and grant deadlines.
- UF/IFAS Extension Florida School Garden Competition
- Florida Agriculture in the Classroom
- Florida Department of Education: Grow Healthy, School Garden Kits
- Florida Association of Science Teachers (FAST)
- Food Corps
- Florida Farm Bureau
- Lowes: Toolbox for Education Awards
- Whole Foods Whole Kids Foundation School Garden Grant
- National Gardening Association Youth Garden Grants
- Sea World/Busch Gardens Environmental Excellence Award