- Returning Gardeners: If you are a returning gardener who followed the rules in the Community Garden Agreement, you can reapply for your plot starting January 31, 2020.
- New Applicants: If you didn't’ have a plot for the 2019 season, you are welcome to apply for available plots starting March 2, 2020. For new applicant instructions click here.
- Open Reservation Period: If you broke the rules in the Community Garden Agreement in the past, you are welcome to apply for available plots starting April 1, 2020.
- Renting a Plot: If you want to rent a plot in one of our community gardens, you can visit our Registration Website.
Questions? Contact Us!
Jordan Hildreth, Recreation Program Coordinator, 515-248-6383
communitygarden@dmgov.org
Downtown Community Garden
Address: Allen Park, 800 SE 6th Street
Number of Plots: 40, Plot Size 150 sq. ft.
Franklin Community Garden
Address: 55th and Franklin Avenue
Number of Plots: 180, Plot Size 150 sq. ft.
Woodlawn Community Garden
Address: Woodlawn Park, 3126 Twana Drive
Number of Plots: 30, Plot Size 150 sq. ft.
For a list of all private and public community gardens in Des Moines, visit Eat Greater Des Moines’ website
You are required to follow the rules outlined in the Community Garden Agreement. If you don’t follow the rules your permit will be terminated and your plot will be assigned to someone else.
Franklin Agreement
Downtown Agreement
Woodlawn Agreement
Are you looking for a way to do good with your produce? Consider planting a row for the hungry or donating your extra produce to a food pantry. You can find a food pantry near you by visiting DMARC’s website.
Local Food Resources
Eat Greater Des Moines
Backyard Bee Keepers of Des Moines
DMARC Food Donation
Easter Seals Adaptive Lending Library
Community Garden Start Up Resources
Community Garden Start-Up Guide
City of Des Moines Real Estate Department
Des Moines Parks and Recreation manages three community gardens. We understand the value and need for citizens to grow and harvest their own produce and encourage gardeners of all backgrounds and skill levels to come garden with us! Being a part of a community garden means embracing your community! Each plot is dynamic and every gardener grows differently. We encourage you to meet your neighbors, trade produce and learn from each other. 
