Community Garden Program and Plots

Garden and grow your skills


Come see all you can sprout in the rich soil at Dodge Nature Center! Join Dodge’s Community Garden Program, offered at the Main Property in West St. Paul and Shepard Farm in Cottage Grove from May to October every year.

Join the program by renting a plot. You’ll get a garden plot package (see details below), guidance from Dodge’s experienced staff and volunteers, and a supportive community of fellow gardeners. Read the Garden Program Information Sheet for more details.

Garden Plot Package

A garden plot rental includes an approximately 15′ x 15′ plot, water, use of tools, compost as a soil amendment, and an organic gardening class with Dodge’s experienced staff or volunteers. Gardens are open daylight hours throughout the season, closing in October.

Plots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis—registration typically opens by the end of January and closes in mid-May (or when sold out). If you previously rented a garden plot, you can request the same plot for the following year if you register by March 1, but we cannot guarantee we can accommodate your request. Renters will be emailed when plots are assigned and gardens open.

2023 Season

Garden registration is closed for the 2023 season. Check back in January to reserve a plot for 2024.

2023 Gardener Sessions

Main Property in West St. Paul

1701 Charlton Street

Shepard Farm in Cottage Grove

8946 70th Street S

Gardener Orientation Session
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
6:00 p.m.

Learn Organic Gardening Practices
Wednesday, April 19, 2023
6:00 p.m.
Gardener Orientation Session
Thursday, April 13, 2023
6:00 p.m.

Learn Organic Gardening Practices
Thursday, April 20, 2023
6:00 p.m.

Questions?

Email info@dodgenaturecenter.org or call Don, Farm Director, at 651-789-5285.

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