pantry location: 1000 E. 11th st. Lawrence, KS 66046
pantry hours: tuesday & thursday 9am - 6pm | wednesday & friday 9am - 3pm
just grow
WHAT IS JUST GROW?
Just Grow is our community garden initiative designed to empower individuals to grow their own food while fostering a space for learning and personal growth. Each year, we offer free garden plots at our location, 1000 E. 11th Street, to those who lack access to gardening space and are committed to maintaining an active garden. The produce harvested provides fresh, healthy food to our gardeners and their families, with any excess donated to the pantry for our clients. In addition to the garden plots, we offer classes and activities focused on growing your own food, as well as exploring native edible plants and herbs, all led by our knowledgeable staff and professional gardeners.
WHO IS JUST GROW FOR?
Just Grow is open to anyone who wants to grow their own food but lacks the proper space. We operate under a "use it or lose it" policy for garden plots to ensure that the spaces are used by individuals who are committed to active gardening. These garden plots also support our pantry's mission to provide fresh food to our clients. All of our Just Grow classes and activities are open to everyone, and we encourage participation from all ages. Children are welcome when accompanied by a supervising adult!
UPCOMING CLASSES: FEBRUARY 2025
Just Grow Series: Gardening Techniques for New Gardeners
Wednesday, February 5th | 2:00 - 3:00 pm
Tuesday, February 18th | 5:30 - 6:00 pm
In this class, we’ll introduce several effective gardening techniques that can be tailored to different spaces and goals. Whether you’re working with a small backyard, limited space, or just getting started, we’ll cover methods like Square Foot Gardening, Raised Bed Gardening, and Container Gardening to help you maximize your growing area. Learn the benefits and best practices of each method, and how to choose the one that works best for your garden’s needs. By the end of the class, you’ll be equipped with the tools and knowledge to begin gardening with confidence!
Just Grow Series: Planning for a Square Foot Garden
Friday, February 21st | 2:00 - 3:00 pm
In this class, we’ll cover the essentials of Square Foot Gardening, a method designed to maximize space and minimize effort. Learn how to divide your garden into manageable square sections, each tailored to a specific plant’s needs. We’ll go over different types of beds, choose the right soil mix, and plan your planting grid for optimal growth. Whether you're working with limited space or just looking for a more organized approach, this class will give you the foundational knowledge to start your own square foot garden with confidence.
Just Grow Series:No Dig & Vertical Gardening
Wednesday, February 26th | 2:00 - 3:00 pm
In this class, we’ll explore two efficient and low-maintenance gardening techniques: No Dig Gardening and Vertical Gardening. Learn the benefits of No Dig Gardening, which focuses on building healthy soil through layers of organic matter without disturbing the earth, improving moisture retention and soil structure over time. We’ll also dive into Vertical Gardening, an ideal method for maximizing small spaces by growing plants upward on trellises, walls, or structures. Whether you're looking to improve your soil health or maximize your garden space, this class will provide you with the essential tools to get started!