Apply for a plot
2024 Application Waitlist
Since all plots are assigned at this time, you can add your name to the waitlist here: https://forms.gle/m9UhMRXvQbfqBTXj9
Application Process
Penn State students, faculty & staff, and State College community members not associated with the University are all encouraged to apply for a plot. We typically open applications in early March and take members on a first come, first serve basis. Please note that applicants will have to read and agree to our Gardener Agreement. The Community Garden relies entirely on the volunteer efforts and enthusiasm of our members to keep growing, so it is important that you understand the terms and expectations of garden membership before applying.
Once you have submitted your application, you will be contacted within a few days regarding your application status. If you receive a plot, please respond quickly to confirm your spot! You will then have to read and sign the Gardener Agreement, and send this and your membership dues to our Treasurer. Membership dues are $35 for a full season (April-November). Once we have received your signed Gardener Agreement and $35 in cash or check, we will assign you a plot. Plot assignments can be found here.
If all plots have filled, you will be put on the waiting list. Abandoned plots may become available over the course of the season.
At the end of the season, if you have taken care of your plot and attended the adequate number of workdays, you will be able renew your garden plot for the next growing season!
Gardener Agreement
As a garden member, you take on responsibility not only for the upkeep of your plot but for upkeep of common garden spaces and resources. A full description of rules for garden members can be found in the Gardener Agreement.
Briefly, your responsibilities will include:
Participating in at least two Garden workdays during the growing season. Workdays are scheduled every few weeks, usually on Saturday mornings or weekday evenings. Inadequate workday attendance may disqualify you from renewing your membership and plot for the following season.
Managing the weeds, pests, and diseases in your plot. You will receive warnings from our plot enforcers if your plot appears to be unused. After multiple warnings, abandoned plots may be turned over to gardeners on the waitlist.
Weeding and mulching the walkways around your plot.