Getting Started

The best time to start planning your garden project is in the fall. This will allow time for research, site planning, ordering, and receiving raised planters and soil before the spring growing season. This will also maximize student involvement in all stages of the garden project. 

For guidance and support in planning your garden project, contact: Robin.McCrudden@tdsb.on.ca

The City of Toronto also has resources for growing food.

Start planning your budget by researching anticipated costs and resources needed to create and sustain your garden. These could include garden containers (stock tanks), soil, plants, storage and garden tools. Schools can also budget for workshops and garden coaching support from TDSB approved Educational Partners. Create your plan and budget first, then consider if applying for grants is right for your school.

For more information:

• Funding Opportunities

• Recommended Materials

• Educational Partners

If you are new to gardening as a school community, consider a temporary garden in containers such as pots, buckets or milk crates. Students can help with getting seeds started in the spring, and then take home the planted containers to care for over summer. This helps build gardening experience without the burden of maintenance over the summer months.

For more information:

• Video: Container Gardening with PACT Grow to Learn

• Video: Backyard Gardening with PACT Grow to Learn

• Video: Ideas for Container Gardens Big and Small: Evergreen

• Gardening in Small Spaces: Evergreen

Stock tanks and metal raised beds are ideal containers for gardening. They provide a raised, accessible bed that is easy to maintain and water. They can be painted to add flair to your yard!

For more information: 

• Stock Tanks (with bottom)

• Metal Raised Beds (no bottom)

Before you decide the placement of your stock tank or metal raised bed garden, consult with your administration and school community to determine an optimal location. Consider sun and shade, water access and proximity to storage when deciding where to locate your garden.

 For more information:

• Site Placement Guidelines