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Community Garden Takes Root

We’re excited to announce a brand-new community garden at 701 E Montgomery Street in Knoxville, Iowa.  Made possible through the efforts of the Mint 'N More Foundation and generous community donors, our first 10 plots were filled for the 2026 growing season.  The garden also offers perennial food plants to be shared among plot holders. This project is about more than just growing vegetables—it’s about growing community, resilience, health, and hope. Read on to learn more about how we hope to benefit our community and how the garden works.

Why build a Community Garden?

Mint 'N More Foundation is passionate about connecting eaters to growers and increasing access to nutrient dense whole food diets.  Too many in our community are facing rising food costs, food insecurity, and a lack of access to fresh produce. At the same time, we’re seeing a decline in traditional gardening knowledge, lost connections to nature and a growing desire for meaningful connection with our food sources and our neighbors. Our community garden is designed to meet these challenges head-on—with dirt under our nails and neighbors by our side.

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Scroll on to see why we are built a community garden, how it operates and see the full resource list including garden applications.

Ready to apply for a garden plot for the 2027 growing season?  Fill out the quick application and we will add you to our list!

Garden Manual

Manual for how the garden will operate for best growing and safety.

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Garden Application

Application for a 2026 growing season garden plot 

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Garden Financial Assistance Sponsorship Form

Application for financial assistance with garden plot fees

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Garden REsources

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WHy we Built Knoxville community garden:

Grow your own food

  • Plots available for residents to rent for low or no cost with the help of grants

  • Empower people to grow fresh, healthy produce

  • Great for apartment dwellers or those without land, tools or know-how

  • Reduces grocery bills

Learning and Skill-Building

  • Workshops on seed starting, composting, cooking, etc.

  • Opportunities for youth groups, seniors, and school classes

  • Hands-on learning for all experience levels

  • Skill-sharing builds resilience and confidence

Community Building

  • Shared spaces foster new friendships

  • Creates pride in shared accomplishments

  • Can host events like harvest dinners or plant swaps

  • Builds trust and cooperation across age and income groups

Health and Well-Being

  • Increases physical activity

  • Improves mental health through outdoor time

  • Healthier diets = healthier community

  • Connects eaters to where food comes from

Fresh Produce for Food Pantries

  • Dedicated plots grown for donation

  • Volunteers or schools help tend donation beds

  • Increases access to nutritious food for local families

  • Builds a culture of generosity and mutual support

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How will it work?

The garden at 7th and Montgomery features 10 individual plots for rent plus common areas for perennial plants like herbs, berry bushes, fruit trees and pollinator habitat that is available to all garden participants.    Applications are full for the 2026 growing season but you can add your name to the waiting list for 2027.  Read the full rules the 2026 Garden Manual.  Here’s what gardeners and the public can expect:

Plot Access and Responsibilities

  • Members can sign up for plots starting in December 2025 (first-come, first-served, with scholarships available for low-income gardeners).

  • Gardeners are responsible for planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting their own plot.

  • Organic gardening methods only—no chemical fertilizers or pesticides allowed.

  • Gardeners must mulch their plot borders, maintain clear paths, and keep the garden tidy.

  • If you're away for an extended time, you're responsible for arranging help or informing the coordinator.

Tools and Water Access

  • A shared tool lending library will be available.

  • Water is provided on-site, with a hose and lock system to ensure fair and responsible use.

  • Members are expected to care for shared resources and respect garden infrastructure.

Community participation

  • The garden will host learning sessions for members and the public and welcome visits.

  • Each member is asked to volunteer 4 hours per season to maintain common areas.

  • Monthly garden work days (June–October) offer chances to connect and contribute.

  • Special events like our Mid-March Get Growing Party and November Winterizing Party will help guide transitions in the growing season.

Prohibited Practices

  • Invasive plants (like mint, morning glory, or Jerusalem artichokes) are not allowed.  Perennial plants will be grown in common areas for access by all members.

  • No commercial growing or selling of produce.
    Fencing within plots must stay within defined limits—no colorful plastic fencing or obstructions in pathways.
    No harvesting from others’ plots without permission.

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