Where Community
Grows Together
Explore the Garden
A tour of the garden would take one on soft mulch paths past scores of flowers and raised beds, each built by garden members, home to numerous types of vegetables and fruits. Member artists have added artistic touches: tilework, fountains and signs that convey the mission of the garden. All of this is framed by the wonderful natural beauty of the riparian landscape: valley and live oaks, bay laurel, buckeye, elderberry trees abound, offering visitors shade when the sun is at its peak.
Garden Features
Learn more about the planning, propagation, planting and harvesting of our food every season.
We offer members and the community various learning opportunities at the garden and beyond.
Over the years the garden community has developed an ongoing composting system.
A number of different flowering plants attract thousands of bees that help pollinate our crops.
Learn more about the Lafayette Community Garden's most popular residents.
The garden's construction team is an integral part of building and maintaining the site.
Each and every one of our customers receives personalised assistance from our dedicated support team.
The garden offers a natural, organic labyrinth as a quiet space to walk and reflect.
The Bay Miwok Village honors the Native Americans who first lived on the garden's land.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mission of the Lafayette Community Garden and Outdoor Learning Center (LCG and OLC)?
The mission is to provide space and opportunities for community members to learn about and care for the local ecosystem and sustainably grown food, thereby promoting a healthier community and earth.
Whom does the garden and learning center serve?
The garden and learning center welcomes the public during open hours, but mainly serves the 100 families who work collaboratively on various garden tasks. Specific learning programs are open to the public. Garden members meet regularly during work hours and renew their membership on an annual basis. One can become a member, by first filling out a membership interest form.
Whose land is this?
The land belongs to EBMUD, and is leased by the City of Lafayette. Sustainable Lafayette, Inc., is currently the fiscal sponsor of the garden and sub-licensee, awarding the garden nonprofit status. LCG and OLC pays all fees and associated garden expenses.
How are day-to-day tasks organized and accomplished?
Garden members with similar interests are encouraged to work together in teams. Garden co-directors and team leaders communicate regularly with members through a weekly newsletter and monthly meeting. Team leaders create task lists which are published weekly in a member newsletter and posted during work days. A governing board meets monthly to discuss general garden operations, oversee finances and discuss and approve changes.
What happens to the produce?
Produce is shared among members after harvest. Excess harvest is given to the Contra Costa Food Bank or other nonprofit agencies.
What types of learning programs are there?
During the regular garden season, lectures and workshops are offered to members. Some are offered to the entire community. Information about these can be found on our website (link) or at the garden on our calendar list of activities.
Can community members who aren’t garden members visit the garden?
Yes. Community members are welcome to visit during our open hours, which are posted on the fence and on this website.
From mid-March to mid-October, these open hours are: Tuesday 3:30 – 5:30, Thursday, 9 – 12, and Saturday, 9 – 12. A garden Open House is offered free to the public the second Sunday in September.
Can one arrange a group visit or tour?
Yes, tours and small group visits are available on request. Requests can be made using the “Contact Us” link.
How do I become a member?
One needs to fill out a membership interest form.(link here) Those on the waiting list will be advised months before the garden opening if they have been accepted and at that time they will be asked to fill out a membership interest form.