Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is inviting individuals and families to apply for the 2025 community garden season. The garden, located at the Illinois State Fair Grandstand racetrack, offers 200 plots—half designated for organic gardening and half for non-organic gardening.

"We are excited to offer space on the Illinois State Fairgrounds to people interested in growing their own food," stated IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. He emphasized that this initiative provides a low-cost option for those with limited yard space who wish to cultivate a garden.

Each plot is available at a cost of $20, with an optional tilling service available for an additional fee. Water and compost will be provided free of charge by the department.

Interested parties can submit their applications via the IDOA website: agr.illinois.gov/consumers/communitygarden.html. Applications and payments may also be mailed or delivered in person to the IDOA's John R. Block Building in Springfield.

Returning gardeners must complete their applications and submit payment by June 1 to retain their previous plots; otherwise, they risk losing them.

A new feature this year is the Pumpkin Weigh Off competition, scheduled for October 11 during the Illinois Product Fall Market. Participants can compete in three divisions: Open; Youth up to age 14; and FFA and 4H members, with trophies and prizes awarded in each category.

Weather permitting, the Community Garden will open on March 8. For more information about this year's Community Garden, visit the IDOA website or contact them at (217) 785-8300.