Question 1

What is Carothers Coastal Gardens?

Accepted Answer

Carothers Coastal Gardens is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that was created to be the governing body for Carothers Community Garden and has enabled the vision to grow far beyond its initial purpose.

Question 2

What is a community garden?

Accepted Answer

A community garden is a shared space where people come together to grow fresh produce, flowers, and other plants. It's a great way to connect with neighbors and enjoy some outdoor time.

Question 3

What's the difference between a food swap and a community garden?

Accepted Answer

The main difference is in the purpose. Here at CCG our goal is to give more than we take. That's not to say we don't get to enjoy the fruits of our labor, and we definitely encourage sharing with each other. But the sole intent is not to grow for self, and trade with others.

Question 4

What is the purpose of Carothers Community Garden?

Accepted Answer

1. Foster a sense of community by working together toward a common goal
2. Educate members and the public on gardening and sustainability topics
3. Host groups such as boy scouts and girl scouts for projects and classes 
4. Gardening opportunities for residents without access to a yard
5. Increasing fresh food availability by food pantry donations

Question 5

Who can join the community garden?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who would like to get involved and help us run the show! Our agreement with the City of Seabrook stipulates that we must make available a certain percentage of private plots to Seabrook residents.

Please note: membership and volunteer opportunities are open to local area residents regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), familial status, or disability.

Question 6

How can I join the community garden?

Accepted Answer

We are always looking for motivated people who want to get involved! You can join at any time by filling out our interest form at the bottom of our website.

A limited number of plots are available to rent for personal use on an annual basis. See the Community Garden section on our website for details.

Question 7

What does it cost to join?

Accepted Answer

We have a small annual membership fee to help cover garden expenses. Check the membership section of our website for the current rate. If cost is a barrier, let us know – we sometimes have donors offer to cover a plot fee.

Question 8

Do I need gardening experience to join?

Accepted Answer

Nope! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a complete newbie, everyone is welcome. We encourage asking questions and helping each other out. Gardening is a series of experiments and continuous learning, and any gardener will tell you as much! Keep an eye on our blog and our events page for resources and upcoming workshops to help you get started.

Question 9

Are kids allowed?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely- the garden is fun for all ages! We ask that children under 12 are closely supervised to avoid accidents or damage to others' plants.

Question 10

How are the private plots assigned?

Accepted Answer

Private plots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, with current members in good standing being allowed first dibs for a short amount of time. Remaining plots are then offered to our dedicated volunteers, and finally, the public.

Question 11

What can be grown in a private plot?

Accepted Answer

You can grow pretty much any legal, non-invasive plant you like! Most folks grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers. If you're unsure, ask one of our garden managers.

Question 12

What do I need to bring with me?

Accepted Answer

We believe sharing is caring, but some items are hot commodities and our tool shed is not unlimited! We even have a seed bank 🌱

You can bring anything you think you might want to use but we always recommend the following:

Gardening gloves
Sunscreen
Hat
Insect repellant
Refillable water bottle

Question 13

When is the garden open?

Accepted Answer

Members can access the garden from dawn until dusk. We also have regular community workdays and events, which are great ways to get involved and see what we're all about!

Question 14

How do I stay informed about garden news and events?

Accepted Answer

Like & follow us on Facebook to be first in the know. Also, you can sign up for our mailing list- we'll never spam you!

Question 15

Can I volunteer without having my own plot?

Accepted Answer

Definitely! We are powered by 100% volunteer labor and could always use extra hands to keep us running smoothly. Check our website for volunteer opportunities or drop by the garden during one of our work days to see how you can get involved.

Question 16

What are the garden rules?

Accepted Answer

The garden is accessible from dawn to dusk, seven days a week via combo lock. Non-members must call for access code outside of open garden times and events.
Close and secure the gate when you enter and exit.
Members must sign the City of Seabrook's CCG Liability Waiver.
Guests are permitted into the garden under adult supervision and must adhere to the same guidelines.
Children under the age of 12 must be supervised at all times while in the garden. 
Smokinh, chewing tobacco, and open flames are prohibited. Tobacco smoke is dangerous to all who breathe it, and tobacco is a carrier of the mosaic virus which can kill certain types of plants.
Donated tools are available for use on a first come first served basis.
CCH adheres to the alcohol and drug-free environment laws as adopted by the City of Seabrook, which prohibits alcohol and illegal substances in the garden.
Respect fellow hardeners and maintain a friendly and inclusive atmosphere within the garden.

Question 17

How can I donate to the garden?

Accepted Answer

We are extremely appreciative of monetary support in any amount!

Donations can be made in three ways:

Online, securely through PayPal Giving Fund here (or visit PayPal and search Carothers Coastal Gardens)
Cash or check in person to one of our garden directors at an event or open garden day
Mail a check to 605 Pine Gully Road, Seabrook, TX 77586

Question 18

How can I inquire about a class or event at the garden?

Accepted Answer

To make a request, send an email containing the following details to admin@carothersgardens.org

Proposed date and time
Group size
Age range of attendees
Topic/activity ideas
Any other information we should know

FAQ

Frequently asked questions