The Square Foot Gardening Method is currently used in several schools throughout the U.S. to educate and excite young people about the importance of learning the life skill of gardening, eating healthy and the benefits of sustainability. The SFG Method is well-suited for applying a STEM approach, serving as an effective springboard to teach about science, math, art, social interaction and cooperation for all grade levels.
A Square Foot Garden in a School Yard
Pre-school to Grade 6
Junaluska Elementary School Garden in Waynesville, NC
Simple Learning Applications
- Observe and compare growth of plants
- Learn basic plant needs (water, sunlight, soil)
- Explore and compare different soil types
- Hypothesize reasons for plant growth results
Pre-school to Grade 6
Onalaska School, Wisconsin
Hands-on, practical application of math concepts
- Understand multiplication through grid planting
- Practice division using plant spacing
- Build early problem-solving skills
Middle school education
Excelsior Academy, Utah
STEM application
- Science: Study microbial activity, decomposition, pH and nutrient cycles through compost experiments.
- Technology: Use sensors and simple tools to track and optimize compost conditions.
- Math: Apply concepts like ratios, measurement, and statistical analysis to composting projects.
High school education
Northport High School, New York
Advanced Applications
- Design and build SFG beds
- Plan and manage the Square Foot Garden
- Experiment with companion planting
- Lead sustainable projects
Summer Camp programs
STEM application
Bob Markey, founder of Foundation for YMCA Campers shares the details of the YMCA summer camp program. Kids spend the season learning how to plant, grow, and harvest their own vegetables using the Square Foot Gardening Method. “Great Zucchini Race“ is a fun, grand-finale event where kids build miniature race cars of zucchinis, carrots, and radishes.
Square Foot Garden Horticultural Therapy Program at the Anchor Center
Inclusive learning
Square Foot Gardening Method can be used as a therapeutic and sensory learning experience. Square Foot Garden Horticultural Therapy Program at the Anchor Center. Anchor Center for Blind Children uses gardening as therapeutic intervention. Their Square Foot Garden provides rich sensory experiences through touching the different textures of leaves, smelling flowers and soil, and hearing the sounds of nature.
Are you ready to bring Square Foot Gardening to your school?
We provide everything you need to master the SFG Method and launch a successful school garden.
- Sign up for our online courses to learn the SFG Method. Teachers get 20% off!
- We recommend the All New Square Foot Gardening , 4th edition for complete building instructions, and Square Foot Gardening with Kids for ideas of engaging activities.
- Grant Opportunities. We offer financial support to help eligible schools and organizations get started. Contact us for more details at info@squarefotgardening.org on how the SFG Foundation will help get Square Foot Gardening to your school.