The Tri-State Community Gardens, located at 12937 Derby Grange Rd. in Dubuque, Iowa, is excited to announce the opening of its public community garden this spring. This initiative, hosted on the grounds of Tri-State Community Church, offers a welcoming space for local residents to grow their own plants without needing yard space at home.

Garden Features and Opportunities

The garden provides 4×12 ft raised plots (or beds) for individual or family use. These generously sized plots give ample room for productive gardening while keeping maintenance manageable. Participants can choose to grow:

•  Vegetables — from tomatoes and peppers to leafy greens, root crops, or herbs — ideal for fresh homegrown produce.

•  Flowers — for beauty, cutting arrangements, or simply to brighten the space.

•  Pollinator-friendly plants to support birds, bees, and other beneficial insects, contributing to local biodiversity and environmental health.

This flexibility makes the garden accessible to beginners, experienced gardeners, hobbyists focused on aesthetics, or those interested in ecological benefits. Whether your goal is self-sufficiency, relaxation, teaching children about nature, or fostering wildlife, there’s a place here.

Who It’s For

If you lack yard space, live in an apartment or rental without gardening access, or simply want to join a communal effort, these plots are open to the public. The project emphasizes inclusivity, allowing anyone in the Dubuque area (and surrounding tri-state region) to participate. It’s a low-barrier way to get hands in the soil, connect with neighbors, and enjoy the rewards of gardening.

Connection to the Church and Broader Mission

Operated in partnership with Tri-State Community Church (a non-denominational congregation that meets at the same address), the garden aligns with values of community building, stewardship of creation, and spiritual growth. The official mission states: “The purpose of this community garden is to promote community engagement, environmental stewardship, and spiritual reflection through shared gardening efforts.” This reflects a holistic approach — not just growing food or flowers, but nurturing relationships, responsibility toward the environment, and opportunities for mindful, reflective time outdoors.

The church itself is known for its welcoming atmosphere, Sunday services at 9:30 a.m., and other community outreach (such as resources listed on their main site, tristatechurch.com). The garden extends that spirit into a practical, hands-on ministry.

How to Get Involved

Registration is currently open for the upcoming spring season. Interested individuals should visit the official site at https://www.tristategardens.com/ to review the rules, learn more about expectations (such as hours of operation: Monday–Saturday 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m.–6 p.m.), and sign up or inquire further. The site encourages direct inquiries for details on plot allocation, any associated guidelines or nominal fees (common in community gardens to cover maintenance), maintenance responsibilities, and seasonal timelines.

Spots are likely to fill up as spring approaches, so early sign-up is recommended. This is a great chance to start the growing season with support from a like-minded group.

Whether you’re motivated by fresh veggies, vibrant blooms, helping pollinators, or simply the joy of community gardening, Tri-State Community Gardens offers an inviting opportunity right here in Dubuque. Head to the website today to secure your plot and join the growing movement!