Earlier this month, University of Nevada, Reno Extension hosted a Grow On! Victory Garden Starter Kit Giveaway to help families grow their own food at home. These free kits included pots, soil, three to five different seed varieties and instructions. 

Hosting this event in response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, Extension’s goal was to provide those staying at home with something to give them hope, and an enjoyable, constructive activity. 

“Growing food at home is a great activity for the family, and the kits provided the tools and knowledge to cultivate these skills past the current crisis,” Rachel McClure, Master Gardener Program coordinator, said.

Volunteers from the Extension office in Washoe County and volunteers from Extension’s Master Gardener Program worked on the project, and supplies were donated by Extension’s Washoe County 4-H Youth Development Program and local businesses. The volunteers were able to create and donate 120 kits to the community.

“The feedback has been amazing,” McClure said. “Families have been telling us that they’ve never gardened before, but these kits were perfect for getting started, and the kids are excited to grow their own food. We’ve been able to reach a part of the community that Extension doesn’t normally work with, and we’re hoping to continue that connection.” 

Support and supplies for the project were provided by Rail City Garden Center; Moana Nursery; Reno Green Landscaping; Washoe County 4-H Youth Development Program; University of Nevada, Reno Extension; Pacific Gasoline; U-Haul; Four Point Engineering; Botanical Interests; and HortGrow Solutions LLC.