Urban growers strengthen soil health skills and support 40+ community gardeners

Healthy soil is essential for productive and sustainable food systems, yet many beginning and urban growers lack access to training on soil management and testing. This can lead to reduced productivity and uncertainty in managing growing spaces.

In May 2026, the Kentucky State University Urban Growers Program delivered a three-part soil health training series for a cohort of 30 non-commercial growers. The program included two virtual workshops on soil fundamentals and sustainable management, followed by a hands-on field day at Mindat Community Garden. During the field day, 22 participants learned proper soil sampling techniques using soil probes and collected samples across approximately 40 garden plots, directly supporting community growers.

 

Participants reported increased knowledge, confidence, and adoption of improved soil management practices, including soil testing, reduced tillage, compost use, and crop rotation. One participant shared, “I now know that tilling the soil is not necessary,” while another noted, “I plan to focus more on building healthy soil through composting and organic matter.”

 

The field day reinforced learning through direct application. All participants reported learning and using new tools or techniques, particularly soil sampling. As one participant stated, “The hands-on soil sampling was a good experience—I’m planning to do my own soil samples.”

 

The impact extended beyond the cohort, as soil samples were collected for more than 40 community gardeners, providing critical information to guide soil management decisions and improve productivity at the site.

This effort supports Kentucky State University’s mission to promote community engagement and sustainable agriculture by equipping growers with research-based knowledge and practical skills, strengthening local food systems and environmental stewardship across Kentucky.