These guides will give you plenty of insights to start and maintain your garden project, from what to grow to maintenance tips.

Summer Garden Maintenance Tips
Caring for a school garden when students are on summer break can be a real challenge. Here are some ways to build support:

Garden Work Day. Establish a regular day and time to weed and water the garden, say Wednesdays at 9 a.m. At the Woodland Elementary Harvest Garden in Gages Lake, Ill, volunteers work in the garden whenever it suits their schedule, but organizers have found a "standing" date with others draws in more people and makes weeding a lot more fun.

Get Adopted. Reach out to summer camps, scout groups, local garden clubs, church youth groups, and county master gardeners. You never know who might be willing to lend a hand.

And, don't forget...

Watering.  Gardens need about 1" of water each week. Early morning is the best time to water, as there's less chance the water will evaporate and cause fungus growth.

Mulch. Maintain moisture and keep weeds at bay by covering bare soil with hay, dried grass clippings, wood chips (often free from local public works), even newspapers. This will help prevent issues like tomato blossom end rot, too.

Out Smart 'Em. Keep a spray bottle of soapy water on hand to tackle pests.  Check out Jerry Baker's book, The Backyard Problem Solver, for tons of sustainable ways to manage pests and help plants thrive.

Go to the Bank.  Food banks always need donations of fresh, healthy produce. Check with your local pantry for the best days to deliver your garden extras. Woodland students have donated more than 1,600 pounds of vegetables to their local food bank over the past three years. They've learned that working together can change their community.

See more maintenance tips below!