The Rochester Garden Grants Program

The Rochester Garden Grants program, administered by the City of Rochester, supports residents, schools, and community organizations in establishing gardens that promote pollinator habitat and water stewardship. Originally rooted in the Realize Rain Gardens Rochester initiative (2009–2019), the program was reimagined in 2020 to expand its goals, emphasizing pollinator-friendly native plantings and reducing barriers associated with traditional cost-share models. It aims to foster public awareness, ecological education, and sustainable gardening practices throughout Rochester, Minnesota. Grant funding is provided on a reimbursement basis of up to $1,000 for eligible project expenses including native perennial plants, seeds, mulch, soil amendments, equipment rental (up to $200), and materials to divert stormwater runoff. The grants are designed to support gardens that improve stormwater infiltration, enhance neighborhood beauty, and provide educational opportunities. Gardens must be installed during the upcoming growing season and maintained for at least five years. Eligible applicants include residents (homeowners and renters), schools, and community organizations. All projects must be located within Rochester city limits. Applicants are required to contribute a minimum 25% match of the requested funds, which can be in the form of materials, cash, or services. Applications must include proof of property ownership or landlord consent, and gardens must use native perennial plants. Additionally, all awarded gardens must be publicly visible, listed on the city’s website, host a city-provided educational sign, and be available for site visits. The application period is open annually from October 1 through December 31. Awards are competitive, based on ranking criteria such as proximity to pollinator corridors and water bodies, project design, native plant diversity, and public visibility. Applicants will be notified by the end of January. Only after receiving a formal award letter may recipients begin purchasing materials or installing the garden. Reimbursement is contingent upon documented compliance with grant requirements, including a site visit to confirm project completion, submission of receipts and a reporting worksheet, and demonstration of public outreach activities like hosting a garden event. All reimbursements must be requested by December 31 of the award year. For questions, applicants can contact Rachel Strauss at 507-328-2440 or by email at rstrauss@rochestermn.gov.

Ensure your garden is designed for stormwater capture and pollinator support, use native plants, and provide public visibility to strengthen your application.